[TXplt]

I like my ruger revolvers, and everyone should get the gun they like to shoot and that "fits" them. Ruger does make strong guns, either autos or revolvers. I really like the Sig for the .45--Personally, I have had some problems with .45 rounds having FTF in other pistols--I don't know if this is because of the double stack magazine combined with the .45 round or not. Single stack not as much. Maybe it's just me. My Glock 26 in 9mm has been as reliable as any auto -- about 3K between stoppage. With tru-glos is a very accurate and easy to shoot pistol--tough and good for CCW as well. Bottom line is to try a few out and see what you like.

[mwatson]

Hey guy's I am in Northwest Arkansas and have had ccw since 1996. I carry Glock 23 in 40 cal, and glock30 in 45 cal. Either one will do the job. The nice thing about Glock's is you can get them for 450 to 500.
My 2 cenrts worth. Mike

[ezearln]

The basic problem from my experience with high capacity sidearms is that having one encourages the "Spray and Pray" mentality! 9mm's give reasonable stopping power with properly designed high performance ammunition. HOWEVER calibers in the .40-.45 range have far higher probability of one or two shot stops with nearly all projectile designs (85-90%) . The basic issue with any weapon carried is YOUR skill level and ability to effectively employ the weapon. Training and practice is paramount so don't skimp on range time and find yourself an instructor that understands and can help you satisfy your needs!

[madcratebuilder]

S&W M640, fits in your pocket, plus revolvers are more reliable.

[Aarant]

as far as .45's go I just shot my 1st Witness today. EXCELLENT!! I have shot Rugers, Brownings, 1911's from different companies even a glock or 2, none has impressed me like the Witness. I don't know about durabitilty, but as far as accuracy and comfort it was great. mytemac you might look into the compact model. It also comes in a range for cal. Mbrokaw8 you might check into it also.

[Czarkazm]

I know I'm new here, but three pages, and nobody has mentioned/suggested the Kahr PM9?! "Handles like a small Kahr, hits like a loaded semi."

[ArkansasHunter]

mbrokaw8 there's a lot of fine pistols to be had wether they be 9mm, 40 S&W or 45 colt.
As you've already read here several manufactures have been mentioned.
My son has 2 Glocks in 40 S&W and you couldn't possible go wrong buying one of the Glock models.
I did as much research as possible on the new Ruger SR9 that only comes in 9 mm and the more I find to read the more I like it !
So when you go to shop check out the SR9 if the 9mm isn't a problem...A.H

[privateer]

mbrokaw8, which ever pistol you choose , may I suggest that you also purchase snap-caps with it, so when you cant get to the range you can safely practice your presentation (draw and fire) it may sound silly but no matter how well you shoot from the bench if you dont have the muscle memory of your presentation you will be slow in your defense.

[mwatson]

I carry a Glock 23 in 40 caliber, or a Glock 30 in 45 caliber. Both are compact in size and capable of stopping a perp in one shot. You can get a used Glock in the area of 450. They shoot very accurate for the 7 yard and closer range. If you have a range close that rents guns is the best way to choose. Good luck in your choice.
Mike

[Arkansas Smith]

Howdy all, newbie here. I really like my M&P compact 9. The only other one I own is a Ruger P95. I can conceal whichever one I want to carry.

The only CZ I've tried that I liked was the P01. I also think the Glock 26, or XD compact would be just fine also.

I kind of have the philosophy that I want my ccw to be one without a safety, and I prefer my home defense to have a safety. If I'm out and about and need to get the weapon out fast and fire, no safety is the way to go. At home however if I have to fumble around for it at night in the dark, I prefer it have a safety. I've practiced disengaging the safety in the dark.

[Hotled]

Loaded question, sorry for the pun:P XD compact 45 is what I carry and it fits rather nice no matter what I wear.

Best thing I can tell ya is go to a good gunshop and handle everything,then read reviews on which ones trip your trigger-"oops did it gain:P"

9mm,40sw,45 all good calibers, don't read to heavy into the gotta have a 800.00 handgun reviews cause quite simply you probably won't carry it that much, and there are real good pistols for under 500.00.

[ander254]

what is even better than a local shop is going to a gun show. yeah you might not have the hand's on attention like the shop would provide but there will be a vast amounts of handguns to hold and look at. My local shop doesn't carry many of the higher dollar pistols, but the shop near my school has an assortment of kimbers and nighthawks. with my meager budget im comfortable perusing the local store.

[rascaldog]

+1 on the Kahr. I own lots of handguns but the one I find myself with 90% of the time is a Kahr CW9 carried in a Bianchi holster. Great little gun, can be had new for around $400.00. Also available in 40 cal. as a CW40.

[Mike Franklin]

Go to a gun show, or two, handle anything and everything that you can afford. You'll likely find a gun that fits ya. When ya do hold the gun down at your side, now bring it up to eye level and see if it pretty much points where you'r looking, if so the gun fits you.
I have to carry a Glock 22. I've been at the gun for several hours with a dremel and a file. One more session and I think I'll like it ok.

[tekhead1219]

I carry the Witness P Compact in .45 caliber. Very easily concealed plus the fact that the EAA Witness P can be converted to a 9mm, .40, or .22. I like the .45 for carry, I want no second guessing as to knock down power if needed. Our military uses the 9mm, but, a lot of our soldiers carry their own .45 because of the lack of stopping power with the 9mm. Just my thoughts.[/quote]

[Aarant]

I'm like everyone else. I like a lil more bang for my buck than a 9mm carries. But if your looking for a small 9mm the Kel-tec P11 or P9 or both good choices. the thing I don't like about them is there is no safety's. IF you want an external safety there is the Bersa Thunders. comes in 9mm, .40,or .45. All are small. There is also the Tanfaglio Witness line of firearms. All the above can be found for 400.00 or less.

[knightRider]

px4 storm compact , xd compact glock compact , you get the point

[bigV]

Although I'm a big fan of the "big fuggin knife" approach to defense, it's not always that practical. Given my slight build I prefer 9mm for carry due to quick draw and ease of handling. If moneys no issue, you can't go wrong with a SIG-SAUER 229 sas (bout $1,000) if that's out of range the euro trade-in 225's are excellant (and legal in Cali) or an EAA Zastava 9mm. I prefer loading out with Powerball or Ranger-Talon ammo (if you can get them). But most importantly, disobey your mother, go to the store and PLAY WITH GUNS. Safely of course, but try out everything and find what fits you. happy hunting

[racdrof]

I myself, for a concealed handgun, like the Charter Bulldog Pug. In the .44 special. I know it's a "tad" bit bigger than the 9mm, but if the lead don't get them, the blast will.

[rcortinas]

Sccy Industries LLC CPX-1 TT

I am a dealer down here in Tx and have purchased some of these for the shop. At first i was unsure about these since they were not a big name company. The salesman made me a deal, that i could take one out of my order and put it through my own shooting test and if i was not happy i could return all of them, even the used one for full refund. I took it out and shot 200rds FMJ and another 100rd HP of different manufacture and this gun shot great. Not 1 jam or misfeed, and accuracy was good. Retail on these are under 300.00. I now have 1 in each of my vehicles as carry guns.