Since we all have a different definition of affordable, we'll break it down 2 categories: under $400 and under $600. For the purposes of this post we are going to talk about new pistols as used prices vary greatly.
Under $400
1.
Century Arms Canik TP9
While you might be worried about it being single action, it is essentially the same action as a Smith and Wesson M&P or Springfield XD.
The Canik comes in a case with two 18 round magazines, a holster, mag loader and cleaning brush. With a street price of $350 and reliability better than an HK VP9, it might be a good choice for the budget conscious shooter. Check out
this video
from the Military Arms Channel for a quick reliability test. Before you bash it,
watch the test for the VP9
as well.
2.
Smith and Wesson M&P Shield
The recoil is mild enough not to bother my 5' tall wife, and the trigger at 6lbs is easy enough to shoot while not being too light.
The Shield is available with or without a safety. I prefer it without as the level is small and hard to use under stress.
3.
Smith and Wesson SD9
The SD9 holds 16 rounds and has adequate accuracy and ergonomics. The trigger can be greatly improved with a kit from
Apex Tactical
.
Under $600
1.
Glock 19
The Glock 19 holds 15 rounds of ammo and comes with 2 magazines, a mag loader and cleaning brush. With a street price of around $550 it is one of the best values in self defense handguns.
2.
Sig P320
The Sig P320 is the first striker fired gun that has been offered by Sig Sauer. It comes in a variety of sizes and you can swap the fame out to different sizes easily as the trigger housing is the serialized part. The best part is that a new frame is under $50. At
$500
this is an excellent value for the money.
The P320 has a higher than average bore axis which increases felt muzzle flip but nothing that isn't easily handled. The P320 has been shown to have some of the best out of the box accuracy and you can
watch a great review here
.
Closing Thoughts
Remember, the most important part of your self defense arsenal is not your gun but your mind. Get good training and practice regularly.