re: Best compact 9 mm in $500 price range?

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The one that fits your hand and that you can operate and shoot accurately.

Everyone will have an opinion on the best but it's all up to personal fit and feel. Go somewhere where you can rent and shoot a few difference styles/manufacturers.

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AMEN!

I'm not exactly sure what your defintion is for a "compact." I'm gonna guess the Bersa BP9CC, Walther PPS, Kel-Tec PF9, Beretta Nano, Kimber Solo, Taurus Slim and other small, single stack 9's are small than what you're looking for. If the gun is NOT for concealed carry, I'd suggest looking at the different compact models of Springfield XD, Glock, Ruger SR and S&W M&P. The M&P "Shield" will probably be a quality gun, but I'm personally hesitant to buy a model that's brand new to the market. Wait at least a few months to be sure the bugs have been worked out.

If the gun is for concealed carry, I'll put the Kahr series (especially the CW9 if $$ is a factor) at the front of the list. I know the round capacity of the Kahr is much less than w/ the double stacks, but, for me, a single stack magazine gun is MUCH easier to conceal.

Of course, for those who are willing to spend the time to learn its manual of arms, the 3.5"-4.25" 1911's are great carry guns.