Originally posted by: mizzou
ahh sweet, i found a cz 82 online for like $150
Remember that a CZ82 is
NOT a 9mm in the usual meaning of the term. 9mm typically refers to the 9x19 Luger Parabellum cartridge. The CZ82 is chambered for the 9x18 Makarov cartridge. The 9x18 Makarov is ballistically similar to the .380 ACP (aka 9x17 Browning Short or 9mm Kurtz).
The CZ8
3 is available in either 9x18 Makarov, .380 ACP, or .32 ACP.
None of these approach the ballistics of the 9x19 Luger Parabellum and the 9x18 Makarov can be difficult to find.
However, both the 9x18 Makarov and .380 ACP are perfectly adequate as carry weapons. Both loadings are ballistically similar to the .38 Special which worked just fine for decades as the standard self-defense caliber. I have no qualms about carrying my Sig P230 which is chambered in .380 ACP and it conceals much more easily than any of my other firearms.
As others have said, if you're looking for something that will shoot the common 9mm Luger Parabellum cartridge, HiPoint firearms, while heavy, crude, and ugly, are reliable, accurate, and inexpensive.
It does sound though that this is a spur-of-the-moment decision. I would strongly suggest that you take some time to research this as well as saving up some money to spend on learning how to shoot.
ZV