Posted: 1/30/2002 8:50:30 AM EDT
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I was seeking advice regarding a good conceal and carry piece. I'm not very big so I need something pretty small. I have a Sig 229 that would be great except that it is simply too big and heavy to be comfortable and not print so we are talking about something pretty small here. These days there are a boatload of options, and I'm kinda lost. My first dilema is auto vs revolver. Would a 357 or 45 colt (or heck, maybe even a 22 mag) snubbie be a better choice than an auto? If I go with an auto there are tons of options. I have been considering the Kahr line, some of the micro 1911's and of course the baby glocks and sigs. Do people have other suggestions? In an auto I think I would prefer a 45 or 9mm. I find the sharp recoil impulse of the 40 to be distasteful in small pistols. Here is the final stipulation... It has to be comfortable to shoot. I want something that I will have fun practicing with. Help me guys! |
| It's no secret that I like my Kahr K9 and P9. However I also have an older Sig P225 that I use to carry a lot. For me the Glocks just don't fit my hand. Sometimes I carry my PPK, but have pretty much replaced it with the Kahrs. Basically the same size but a full 9mm. I use +P+ ammo in mine and it is kinda snappy in the polymer P9. The Sig P239 is a fine gun, but I've only shot it in 357 Sig, again kinda snappy, but certainly controlable. Just my .02. |
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Can't go wrong with the P239. I recommend Hogue rubber grips, particularly if you have large hands. They don't add to the size. An alternative, if you want a significantly larger caliber, is the Kimber Ultra Carry. It is virtually the same size as the P239, and packs 6+1 in .45 ACP, and has about the same recoil and flip as a full-size 1911. |
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If you are going to spend a lot of time shooting I think autos are a better choice, tho any quality .357 is certainly going to get the job done and some of them are coming with 7 rounds now so they are getting close to the little .45's in round number and power. I know a lot of people met their end by .45 colt rounds, but I don't know how readily available defensive loadings are v. "cowboy" shooting whimp rounds. The Glock 36 is about that same size as these other guns I think. I don't think the recoil is bad. The grip feels too long for the width to some people tho. Even tho it is beveled it is still kind of a chunky gun-I don't mind it but it does kind of poke into you. I looked at a little Kimber Ultra Carry. That was a sweet little gun. Ran almost a grand and I already had glocks, but boy those are nice guns, comes with night sights and a custom looking melt job with all the edges beveled off. I would get one of the early models, not one with the new type II safety. If you already have a Sig and like that style and are familiar with it it might be a good idea to stick with something you are familiar with and confident with. |
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I use either my Glock 36 or Springfield full sized 1911A1 for concealed carry. The important thing is to carry something that is both comfortable for you to carry and to shoot. If at all possible you should try the gun before you buy. Either rent one or try a buddies. Good luck. Jamie |