suggestions for a target 38 or 9mm handgun

[rockman6]

Looking to do something new for 2013 and get a target handgun.  I have what I need for defense and want something more on the target side.  Not sure if revolver or pistol is the way to go.  Any reasonable priced suggestions that have worked out for you?

 

Bill

[Chadastrophic]

For target shooting I like capacity. I went with the S&W M&P 40. You can buy factory 9 mags and a $67 factory 9 barrell from Midway and its a direct swap. Sent from my ADR6425LVW using Tapatalk 2

[DaveTN]

Depends on what you mean by "target". For a center fire target, without getting into high dollar competition guns, I would suggest the S&W 686 revolver. Proven performer, very good adjustable sights and you can make the action like glass. Second choice would be a quality 1911. I don't really think of my Tupperware guns as "target" guns unless you are talking IDPA or something like that.

Rimfire opens up a whole bunch of possibilities.

[gregintenn]

Model 52 Smith and Wesson for a 38 Spl.

 

Model 952 Smith and Wesson for a 9mm.

[graycrait]

Revolver

S&W K38 Target Masterpiece

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smith_%26_Wesson_Model_14

 

9mm:

Sig P210

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SIG_P210

 

Previous poster's suggestion of a S&W 952 suggestion would be good too.

[jhc77]

For target shooting I like capacity. I went with the S&W M&P 40. You can buy factory 9 mags and a $67 factory 9 barrell from Midway and its a direct swap.

Sent from my ADR6425LVW using Tapatalk 2

I did this(40 to 9mm swap). Then a few months later I picked up a G26. Defeated the purpose I suppose, but I have two 9mm if need be. Got my stuff at Midway too. Edited December 25, 2012 by JHC77

[glockster157]

Any quality SW revolver K frame or larger in 38 or 357 (so you can use 38's) would be a good. choice. You should be able to pick up a good K frame for about 300 to 425 from an individual. Revolvers are inherently more accurate than autos due the fact they have fixed frames and have to be tight to operate properly. Autos are just the opposite. Tight leads to jams and loose runs. 
 

Another option would be a good single action. You can find Ruger Blackhawks at decent prices...you have to look around but I have bought them for 275 to 325. Patience is a virtue. But they are great shooters and strong beyond belief.

[z0mbies fear me]

I love my Springfield XDM 9mm. Shoots like a dream. Got mine used for $375.Just my 2¢ Edited December 28, 2012 by z0mbies fear me

[itchytriggerfinger]

I have an XD Tactical and put a Powder River Precision Ultimate Match Target Trigger.  It's sweet.  5" barrel for great sight picture, and crisp trigger with over-travel stop.  You can pick up a used XD Tactical for about $500-$550 and the trigger will run $135.  Buff and fluff the rest of it and you'll have a great paper puncher.

 

The XDm 5.25 is a sweet ride too for about $750, though IMO I think it could use some trigger work out of the box.