I was really into pistol shooting when the firestar came out (Mid 1990's). It is heavy for it's size, the grip is short (as mentioned), has a so-so trigger, the safety is not handy for my hands(condition one), and it is out of production (I think). The 9mm's where pretty accurate, never shot a 40, the 45's got bought and sold quickly-nobody seeemed to keep one long. I now havd a Glock compact 38-same size as a 19.23,etc. I like it a lot for concealed carry. It never jams, good accuracy, parts and clips are available. I would pass on the Firestar and hold out for a Glock, Smith M&P, Sig etc..