BEST BUDGET HANDGUN UNDER $250

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Quick summary

Recommendation: Taurus G2C (and the updated G3C).

Why: Often available under $250, holds 12+ rounds (variants/mags up to 15–17), metal magazines, simple controls, considered “good enough” for short‑range defensive encounters, backed by Taurus warranty.

Target user: brand‑new shooters or people who want a very inexpensive defensive pistol and aren’t planning heavy-range use.

Pros (for a first gun under $250)

Price: Often the main deciding factor — very budget friendly.

Capacity: More rounds than many tiny pocket pistols.

Simplicity: Straightforward operation that mimics popular designs (Glock-like feel).

Parts ecosystem: Some parts and aftermarket accessories are available due to Glock‑style compatibility of shape/controls.

Warranty: Taurus warranty/lifetime policy is a selling point for budget buyers.

Cons caveats

Fit & finish: Feels less refined than higher‑end makes (some users report looseness/rattle).

Trigger & ergonomics: Trigger and ergonomics are average; not tuned for performance.

Perceived reliability: Many owners report trouble‑free use, but some users report issues — buyer should verify condition (especially used).

Slide rack force: Easier than some 9mm compacts but still requires some hand strength to rack reliably — important for users with weak grip.

Not feature rich: Lacks premium sights, refined trigger, optics cut, or custom factory refinements.

Alternatives to consider (historically relevant models in the budget/entry space)

(I can’t check live prices right now, so availability/pricing may vary; consider checking current listings or a local shop.)

Taurus G3C — newer, improved trigger & sights vs G2C.

SCCY CPX series — compact, budget, often marketed to first‑time buyers.

Ruger EC9s LCP Security‑type compacts — Ruger’s budget compacts have been options historically (some are single‑stack 9mm or .380).

Used market: A well‑maintained used mid‑range pistol (e.g., older Glock, S&W, Ruger) can sometimes beat a brand new $250 pistol overall value.

Practical buying checklist (for a first‑time buyer)

Try before you buy: handle several pistols to check grip angle, reach to trigger, slide‑rack force and how natural the gun points.

Check the slide‑rack: can the buyer rack it easily? If not, a lighter slide or smaller caliber (e.g., .380) might be required.

Manual safety vs no manual safety: decide whether you want one — many recommend training to use a trigger safety rather than relying on a manual safety for carry.

Capacity vs concealability: decide how many rounds you want vs how small you want the gun.

Budget ammo + training: budget purchase should include money for at least 100–300 rounds for familiarization and for a decent holster. Don’t skip training.

Holster: get a quality holster that covers the trigger and fits the gun (not the cheap "pancake" nylon thrown in).

Check warranty and return policy: especially important on inexpensive guns.

Read owner reviews and range‑report threads, but give more weight to consistent reports about reliability over isolated opinions.

Final recommendation

For a first gun and a strict under $250 budget, the Taurus G2C/G3C is a reasonable, pragmatic choice — especially if the user wants a 9mm with good capacity and a low purchase price. But don’t make price the only criterion: handling, ability to rack the slide, and training are equally important. If you can stretch the budget or find a well‑priced used pistol, that can be a better long‑term value.

Learn more about products WE recommend by visiting our website
https://www.securityallstar.com
Give us a call at (615) 784-5452
Email us at: [email protected]

No matter who you choose to work with, be proactive and stay safe.

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