I have a 12-gauge Mossberg 500, but I primarily use it for deer hunting with slugs. I want to get a handgun to add to my collection, primarily for self-defense. I don’t plan on concealed carrying at the moment. Glock G19 Gen 5 seems like the way to go, imo, but I’d love to hear any reasons why there might be a better alternative I should look into.
Have you held a Glock? I hate the saquare shape. Especially if my hands are sweaty/clamy. While I’d like to never have to use my guns against someone in a moment of panic I know my hands would be a bit clammy and any advantage I can have to prevent that would be appreciated. Great guns otherwise.
I personally liked the Sig P226 after holding and shooting a number of 9mm handguns.
For CC the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard is quite nice, but I know you weren’t asking about that. Don’t also be afraid though to look at compact and micro-compact handguns if they fit you better.
To add on to this, my personal opinion is that the glock angle is weirdly forward. Go to a gun shop. Hold a gun. Point it at an object and THEN check your aim by looking down the sights. Was it where you thought it was? If no, don’t buy that gun because it doesn’t fit your natural aim. If yes, definitely add that to the “maybe” list.
I held a glock, my natural aim was always lower than the glock itself.
Omg i thought I was the only one who thought they shot weirdly, I chalked it up to inexperience
Have you fired it at a range before? If not you should, it’s a perfectly fine handgun but you don’t know how it will handle until you try it.
If it’s going to be a nightstand gun that you don’t plan to carry, then you may want to go with a full-size frame like a G17. The extra weight and barrel length will reduce muzzle flip. Either way, try to find a range where you can rent one and try it out.
FWIW I have this exact model for personal defense and love it.
There are lots of reasons why Glocks are popular handguns. Try it before you buy it to make sure you like it and how it handles.
Good alternatives are Walther PDP Compact and CZ P10c, but there are lots of other 9 mm handguns that are great. It also depends on where you live and what you can get easily and for a good price.
Also explore if you are fine with iron sights or want some nice optics instead.
Where and how do you expect to keep, use, and carry the gun?
Most 9 mm handguns made in the last 40 years are good for self defense. The most important factor is that you actually train handling and shooting your weapon.
Try it first and see if you like it or not. The firearm of your choice will be very subjective. I love my 19 but you might not enjoy it as much. 17 would be nice too if you aren’t planning on carrying but it’ll be bulky if you end up changing your mind.
