IYO, best handgun for about $400...

[duhduhdee]

Going to a gun show soon, hoping to find a deal.

Would love an XD 40 or XD 45, but they're probably a little too expensive. Good, cheaper alternatives?

TIA.

[ClearSightTactical]

I think in that price range you're looking at some compact pistols. Kel-Tec and the Ruger LCP are below $400 and are great guns (IMO). For a full size you're looking at possibility a Rock Island 1911.

You may be able to haggle down to that on a used Glock...

If you're dead set on your budget at $400 those are my recommendations. You can go to Auction Arms and use the advanced search feature Auction Arms - Advanced Search and enter a price range.

I know this isn't what you asked but really if you want an XD you should just save up another $150 and buy one either online (for about $495 including shipping) add another $50 (lower if you shop around) for the FFL (gun store) to do the transfer. Here are some decent deals on XD's and a reliable firearm is worth the $

If this is for defensive purposes buy a gun you want. Trust me it sucks to buy a gun within your budget RIGHT NOW as opposed to waiting for the one you want in 1 or 2 months....think about it...

My $0.02

[Glockster20]

I see used Glock's going for $400 all the time. Some of them have barely anything through them. If you can find one that is... They seem to sell really quickly at the price, especially if they are in "like new" condition. IMO it is the best all purpose semi-auto handgun... ready for war right out of the box!

Other sites to check out are;

The "eBay" of guns... Guns - Online Gun Auction - Guns at GunBroker.com

Also check out... GunsAmerica - Guns For Sale & Gun Auctions B"H

[HK4U]

If you are thinking about a gun to protect you or loved one then my advice is get the very best gun you can possibly get. Not the cheapest one you can. I am not trying to judge your circumstance as I do not know what it is. I have observed in talking to a lot of people including CHL students that often those that do not want to spend the extra money to get a quality firearm have no problem with buying a 50 inch t.v. a 30 thousand dollar car or the most expensive and newest electronic gadget.

[PascalFleischman]

Any Bersa is worth looking at. They're not just top-of-the-line quality, but they are a fine (fine, dandy...not fine, O.K.) pistol. You can get a .45 for less than $500 and their .380 runs around $280-$330.

If you're more into brand than value, the Taurus PT145 is a fantastic gun as well.

Personally, I'm not a fan of a Glock, so I can't recommend that or an XD. Personal preference, nothing indicative of the guns.

I think you can get a Beretta PX4 for around $400, as well.

[corneliusiii]

Ruger P95 9mm and P345 .45 pistols can be had for around $400. I found plenty in stock at Bud's Guns, or you could try Gunbroker (both online). These are very sturdy, reliable guns and they are made in America.

[ClearSightTactical]

Originally Posted by Glockster20

I see used Glock's going for $400 all the time. [/url]

Must be nice! Gun shops in my area sell close to $510 for USED Glocks. I don't know how they get away with it but they do, and all shops are about that price range.

I should add that i've read if you join Glock Shooting Sports Foundation you're eligible to purcahse a Glock at LE AGENCY price ($398) its $35 to join GSSF.

Maybe Glock Fan will know more about this, he seems to be quite knowledgeable on the subject of anything Glock!

[Jes]

If you can find one get a Bersa or Firestorm ultra compact. They make a 9mm, 40, and 45. :: Bersa Talk :: • Index page
Bud's has sold out of most of their Bersas, but they still have a couple 380s and full size 9s. http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/index.php/cPath/178

The rugers and taurus are also good value guns depending on what features you want. All three have lifetime warranties. (Ruger doesn't have a formal warranty, but will fix it.)

[357Sif]

The Stoegar Cougar is another pistol that comes in that price range. It is the same gun as the Beretta Cougar.
It is made in Turkey on Beretta machinery. Reviews on it have been great .
Gary

[wagon]

+2 for Bersa. Paid <$270 for my Bersa 380CC, super accurate, very pleasant to shoot.

Also look at Kahr CW9, they are priced at $420 (new). I have a PM9 which is my primary carry, it has very very smooth trigger.. CW9 shares the same trigger. BTW, Kahr is a joy to conceal carry, try handle one and you'll know what I mean.

Good luck shopping.