[Blue Jays]

That notion of bargain-shopping on a primary defensive firearm has always mystified me, too.
Pays yer' money for a top-quality pistol/revolver and it will very reliably serve for many decades.
Amortized over many years, buying excellent firearms upfront is the least expensive path.

[Jack Hammer]

Exactimundo.

If the crunch ever comes, you’ll want the best.

SIG and Glock are tops.

[PapaBear3625]

That notion of bargain-shopping on a primary defensive firearm has always mystified me, too. Pays yer' money for a top-quality pistol/revolver and it will very reliably serve for many decades. Amortized over many years, buying excellent firearms upfront is the least expensive path.

Particularly if you shoot as many practice rounds as you should to maintain your skills. The cheaper guns may not be made to last for thousands of practice rounds.

It might be better to buy a used high-quality gun, than a new low-quality one.