What type of pistol is best for self/home defense?

The most affordable to shoot would be a .22lr. While better than nothing at all, the .22 is not recommended as a primary self-defense round. Minimum caliber would be .38 spl (in a revolver) and 9mm (in a semi-auto).

While a .45 ACP would certainly make an excellent self defense round, it isn't cheap to shoot and for the past year or so, hard to come by. It also has a pretty heavy recoil that may not be suited for a new shooter. Normally, I would suggest a revolver for a new shooter.

They are affordable, easy to operate and clean, never jam. However, their are may autos on the market today that are almost as easy to operate and clean and are extremely reliable. Taurus, Glock, Springfield, S&W all make good polymer framed pistols in all calibers.

If I were you, I would not get too hung up on a 6" barrel. That will make for a pretty long pistol. You will get just as much performance with a whole lot more maneuverability out of a 4 or 5" barrel.

Recently I began the research into buying a new concealed carry handgun. After looking at a dozen or so handguns out there I choose the Springfield XD Subcompact 9mm. I choose it for the reviews, accessories, price and weight.

I have not regretted that decision one bit. It goes with me everywhere. I liked it so much, I purchased the Springfield XD .45 ACP Service.

It's a real hammer. For what you are looking for, something the size of the Springfield XD 9mm Service model (4"). If you like, it comes in a .40 and .45 ACP.

Again, .45 ACP will be more expensive and in my area, a little hard to come by at the moment. I am not saying to go out and buy one, but at least take a moment to look at them. The grip safety is very nice.

Unlike the Glocks, they are single action giving them - inn my opinion - a nicer trigger. The grip angle is also more natural to me than the Glocks. You can get an XD for around $500.

Not to say the Glocks are not good guns. They are excellent firearms. I just personally prefer the Springfield.

Grip angle, trigger and grip safety, included accessories: all influenced my decision. Taurus and S&W also sell good polymers (just stay away from the Sigmas). There is really no need to spend more than $600 for a good handgun.

With your extra money, you will buy cleaning gear, ammo, extra magazines, etc. So, do your research, look at some guns, ask questions. Go to different gun stores if you can. Different dealers will give you different answers and views.

Good luck.

Most .45ACP pistols, including the myriad 1911 options, top out at a 5" barrel. There is an HK USP with a 6" barrel, and 1911 pistols with 6" barrels can be found from Les Baer Custom ,Para USA, and Springfield Armory. Unfortunately, all of these are well above your price range.

My Ruger P-90 has a 4.5" barrel and is very accurate to the distances I shoot at. I also shoot well with the standard 1911 style. I'm a fan of Springfield XD pistols, but I haven't tried one in .45 yet.

I'd recommend Ruger P-90, Springfield XD or 1911, most other 1911's by Colt, Smith & Wesson, etc. A good gun store with a firing range is your best option so you can get a feel for as many guns as possible and get the one you shoot best.

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