Newbie looking for a little help

[johnnydee]

Brand new to this forum and to handguns for that matter. I've been looking at a SD9 VE and also a BG380. I don't like the short grip on the 380 but I know I could get an extended mag. I really like the SD9 and it's priced right. I will be using these for personal defense only and may not even want to carry on my person but just have around the house and in the car. Any recommendations would be appreciated. Also, I shoot left handed will I have a problem with either one of these? Thanks for any and all help.

 

[james45]

Welcome!Another advantage with sd9 is that its a 9mm and ammo is cheaper too.

 

[robertrwalsh]

.380 is a very marginal defense round, especially if you may be shooting at a bad guy in a car. if those are your two choices, go with the 9mm.

 

[Steelhat]

Welcome to the forum. I would recommend that you find a range were you can rent and fire both models and see with which one you are more comfortable. Or maybe you know someone who owns one of them and let you shoot it. Neither one got ambidextrous slide or mag release but on the SD9VE you can operate the mag release with your index or middle finger. You also might consider a M&P, either full size or compact, because on those you can change the mag release from left to right, on the M&P Shield you can't. But they also cost a bit more. I would always try before I buy to save the headache of selling or trading if you figure out later that the gun you got is not right for you.

 

[shouldazagged]

Welcome from Louisville, glad to have you here.

 

[raymo2u]

I back Steelhat 100%. Iwould choose the SD9VE or the m&p9c or m&p shield for defensive purposes

 

[Wiebelhaus]

I'd definitely go with the full size then, more capacity, better battle proven round, easier to shoot, more fun to practice with, the 380's are the polar opposite of all those things, the 380's are a backup or can't carry anything else guns.