Give a look at the XD 40. I have the service model, no feature I don't like and quite smooth after several rounds. Just a hair over your upper limit, but worth it.

Glock 27.
Add a G 22 mag and grip extension if you need to carry more ammo.

If you put up the extra $50-$100 for the Smith M&P you will not be disappointed.
Is it compact that you seek? If so...... The M&P has you covered.

That's a BINGO!

Another Glock fan here; you might be able to find a used or police refurbished Glock in .40 in your price range. They are popular and easy-to-shoot/easy-to-shoot-well guns. Normally, I stick with 9mm Glocks, but I recently picked up a used G22 (full sized .40), and it's shooting reliably and almost as well as my nines.

For about 40%-50% more in ammo cost per shot.

M&P's can be had for under $500 and would be an excellent choice.

Rent before you buy.

XD, Glock, S&W can often be found for around $500 - they are all good.

Personally, I would go with a 9mm, and just load it with 147gr. +P when I felt the need for .40 type power. There wouldn't be a noticeable difference in the self defense capability, and you could practice with WWBs for ~$20 a hundred.

For me, I like to shoot the Glock 9mm, but carry the 40 cal. I have a Glock Model 27, but it is not as fun to shoot. If you get the extension, it makes the grip about the same size as the Glock Model 23 and a little easier to hold. You really can't go wrong with the Glock or XD for that matter. Both are still better then shooting a 357.

Stoeger Cougar. Stoeger Industries is a subsidiary of Beretta. The Stoeger Cougars are made in Turkey using the same machinery that Beretta used to make the original Cougars. It is every bit the quality of the Beretta.

+ one for the Beretta love Cougartex.

Try the Smith & Wesson Sigma series. I have 2 of them they are GREAT!
Sorry no individual pics.

You might like the Sig Sauer P226 or P229 with Crimson Trace Laser Grips



I also love my Beretta PX4 Storm

Originally Posted by officerfredrick

hey im looking into my first 40cal and open to suggestions. i did see a cool one at the range last week a star firestar sub compact 40. it was an alright little gun and didnt have a uncontrollable recoil to it. any one know anything about it??? if not what else would you guys recommend in the 300 to 500 price range.

HI Had a .40 didnt like it, do not see the point of the cal . traded it in for .45 . if you dont like 9mm get a .45 . 9mm ammo is a lot cheaper and near as effective as .40 .