cbrgator: sir; give considerations to the Beretta "Stoeger" Cougar 8000
Ruger SR9;
I have researched both and found them most attractive. Beretta 8000 never was marketed correctly; move the plant to Turkey; cheaper labor; reintroduce as the "Stoeger" Cougar 8000; save the consumer around $400.00. Beretta will be the 'service' center. It is a Beretta.
Ruger SR9 will be the next 'generation' of the polymer generation. Priced and typical Ruger "service" is to be expected.
My first choice; Glock #2 Ruger SR9 #3 Stoeger Cougar 8000 #4 XD9/40
Price being the concern: Stoeger Cougar 8000 $329.00

Also consider the Smith & Wesson M&P's, the auto's from Steyr, Ruger, Kahr, CZ, Bersa, and FN.

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Sigs can also be found in your price range.

I really like the Ruger P90 and P97 Decockers.

Originally Posted by cbrgator

Besides the Glock and XD, what other semi-autos are in the $500 range or cheaper. I don't think caliber normally matters but if it does im looking for .40.

You mean their are other .40 beside the Glock and XD? No way! Good thing my Glock 23 isn't here to read that. He may get upset.

"Oh Shut Up!" Sorry, I'm not talking to you all. My Kel-Tec P3AT in my front pocket was laughing and teasing my Glock in the safe.

I have a Taurus 24/7 Pro in .40. It really shoots good and reliably. Pricing is around $400 give or take. An great gun for the money if you ask me.

If you are looking for a good carry piece, don't overlook the Kahr CW9 or CW40. I had an XD9 SC and it was a great shooter, but try tucking one inside your belt and you will see why the Kahr makes a lot of sense. If you are not looking for a carry piece, the XD would be my first choice.

What's wrong with Glocks and XD's? You can actually find a good used Glock for $300 and it'll still be reliable, accurate and dependable.

Maybe it doesn't fit well in your hands, that's why there's stippling!

My M&P9 and M&P40 have proven to be excellent pistols. They fit right in there with the other Tuperware as viable candidates.

Don't forget the 99's.

Smith & Wesson: S&W99, S&W990

Walther: P99, P990

Originally Posted by GlockamaniaŽ

What's wrong with Glocks and XD's? You can actually find a good used Glock for $300 and it'll still be reliable, accurate and dependable.

Maybe it doesn't fit well in your hands, that's why there's stippling!

There is nothing wrong with Glocks or XD's. I have a G19 and my dad owns an XD40. I think both are absolutely excellent but they are the only two brands I have any significant and repeat experience with. I am in the market for a .40 for a home defense pistol and I wanted to find out what my other options were within my budget.

Definitely look at the Stoeger Cougar its one hell of a gun for $319. There is always Ruger P95, EAA witness, CZ75, FN. Look at the Cougar if you can.

I own & EDC a Glock 19 . Check out the FN's they seem to be good guns for the $$$$ , also check out the Ruger p95dc (had one & sold it ) they are very good guns. But if you want a quality/cheap priced 1911 check out Rock Island Armory under $400.00 I have one & my buddy also has one , the only problem is the novac mags aren't that good , add some Wilson mags & problem fixed ! Very accurate & looks good too

you can also try out the baby eagle.