I have never been much into pistols. I have one, a ruger sr9, that I keep for home defense. I would like to upgrade to something better and would like some suggestion on which ones I should look at. It will mostly sit on my nightstand but also will carry at times. I will say I tried some glocks but they didn’t fit my hands comfortably so I probably wouldn’t consider one, anything else is and option.
You’re going to get a million different opinions on this!
I for one have had nothing but good experiences with my Berettas. A 92a1 or 96a1 (same pistol, 92 is 9mm, 96 is .40) would be a good option for both a nightstand pistol or carry gun. It’s a little larger, but not huge.
Theres also 92/96 Compacts, which are the same as the fullsize but just slightly smaller…
I like Berettas because they still have external safety switches, unlike most modern day guns. Thats all personal preference though, if you’d prefer to just grab the gun and start shooting then there are other options.
I’ve also recently picked up an H&K USP in .45 and I LOVE the gun…I think its actually taken the lead as my favorite pistol now. Unfortunately I’d say its probably not good as a carry pistol, since its rather large. They do make H&K USP Compacts though, which could be a good size.
There are so many options for what you’re looking for, your best bet is to do a lot of reading and try narrowing it down. If you come back to this post with a few options I think the people here could help you narrow it down some more.
There are a number of threads discussing current trends in the successes and liabilities of assorted duty-grade handguns. Get a cup of coffee, scroll down in the forum you posted your question in, and absorb the volumes of information.
I did the same thing and wasn’t a huge fan of the Glock… I know I am the odd ball… I fell in love with the M&P 9mm. The adjustable grip sizes (med for me) makes it fit like a glove and really feels like an extention of my hand. Just my .02 FWIW
Try out a Walther PPQ and a S&W M&P. They have adjustable back straps so they might fit your hand better.
C4
M&P would do you well. And as much as it pains me to say it, glocks are notoriously reliable for “serious use”. But me personally? I can’t get over the grip angle so it’s all about the M&P.
You cannot go wrong with a Walther PPQ. Try one out! You will like it.
I’d recommend you check out a higher end German Sig, or an HK. If you’ve got the money to spend - the P30. The HK P30 has arguably the best grip of any handgun in existence today and it’s the epitome of a “hard use” handgun. It also has the various adjustable back straps for the grip included. Trade in your Ruger towards the 9MM P30 and that’ll help cut the price down a bit.
Just my 2 cents.
i think if you stick with the proven pistols (german Sigs, HK, M&P, the Walther PPQ really seems to be a nice option) you will be much better off…
and definitely follow djmorris’ advice that i quoted. even the die hard Ruger guys are having problems with the SR series and are sending them in for repairs, but they still wont admit its an inferior product.
You’d be surprised how well the Glock “fits your hand” once you learn to run it…
I’d think Glock 17 is the definition of serious use handgun.
I know you said no Glocks, but:
Gen 3 Glock 19. Just a little dremeling to tweak the front grooves, plus a Vickers mag release. Maybe their slide release, too, if you want it.
Fits much better after that 
When you said you tried Glocks was it a Gen3 or Gen 4. The Gen 4 fits my hand much better than the Gen3. If you’re not going to carry concealed find a Gen4 17 made after Nov 2011. If you’re going to carry it find a Gen4 19 made after Nov 2011.
Agree completely. You should consider going to a range that rents guns and “rent the wall”. Try many options to find what fits you best. That said, the P30 and HK45 are my personal favorites.
The man speaks the truth.
Without knowing what it’s supposed to feel like the frame of reference is lacking.
That being said, the P30 is probably the most ergonomic and grip configurable duty grade pistol I have used.
I may incur some WTF looks here, but what’s wrong with your SR9? If your example has proven reliable I’d suggest that you invest that $550 into ammo and training instead.
Can’t disagree with the ideas thus far, only to add I really, really like my recent purchase - HK45c. Fits great and shoots like a dream. FWIW…
If you don’t like the feel of the Glocks (I would have recommended a 23 otherwise - good balance of stopping power and capacity and very concealable) take a look at the Springfield XD line and the Smith & Wesson MP line. They come in different sizes and calibers. They have great reviews and decent prices.
If the GLock did not fit your hand try the Walther PPQ.
Pat
Since glock is out I’d go with either the M&P or Springfield XD. See which one feels better in your hand and buy it. They will all function well.