[bbhzx10]

Clayton, I didn't read all the posts so I hope I'm not too late! Don't buy a S&W! you can buy ALOT better for the same $$! Let me know when you have some free time and we'll go to the range and you can try a few brands.
PS! H&K

[TheIglu]

I'm not planning on going with a S&W. I do want to try a Sig P229 and some H&K 9mm's. I'm interested in what Taurus has to offer as well since Doc recommends them.

Thanks for the offer, I'll have to take you up on that!

[bbhzx10]

My favorite is my HK USP 9!

[TheIglu]

So I stopped in for a quick hello at Match Shot Firearms.

Spoke with Lloyd (younger guy, bigger, tattoo's, long hair), guys knows his shit. Walked in during lunch for a quick "Hello, my name is _____" and walked out nearly an hour and a half later with a handful of catalogs, free magazines and a boatload of knowledge. Also held my future purchase, a used Sig P226 in 100% mint condition. He went through proper stance, grip and posture with me without even having to ask him. He also invited me to a bowling pin competition on Sunday where I am invited to use all HIS personal guns for FREE (buy my own ammo).

He also recommended a bunch of other things for different reasons but agreed that the P226 in 9mm would be a perfect gun for my situation. The 229 is just too small (from what he said, I didn't get to hold one).

The price on the P226 was right so if it's still there when my license arrives, it will be mine.

Oh, and there are shooting competitions (like this Sunday) less than 2 miles from my house

[Ducrappy]

The P226 is a great gun, but seems a bit large to me. If you're looking for just a great range gun and home defense weapon, thats a great choice though. The extra weight should soak up a bit more recoil than the P229 and should be very comfortable to shoot.

If you think you might eventually want to conceal carry, I wouldn't suggest the P226. That is why I chose the P229, though after carrying it a few times, i realized that I personally needed something smaller which led me to purchase the P239.

[TheIglu]

Not looking for a CC for this gun, just looking for something that fits me and is a decent 9mm. I have monster hands/fingers. This gun fits me about as good as any other but much better than comparable 9mm's. The S/W and H/K that I held today were WAY too small. The trigger guards on them started at my first knuckle with my trigger finger held out straight. Can you say cramped?

P226 it is. It's primarily a range gun and I may do some competitive shooting with it (not pins, just steel).

Besides, it looks like a work of art!