My first purchase...

As you have probably noticed this blog, for a while at least, will be filled with many firsts.  We have already talked about the first range visit and my first shots.  I certainly expect there will be a few more and I hope you will follow along with me.  This entry will be no exception. 

I have decided it was time to make my first purchase of a handgun.  In each of my trips to the range I had rented a different model or borrowed from friends.  My time had been spent with the likes of Glock 17 and 19, Sig P226 and P229, M&P 9 and 9c, Beretta 92, and a few rounds with a PX4 Storm.  Each of these test runs provided valuable feedback.  I was not a fan of compact style for target shooting, I was more accurate and consistent with 9mm over .40, and I liked a metal frame over the polymer options.

My permit application had been submitted, in time to be available for the local Gun and Knife show slated for the weekend of Oct 20^th.  By the time the show arrived, I had narrowed my search down to two options, of course keeping my eyes opened for anything else that might slip in.  I planned to compare my two options side by side and then decide on which I liked better.  This would prove difficult, but the reasoning behind that is for a different story.

The first selection I had made was the HK P30L.  While I had not shot the P30 I was in love with the comfort of the grip and weight balance of it.  It does have a Polymer frame but the balance was much better than others I had held with similar type construction.  I would be going out on a limb in making the purchase without shooting, however the research online found almost everyone fell in love with it after the first few rounds.  Of particular interest to me are the configurable backstraps and lateral plates allowing ultimate in personalization to my grip.  The opportunity presented itself to be able to handle one at the range and it was glorious, I imagine this grip was made of ground up bit of unicorn horns mixed with the tears of angels, it really was just that comfortable. 

For the second selection I was seriously looking at the SigP226 MK25.  I had spent about 200 – 300 rounds already with a 226 and probably the same with it’s little brother the 229, I knew it was a fine gun.  The grip was fat and comfortable to hold for an entire day at the range, the balance of the slide made recoil easy to control and allowed me to return to site very quickly, and the special coating applied to both internal and external parts ensured it would take a beating and keep on going without so much as a hiccup.  While obviously lacking in any unicorn parts the flexibility of this platform was a great benefit.  Conversion kits are available to change from 9mm to .357, .40, or even a .22lr all in the same frame. 

Ultimately my decision was made on one simple fact.  I was able to fire the 226, I knew what to expect and had experience with the equipment.  Maybe later on I will be more willing to take a chance with something I have not been able to try, but for my first purchase I wanted something I knew.  The Sig P226 MK25 it would be.

Now begins the search for where I would get mine.  I was lucky enough to find one in stock at the range.  Having the opportunity to fondle in the store solidified my decision.  The price was now the object to overcome.  The range listed theirs at $1,142, the full MSRP from Sig’s website.  I had seen them considerably cheaper online, so I inquired about flexibility in price.  After some discussion the quoted price was the best they could do. 

To the Internet I went.  Almost by mistake I found www.gunbroker.com, I created an account, and started searching for what I wanted.  There were many to choose from, all new in box (NIB), and all around the same price $880.  I did find one for a starting bid of $809, so I made my first bid to top out at $850 starting at $809 with the complete expectation that I would be outbid very quickly.  Not that case.  24 hours later I was the winning bidder at $809!!! Shipping, insurance, and non-cash payment brought my delivered price to $883.  What a deal! 

I had the gun shipped to a local FFL dealer, FreedomFirearms LLC.  Chris, owner of Freedom Firearms LLC, was my concealed carry instructor and a good guy who offered a great FFL transfer price.  The gun shipped quick and arrived just as quickly.  I met Chris filled out all the necessary paperwork, turned over my permit, and paid for the transfer.  I was now the proud owner of a brand new Sig P226 MK25.  Could not be happier!