Get a 9mm. The slight size of the hole advantage the .40 has isn't outweighed by the price and muzzle flip from such a hot round. I say this owning a couple .40s. Skip the 135 grain and go 124 grain Gold Dot +p. This is one of the meanest rounds out there, but there are a few others that perform as well (rangers, etc.). If you MUST go "heavier is better", then go all the way to .45acp. It's not that much more expensive and gets an even bigger hole without being as hot a round as .40.Originally Posted by b_real45
I would skip the P30, only because this is your first gun and money could be better spent elsewhere. If you are looking for an all around gun, get the G19 or the M&P9. The Smith is slightly larger, but not by much, so its basically preference. Keep in mind Glock modifications are cheaper generally, along with mags, holsters, gear, etc. I would also look into detail and field stripping each. *I choose to carry the M&P9 but I know its flaws and am alright with them*
Speaking of modifications... why would you ever consider it? You just started shooting... why go messing with guide rods and recoil springs? If you plan on carrying the weapon, you will find most owners will tell you to keep the plastic Glock guide rod. Just shoot the gun a whole lot, try and take a good class, or at least buy Magpul Dynamic Handgun DVD. Once you turn the CD size groups into shotglass size groups at 7yard slow fire, then consider what you don't like about the gun and changing it.
It seems like you are between the M&P and Glock, based on what you are looking for. Just remember, you are new to firearms. Though I think the Glock is better suited to your needs, I would strongly consider getting an M&P with a thumb safety. You can always take it off later, but until keeping your finger out of the trigger guard becomes subconcious habit no matter the situation, you will be less of a danger to yourself and others if you decide to jump into carrying before developing the right habits. The thumb safety will help in this regard... especially if you are trying things like Appendix carry.
I'm not trying to be mean or say you don't know how to handle guns, but gun safety really needs to be on the same level as breathing ... you just do it without thinking about it. I've seen too many new shooters (and even new CCW permit holders) putting their trigger fingers in bad areas, rechambering rounds too many times, improperly storing, or even strange things like carrying without a round in the chamber. Just remember experience with guns comes with repitition, just like anything else. We all started there. No need to rush into anything. Have fun on your new hobby and take your time picking out what you really want in a gun so you don't regret it later. Welcome to the forum
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