Looking for a second firearm

[Rob224]

I recently purchased by first firearm. A M&P Shield 9mm. I have to say that I really like the firearm and can see how people can get hocked on purchased additional ones. I am looking for recommendations for a second firearm to add to my collection.

 

[moxie]

What's your intended use?

 

[Rob224]

I am thinking a smaller carry or something more for home defense

 

[Krell1]

A second firearm? Liberals would ask why you need more than one. Now that you're going for number two, number three, four, five etc will soon follow. One word of advice, don't sell any. Keep them all and shoot every one of them. Nothing more fun than getting out to the range for a little fun.

 

[srderb]

I personally wouldnt go smaller than the Shield for carry. For home defense I prefer a shotgun. For a handgun the full size MP would be a great choice. You could stick with the 9mm for cost savings buying ammo in bulk or go up to .40 (or even 45). Better yet, buy three and keep them at strategic locations around the house.

 

[ReluctantHero]

my first m&p was the shield 9mm also, just ordered a 45c for range and home defense. i'll get some higher capacity mags after i run a bunch of ammo through her. good luck with decision.

 

[Bkreutz]

I carry a M&P compact, I like it for HD as well. It shoots just as good as my 9L Pro CORE out to 12 yards (or so), after that the longer barrel and sight radius swings the results to the longer pistol. If you're not going to carry it, I'd recommend the full size. I always recommend keeping a common platform, that way the controls on all your pistols are the same and there's a reduced chance of confusion.

 

[Rastoff]

I am thinking a smaller carry or something more for home defense

Smaller than the Shield? I would counsel against that. Maybe for a back up gun, but otherwise you'd be better off with a larger gun.

Since you have an M&P already, I'd suggest looking at a 1911.

 

[red dragon]

Take a look at the m&p 9c. Holds 12rds,great for hd or carry.i'd stick with 9mm,ammo is cheaper(= more practice)and typically holds more rounds.

 

[Lost Lake]

Welcome to the addiction!!

For first timers looking for a semi-auto, I usually recommend an M&P compact model, in .40 or 9mm.

The M&P40c can take 9mm barrels and magazines. It can also use full size magazines for additional firepower, say for home defense. The same is true for a 9c, but you cannot upsize a 9mm to .40 caliber barrels.

They are also small enough to carry, being about 1/4" thicker than the Shield, but the grip is shorter and it actually holds more rounds because it's a double stack.

Functions and take down are the same for the Shield and compacts.

I agree with Krell1, more than likely you will regret selling any handgun. Hold on to them. Buy more safes.

.

 

[GtownGeorge]

I believe the proper order for new purchases is semi-auto, revolver then 1911. JMHO

 

[ginzo]

It's all over now, you touched one, now you have to have another.

I'm partial to 40's. For me it's cc, home, and self defense only. I don't have any interest in competitive shooting, so that, and this forum helped me decide just like you are doing. Great info here!

Nothing wrong with competitive shooting, that's just not me. Just got back from the range about 30 minutes ago and burned another 100 perfect rounds thru my 40c.

Good luck!!!

 

[jeffnles1]

Everyone should own at least 1 1911

 

[pickupman250]

A second firearm? Liberals would ask why you need more than one. Now that you're going for number two, number three, four, five etc will soon follow. One word of advice, don't sell any. Keep them all and shoot every one of them. Nothing more fun than getting out to the range for a little fun.

do you live in Connecticut?? I do. damn liberals.

 

[DanTana]

Liberalism is a mental disorder.

 

[Llando88]

+1 for M&P Compact.

 

[soad]

Liberalism is a mental disorder.

I'm liberal, quite sane, and have a bunch of guns

Back on topic, the 9c would be perfect for you. Can carry it when your clothes let you conceal something bigger than the shield, then put a big mag in it for home defense.

 

[Saudade]

I believe the proper order for new purchases is semi-auto, revolver then 1911. JMHO

Funny, that's the order I went in.

 

[Rastoff]

Isn't a 1911 a semi-auto?

As an instructor I wish people would start with a revolver. We can banter it back and forth, but the revolver is just a simpler gun to operate and maintain.

Having said that, why do you guys recommend other semi-autos before a 1911?

 

[GtownGeorge]

Isn't a 1911 a semi-auto?

As an instructor I wish people would start with a revolver. We can banter it back and forth, but the revolver is just a simpler gun to operate and maintain.

Having said that, why do you guys recommend other semi-autos before a 1911?

I agree with revolver comment and I put other semi-auto B4 1911's due to price. With revolvers I would add "a full size revolver" not a carry size. Something you can shoot SA/DA.