I am looking to buy a handgun. I have been advised to purchase a Glock 23 or a Springfield XD. Any info?

Question

I am a beginning shooter and looking for something comfortable with enough power. I plan using it for recreation and sport shooting. Any additional information on other suggested models would be good too, butI am mainly looking for your experiences with either of these two guns. Thanks

Answer 1

For a beginning shooter, I would suggest that you look more towards a 9mm rather than .40S&W. Both Glock and Springfield XD have a complete line of 9mm models. 9mm is a little more comfortable to shoot, packs plenty of power for rec/sport shooting, but is still gentle enough for a beginner to concentrate on the basics without having to worry about the recoil all the time.

Also, as a beginner you may also want to think about getting either the full-sized or "service" model rather than a compact like the Glock 23. Full-sized handguns tend to handle better and will definitely benefit a beginner.

A Glock isn't going to win you any bullseye shooting competitions. It wasn't designed for that sort of shooting. But, it will be your best friend when you run into some unfriendly folks in downtown Baghdad. I would rate it as above average in simplicity, durability, dependability and reliability.

A Springfield XD is like a Glock, except that they corrected all the things that were wrong with the Glock design and gave it improved ergonomics. Having three Glocks, my next handgun purchase is going to be an XD.

Also, XD's are not only cheaper, but they come in a package that includes, a holster, magazine holder, magazine loader and three magazines, which is more generous than a comparable Glock which comes with far less.

Answer 2

I own full size Glock Model 22 in .40 S&W caliber. The Model 23 you mentioned is the compact model. It is 1/4 " shorter at the butt, and an inch shorter at the barrel. I like the full size, because the more you have to grip on to, the better the control of the gun. The Glock is super safe. There is no way for the gun to go off without the trigger pulled all the way to the rear. The grip angle and the bore axis makes the gun recoil in a straight back motion instead of the usual flipping up motion. This tends to improve the rapid fire accuracy.In spite of it's polymer frame, the Glock is super durable, proven in combat in the military, and in law enforecement circles. I have heard many good things also about the Springfield semi-auto, but my preference is the Glock.

Answer 3

You might think about GLOCK 17L. it's 9mm semi auto which is specially modified for competition shooting. It has longer barrel and slider then regular G17. This long barrel Glock is very Accurate and easy to shoot. I am very happy with mine.
Glock 23 is good for concealed carry. Not the best pistol for beginner. One way or other, Have a great time with your new pistol.

Answer 4

I'd suggest the Springfield XD9 "Service Model" (4-inch barrel). The price is right and I have no regrets with mine. After 2000+ rounds I haven't had a single jam...

If you are new to pistol shooting stay aways from "Compact" or "Sub Compact" pistols since these tend to be much tougher to shoot accurately.

Also, go with 9mm since it is cheap to shoot and you'll be able to spend more time on the range developing your shooting skills.

Answer 5

i dnt know toooooo much about guns but i have heard Glocks are verry unaccurate... i agree with above. barettas are good

Answer 6

Beretta M9/92FS is the best pistol ...