Which pistol for a beginner?

[VikingMD]

I am 37 years old and used to shoot 10meter as part of pentathalon. I have not shot a pistol in a long time and used to borrow one for competition practice. I am interested in purchasing a pistol which I can learn with and will be competition worthy without spending more than $500.

I have read previous posts in a similar vein and the posters were told to just go try the pistols out. I'd being willing to do that if I can get a suggestion where in Denver and also tells me what I should be concentrating on.

Thanks in advance.

[Richard H]

I think really with an under $500 limit the really only decent new match pistol would be an IZH 46M. You may find older used pistols too.

[Fred Mannis]

The only dealer I know of in your area is Neal Johnson in Colorado Springs. He is showing a used Walther LP201 for $700 on his website http://www.nealjguns.com/ss_store/UsedAirPistol.html, and he may have others in his shop. You may be able to find a nice used CO2 pistol for $500, but don't forget you will need accessories like a CO2 tank, etc. Your best bet for under $500 is the IZH 46M. It is a single stroke pneumatic, so is ready to go right out of the box, and capable of shooting 570 scores.

[VikingMD]

Yea. In my review of all of the forums it sounds like the IZH 46M is the way to go in the price to performance realm. I also wanted a pistol that I could grow into.