Ever wondered if you can find a reliable handgun without breaking the bank? Many people dream of owning a firearm for sport, self-defense, or collecting, but the price tags on some models can feel out of reach. It’s tough to know where to start when you’re looking for a great gun that also respects your budget. You worry about getting something that works well and is safe, but also want to make sure you’re not overpaying.
The good news is, you don’t need a fortune to get a quality handgun. There are fantastic options available for under $500 that offer excellent performance and reliability. This post is here to cut through the confusion and show you exactly what to look for. We’ll explore some of the best choices out there, helping you understand what makes them great without costing a lot.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a much clearer idea of which handguns fit your needs and your wallet. We’ll dive into specific models and what makes them stand out, so you can feel confident in your choice. Let’s start exploring the world of affordable, dependable handguns!
Top Handguns Under $500 Recommendations
- High-viscosity oil refined to perfection
- Ideal for firearms, fishing reels and other precision mechanisms
- Extra-long lasting; Does not harden, gum or expire
- Includes one
- Made in the USA
- Zippered Compact Padded Case: Keeps everything neatly organized and holds all the necessary cleaning kits. Case sized: 6.5" x 3.6 ",16 Pieces handgun gun maintenance system in a high performance zippered organized pouch bag.
- Gun Cleaning Supplies Includes: .22Cal., .357Cal./.38Cal./9MM, .40Cal., and .45Cal. phosphor bronze bore brushes and brass jags, large and small bronze slotted tips, gun cleaning patches and double end brushes, nylon brush and metal gun cleaning pick(This gun cleaning kit does not include any solvent or oil, .357 and 9mm are essentially the same size. )
- Quality 10.5" Handgun Cleaning Rod: 2 Piece brass cleaning rods thread together to form a 10.5" rod
- Stainless Steel Cleaning Pick: Stainless steel picks helps to clean stubborn areas on your firearm
- Assurance: The cleaning rod, jag and slotted tips are all made of durable sturdy bronze brass, supported by a reliable assurance. Reach out through official channels for support if you encounter any issues with these components.
- Targeted designs: This 9mm gun case is designed for 9mm hand gun and gun accessories. The gun cases for handguns is suitable for a variety of handgun brands, for Glock, Smith & Wesson, Sig Sauer, Colt, and more
- Double protection: The handgun case lockable features a sliding latch and a TSA-approved combination lock, which prevents the locking gun case from being opened due to bumping and provides double security for the pistol case
- Drop resistant: The pistol case hard shell is made of highly abrasion-resistant material for durability, drop resistance and crush resistance. Whether the hard pistol case is accidentally dropped or stepped on, the inside of the gun cases remains intact
- Cushioning sponge: The hand gun case for pistols is padded with soft foam to provide excellent cushioning against external shock and impact, ensuring that pistols stored in the pistol cases are protected from damage
- Applicable scenarios: The gun carrying case measures 10.3 x 8.8 x 3 inches. The hand gun case for pistols has a compact design and can be carried by hand or in a bag, making it suitable for taking to the training ground
- Durable construction; Reliable snapping latches; Large, comfortable handle
- Made of rugged polypropylene with a handsome textured finish
- Thick foam padding and double padlock tabs provide the utmost in protective security-thick enough for a trigger lock when traveling
- Approved for law enforcement travel; For semi-autos and revolvers with barrels 4 inches or less
- Outside Dimensions: 10.1" x 8" x 3.2"; Inside Dimensions: 9.75" x 5.75" x 3.0"; Made in USA
- Gun Cleaning Supplies Includes: 4 brass brushes needed to clean( .22Cal. , .357Cal./.38Cal. /9MM, .40Cal. , and .45Cal. ) , 4 brass jags for rifles and pistols, 2 brass slot ted tips, a double end nylon brushes, a brush for fast cleaning, a handle, 2 extra tough rods, a stainless steel pick, cotton swabs for 10 pcs, pro-shot uv bore light illuminator, cleaning patches for 50pcs and a 220mm cable, gun oil 1 oz, CLP gun lubricant 2 oz .
- High Quality Material: Solid brass CNC precision machined jags and tips. The brass material can effectively prevent secondary pollution on the cleaning material. It’s more durable than plastic material. The brush and stainless steel pick can remove deposits well, making the cleaning process quicker and more efficient.
- This precision cleaning kit includes a pump sprayer for wide areas and a needle oiler for tight spaces, making it easy to clean, lubricate, and protect your firearm inside and out. The formula is scent-free, safe for home storage, and works on metal, wood, polymer, and camo finishes without damage.
- Lightweight And Portable: The portable box keeps all the components neatly in a lightweight and durable iron box. The compact size adds to the ease of packing and carrying. You can take the pistol cleaning kit with you wherever you go.
- Reliable Bore Inspection Tool: Pro-Shot UV Bore Light provides a fast and effective way to inspect your firearm’s bore. Designed for handguns and rifles, this tool fits most calibers (. 22CF & up) and uses ambient light to clearly reveal fouling, residue, or obstructions inside the barrel.
- 600D Exterior Shell
- Nylon Lined Interior with Protective Foam Padding
- Interior Accessory Pocket
- Nylon Zipper w/Dual Zipper Pulls
- Overall Dimensions: 8" x 5"
- PLANO PROTECTOR SERIES PISTOL CASE: Defend your firearms from damage this hard pistol case. Safely store and protect a single pistol with room for accessories, so your gear stays safe all in one place.
- CARRY WITH CONFIDENCE: Designed with thick-walled, sturdy construction to ensure maximum protection during transport, this case features a molded-in handle for comfortable, durable carry wherever you go.
- TRAVEL FRIENDLY GUN CASE: Equipped with heavy-duty latches and padlock tabs for secure closure, even while in transit.
- MADE WITH HIGH-DENSITY FOAM INSERTS. Two layers of soft, high density foam padding ensures your pistols stay scuff-free. Foam prevents movement during transit for optimal protection.
- PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS: Measurements: 11.5" L x 2.75" H. Color: Black. Single Firearm Capacity. Made in the USA.
Your First Handgun: Finding a Great Deal Under $500
Buying your first handgun can feel like a big step. You want something reliable and safe without breaking the bank. Luckily, there are some fantastic handguns available for under $500 that are perfect for new gun owners, target practice, or even self-defense. This guide will help you find the right one.
Key Features to Look For
1. Reliability
This is the most important thing. Your handgun needs to work every single time you pull the trigger. Look for brands known for making dependable firearms. Good brands often have fewer jams or misfires.
2. Ease of Use
As a beginner, you want a handgun that’s easy to handle. This means it should feel comfortable in your hand. The controls, like the safety switch and magazine release, should be simple to understand and operate.
3. Caliber
Caliber tells you the size of the bullet. For beginners, 9mm is a very popular choice. It’s powerful enough for defense but has less recoil (kick) than larger calibers. Other common options include .380 ACP and .22 LR. .22 LR has very little recoil, making it great for learning.
4. Sights
Sights help you aim. Simple iron sights are common and work well. Some handguns have adjustable sights, which let you fine-tune your aim. For self-defense, night sights that glow in the dark can be helpful.
Important Materials
Most handguns in this price range use good materials. You’ll often see:
- Steel: Strong and durable, steel is used for slides and barrels.
- Polymer: This is a strong plastic. Many modern handguns have polymer frames. They make the gun lighter and can absorb some recoil.
- Alloy: These are metal mixes that can offer a good balance of strength and weight.
Factors That Affect Quality
What Makes a Handgun Better?
- Reputation: Brands with a long history of making good guns usually offer better quality.
- Fit and Finish: How well the parts of the gun are put together matters. Smooth edges and tight tolerances (small gaps) mean better quality.
- Customer Reviews: Reading what other people say about a gun can tell you a lot.
What Can Reduce Quality?
- Cheap Materials: Some very low-cost guns might use lower-quality metals or plastics.
- Poor Manufacturing: Machines that aren’t maintained well can lead to rough parts or less reliable guns.
- Lack of Testing: Companies that don’t test their firearms thoroughly might miss problems before they reach customers.
User Experience and Use Cases
Handguns under $500 are great for many things.
- Target Shooting: Many people buy these for fun at the shooting range. They help you learn how to shoot accurately.
- Home Defense: A reliable handgun can offer peace of mind for protecting your home.
- Learning: For new shooters, a less expensive but still reliable gun is a smart way to start. You can practice without worrying too much about wear and tear.
When you hold a handgun, it should feel right in your hand. If it feels too big, too small, or the grip is slippery, it might not be the best choice for you. The recoil should be manageable, especially if you plan to shoot often.
Frequently Asked Questions: Handguns Under $500
Q: What is the best caliber for a beginner under $500?
A: 9mm is a very popular and good choice for beginners. It has manageable recoil and ammunition is widely available and not too expensive.
Q: Are handguns under $500 reliable?
A: Yes, many handguns under $500 are very reliable. Brands like Glock, Smith & Wesson, and Ruger offer excellent options in this price range.
Q: What are some popular handgun models under $500?
A: Some popular models include the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, Glock G19 (sometimes found on sale), and the Ruger Security-9.
Q: Can I use a handgun under $500 for self-defense?
A: Absolutely. Many handguns in this price range are perfectly suitable for self-defense if they are reliable and you are well-trained.
Q: What does “recoil” mean?
A: Recoil is the backward push you feel when you fire a gun. Lower recoil makes it easier to shoot and control the handgun.
Q: Should I buy a new or used handgun?
A: Both can be good. A new handgun comes with a warranty. A used handgun might save you money, but it’s important to have it checked by a gunsmith to ensure it’s in good working order.
Q: How important is the material of the handgun?
A: Material is important for durability and weight. Polymer frames are light and strong. Steel offers great durability.
Q: Where can I legally buy a handgun?
A: You can buy handguns from licensed gun dealers. You will need to pass a background check and meet all local and federal laws.
Q: What should I do after buying a handgun?
A: Take a firearm safety course and practice regularly at a shooting range. Proper training is essential.
Q: What is “ammo”?
A: Ammo is short for ammunition. It includes the bullet, the casing, and the gunpowder that makes the bullet fire.