$1000 Approved Budget - Here are the parameters:

[LeadPoison]

1) Will NOT be used for concealed carry.
2) Not a 1911
3) Must have a grip laser or have rail mount. (partial to a laser/light combo for night time pest control)
4) 9MM or 45 ACP
5) Mid-size (4" barrel or thereabouts)
6) Price includes laser
7) Would prefer a non-polymer but not out of the question

It's for a family member whose wife gave him an approved $1000 budget. These are also his requests.

I haven't posted much here but I am extremely familiar with just about anything out there and have been around firearms all my life and reload. Just looking for some feedback.

Edit: Leaning towards something in a Sig.

Suggestions?

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[Eaglebeak]

You're gonna get a million different opinions that won't mean squat because that's something totally dependent on individual preference.

If he doesn't have a clue about what to get for himself, he probably doesn't have a clue about firearms (or at least handguns) in general.

Perhaps he should first seek some professional handgun training, rent a few different types and calibers to shoot at the local range, then make up his own mind with a more educated and experienced personal choice.

[LeadPoison]

What you say is true... but he is a spry 80 year old who just wants a gun to add to his extensive collection. More of the collector type.

[pfries]

Find a deal on a Sig?

[Arborigine]

maybe he should ask the wife who allowed him the money?

[SpencerB]

How about a 9mm Glock and a .45 Glock. I know it says no polymers but you can get two glocks for $1000

[Knightrider]

Have to be new?

[Knightrider]

And does it have to be an auto?

[LeadPoison]

New - Yes
Auto - Yes

[PainCakesx]

Perhaps a SIG P228/P229, HK P30 or HK45c?

[357and40]

If you insist on new you might be blocked into a Glock or an M&P type weapon due to the price constraint if you want quality. (Also check the FN Herstall FNX series).

(Edit) You may want to look at a Browning Hi-Power. (End Edit)

IF used becomes an option:
Sig P6 - (Old School German Police Trade ins) they are 9mm single stacks equivalent to the American P225.

There are a lot of Smith & Wesson police trade ins (all metal) out there as well the 39xx series or chiefs special series might be a good jumping off point.

[grouse]

Hmm, has to have a rail & can't be polymer.

Another vote then for a Sig 228/229.

[Armydad]

I would also have to say given the parameters I would look at a Sig.

[archer51]

Given the criteria you set out, look at the CZ75 P-01.

CZ-USA -> CZ P01

[rammerjammer]

How about a 9mm Glock and a .45 Glock. I know it says no polymers but you can get two glocks for $1000

There's always gotta be somebody who can only say Glock!

It reminds me of Meet the Parents when the guy is trying to buy some nice more high quality champagne and the clerk informs him that all they have is Mums. "But you can get a whole lot of Mums."

The guy is looking for a collection piece, not a "whole lot of Glocks. "