Considering a new pistol

So I am looking at getting a new sidearm for a nice "range day"or "SHTF" item. I am wanting a full size in .40 S&W and have looked at a couple H&K's locally. The P30 and VP40. I was also considering a Sig or Beretta. As I have a 92 already. However, not sure I am sold on the 96 platform.

I do not want a Glock, as I have tried several and they just don't feel right in my hand.

I will be looking to add an optic after deciding, so one that is optic ready is a plus.

Would love to hear suggestions or maybe other things I should be researching as well that I might be overlooking or not considering.

Thanks in advance.

 

@Casper66 @IPNPULZ @wilcam47 @cubie @pdaddy

 

I like SIG but heard some new ones have quality issues. Have you looked at Springfield XD. I carry subcompact XD 40.

 

I looked at one several years ago. Actually had a real good buddy that bought one and let me try it out. It was a contender, but seems rather difficult to locate so I can take a closer look.

I carry a S&W shield, so I honestly considered an M&P as well. But not sure if it will fit all the bills.

Also, torn between deciding between a striker fired or hammer style. Primarily because I don't know pros and cons for each.

Funny you should mention quality issues, as one of the main things I am wanting from it is reliability, longevity and something that is as accurate as I can make it.

 

The only .40 cal. I owned happened to be a S&W.
My only thoughts are.....there has to be something better?

 

I personally carry Sig, never had any issues with my firearms. Not saying they don't exist, but I haven't had any bad experiences. It feels good in my hands and I shoot consistent/ accurate groups with it. IMHO, for a SHTF situation wouldn't you want a more common caliber, being 9mm?

P365, P320, and an old P220 for reference.

 

If I wanted a 40 it would be an M&P 2.0 all metal

 

I understand what you are saying, but I am merely more comfortable with the behaviors of a .40

I have 9's as well, but honestly in a SHTF situation I would be going to my .40 immediately and grab my 9 afterward.

I just have the shield though for everyday and an old Smith Sigma for a full frame. But it is just a starter and not one I would lean heavily on.

 

That is just my personal preference on shooting and the round I have always leaned on. I realize the new ammo has closed the gap on knockdown power between the 9 and 40, but I still prefer a 40.

 

Fair enough. Granted I have a single stack 45... because it's God's caliber... But my 320 9mm is my "go to war" pistol.

I've shot S&W 40's and I'm personally not a fan of 40. I have shot the M&P 2.0 in 9 and that's a pretty slick shooter.

 

Yeah, I'm not any good with a 45. Tried a few times and just not one that helps me inspire confidence.

I shoot quite well with my 92, but can do just as well with my shield in 40.

I know 40 is not a popular caliber, but it is what I like. I'm just weird I guess.

 

40 is a great caliber…since your in the ballpark with that and want knockdown power..go straight to 10mm

 

On separate occasions to the range, mine kept hitting down and left. down and left.
The owner of the range didn't believe me, so he took it for a spin and no shit. Down and left. Down and left.
Got rid of it.

 

That won't help with ammo already on the shelf if you know what I mean.

 

Glock is out for you, I’d stay away from current model Sig, so out of your choices, go with the Beretta. Even better, try a CZ 75 of some variant.

 

I tried finding a CZ 75, but can't seem to find one in a 40 locally. The shops around here aren't real interested in helping me locate a 40 either. They would rather keep handing me 9s to hold and such...

Also, upon further investigation. It seems that Sig is no longer producing a 40 in any of their variants.

 

I know your not supposed to.. but I do it all the time..
https://youtu.be/YYtCdr8ha-s?si=OdvAYOM_hcHfhTPn

 

O, I was tempted. But figured I would at least put a solid effort into finding an actual 40 first.

 

So what are pros and cons of striker fired and hammer fired variations? Or does it not matter?