I am getting a sub-compact pistol

[hockeypuck]

There were so many good responses about the .45, I would like some advice on a sub-compact. I have a license to carry. I am going to get one before some nitwit in DC takes away that right.

I currently have a SW model 669 .9 mil. I want something smaller. I was looking at a Kahr PM or a SW chef's special. No larger than a .40 caliber, but will probably stick with 9mm.

Thanks in advance,

PUCK

 

[Bob_Skurka]

I'm also looking. The little Karh 9mm has been recommended highly. I've not handled one yet, but I've been reading the reviews and it looks like an ideal sub-compact gun. Slightly larger and thicker the Glock 26 is also highly recommended, but I'm thinking it might be larger than I'm looking for.

 

[thcri]

I signed up to get my permit last fall. Could not make it to the class for family reasons so am enrolled in the next class.

Your right, before they try and take it away I do want to get mine.

murph

 

[hudlow]

Springfield's line of XD pistols also include some really nice subcompacts.

Don't rule out a small revolver for concealed carry. I really like my S&W J frame .38.

hud

 

[Soundguy]

If you like something close to a 9mm.. but want small and easy to carry. what about a Sig P232 I have a P230 the previous model ( same gun as far as i can tell ).. it's a good .380 carry gun. Not too heavy.. fits a paddle holster good.. nice positive hand grip... etc..

Soundguy

There were so many good responses about the .45, I would like some advice on a sub-compact. I have a license to carry. I am going to get one before some nitwit in DC takes away that right.

I currently have a SW model 669 .9 mil. I want something smaller. I was looking at a Kahr PM or a SW chef's special. No larger than a .40 caliber, but will probably stick with 9mm.

Thanks in advance,

PUCK

 

[RoyJackson]

I have a Kahr MK9 which is the all steel (stainless) subcompact. It's quite the shooter and is quite concealable.
The only downside of this gun is the weight (considering the small size) so you're not going to pocket carry this one.

Kahr's are rather expensive...

However, there are a number of subcompact 9 mm's available (Taurus comes to mind). I suggest you consider how you're planning to carry (in your pocket? Inside the waistband? outside the waistband? You'll want a nice quality holster any any method of carry.

I've carried for more then 20 years. My carry guns are as follows:
1) Taurus 85 Multi-Alloy: .38 Spl, 5 rounds, Aluminum/Titanium, weight (unloaded) 13.5 oz. I normally carry this in a pocket. This is my most frequently carried gun due to weight, size and the ease of pocket carry. This one goes everywhere I go.

2) Glock 19: 9 mm, 15 rounds, polymer/steel, weight (unloaded) 21 oz. I carry this one outside the waist band. you will have to wear a covering garment of some sort. This Glock fits my hand the best of any of my handguns (got 9 or 10 all told)

3) Kahr MK 9: 9 mm, 6 rounds, stainless steel, weight 21 oz. I carry this one outside the waistband. A tee shirt easily covers this one

The Glock and Kahr are carried frequently (not both at once). It took me a long time to find a holster I liked for the Kahr. Since I've found a holster I like (and have it broken in now), the Kahr is my second most frequently carried gun. As far as round count for the Glock and Kahr, I quoted the magazine capacity. If you carry with one in the chamber, add one to each count.

Good luck in your selection!

 

[Slacker]

I ccw on a daily basis and have owned and carried many many subcompacts.
Over the years I've come to realize that the best carry gun is the one you'll carry. That said, go with a lightweight thats easily concealed. I carry a lightweight Taurus M85 in holsters that fit the occasion. Ankle, belt, belly band, pocket are all options. Due to the short barrel and low velocity it allows, I carry +P LSWCHP rounds. Expansion is more reliable with no bullet jacket (at the low velocites that a snubby allows). Here is my carry gun when new next to some 1911 mags for reference. Edited to claify that I carry for defensive reasons only. I have no delusions about being confronted by a gang of armed thugs. I don't need 15 rounds because I'm not above running like **** before using deadly force.

 

[GaryM]

I usually carry a kahr PM40. Polymer frame and stainless slide etc. Most always carry in a pocket holster (DeSantis Nemisis) with no problems. Pistol weighs about 16 oz. It's .40 S&W caliber and not pleasant to shoot all day. But that's not what it's for anyway.

Also have a Springfield Armory XD40 Sub Compact. That get's used when clothing allows. New had a single problem with the XD. Check them out.

 

[Bob_Skurka]

I usually carry a kahr PM40. . .

Also have a Springfield Armory XD40 Sub Compact.

Gary, how do these two guns compare in overall size & weight to each other? You stated you had one problem with the XD40, have you ever had a problem with the Kahr?

The Glock 26 and 27 are also of interest to me. But I think they will both be bigger/thicker than I would like. I have other guns, both smaller (.380) and larger (compact & full size .45) but I'm looking for something in between that will be easy to carry. One thing about carry guns, they don't do you any good if you leave them in the desk drawer.

 

[bill177]

I carry a KelTec .380 in a pocket holster and always use the same holster in the same pocket. You do not want to be in the position of wondering which pocket, ankle, belt the gun is on.

I don't recommend any of the "magic" holsters like the belly, thigh, ankle, etc. Although they allow concealment of nearly any handgun - they are less then stellar in the fast draw department.

A word of advice about carrying - just because you are armed does not mean you are OK to go marching any old place in the world at any time. In other words, be vigilant of your surroundings. Vigilance is more likely to save your life than the handgun.