If not a SW M&P 9MM 4.25 @ $500 for practice/league, then what?

[sbwaters]

My son just showed me a pix of a SW M&P 9MM 4.25" for $500, sniffing around for a practice gun for a defensive pistol league/IDPA when next year comes around.

I use a Cajunized CZ75B that is considerably more expensive. As a second gun, I have been sniffing around:
H&K VP9 4.09" @$700,
Canik TP9SF 4.46" @$450,
A 1911 of some sort like Rock Island

Your suggestions:

 

[JTQ]

Some kind of Glock, G34/G17/G19

 

[sbwaters]

I hadn’t thought about a Glock because the grip angle never felt comfortable in my hand. But then, his hand isn’t mine, is it.

Thanks for the obvious suggestion I missed.

 

[gc70]

I would look for an M&P that was about $100 cheaper.

 

[Sebastian the Ibis]

I would look for an M&P that was about $100 cheaper.

This, or the glock, for a new shooter. If it's for you get a DA hammer gun that matches the action of your CZ, Why not pick up a cz sp01?

 

[viking499]

Anything special about the M&P? Around here, most are closer to $400 than $500.

If you like the CZ, new Phantoms can be had right now for under $500.

 

[jmr40]

I've been a Glock guy for a while. The new M&P I like, but the price should be closer to $400. I can get the new Sig 320 for $450 out the door, no way I'd pay $500 for the M&P. The grip angle is a non-issue. I have zero problems shooting Glocks along with any other gun.

 

[crcr29683]

CZ P10
Walther PPQ

 

[FL-NC]

Of what you listed, I would pick the M&P. For me, Glock 17. Do not rule out Springfield XD models.

 

[Zaydok Allen]

VP9

 

[Good Ol' Boy]

I vote Canik because I own one. Great pistols.

And you should be able to get one under $400

 

[needmorecowbell]

CZ is my favorite. The SP01 Phantom can be had for $500. Great gun. If cost matters, buy online or something used but like new. $700 for a VP9 is outrageous. My favorite striker fired is the Springfield XD line. They have special going now for free additional 3 mags so 5 total. Good value. Other manufacturers have been doing similar promos so something to look into.

 

[Mike .45]

Those prices all seem really high.

As a backup gun I would go with something more similar to your CZ. If more of a fun gun I would get the VP9.

 

[sbwaters]

Good advice. Thank you.

Next part of the question, if you don’t mind. He tried a 9MM Ruger 1911 that handles nicely, but it is a bit pricey for his budget. Recommendations for other 9MM 1911s?

 

[Good Ol' Boy]

The RIA 22TCM 1911 is on sale now I believe for 6 and some change. It comes with a 9mm barrel as well.

 

[needmorecowbell]

RIA a good choice.
https://www.tombstonetactical.com/catalog/rock-island/1911-a1-fs-pistol-9mm-5in-9rd-parkerized/
https://www.tombstonetactical.com/catalog/rock-island/1911-gi-pistol-9mm-5in-9rd-parkerized/

 

[Tallball]

There are nice Filipino 1911's with good sights and triggers for well under $500.

I like my Star Super B a whole lot, it is pretty much a 9mm 1911, and it only cost $200+.

 

[1KPerDay]

M&Ps are great guns IMO. These were $319 I believe, a couple of days ago FYI. Keep your eyes open.

https://www.classicfirearms.com/smith-and-wesson-mp-9mm-factory-new-with-2-17-round-mags