After all of that, I had more or less decided on the Beretta, and went to the store and saw a used Smith & Wesson Model 39-2.  I loved the feel of it, and it was $300.

 

Is the Beretta a better gun?  Probably.  But for less than half the price, it was a fairly easy choice.

 

Beretta will probably be my 2nd handgun.

Congrats on your purchase. Enjoy! (In 20 days when your instant nics check comes back lol)

Congratulations! Use the next two permits on the Beretta and CZ (better availability than the Baby Eagle)!

Thanks.  I may do that.  CZ was hard to find around here though.  I've also got my eye on a Rock Island 1911.

Thanks.  I may do that.  CZ was hard to find around here though.  I've also got my eye on a Rock Island 1911.

As does my wife, in 9mm. Check out Sarco for the 1911.