I recently tried a CZ p10 Compact, and was surprised at the recoil pain I experienced, I am 86 with arthritis and find. myself without a 9mm pistol. I have respect for CZ, am not interested in carry, just range use. I think the good design of the CZ sent the recoil impulse directly back into the thumb. base joint. Disappointing, because I want an accurate range gun, don't need a lot of fancy features, and I thought the CZ would do it for me. Any suggestions as to what might be better for me?

Question

I recently tried a CZ p10 Compact, and was surprised at the recoil pain I experienced,  I am 86 with arthritis and find. myself without a 9mm pistol.  I have respect for CZ, am not interested in carry, just range use.  I think the good design of the CZ sent the recoil impulse directly back into the thumb. base joint.  Disappointing, because I want an accurate range gun, don't need a lot of fancy features, and I thought the CZ would do it for me. Any suggestions as to what might be better for me?

Ed C. · Answer

Hi Ed, the HK VP9 is known for its accuracy and reliability, making it a great choice for range use. It has a smooth trigger and low recoil, which helps with accuracy. 
.
HK VP9

Accuracy: Known for its precision, making it ideal for range shooting.
    Recoil: Features a low recoil system, enhancing control and comfort during shooting.
    Trigger: Offers a smooth trigger pull, contributing to better shooting performance.
.
I'd recommend finding a range where you can rent one to try it out first. 
Stay safe & have a great day!

Jason L. · Answer

My wife's hands share the same thing as you. She went with the S&W M&P Sheild EZ in .380. Extremely easy to rack with soft recoil. Available in 9mm aa well.
https://www.budsgunshop.com/search.php/q/shield+ez

Kevin M. · Answer

Try this one: https://www.budsgunshop.com/search.php/q/shield+ez

Trevor D. · Answer

The effect of low bore axis you were describing usually does help with controllability by reducing muzzle flip, but as you're finding out that doesn't necessarily reduce the recoil impulse on it's own, and in my experience I feel it actually makes it stronger/sharper but is still a net positive unless it causes you pain of course. If carry/concealment is not a factor, you have more latitude to explore ergonomics and grip size which can be more comfortable but would otherwise be harder to hide under a shirt. I think the best bet would be larger/different frame designs that allow you a more comfortable grip, avoiding slimline or compact models, and heavier guns in general that will have less felt recoil. Also, softer recoil springs can help spread out the recoil impulse over a larger time making things a bit less "snappy", however there's a limit at which reliable cycling will be compromised. I hesitate to give any specific model recommendations as honestly, despite enjoying the quality,

Ric F. · Answer

Good evening to you!! At 86 I think any 9mm regardless of design will hurt your arthritis. Have you thought of going small to the .380 into a full size frame such as the Beretta 80x Cheetah?  Hope this helps. Have a good rest of your day. 
🇺🇸🇺🇸 'Merica' 🇺🇸🇺🇸 
https://www.budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/168460/beretta+80x+cheetah+tactical+urban+.380+acp+4.4+threaded+barrel+black+10+rounds

James G. · Answer

Hi Edward and welcome. Love the fact that you are still in the shooting sports at age 86. The CZ p10 Compact is a fine pistol but sorry it gives you pain during recoil. If 9mm is a must, Smith and Wesson makes some of the softest if not the softest recoiling 9mm handguns in the Shield EZ and the Equalizer. The EZ is a single stack pistol, and the Equalizer is a double stack version for higher capacity. https://www.budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/118853/smith+%26+wesson+m%26p9+m2.0+shield+ez+9mm+thumb+safety ---------------------------------------------------------------------- https://www.budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/149950/smith+wesson+equalizer+or+9mm+semi+auto+pistol ----------------- Both were designed specifically for shooters with weaker hands, arthritis etc. Shooting videos here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7PCC_AeuM8 ----------------------------------------------------------- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ffj3ZSJu7U ------------------- Cheer

Justin P. · Answer

I would at least consider a Revolver. There are options for 9mm in revolver made, like the Ruger LCR for instance. That is not a great range gun though. Smith and Wesson 986 would be better. They are pricey unfortunately.

A 38 caliber has similar ballistics and only a tad pricier than 9mm. 
Another thing to consider is going to a smaller caliber for the range. You can achieve adequate level of training and save money in the process. Consider a 22 Magnum. They are great for the range and cheap.
If you are set on a semi-auto and insist on 9mm, maybe try a larger and heavier gun to absorb some of the recoil. Since you like the CZ , maybe try an all steel Beretta 92 or something similar. Heavier is better to absorb recoil.  Racking the slide can be tough on arthritis too. If it's not bothering you now, it may down the road. Something to consider. Another reason to consider a revolver. 
In short, I recommend a wheelgun in 38 or a full-size semi-auto in a smaller caliber. You may need two

Randy I. · Answer

I would recommend the shield ez in 380 or the shield ez in 9mm https://www.budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/118853/smith+wesson+mp+9+shield+ez+m2.0+thumb+safety+9mm+pistol
https://www.budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/118854/smith+wesson+mp9+shield+ez+m2.0+9mm+semi+auto+pistol

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