Flatbush Harry
Member
I have a number of options in .40 and .45 calibers for my basic personal defense handgun. I took several to the range yesterday to evaluate my comfort and proficiency levels and the pistols' basic accuracy levels. Too, I wanted to get a better idea of which would be the most inconspicuous concealed carry gun, should I choose to carry. The candidates for this trip were:
1. SAI XD40sc
2. SAI XDm 45 3.8
3. SAI XD45 Tactical Compact
4. SAI TRP 1911 in .45ACP
with Remington UMC FMC factory ammo in 180gr (.40 S&W) and 230gr (.45ACP), respectively
No 4. has been my fall and winter PD handgun for the last several years since I retired a customized Colt Mk IV, ser. '70 that had had the role since the late '70s. My spring and summer PD gun has been a S&W 642 Airweight in .38 Spl because it works better with summer clothes.
Each has been totally reliable for >500 rounds.
I chose to shoot two magazines, one with 5 rounds, and a reload with 8 (I reversed that order with the TRP). My first mag was at 13 yards, reload and move up to 7 yards
The attached target was my result with no. 1, above.
I've decided to go with the XD40sc and will be finalizing between TAP, Rem Golden Saber and Winchester Personal Defense ammo next trip.
While I recommend each of the above pistols without reservation, for size, concealment, ease of use and my effectiveness, my choice became clear. At the moment, I'll be using a Galco OWB single magazine carrier and a Concealment Holster, though I'll be continuing to research. Suggestions welcomed.
FH
1. SAI XD40sc
2. SAI XDm 45 3.8
3. SAI XD45 Tactical Compact
4. SAI TRP 1911 in .45ACP
with Remington UMC FMC factory ammo in 180gr (.40 S&W) and 230gr (.45ACP), respectively
No 4. has been my fall and winter PD handgun for the last several years since I retired a customized Colt Mk IV, ser. '70 that had had the role since the late '70s. My spring and summer PD gun has been a S&W 642 Airweight in .38 Spl because it works better with summer clothes.
Each has been totally reliable for >500 rounds.
I chose to shoot two magazines, one with 5 rounds, and a reload with 8 (I reversed that order with the TRP). My first mag was at 13 yards, reload and move up to 7 yards
The attached target was my result with no. 1, above.
I've decided to go with the XD40sc and will be finalizing between TAP, Rem Golden Saber and Winchester Personal Defense ammo next trip.
While I recommend each of the above pistols without reservation, for size, concealment, ease of use and my effectiveness, my choice became clear. At the moment, I'll be using a Galco OWB single magazine carrier and a Concealment Holster, though I'll be continuing to research. Suggestions welcomed.
FH