First handgun, thinking of a High Point C9, what do you suggest?

If your heart is set on a handgun, I would recommend a Sig, but I would recommend that because that is my personal pref. You really need to go and shoot a few different handguns and decide which fits you best, no two people are likely to settle on the same make and caliber usually. That said I just feel Sig gives you your money's worth like no other.

Second, if home defense is your main objective don't use a handgun. Get a Shotgun and use #1 Buckshot.

a: the cock of a shot gun is universal in all languages for "you better run as fast as you can from my house"

b: A shot gun WILL put down ANYONE in their tracks. Consider this, each ball of #1 shot is about equal to a 9mm bullet. However all will hit at once and in a house all will hit within a 2 inch goup most likely. (you do have to aim regardless of what video games tell you about shotguns) Basically one shot from a shot gun can equal a full clip from a 9mm submachine gun all in one shot.....you can't own a SMG easily, and if you did you'd go through hell if you used it even in self defense....but one shot from a shot gun will be as devestating as a full burst of any SMG. Just remember in real life shot guns shoot in narrow cones, and go through many walls....you have to respect it and practice with it as such.

Shotgun still wins hands down in my book for home protection.

Get the sig for your concealed carry permit.

I do not suggest a Hi Point for anyone because I own one. They are nothing more than cheap toys for wannabe gangsters and throwdown pistols for bad cops. The 9mm carbine I have is inaccurate and unreliable, as are most of the HiPoint line I have shot. If you are dead set on a pistol, I would suggest a revolver of the .38 or .357 cal. Taurus makes a good affordable line and has a lifetime guarantee. Revolvers are the safest and can be fired one handed without thinking in a clutch situation. Unless you want to walk or ride around with a chambered round in a semi auto or use two hands chambering one, I would go with a revolver as a first option with conceal carry or vehicle use. Try chambering or reloading that Hipoint with one hand.I carry a Taurus 617.

Now if your dead set on a semi auto my personal favorite is the standard 1911A1. Excellent firearm and reliable. Also if you want, in my humble opinion, the best affordable modern semi, hands down would be the Springfield XD .45.
The best quality for the money in a semi and I love mine.

Just my 2 cents from an armed dissident.

Taurus Model 617

Springfield XD

Oh yes, I agree with ForkandSpoon. A 12 ga shotgun is the best for home defense. Actually I would suggest it before a handgun.

[edit on 16-7-2008 by shai hulud]

[edit on 16-7-2008 by shai hulud]

2 things to think about with a hand gun. #1 it is very different when adrenilan is going cops go thru several clips sometimes and not hit anything. #2 cost you do get what you pay for. In my humble opinion one of the most unsettling sounds to hear is cha chink. (The sound of a 12 gauge buck shot shell being chambered.) With that at 15 to 20 yards you can take a person out no problem even if you are nervous. i personally like a 12 gauge Ithica Deer Slayer.

[edit on 17-7-2008 by Bludrgon]

Sig P220 with extended clip holds 11
I carry that and 2 X 7 round backups
Side arms and Audio gear go with German made.

reply to post by schism85

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I know this is a little late to reply, but I just wanted to defend the Highpoint c9 9mm...I just purchased one, and actually had it out today shooting. I love it. The c9 is very reliable and would make a great first handgun. I just shot about 70 rounds through mine today. No jams, no misfires, no problems. I shot 9 round and had a 4 inch group at 35 yards. No #. I wouldn't consider myself an experienced shooter either. I don't have any extras at all. Just stock gun. I personally don't think you could ask much more of any handgun. 4 inch group at 35 yards.

I would recommend the Highpoint c9 to anyone.