So I am new to the world of handguns (and to some degree guns overall). I FINALLY received my permit and I am excited to buy my first handgun. The main priority of the gun will be target shooting (every so often probably <1500 rounds per year) and home defense if needed (although I would reach for a shotgun first!

 

I would like to make target shooting a hobby, something me and the girlfriend could do together. After reading the laws and restrictions in NJ I am now aware that magazines must hold 15 rounds or less. After researching the Springfield XD(M) I'm pretty much sold on it, love the design and reviews. I came across a deal for a bitone .45acp XDM (4.5 inch) for around $570. To be honest I'd much prefer a 9mm because of ammo costs, recoil (especially for the GF), and lack of need for a higher caliber.

 

I know the XDM 9mm boasts a 19 round magazine, however I've read on this board that some of you have 10 or 15 round magazines in the 9mm or .40! So my question is: when I go to order the gun from an online source can I call and request the gun be shipped with a lower capacity magazine? I don't even care if its only a 10 round capacity. Are there any gun shops (Southern NJ preferred) that carry 9mm XDM (obviously with a lower capacity magazine)? Or are these magazines something purchased separately that have been permanently modified for 10-15 rounds?

 

I greatly appreciate your help.

I think Tips Hardware in West Creek, had one the last time I was there. I would give them a call. http://www.tipshardware.org/

ya just pulled up their site, looks like they do carry them but WAY too expensive $899.99 for bitone 9mm yikes

Welcome to the forum and guns. Do your self a favor, you might want to think about more than 1 handgun, after all the are like potato chips and you know what they say about potato chips.

 

I would say I 22LR pistol, they are a lot of fun, can be had for not too much coin and you and your girl could shoot for hours for 20 bucks in ammo.

 

I'd recommend a Ruger MK II or MK III, the wife has the Hunter version and I'd say if I could only have 1 22LR pistol that would be it.

 

As far as a center-fire caliber I would pick something in 9mm to start. It's not only one of the cheapest center-fire calibers to shoot, it's not too bad in regards to recoil, and thats especially good for women shooters new to the sport. Too many guys will say try this 44Mag and it scares there better half and then they wonder why they don't want to shoot with them.

 

Also, no matter what you do, try and shoot what ever gun your thinking of getting. One could look great and you just have to have it and next thing you know it doesn't fit your hand right or just doesn't point well for you.

 

Also you might want to fill in a little more info in your profile, depending on where you are, people may be willing to meet with you for you to try out their gun.

thanks for the reply, I'd definitely consider a .22 at some point but for now a 9mm is what I have my sights on. I have held (not shot) an XDm and love the feel. I really need to know if it is possible to order/buy a 9mm XDm with a 10-15 round magazine. Preferably bi-tone with 4.5inch barrel.

Where are you located? Paul (PK90 here on the forums) from Arms & Ammo in South Jersey can get you a xDM with blocked mags.

I live in SJ (Gloucester Twp). Where is Paul located?

Paul's place is in Winslow, I would check his price before ordering online, by the time you pay shipping and fees etc you may find him to be less expensive. He will also keep you legal with the proper mags etc. Good luck and shoot safe!

Springfield does not make mags for ban states for the XD line of guns and you have to get them modified for NJ. Paul (pk90) is perhaps the authority on blocked mags, be it AR or handgun magazines.

 

Visit him here in the vendor section.

 

Keep in mind, most online vendors will not be messing with modified magazines, so if you buy online, you will have to add at least $30 to $50 per magazine, especially with XD where there are no 10 round mags even.

 

Lastly, over the next few months, I venture to guess that some online only retailers will fail, and others will have to raise prices quite a bit.

To my understanding it is illegal to own a magazine that holds more than 15 rounds correct? So if I purchase online they would have to ship the gun without any magazines, then I would have to source modded mags. I would prefer to buy it all together, I sent Paul a message and am waiting for a response. I really want to move on this should I call tomorrow?

PK90 will take care of ya, gun, mags... he the man!

YUP! He answered me back and I put down a deposit I'm 7-10 days away from a Springfield XDm 9mm 4.5" with bitone finish! 15Round Mags!

... probably <1500 rounds per year)

 

Should we quote you on this? Haha. One trip to the range with your new pistol whatever you end up with

and you'll be wanting to come back for a lot more. Especially if you hang around these forums. Everyone

will push you to compete, go to meet ups, this that and the other thing. Before you know it you'll be reloading!

 

All the best whatever you end up with.

_{lol I have a feeling you're right, glad I ended up with the 9mm instead of 45}

YUP! He answered me back and I put down a deposit I'm 7-10 days away from a Springfield XDm 9mm 4.5" with bitone finish! 15Round Mags!

 

Nice dude, I got the xdm 5.25 9 and 45,, the 9 from pk90.. Absolutely love these guns, and I'm sure you will to. Congrats

Nice dude, I got the xdm 5.25 9 and 45,, the 9 from pk90.. Absolutely love these guns, and I'm sure you will to. Congrats

 

THank YOU