[gripnCOLDSTEEL]

First off thanks for taking the time to answer my questions.


Currently I carry a .380 Cobra. While it does pack a nice punch at a nice size, I have been thinking about making it the backup. I would like to find a nice compact pistol that is capable of using hi cap mags later if I want.

My main concern is the size/weight for C&C.
My local store showed me: Taurus .45 ($295) and a S&W .40 ($335) any thoughts on those?
Maybe 9mm is for me? I am looking to spend around $300 as shown above. And cheap ammo would be nice, with ability to run hollow point.

[GlockMeister]

In S&W, what about the M&P in .40 or .45? Glock makes a few decent ones. Sig. is another brand to check out. The new STI GP6, looks pretty good also and I think it may be available in not only the 9mm but a .40cal? I'm looking at that one in .40 if they have it. I like the way it looks. Depends on how much you want to spend. Never mind, just checked on the STI GP6, bummer, only in 9mm for now. But it looks good. Check it out. STI International - GP6

Good luck and I'm sure you'll get plenty of choices and advice to consider. Give it a day or so. Lots of great, smart members here.

G-Meister

[TXplt]

PT-145 is great gun and has a great grip. I've enjoyed shooting it. The double column mag has given me some pause, with occasional stoppages. Also have a para warthog which is great .45 as well. Same, so maybe it's me.

My G26 with tru-glo sights is great as a small auto (10+1 9mm). You do need to use high performance ammo. It's very reliable and easy to shoot.

Good luck. I actually like revolvers more for carry guns. Have smith 40 (new) now; also charter bulldog. Revolvers might be worth a look.

[just_a_car]

Both posts above are pretty right-on. The exception is that the GLOCKs do not need high-performance ammunition. Unless you're running non-jacketed bullets, it will eat up whatever you feed it.

I feed my .40S&W G27 a steady diet of Winchester Whitebox 165gr at the range and carry Winchester Ranger SXT® 165gr every day (I am non-LE/Military).

I also get 10+1 with the Pearce +1 grip extension mag-plate and it also gives me a place for my pinky to sit.

Combined with my Blackhawk SERPA CQC holster and a genuine leather belt, I am comfortable carrying openly or concealed.

[evilblackrifle]

I'd save your money and buy a Glock 26 (with a +2 mag extension), or a Glock 19.

Or not save as much money and buy a Ruger SR9 9mm.

[gripnCOLDSTEEL]

Quote:       Originally Posted by evilblackrifle

I'd save your money and buy a Glock 26 (with a +2 mag extension), or a Glock 19. Or not save as much money and buy a Ruger SR9 9mm.

I think you may have found it. Im gonna go to my local place and see if they have it
That Ruger looks tasty.

[nathangdad]

If that is what you want then you should buy it but I do want to interject another thought. High capacity means always carrying extra weight and bulk. Maybe it does not seem like so much but it will always be with you.
Now, the question comes as to how valuable that would be in a crisis situation. Honestly, not as much as you might wish to believe as the situation will develop quickly and you may be lucky to get off three shots.
You will just not have the chance to blast away with 8, 9, or 10+ rounds.
Please study some of the FBI and police statistics on handgun encounters.

Whatever you choose I do wish you the best and advise practice is more important than volume of firepower.

[TXplt]

Quote:       Originally Posted by just_a_car

Both posts above are pretty right-on. The exception is that the GLOCKs do not need high-performance ammunition. Unless you're running non-jacketed bullets, it will eat up whatever you feed it. I feed my .40S&W G27 a steady diet of Winchester Whitebox 165gr at the range and carry Winchester Ranger SXT® 165gr every day (I am non-LE/Military). I also get 10+1 with the Pearce +1 grip extension mag-plate and it also gives me a place for my pinky to sit. Combined with my Blackhawk SERPA CQC holster and a genuine leather belt, I am comfortable carrying openly or concealed.

Sorry, I need to phrase myself better (my wife tells me this all the time !!!!). The Glocks will eat whatever they're fed (Jacketed); I meant that the 9mm in general needs hi-performance ammo to be a credible stopper with average bullet placement.