Let the great debate begin

[basslee]

I've already posted a similar question in the New to CHL forum, but i think this is more appopriate.


Once i get my CHL, i'm planning on using my Sig p229r 9mm. I've considered going to a .45 or a .40. I'm also considering buying a P239 or a glock of similar caliber.

The debate(i know that lots of people have opinions on this) is "which pistol is best for a concealed carry, brand, model and caliber?

[stevie_d_64]

Whatever feels, and works best for you...The less you have to think about mechanics and how it works, to me, thats the best tool for the job...

This is a relatively expensive hobby...relatively...

There are ways to reduce the costs sometimes, so if you can get away with, and feel comfortable with a Cadillac, but get it done with a Chevy or Ford...I say get good with a Chevy or Ford...And those can be upgraded too!

Welcome to the forum!

[Venus Pax]

This is about like asking someone which brand of jeans are the best. It all depends on your shape, size, lifestyle, and preferences.

I don't like to wear huge clothes, so I generally wear a Bersa .380. When I can hide it, I prefer the 1911 (.45 cal). I believe in wearing the biggest thing you can comfortably shoot and hide.

One forum member, Thane, has switched temporarily to a Glock. He prefers a 1911, but has found that his overactive sweat glands aren't kind to his 1911. The Glock, a plastic gun, isn't so prone to rust. For now, this is what works for him.

Charles & longtooth like the 1911s a lot. I believe both men carry these exclusively. (Correct me if I'm wrong.) However, I think they both work indoors most of the time & possibly don't have the sweat & rust issue.

My dad usually just carries a .32 Kel-tec. Since he's disabled, and IMO more vulnerable, I wish he would carry a .45. He's getting there. He's talking about wearing a high riding holster to carry his 1911. Anything, however, is better than nothing.

Talk to as many people as you can. Get as much info from them as you can. If you meet ppl face to face, as in a gun shop, range, or forum day, I encourage you to try on their holsters.

If you ask longtooth, he may PM you a list of holster makers.

[jbirds1210]

A quality gun that has proven itself reliable.

Good modern defensive ammunition and enough practice to feel confident are the key to any concealed rig.

A quality holster and belt will make things less uncomfortable and more likely to carry full time.

For me that gun is some flavor of Glock....the 17 being my favorite. If you are ever in my neck of the woods....I will be happy to let you shoot a variety. There are many places that will rent guns to you.
Jason

[Sly Dog]

Depends on the time of year for me. In the summer I only carry a S&W 642 in my pocket inside a Mika pocket holster.

In the winter when I have on more clothes I carry a Glock 27.

Guns are like automobiles, everyone likes something different. I would try out some handguns before buying. Also if you are ever in my neck of the woods, stop by and I will let you try my handguns out at the range if you like.

[nitrogen]

A quality gun that has proven itself reliable.

Good modern defensive ammunition and enough practice to feel confident are the key to any concealed rig.

To add to jbirds' excellent advice, any gun you can shoot into your target often and reliably.

If you are all over the B27 with a Kimber, but you can hit the X ring at 15 yards every time with a hi-point, carry the hi-point! (Assuming it's reliable of course!)

[Paladin]

I'd go with a major caliber: 9mm, .40, .357SIG, or .45.

9mm is the cheapest ammo.

Glocks and 1911's are extremely popular, but I don't think you would go wrong with a Sig or XD.

I carry a HK USP45 myself.

Last weekend a guy asked me if I could conceal something the size of a USP45... my first thought to myself was "apparently I can"

[RPBrown]

A quality gun that has proven itself reliable.

Good modern defensive ammunition and enough practice to feel confident are the key to any concealed rig.

To add to jbirds' excellent advice, any gun you can shoot into your target often and reliably.

If you are all over the B27 with a Kimber, but you can hit the X ring at 15 yards every time with a hi-point, carry the hi-point! (Assuming it's reliable of course!)

I agree. Any gun you canshoot well and feels good.

With me its any number. G21, 1911 XD45, XD9 sub, 625, P3AT.

Whatever you use it must be reliable and you feel comfortable with it.

You are not far from me. If you would like to meet and try any of mine let me know.

[flintknapper]

A quality gun that has proven itself reliable.

Good modern defensive ammunition and enough practice to feel confident are the key to any concealed rig. Jason

There ya go!



And congratulations Jason on your "win" at state.

[Jeremae]

all these namby pamby "if it works for you" Non opinion answers make me sick....

If it ain't Made out of STEEL, Designed by John Moses Browning and Shoot a 45 calibre bullet, It is CRAP!






Just funnin... The beauty of the veritable cornocoppia of available handguns is you can find THE gun (or guns) that best matches you and your needs. And the search for that best fit can be a lot of fun (although expensive).

[stevie_d_64]

Nobody forced their opinion on me many years ago when I was out there searching for a good "first" gun purchase...

I went out and did my own research, shot some that I could find, rent or borrowed, paid for my own ammo, and ended up making my own choice with absolutely no ones blessing...

Sure, but let me jump off the cliff here...

Any 1911, .45 clone...

Any Glock...

Any Sig...

Any H&K...

Ruger handguns stink...

And pretty much any others I can't think of would probably make fantastic paperwieghts...

But anyone that knows me pretty well know I am full of it with this statement...

Feel better???

[hi-power]

Any 1911, .45 clone...

Any Glock...

Any Sig...

Any H&K...

Ruger handguns stink...

And pretty much any others I can't think of would probably make fantastic paperwieghts...

I'm shocked and appalled that my favorite gun didn't make either of your lists...or did it make the paperweight list?

[Quick6]

You have a very serious decision to make. Do not make that decision based on what we tell you. Make it at the range. The ONLY way to know for sure is by putting many rounds down range. Come to think of it, thats not so bad an assignment to have.

So, heres my suggestion to you: Come back in several weeks after several range trips shooting several different weapons and YOU tell US what's best for YOU.

And remember, there are only two perfect handguns...the one you sold years ago and the next on you intend to buy.

[RPBrown]

And remember, there are only two perfect handguns...the one you sold years ago and the next on you intend to buy.

Aint it the truth.

Offer still stands to let you try any of mine. I am going to try to go this weekend to the range (DPC), so let me know if you are interested.

[Skiprr]

And remember, there are only two perfect handguns...the one you sold years ago and the next one you intend to buy.