I bought a taurus g3 for literally pennies under $300. Can't complain. Easy to disassemble and clean. Comfortable in either hand. Came with a 15 and 17 rd magazine. It's not fully ambidextrous but you can reverse the mag release button. Which I did because this gun felt better in my left than my right. Has a picatinny rail that I've mounted a green laser to. Unfortunately, the laser cost half as much as the pistol. But, it's a quality product made in the US with great customer service. I highly recommend viridian if you're in the market for a laser sight.
Couldn't agree more about S/W Shield being at the top of the list. I bought mine when it was a single stack, 7+1 carry version. Further down the road, I always told myself the the full size M&P model would offer more versatility, but there's still a place for the single stack Shield. Crisp trigger, rarely jams, and great concealability...who could complain??
In the last year or year and a half, I have only seen ONE negative comment on the Bersa .380 I have seen comments from many Bersa owners here in the USA and other countries, including Argentina itself, where it is used by police, and there are no issues. As far as a small semi auto is concerned, this is one of the most reliable pistols made anywhere.
The Bersa is one RELIABLE .380. I have owned 3l and have put about 800 to 1000 rds amongst them, and never had an issue. I did owned a Walther PPK in stainless about 12 years ago, and it was the worst semi I have ever owned! Jamamatic Hand Destroyer par excellence! The Bersa is not as visually appealing, but it is one reliable piece! Do not take my word, look it up here in UA-cam
Shield Plus is a keeper. I also have the Bersa Thunder Plus with fixed barrel so very accurate and concealable. Shield Plus is very realizable with 13+1 in 9MM and the Bersa Plus 15+1 of .380 with decocker double action/single action hammer fired.
I just bought a new DS 15+1 Ruger Security 380 for 279.99 These came out to compete with the 8+1 380 S&W Shield EZ. I had wanted a Bersa Thunder Plus 15+1. However I am happy with the new compact Ruger Security has some great features and much easier to get mags for it. Last year I bought a full FDE, PSA Dagger 15+1, 9mm with nearly every option for about 350.00 Its excellent as well except for the the typical Glock type trigger isn't much to write home about, but its completely functional. Both excellent, accurate American made compact pistols with 15 +1 capacity. They are not Micro size/ pocket guns, but easily concealable and much easier to shoot and tend to be much more accurate because of that. The Taurus GX/G2/G3 series I wouldn't hesitate to buy either, since they are all built in the new US Taurus factory. They have excellent reviews, and are around 300.00 as well.
It’s a great all around pistol ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxnX9wE_Q8zvF75Y5iWzTU3Q4FlrtyGApQ , doesn’t fit in plastic glock 19 holsters but will fit in some non plastic ones. The location of the safety isn’t very good because your finger will accidentally activate it but it can easily be removed by pulling on both sides at once. Don’t lose the red o-rings while doing that.
Makarovs are the best deal going . Especially back when they could be bought for about 100 dollars . I got 2 East German Makarovs and 1 Russian model . They are easily one of the best pistols ever designed or made . Only 27 parts .
From this list Shield all day if you can get it at $300. But at $399 the Shield Plus is a better all around pistol with the same dimensions and weight of the original Shield. Next, the GX4 is a excellent conceal weapon but you may adjust and put loctite on the sights.
I have a Bersa Thunder Plus, which has a 15+1 capacity, that I got for $290. It has double the capacity, has a slightly wider grip, and is still the very light weight. The magazines are a bit pricey when they can be found, but they're well made construction and capacity help make up for that. I have a total of five!
As a budget friendly guy, I own a SCCY! I own a CPX 1, I replaced the trigger kit and took 8 pounds to 4. 1000 rounds in no issues. Thanks for the information. I did wanna see the thumbnail firearm.
Irrespective of one's choice, familiarity and practice with your pistol and carry ammunition is essential if you want a positive outcome! The right ammunition and accurate shot placement are key points. First and foremost is reliability, breaking in one's new purchase is important, as is being familiar with its functions. Reliability matters more than anything else, so make sure your pistol works flawlessly before you rely on it to save your life.
The Bersa thunder is excellent. So is the Taurus G3c. Ive never fired the 4. The g3c is significantly better than the 2 the trigger is much better . Ruger ec9 is really good too.
Yeah, I HATE clickbait where they never talk about the gun photos that they show, but only other ones. It's a sign of a bogus, ringer channel.........................elsullo
Another marker for "BS" channels is free video clips from manufacturers, and clips from other UA-cam channels. I've seen multiple silent clips from "Hickock 45" being used..
Daniel I think that you can carry your pea gravel if you want. I own 2 sccys 1, first Gen and 1,2nd.i live in Waco Texas and work as a meat cutter for HEB. I get off late and walk a long distance to my truk. I've had to pull my SCCY twice the fend of a robbery and both times I was damn glad I had it. I don't think ur pocket full of gravel would have saved ur ass
I have a Taurus pt58 bought in the 1980s. It is a 380 12 magazine if I remember right. Shoots get and I love it. A little heavy in summer attire, but in winter your coat covers. It's a well fitting in the hand gun. If you ever find one for sale, buy it.
Great list. Some very nice options for budget carry. I'm curious and may take the LCP Max for a test run. Make no excuses for the Bersa .380 guns. They are all excellent. I own several from the smallest CC version to the 15 round Thunder Plus (my EDC). While others are clearing jams in their Micro-9 or Sig, I'm still poppin' away with my Bersa at a fraction of the price. So far they've run every ammo I feed them; from high dollar HPs to white box FMJs. I only use factory stuff, no reloads.
the funny thing is, the Bersa has a much better trigger than the PPK. If there were more Thunder/Thunder Plus mag availability, I would own one. I still may someday.
I agree on the Bersa and feel it probably is the best budget minded firearm on this list. Half the firearms you mentioned I would never ever own. The S&W , Rugers and Bersa is absolutely fine. Just be aware pistols such as the Ruger LCP have a rather heavy trigger. If you are a new shooter or female or young ( please don't crucify me over the female comment) might have problems getting use to the heavy trigger. Taurus is one I will avoid all together. While there are plenty out there that have experienced no issues there are also a good number that have. And sending a Taurus in can be rather irritating. I do not know about the Daggers from Palmento state? But they build decent AR platforms so I wouldn't be too concerned. They also carry Canik which I hear is a great firearm for the price and pack some great features. But if you are looking at sidearms around $300.00 for new. May I suggest looking at used as well? Sometimes you can pick up a really nice Glock, FN, Smith & Wesson and Rugers in that price range second hand. I purchased a FNH FNX 9 with the 3 mags and all for $345.00 a while back and they were retailing for about $625.00 at the time.
Most of the problems with some of the Taurus models is it has a plastic guiderod and the spring on the guiderod “ jump” over the guiderod causing a major issue. I have had 2 pt-111 g2 and the first thing I did to both were to upgrade to a ss guiderod both are shoot years later with many rounds not one jam honestly!
I'd suggest a Diamondback DB9 Gen 4. I have two and they both run great. I've tested them with various types of ammo. 115, 124, 147 grain...ball and jhp...brass & steel case and they eat it all. One had a couple malfunctions in the first 50 rounds before it smoothed out. The other has been perfectly reliable right out of the box. They are available for far less than 300. My only gripe is that the set screw for the rear sight can and will loosen up. It takes a really small allen key and I'd recommend some blue loctite to solve the problem. I own a SCCY CPX-2 and it has been nothing but problems. Tons of jams, a broken firing pin (SCCY sent me a new one), a harsh/snappy recoil plus an atrocious trigger. Can't speak to the DVG1, and I'm not going to find out.
I rotate my edc pistols between the bersa thunder 380 (8+1 magazine) , and the ruger ec9s (8+1 magazine with magguts magazine kit). I highly recommend both these pistols.
I own 8 9 mms one is a Sccy cpx2 never have had a issue with it the trigger is like shooting my revolver. I will say my edc is a ruger ec9s and love my stoeger str9 as we’ll have the full size version
I own a Taurus pt-111 G2 and all I did was upgrade the recoil spring and guide rod, I took out the old plastic one and replaced it with a full ss piece! My 2nd in the rotation is my lcp max which has been awsome! For the hell of it I have a s&w m&p shield.45 I carry occasionally, but all 3 guns have been very very good!
"if you need to buy a CCW gun but are budget constrained you can certainly find some excellent, less priced firearms..." * shows clips of a Wilson Combat 1911 Carry and a JWG34.*
Had a GX4 that I used when I got cornered by a road rager. Lost it to the cops along with 2700 bucks, my permit and 24 months plus the time it takes to get the arrest expunged. So yeah if I want to carry a gun again I’m sure going to be looking to keep my costs as cheap as I can
Gen 3 internals Straight Up! Great shooter! And let’s face it. If God forbid you are forced to defend yourself do you really want your $900 Sig end up in the evidence locker - maybe never to be returned
@@miketaylorID1 ikr..my EDC is a $500 Canik. I love it to the point that I've been looking for a compact pistol and thinking about getting a Stoeger bc of that exact reason.. A good cheap gun that can use Gen 3 parts. I'm in
@@black_cartel_pope5358 Know exactly how your digging your Canik. I jumped on the canik train in 2017. TP9SF elite. Was a contract over run with that kookie trigger guard safety they use in Europe. Never use it. Ended up costing $279 bc folks love to hate on stuff like that. Caniks pre-cocked striker trigger. it’s beyond amazing. Second only to the Walther it copied. Btw. Only drawback for some is that Stoeger does not fit Glock mags. Has a more M&P upright grip angle so no Glock mags
No mention of KelTec. Where do you think Ruger and Skyy got their design from. Ive had a p11 for over 20 years and love it. A somewhat heavy trigger pull but practice and it gets easy and precise.
Sarsimalz has a great line. Out of Turkey formerly imported by EEA they now have their own distributorship through SarUSA. I carry the EEA version B6P compact 9mm with 3.8 in barrel & 13 rd. mags. (now is the B6C thru SarUSA) And a really great .357 snubby I acquired a few years back is the Windicator, also an EEA import from Germany. Both were around $300 when I bought them. Never issues with either. Very accurate.
If I didn't have a Glock 19 gen 5 ameriglo version I'd go with the stronger or the PSA dagger, and if I couldn't get one of those I'd go with the Taurus gx4 XL or the Taurus G3
So, about that remington, I really wanted one when they came out but of course we all saw the videos about the magazine problems, and I never bought one. How does yours run?
@@mikecook317 I think he has the original made in the 1920s in 32 and 380 auto, which was a very different gun and high quality like the other 2 he mentioned.
i just bought a tisas 1911 tank commander 45, they also have them in 9mm, it is every bit as good as my pre 80 colt commander in every wat! i paid a little over 300 bucks!
I have a few of these 3, the sky, although underrated never jammed, failed to chamber, or eject. but you can see and feel the difference. but for $150 it runs.
Carry my Bersa a lot of times. I own CZ 9mm ( several) 45 acp’s several, 41 mag’s, 10mm’s. On a hot day any of my others can’t be concealed very well. Left out my 38 specials and 22 RF’s
I know people have some of these guns and say "but mine works" but they still sick overall the G2 is one that doesn't have allot of issues same with PSA.
Two suggestions: 1) Charter Arms revolvers should've been included in the list. 2) The robot voice needs to be ditched, and replaced with a normal human voice.
@@glennsammon4465 Charter Arms is my pick also. I have an Undercover & a Police Undercover, and my wife has an Undercover with a bobbed hammer. They're flat out excellent handguns!!! I also have a Taurus 856 Ultra Lite and a Rock Island Armory m 206 in my carry rotation, but the Charter Arms are my favorites.
Your CPX is good after a new trigger and spring kit. Before that it’s got a really long ugly trigger pull. You can get rid of the ugly pull as well as maybe 1/3 of the length of the reset with a kit. It will be still somewhat long but very safe snd managable
The Sccy is a pistol I hear people saying to stay away from but that to me is a challenge. So I will be getting one and it will work properly after going through it thoroughly before firing the first round.
Of these, stick withTaurus, S&W, or Ruger (better manufacturing consistency). Avoid Bursa at all cost. Choose 9mm unless there's a specific reason to go .380acp. Talk to a seasoned shooter, preferably someone who shoots competitively or works in a field that relies on CPL for their own safety (not the typical police officer - they are not typically knowledgeable about guns). Avoid the self-righteously ignorant crowd who tell you .45acp is the only option because it can stop a whole gang with a single shot. These folks have no idea what they're talking about. .45acp is a good choice for CPL for some people, but the 9mm is the most efficient major caliber round available for short barrel pistols. It is also much cheaper, making it less expensive to practice. Try to avoid buying until you have taken a CPL class. Rent a few guns to figure out what feels good in your hand. Raise the gun into a shooting position and see if the sights align quickly for you. Dry-fire and watch the sights to see if they move while firing. See if the trigger pull is too long or too heavy. See if it's smooth enough to keep the sights on target. Check the weight and dimensions of the gun: Is it light and small enough to carry all day, every day? What holsters are available (you'll probably go through 3-4 before you find one you like)? Budget for ammunition: ball ammo for break-in (200+ rounds) and practice, plus a box of defensive rounds. Cycle a magazine of your defensive rounds through the gun to make sure they cycle without any failures.
Ngl, the ruger security 9, pre-inflation price, $300 2 15 round mags, and minimal features. Mine had a 4" barrel. And so far put 500ish rounds thru it. It's a good gun for the price.
I got a P-64 and a P-83 for under $300 (each) almost ten years ago, and plenty of spare mags. As long as I can find food for them, I'll be carrying them. They fit my mitts, I can hit anything with them, and despite the awkward heel mag release, I think I've got reloading down to a reasonable time. Still, a Bersa or SCCY would be nice to have as insurance for when 9x18 (or spare parts, even) becomes truly impossible to find. Be a shame, tho. Hard to give something up once you find what you really like.
@@keller1334 The Wolff springs? Those are great. Watch out if you're changing the slide springs, though. I found out even just a pound lighter causes problems with ejection. Did you get a set of Marschal grips too?
@@predcon1 I had my P64 cerikoted black. Replaced the hammer spring with a light one from wolf. Been years so it probably was a number 13. The recoil spring I just replaced with the factory strength. I figured a new one in factory strength couldn't hurt anything. Still on of my favorites. I bought three of them when they were cheap. Had to use one for parts when my safety/decocker broke. Gun still fired though.
If you do a part 2, please include the Diamondback DB9, the smallest + lightest semi auto 9mm on the market. I have a Gen 3 and 4 and they are fantastic. Paid $200 after transfer fee a few years back for one, $250 for the newest one recently. Good video!
@@communistcrusader217 A) My Gen 3 beats it, unloaded 11 oz to 14 oz for the P15 B) The Gen 4 DB9 is just over 13 ounces so ya it is on par C) I wouldn't be able to pocket carry the P15 lol. DB9 is just slightly larger than the Ruger LCP. I would not any lighter lol, it kicks like a .38 snubby... almost like a +P even. Folks were mad the earlier generations weren't rated for +P ammo and I'm like "Why would you want to torture yourself??" LOL
I highly recommend the PSA dagger. I got the RMR cut and threaded barrel, model. It’s now my primary carry. It just feels great in the hand. I have run about 500-750 rds through it not one hang up. Honestly though, a great purchase is a police trade in. I have seen Gen-4 Glock 22 .40cal pistols for right around $350, or S&W M&P .40 for $275.00. I would like to add that LoanWolf Distributers makes .9mm conversion barrels for the G22, and .357 SIG conversion barrels. They work great. Stay away from any low budget brands for personal carry. Spend the extra $100-$200 and purchase quality. I have purchased so many in my lifetime and every “off” brand including torus had huge issues. Remember this is a gun to protect your life at a single moment. Don’t gamble on that….
Talking about "older" Taurus guns from a decade ago is a waste of time. The Taurus company is entirely new with different management for the last decade now. The guns are almost entirely different now, and they are selling millions of them............................elsullo
@@elsullo2 I had (2) Taurus 1911s, and one of the Taurus .44 Special revolvers, and the Taurus Beretta Cheetah clones, and the Beretta Full size Beretta clone. I have also owed (2) Rossi .44 mags, and a Taurus.38 special. I only had an issue with the .44 Special. It would completely seize up every full cylinder cycle. Like had to get a gun smith hammer to break it free. Taurus, of course, fixed it and sent it back in a reasonable time. Now all of these guns were from their cloned products. Some of their proprietary products that I had show were just not good. True that actually was about 10 years ago, but I still have a bad taste in my mouth about it. Their 1911s was freaking awesome. I out ran this guy making fun of it on the range with a new shiny Kimber pro with a 10rd mag. He was this young police officer super proud of his $1,500 pistol, at the time. I told him I would load (2) mags with 4 rds, run an 7 plate rack with a reload. He could run 10+ 1 with no reload. I owed this guy. After the 3 attempt, he just packed is stuff and left. It’s funny how people think that high end expensive equipment can compensate for crappy skill development.
I have #9 and #6. Have had no problems with either of them and don't expect to. Also have a small Charter Arms 38 special revolver that backs up the other 2.
99% sure a robot made this video. It's the got the monotone voice, random video clips that only sometimes relate to the firearm being discussed. It's amazing what AI can do these days. That said, it's a decent list of inexpensive pistols.
You forgot about Hi-Point and their outstanding warranty. They'll repair it no questions asked and if they can't, they'll reimburse you for a new one. And, it's a looot cheaper than 300. For 300, thad get you one of their carbines of various calibers.
Highpoint BETTER HAVE a Good warranty since it's the Biggest piece of crap ever made. In 50 years of gun ownership of every kind and makes, I've talked to countless gun pros and every one says the High point takes the top of the list in cheapest and worse gun ever made. There's a reason no gun review out there talks about the Hi point in relation to being a Good gun. Best to save a hundred more and buy any of many superior guns. After taking away all the bad points of how bad the Highpoint really is, all that's left is Thee UGLIEST gun ever made!
@@michaelschiff2596 Sucks to be them. Keep in mind, when you just moved out on your own and budget friendly guns are a must, you get what you can afford. I've owned em in the early 90s and i never had any problems with em. Guns are made for self defense. You want pretty guns, id suggest a gun designed for females. YES, they do stand beside their guns and back it up with an outstanding warranty. It's not supposed to be a good gun. It was designed to be an affordable gun that gets the job done.
very nice guns for $ 300. The Ruger EC9S, which can be pulled out quickly due to its round lines, is my weapon, but the stoeger STR9 is like a small hercules, and I really liked both of them.. . Thanks for the video.
Can anyone out there tell me the best 22cal. Pistol that is small enough to carry fishing (for snakes mainly) that is also a good shooting gun for a fair price????
Ineresting informations. But what about low budged drum revolvers? I think its also an interesting topic. Thanks alot for uploading. Best regards from Austria 🇦🇹
I bought a taurus g3 for literally pennies under $300. Can't complain. Easy to disassemble and clean. Comfortable in either hand. Came with a 15 and 17 rd magazine.
It's not fully ambidextrous but you can reverse the mag release button. Which I did because this gun felt better in my left than my right.
Has a picatinny rail that I've mounted a green laser to. Unfortunately, the laser cost half as much as the pistol. But, it's a quality product made in the US with great customer service. I highly recommend viridian if you're in the market for a laser sight.
But do you wanna get caught dead or alive with a Taurus, brother?
@@alastor8091get out of here with that crap!!!! Anything Taurus in the last 10 years is as good as anything else on the market!!!
Bought a g3c for two80, nice gun
9. SCCY DVG1
8. Bersa Thunder
7. Stoeger STR9
6. Taurus G2C
5. PSA Dagger Compact
4. Ruger EC9S
3. Taurus GX4
2. Ruger LCP Max
1. S&W M&P Shield
For pocket carry sometimes I have a LC9 Ruger...9+1...soft shooting and quite accurate !
I've got an EC9S. It's my favorite cheap 9mm. But I also like my more expensive Kimber Micro 9 and Sig Sauer P938.
6
Due to past experience with their "customer disservice" taurus is off the list all together
Thanks… I started to turn it off once I saw SCCY on the list
Couldn't agree more about S/W Shield being at the top of the list. I bought mine when it was a single stack, 7+1 carry version. Further down the road, I always told myself the the full size M&P model would offer more versatility, but there's still a place for the single stack Shield. Crisp trigger, rarely jams, and great concealability...who could complain??
In the last year or year and a half, I have only seen ONE negative comment on the Bersa .380
I have seen comments from many Bersa owners here in the USA and other countries, including Argentina itself, where it is used by police, and there are no issues. As far as a small semi auto is concerned, this is one of the most reliable pistols made anywhere.
I have some nice handguns...and the bersa thunder is still among my favorites
The Bersa is one RELIABLE .380. I have owned 3l and have put about 800 to 1000 rds amongst them, and never had an issue. I did owned a Walther PPK in stainless about 12 years ago, and it was the worst semi I have ever owned! Jamamatic Hand Destroyer par excellence! The Bersa is not as visually appealing, but it is one reliable piece! Do not take my word, look it up here in UA-cam
Yep I have two firestorms. Bersa's are great.
I don't know were you all are buying these guns the only-begotten one I can find at these prices are cheap cowboy guns in a 22lr
Totally agree, I have 3 of them and all run flawlessly. Best overall value by far…
I had one as well , very reliable. Unfortunately it was stolen when my house was broken into.
I had a ppk hated it the best 380 I Have ever had was a colt mustang it was a great little 380
Shield Plus is a keeper. I also have the Bersa Thunder Plus with fixed barrel so very accurate and concealable. Shield Plus is very realizable with 13+1 in 9MM and the Bersa Plus 15+1 of .380 with decocker double action/single action hammer fired.
I just bought a new DS 15+1 Ruger Security 380 for 279.99 These came out to compete with the 8+1 380 S&W Shield EZ. I had wanted a Bersa Thunder Plus 15+1. However I am happy with the new compact Ruger Security has some great features and much easier to get mags for it. Last year I bought a full FDE, PSA Dagger 15+1, 9mm with nearly every option for about 350.00 Its excellent as well except for the the typical Glock type trigger isn't much to write home about, but its completely functional. Both excellent, accurate American made compact pistols with 15 +1 capacity. They are not Micro size/ pocket guns, but easily concealable and much easier to shoot and tend to be much more accurate because of that. The Taurus GX/G2/G3 series I wouldn't hesitate to buy either, since they are all built in the new US Taurus factory. They have excellent reviews, and are around 300.00 as well.
It’s a great all around pistol ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxnX9wE_Q8zvF75Y5iWzTU3Q4FlrtyGApQ , doesn’t fit in plastic glock 19 holsters but will fit in some non plastic ones. The location of the safety isn’t very good because your finger will accidentally activate it but it can easily be removed by pulling on both sides at once. Don’t lose the red o-rings while doing that.
Makarovs are the best deal going . Especially back when they could be bought for about 100 dollars . I got 2 East German Makarovs and 1 Russian model . They are easily one of the best pistols ever designed or made . Only 27 parts .
ammo is expensive
Antiques don't count and 9×18 ammo isn't cheap anymore
Are? Were is more like it. No longer on the 500 dollar range. More like 700 dollars. Should've be in this line up that's for sure.
I love my Ruger LCP Max in 380. Been my favorite pocket carry pistol by far. 10 rounds in a flush fit mag is impossible to beat for the size.
Some people want a gun they can hold in their hand , not between two fingers
From this list Shield all day if you can get it at $300. But at $399 the Shield Plus is a better all around pistol with the same dimensions and weight of the original Shield.
Next, the GX4 is a excellent conceal weapon but you may adjust and put loctite on the sights.
I basically just wrote the same comment. It's on sale right now for $379 with a $50 rebate making it $329. It's an absolute no-brainer.
That shield plus is an amazing little piece!!!
I have a Bersa Thunder Plus, which has a 15+1 capacity, that I got for $290. It has double the capacity, has a slightly wider grip, and is still the very light weight. The magazines are a bit pricey when they can be found, but they're well made construction and capacity help make up for that. I have a total of five!
Agree 100%. I have competed with this 15 + 1. Never jams.
And it has a decocker.
@@edwardmckenzie3402 I just wish it was ambi for lefties like me, just like I wish 1911s were
Smart man. You aren't susceptible to advertising.
@@edwardmckenzie3402 for most of us...
That's not a selling point
As a budget friendly guy, I own a SCCY! I own a CPX 1, I replaced the trigger kit and took 8 pounds to 4. 1000 rounds in no issues. Thanks for the information. I did wanna see the thumbnail firearm.
Irrespective of one's choice, familiarity and practice with your pistol and carry ammunition is essential if you want a positive outcome!
The right ammunition and accurate shot placement are key points.
First and foremost is reliability, breaking in one's new purchase is important, as is being familiar with its functions.
Reliability matters more than anything else, so make sure your pistol works flawlessly before you rely on it to save your life.
The S&W Shield Plus is $329 after $50 rebate right now. Absolutely no other better option at that price.
Sale prices at specific locations don't count
@@lintlicker4178 ok "the Shield Plus is $400 or cheaper, absolutely no other better option at that price range"
The Bersa thunder is excellent. So is the Taurus G3c. Ive never fired the 4. The g3c is significantly better than the 2 the trigger is much better . Ruger ec9 is really good too.
For those of you that came for the thumbnail and no other reason, I believe it's a Sphinx AT-380M. Correct me if I'm wrong.
Yeah, I HATE clickbait where they never talk about the gun photos that they show, but only other ones. It's a sign of a bogus, ringer channel.........................elsullo
It absolutely is 👍 , I don't own one but my brother owns a sphinx AT2000 , its a pretty cool gun its like the cz-75 !
Yup, I was hoping to see the handgun in the thumbnail, I hate clickbait. Thanks for identifying the handgun.
Thanks for the tip. This was the 2nd video with handgun clickbait in less than a week.
Another marker for "BS" channels is free video clips from manufacturers, and clips from other UA-cam channels. I've seen multiple silent clips from "Hickock 45" being used..
Daniel I think that you can carry your pea gravel if you want. I own 2 sccys 1, first Gen and 1,2nd.i live in Waco Texas and work as a meat cutter for HEB. I get off late and walk a long distance to my truk. I've had to pull my SCCY twice the fend of a robbery and both times I was damn glad I had it. I don't think ur pocket full of gravel would have saved ur ass
You can do better.
Former East Bloc surplus pistols were a huge bargain back in the day... I couldn't say what they are going for nowadays.
You used to be able to get a Makarov for about $99. I remember those days
I love my retired police Berettas. They are worth the ?$230 I paid
I have a Taurus pt58 bought in the 1980s. It is a 380 12 magazine if I remember right. Shoots get and I love it. A little heavy in summer attire, but in winter your coat covers. It's a well fitting in the hand gun. If you ever find one for sale, buy it.
Great list. Some very nice options for budget carry. I'm curious and may take the LCP Max for a test run.
Make no excuses for the Bersa .380 guns. They are all excellent. I own several from the smallest CC version to the 15 round Thunder Plus (my EDC). While others are clearing jams in their Micro-9 or Sig, I'm still poppin' away with my Bersa at a fraction of the price. So far they've run every ammo I feed them; from high dollar HPs to white box FMJs. I only use factory stuff, no reloads.
Mine only shot Magtechs consistently.
the funny thing is, the Bersa has a much better trigger than the PPK. If there were more Thunder/Thunder Plus mag availability, I would own one. I still may someday.
Taurus g2c definitely a great value
I agree on the Bersa and feel it probably is the best budget minded firearm on this list. Half the firearms you mentioned I would never ever own.
The S&W , Rugers and Bersa is absolutely fine. Just be aware pistols such as the Ruger LCP have a rather heavy trigger. If you are a new shooter or female or young ( please don't crucify me over the female comment) might have problems getting use to the heavy trigger.
Taurus is one I will avoid all together. While there are plenty out there that have experienced no issues there are also a good number that have. And sending a Taurus in can be rather irritating.
I do not know about the Daggers from Palmento state? But they build decent AR platforms so I wouldn't be too concerned. They also carry Canik which I hear is a great firearm for the price and pack some great features.
But if you are looking at sidearms around $300.00 for new. May I suggest looking at used as well? Sometimes you can pick up a really nice Glock, FN, Smith & Wesson and Rugers in that price range second hand. I purchased a FNH FNX 9 with the 3 mags and all for $345.00 a while back and they were retailing for about $625.00 at the time.
Most of the problems with some of the Taurus models is it has a plastic guiderod and the spring on the guiderod “ jump” over the guiderod causing a major issue. I have had 2 pt-111 g2 and the first thing I did to both were to upgrade to a ss guiderod both are shoot years later with many rounds not one jam honestly!
I have two Taurus G3C, and one Ruger Max 9. All three have functioned flawlessly.
The Thunder is one of my favorites!
I'd suggest a Diamondback DB9 Gen 4. I have two and they both run great. I've tested them with various types of ammo. 115, 124, 147 grain...ball and jhp...brass & steel case and they eat it all. One had a couple malfunctions in the first 50 rounds before it smoothed out. The other has been perfectly reliable right out of the box. They are available for far less than 300. My only gripe is that the set screw for the rear sight can and will loosen up. It takes a really small allen key and I'd recommend some blue loctite to solve the problem.
I own a SCCY CPX-2 and it has been nothing but problems. Tons of jams, a broken firing pin (SCCY sent me a new one), a harsh/snappy recoil plus an atrocious trigger. Can't speak to the DVG1, and I'm not going to find out.
My edc for 5 years
I have had nothing but bad experience with DB
I rotate my edc pistols between the bersa thunder 380 (8+1 magazine) , and the ruger ec9s (8+1 magazine with magguts magazine kit). I highly recommend both these pistols.
I would carry a pocket full of loose pea gravel before I would carry a SCCY. The only thing they are good for is making HiPoint look top tier.
I once had a sccy & never had a problem with it. Would not be afraid to carry one.
I’d rather use a slingshot than either of these turdslingers y’all are talking about
I own 8 9 mms one is a Sccy cpx2 never have had a issue with it the trigger is like shooting my revolver. I will say my edc is a ruger ec9s and love my stoeger str9 as we’ll have the full size version
I have a sccy cpx 380 it's not that bad
🤣🤣🤣
I own a Taurus pt-111 G2 and all I did was upgrade the recoil spring and guide rod, I took out the old plastic one and replaced it with a full ss piece! My 2nd in the rotation is my lcp max which has been awsome! For the hell of it I have a s&w m&p shield.45 I carry occasionally, but all 3 guns have been very very good!
Same here, PT-111 G2, G3C, GX4 and LCP Max. The latter 2 are my main rotaion.
@@molonlabe9602 I’ve actually been thinking about the GX4
Not sure how you say the lcp max is awesome. The trigger is trash but to each their own, I guess.
Looove my lcp max too!I usually carry my lcp max or my pt-111 G2 sometimes I carry the .45
"if you need to buy a CCW gun but are budget constrained you can certainly find some excellent, less priced firearms..."
* shows clips of a Wilson Combat 1911 Carry and a JWG34.*
Had a GX4 that I used when I got cornered by a road rager. Lost it to the cops along with 2700 bucks, my permit and 24 months plus the time it takes to get the arrest expunged. So yeah if I want to carry a gun again I’m sure going to be looking to keep my costs as cheap as I can
There's a whole lot more to your story which needs to be shared
I'd like to hear it
Alright alright alright 🤪
@@michaeldavis5538 So would he...
Did you get found guilty of a crime or something? Did you have ccw insurance?
Working in a gun store for a while, I've seen quite a few SCCYs brought back. I really try not to sell them when I can.
SCCY is a great paperweight.
I had a Sccy once, but it was so bad the they took it back and refunded the money.
Stoeger all the way and you can use Glock parts on it...but Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9 or 40 is the best in my opinion from experience
Gen 3 internals Straight Up! Great shooter! And let’s face it. If God forbid you are forced to defend yourself do you really want your $900 Sig end up in the evidence locker - maybe never to be returned
@@miketaylorID1 ikr..my EDC is a $500 Canik. I love it to the point that I've been looking for a compact pistol and thinking about getting a Stoeger bc of that exact reason.. A good cheap gun that can use Gen 3 parts. I'm in
@@black_cartel_pope5358 Know exactly how your digging your Canik. I jumped on the canik train in 2017. TP9SF elite. Was a contract over run with that kookie trigger guard safety they use in Europe. Never use it. Ended up costing $279 bc folks love to hate on stuff like that. Caniks pre-cocked striker trigger. it’s beyond amazing. Second only to the Walther it copied. Btw. Only drawback for some is that Stoeger does not fit Glock mags. Has a more M&P upright grip angle so no Glock mags
No mention of KelTec. Where do you think Ruger and Skyy got their design from. Ive had a p11 for over 20 years and love it. A somewhat heavy trigger pull but practice and it gets easy and precise.
probably not mentioned due to the P11 or the P3AT not being produced any more
Here are two of my favorites I thought should have made the list, Sig Sauer P365xl, Taurus G3C
I’ve had the second generation LCP for years, hundreds of rounds of FMJ & HP absent a single malfunction.
The dvg1 isn't a doa.its actually the first and only single action only gun in sccys line up
Sarsimalz has a great line. Out of Turkey formerly imported by EEA they now have their own distributorship through SarUSA. I carry the EEA version B6P compact 9mm with 3.8 in barrel & 13 rd. mags. (now is the B6C thru SarUSA) And a really great .357 snubby I acquired a few years back is the Windicator, also an EEA import from Germany. Both were around $300 when I bought them. Never issues with either. Very accurate.
If I didn't have a Glock 19 gen 5 ameriglo version I'd go with the stronger or the PSA dagger, and if I couldn't get one of those I'd go with the Taurus gx4 XL or the Taurus G3
Carry the LCP Max and GX4 regularly. Picked up the Shield and the grip just didn't work in my hand.
I bought an S&W shield compact several years ago, never again. Just bought the S &W 57… love it. As for a compact I’ll stick with Ruger.🖖🏻
love my sccy cpx2
GREAT VIDEO ! ! ! Thanks for sharing it. I learned a lot.
I just saw a PSA Dagger which is a very good clone of a very popular pistol for $299 on their site.
What about the Turkish 9 mm handguns they could come in for easily under 300
Just broke in my LCP Max yesterday at the range. Great little piece that will likely be my go to CC.
I liked the Mauser Hsc in 9 mm Kurz.
Walther PPks was my second choice with Remington model 51 as third choice.
9mm Kurz ( SHORT ) = .380 ACP
So, about that remington, I really wanted one when they came out but of course we all saw the videos about the magazine problems, and I never bought one. How does yours run?
@@mikecook317 I think he has the original made in the 1920s in 32 and 380 auto, which was a very different gun and high quality like the other 2 he mentioned.
i just bought a tisas 1911 tank commander 45, they also have them in 9mm, it is every bit as good as my pre 80 colt commander in every wat! i paid a little over 300 bucks!
those guns are very good quality
I have a few of these 3, the sky, although underrated never jammed, failed to chamber, or eject. but you can see and feel the difference. but for $150 it runs.
The trigger pull alone is enough for me to turn the sccy down
@@schimittywebermanjensen1419 LOL
Carry my Bersa a lot of times. I own CZ 9mm ( several) 45 acp’s several, 41 mag’s, 10mm’s. On a hot day any of my others can’t be concealed very well. Left out my 38 specials and 22 RF’s
Any particular reason you skipped over the g3c?
It's just over 300 dollars I believe
One is a better value for similar/same quality I think
What the 1st pistol with the wooden grip use to clickbait this video? No mention at all here!😮
I know people have some of these guns and say "but mine works" but they still sick overall the G2 is one that doesn't have allot of issues same with PSA.
Love my G2. Thinking about a GX4 though bc of the trigger.
You have a fantastic narrating voice, I love it! Robotically impartial yet emphatic, melodic baritone.
Two suggestions:
1) Charter Arms revolvers should've been included in the list.
2) The robot voice needs to be ditched, and replaced with a normal human voice.
the whole video sucked. when you tell us about one gun you shouldn't be showing us another. and Charter Arms Boxer would have been my pick
@@glennsammon4465 Charter Arms is my pick also. I have an Undercover & a Police Undercover, and my wife has an Undercover with a bobbed hammer. They're flat out excellent handguns!!! I also have a Taurus 856 Ultra Lite and a Rock Island Armory m 206 in my carry rotation, but the Charter Arms are my favorites.
Your CPX is good after a new trigger and spring kit. Before that it’s got a really long ugly trigger pull. You can get rid of the ugly pull as well as maybe 1/3 of the length of the reset with a kit. It will be still somewhat long but very safe snd managable
So true. I did the whole thing and went from 8 to 4 pounds. Shoots much nicer.
The Sccy is a pistol I hear people saying to stay away from but that to me is a challenge. So I will be getting one and it will work properly after going through it thoroughly before firing the first round.
Go pull the trigger on one, no thanks!!!
The damn gun is gonna run like a clock or you'll know the reason why.
I like it.
Main thing you'll have to get used to is the terrible trigger, very spongy and the trigger reset is almost as bad as some revolvers.
Shield is 400-600. If we’ve going to that type of price I would pick the p365 all day over all these.
What's the lead in pistol with wood grips used for click bait?
Of these, stick withTaurus, S&W, or Ruger (better manufacturing consistency). Avoid Bursa at all cost. Choose 9mm unless there's a specific reason to go .380acp. Talk to a seasoned shooter, preferably someone who shoots competitively or works in a field that relies on CPL for their own safety (not the typical police officer - they are not typically knowledgeable about guns). Avoid the self-righteously ignorant crowd who tell you .45acp is the only option because it can stop a whole gang with a single shot. These folks have no idea what they're talking about. .45acp is a good choice for CPL for some people, but the 9mm is the most efficient major caliber round available for short barrel pistols. It is also much cheaper, making it less expensive to practice. Try to avoid buying until you have taken a CPL class. Rent a few guns to figure out what feels good in your hand. Raise the gun into a shooting position and see if the sights align quickly for you. Dry-fire and watch the sights to see if they move while firing. See if the trigger pull is too long or too heavy. See if it's smooth enough to keep the sights on target. Check the weight and dimensions of the gun: Is it light and small enough to carry all day, every day? What holsters are available (you'll probably go through 3-4 before you find one you like)? Budget for ammunition: ball ammo for break-in (200+ rounds) and practice, plus a box of defensive rounds. Cycle a magazine of your defensive rounds through the gun to make sure they cycle without any failures.
I recommend the Bersa Thunder, Combat, and TPR Plus. Good guns.
I have a g3c, sccy dvg-1, m&p 40 shield and a lc9s, nothing bad to say about any of them but the m&p is my favorite
Ngl, the ruger security 9, pre-inflation price, $300 2 15 round mags, and minimal features. Mine had a 4" barrel. And so far put 500ish rounds thru it. It's a good gun for the price.
I got a P-64 and a P-83 for under $300 (each) almost ten years ago, and plenty of spare mags. As long as I can find food for them, I'll be carrying them. They fit my mitts, I can hit anything with them, and despite the awkward heel mag release, I think I've got reloading down to a reasonable time. Still, a Bersa or SCCY would be nice to have as insurance for when 9x18 (or spare parts, even) becomes truly impossible to find. Be a shame, tho. Hard to give something up once you find what you really like.
Carried a P64 for years. Slim and lightweight. Changed the springs to make the trigger pull more tolerable. It is so accurate for it's size.
@@keller1334 The Wolff springs? Those are great. Watch out if you're changing the slide springs, though. I found out even just a pound lighter causes problems with ejection. Did you get a set of Marschal grips too?
@@predcon1 I had my P64 cerikoted black. Replaced the hammer spring with a light one from wolf. Been years so it probably was a number 13. The recoil spring I just replaced with the factory strength. I figured a new one in factory strength couldn't hurt anything. Still on of my favorites. I bought three of them when they were cheap. Had to use one for parts when my safety/decocker broke. Gun still fired though.
@@keller1334 That would figure, if the only part that broke is the thing that makes it _not_ fire.
I hate my LCP at this point... time to upgrade... surprised that they are still rated so high.
If you do a part 2, please include the Diamondback DB9, the smallest + lightest semi auto 9mm on the market. I have a Gen 3 and 4 and they are fantastic. Paid $200 after transfer fee a few years back for one, $250 for the newest one recently. Good video!
The keltec p15 has it beat out in weight I think, feels like your holding nothing
@@communistcrusader217 A) My Gen 3 beats it, unloaded 11 oz to 14 oz for the P15
B) The Gen 4 DB9 is just over 13 ounces so ya it is on par
C) I wouldn't be able to pocket carry the P15 lol. DB9 is just slightly larger than the Ruger LCP. I would not any lighter lol, it kicks like a .38 snubby... almost like a +P even. Folks were mad the earlier generations weren't rated for +P ammo and I'm like "Why would you want to torture yourself??" LOL
Bersas have a legendary reputation for value. It is hard to justify buying a gun that heavy in .380 though.
you would have like no recoil
I love my taurus g3 more than an hk vp9. But the gx4 was a step backwards. Instead of the 4 get the BERSA BP9CC
I highly recommend the PSA dagger. I got the RMR cut and threaded barrel, model. It’s now my primary carry. It just feels great in the hand. I have run about 500-750 rds through it not one hang up. Honestly though, a great purchase is a police trade in. I have seen Gen-4 Glock 22 .40cal pistols for right around $350, or S&W M&P .40 for $275.00. I would like to add that LoanWolf Distributers makes .9mm conversion barrels for the G22, and .357 SIG conversion barrels. They work great. Stay away from any low budget brands for personal carry. Spend the extra $100-$200 and purchase quality. I have purchased so many in my lifetime and every “off” brand including torus had huge issues. Remember this is a gun to protect your life at a single moment. Don’t gamble on that….
Talking about "older" Taurus guns from a decade ago is a waste of time. The Taurus company is entirely new with different management for the last decade now. The guns are almost entirely different now, and they are selling millions of them............................elsullo
@@elsullo2 I had (2) Taurus 1911s, and one of the Taurus .44 Special revolvers, and the Taurus Beretta Cheetah clones, and the Beretta Full size Beretta clone. I have also owed (2) Rossi .44 mags, and a Taurus.38 special. I only had an issue with the .44 Special. It would completely seize up every full cylinder cycle. Like had to get a gun smith hammer to break it free. Taurus, of course, fixed it and sent it back in a reasonable time. Now all of these guns were from their cloned products. Some of their proprietary products that I had show were just not good. True that actually was about 10 years ago, but I still have a bad taste in my mouth about it. Their 1911s was freaking awesome. I out ran this guy making fun of it on the range with a new shiny Kimber pro with a 10rd mag. He was this young police officer super proud of his $1,500 pistol, at the time. I told him I would load (2) mags with 4 rds, run an 7 plate rack with a reload. He could run 10+ 1 with no reload. I owed this guy. After the 3 attempt, he just packed is stuff and left. It’s funny how people think that high end expensive equipment can compensate for crappy skill development.
Um...when you say Ruger to me I think Blackhawk LOL
How about a pole. I've never owned a gun before. Which one should I get?
Great show and review.
Michael Herrell
I have #9 and #6. Have had no problems with either of them and don't expect to. Also have a small Charter Arms 38 special revolver that backs up the other 2.
I‘m thinking of buying a shield, they are having a 75$ off deal on them at my lgs
99% sure a robot made this video. It's the got the monotone voice, random video clips that only sometimes relate to the firearm being discussed. It's amazing what AI can do these days. That said, it's a decent list of inexpensive pistols.
the "pee pee zone" in the intro made that painfully obvious
@@twistedvette13 😆I didn't really hear that, but they are definitely very weak W's on those "pews". Maybe they are trying a new drunk AI program.
How many cash to purchase an handgun I am purchasing one and how many di shipping cases tell me
Thanks for the info
Taurus is king I love mine in 40sw
The metal framed click-bait that lured most of us to your sight would have been nice!
Or you simply add extra $100 and buy CANIK which beats any handgun up to $1000 for only $400 😂
I’m a Ruger fan, so I’m inclined to go with one of the two nominated Rugers.
1:59 and 2:08 aren't the Bersa Thunder...
I enjoy my bersa thunder
Where can I find an lcp max for 300.00? The 379.99 to 440.00 where I live.
This may already have been commented on, but the photos of the "Bersa Thunder" being fired aren't the Thunder.
What pistol is on the video profile ?? It has wooden grips, slide mounted safety , double action , all metal frame and looks like a 380acp.
It looks like a Sphinx.
Have a shield but love my dagger even more. Waiting on the micro to come out 😮
snobs I own a Bersa Thunder 380 I carry it target with it, it's a great all-around fire arm.
You forgot about Hi-Point and their outstanding warranty. They'll repair it no questions asked and if they can't, they'll reimburse you for a new one. And, it's a looot cheaper than 300. For 300, thad get you one of their carbines of various calibers.
Highpoint BETTER HAVE a Good warranty since it's the Biggest piece of crap ever made. In 50 years of gun ownership of every kind and makes, I've talked to countless gun pros and every one says the High point takes the top of the list in cheapest and worse gun ever made. There's a reason no gun review out there talks about the Hi point in relation to being a Good gun. Best to save a hundred more and buy any of many superior guns. After taking away all the bad points of how bad the Highpoint really is, all that's left is Thee UGLIEST gun ever made!
@@michaelschiff2596 Sucks to be them. Keep in mind, when you just moved out on your own and budget friendly guns are a must, you get what you can afford. I've owned em in the early 90s and i never had any problems with em. Guns are made for self defense. You want pretty guns, id suggest a gun designed for females. YES, they do stand beside their guns and back it up with an outstanding warranty. It's not supposed to be a good gun. It was designed to be an affordable gun that gets the job done.
@@michaelschiff2596 You must have been born with a silver spoon in your mouth.
What is the gun in the thumbnail?
I know it's the only reason I watched
Shield Plus 👍EC9👍 LCP Max 👍
very nice guns for $ 300. The Ruger EC9S, which can be pulled out quickly due to its round lines, is my weapon, but the stoeger STR9 is like a small hercules, and I really liked both of them.. . Thanks for the video.
It would be nice if you were showing the Bersa Thunder being fired. Not some other gun.
Can anyone out there tell me the best 22cal. Pistol that is small enough to carry fishing (for snakes mainly) that is also a good shooting gun for a fair price????
S&W M&P Shoots every brand of ammo.
Didn´t the Taurus G3C substitute the G2C? Do they still produce the G2C?
I own a G2C tactical i got it just over 3-4 Months ago so yes they still make them and i love it
@@williamhackey7792 I have the g3C...good for You!
The G3c is kind of an upgraded G2c but yes, they still produce both
I've owned the str9, and g2c str 9 is good a bit snappy, but I would take the g2c i was able to shoot it better than the other gun
I carry the LCP Max. I have a nicer Glock 43 but the .380 is so convenient.
Ineresting informations.
But what about low budged drum revolvers? I think its also an interesting topic.
Thanks alot for uploading.
Best regards from Austria 🇦🇹
TY!! IMO, GUD VID!! I/wife own 2 outa 9. You sound close to how we feel about'em. Both EDC. We aint John Wixes, but do feel safer.
Do a show on the 44 mag bolt action Ruger. Thanks 👍