hey smepl this
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Just one gun for self defense? Guess it’d be my Canik Mete MC9. Small enough for effortless concealed carry, but still shoots nice.
If You Could Have Only One Carry Piece For SD What Would It Be?
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Dr. Dingus
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I second the Hellcat! I love that pistol!
Or maybe my Five-SeveN, potentially.
No, it is EASY.
Your carry handgun is not fashion or trend or "new new thing".
It is the handgun you consistently draw and put rounds on threat with quickly while under stress training/practice.
It is the one gun you can consistently carry and consistently make hits with that consistently works.
That makes the choice easy if you are serious about self defense because regardless of extraneous choices, the choice makes itself and we choose to ignore it at our peril.
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KnightHawk
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Well I live out of town so working around the homestead I’ll carry SP101 357 3” in my back pocket. For potential social work in town I carry a Smith 60-14 2” 357 with 38 158 hp.
For critters around the valley I’ll either carry a Ruger Security Six 4” 357 or on the belt my 4” Smith 29 stuffed with 300’s. In brownie country I carry either the Smith 29 or a SRH 480 with 410’s.
For social town carry I’m going to be testing the Hellcat, Glock 43, and Sig 365.
Not convinced that semi autos are for me. If I can’t get it done in 3 or 4 then a dozen ain’t going to help… I’m not fighting a war.
For critters around the valley I’ll either carry a Ruger Security Six 4” 357 or on the belt my 4” Smith 29 stuffed with 300’s. In brownie country I carry either the Smith 29 or a SRH 480 with 410’s.
For social town carry I’m going to be testing the Hellcat, Glock 43, and Sig 365.
Not convinced that semi autos are for me. If I can’t get it done in 3 or 4 then a dozen ain’t going to help… I’m not fighting a war.
I’m guessing that if I was carrying my S&W X frame 460 magnum in my under arm carry holster and belt, I probably wouldn’t need to use it on anything on two legs. I’m guessing it might be suitable for four legged critters though. If you’re thinking CC, I’d have to decide where I’m going, what I’m wearing, and survey my qualified options, there are several.
WisBorn
Contributing Member
The XDM compact is under rated in my opinion as it is the size of a Glock 19, but has the advantage of the 10mm and 45acp cartridges 
Everyone knows that the 45acp is 5 times the 9mm!
9×5=45
And if a 9mm is good enough the 10mm has to be better!!!
My XDM compact 45acp and 10mm!
www.handgunhero.com
Everyone knows that the 45acp is 5 times the 9mm!
9×5=45
And if a 9mm is good enough the 10mm has to be better!!!
My XDM compact 45acp and 10mm!
Glock G19 Gen5 vs Springfield XD-M Elite 3.8" Compact size comparison | Handgun Hero
Compare the dimensions and specs of Glock G19 Gen5 and Springfield XD-M Elite 3.8" Compact
www.handgunhero.com
WisBorn
Contributing Member
Ok I like 9mms also
Glock 19 & Kimber R7 9mm (not pictured is my G26)
But if I could only have 1 it would be the XDM compact 45acp or 10mm
Glock 19 & Kimber R7 9mm (not pictured is my G26)
But if I could only have 1 it would be the XDM compact 45acp or 10mm
someguy2800
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LC9s in a pocket holster
tomrkba
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That's a naive response. I'm really starting to despise the "common SOP/procedures/Stock Answers" of the "tactical" gun community.
I get that some people only want one or two guns. I have a friend who has one Glock 17 and won't buy another. He really should get another 17 as backup and for training. He won't even buy some spare parts. Some people are like that and don't care about the following points.
There are different calibers for different purposes and contexts. A S&W 629 4" is more appropriate for hiking than a Glock 42. While 380 Auto FMJ is better than nothing, 44 Magnum covers a wider variety of threats. A compact pistol in 9x19mm is probably more appropriate for daily urban carry where concealment is important. A Glock 21 or 17 probably makes more sense on a battle belt or pancake holster than the 629 or the G42.
It's better to be good with a bunch of guns, divided up by action type, than it is to be good with only one make and model. For example, knowing Glocks, several DA/SA guns, double action revolvers and 1911's makes a lot of sense. It gives the shooter the ability to handle whatever he or she encounters or decides to carry to meet the perceived needs of that day.
A good carry group may be:
Heavy revolver (Ruger Redhawk)
Service size semiauto (Glock 17)
Compact version of the same semiauto (Glock 26)
Subcompact belt gun (SIG P365)
Pocket gun (Ruger LCP)
This group of guns should cover any concealed carry situation. Add in a SIG P Series or Beretta 92 for DA/SA work and a 1911 for additional training and fun. Fun is allowed despite what the tactical FUD's say.
Being proficient with all these guns is not difficult. It just requires a bit of extra dry fire and a calendar. Obviously, some holsters and magazine holders will be needed. Live and dry practice on a schedule does wonders.
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KnightHawk
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Well I like your write up and your list of “good carry group”. Not the group I would list but with your reasoning it’s a good group. I got a feeling that I might be of an older generation than others on this thread or it could be regional differences in needs.
But when I first came to live in rural Alaska 50 years ago 9mm handguns were something of a novelty and reliability wasn’t there. The 45 Colt was tried and true but under powered. I’m not talking about social work, I’m talking 4 legged critters. So carry guns were rifles or anything more personal was a revolver in a belt holster. So there you see my ingrained prejudice.
45 ACP just wasn’t powerful enough and the Colt and I didn’t mix well, just can’t shoot them.
But I did go have a look at the G43 and the Sig 365 at a LGS here in southern Oregon. I’m currently visiting for the holidays. The dealer did not recommend the HellCat for some reason saying the Sig was the better pistol. He also didn’t have one in stock which might have prejudiced his opinion. I’m going to reserve my opinion on the HellCat till I can at least put one in my hand. I do like the 365 it felt good and looked good. I know, Glock fan boys don’t mind ugly, but some of us stylish old timers who believe that firearms should have blue steel and lumber have a had time with Tupperware. LOL
So I’ll put my personal thoughts in the form of a handgun list using tomrkba’s format.
A good carry group may be:
Heavy revolver: S&W 4” 29 or a Smith 625
Service size semiauto: Beretta 92FS, because I can actually shoot it well.
Compact version of the: going with the SP101 3” 357
Subcompact belt gun: not needed here.
Pocket gun: currently S&W 2” 60-14 357/38spl. Sig 365 is certainly a good consideration.
As long as it stays reliable, and it has, i have no problem with my taurus gx4. I'd also have zero problems with a shield+ for the same duty, although I did have roll pin and rear sight rust issues with my original shield.
I would pick a cz p07 but I think the size advantage of a wonder 9 more than makes up for the larger (but superior) pistol. I prefer that over a p01 just because a polymer should be more reliable across a broad range of temps and conditions over metal/metal.
I would pick a cz p07 but I think the size advantage of a wonder 9 more than makes up for the larger (but superior) pistol. I prefer that over a p01 just because a polymer should be more reliable across a broad range of temps and conditions over metal/metal.
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Bob Willman
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I hesitate to write this, for fear of starting an argument among self proclaimed experts. I have been around guns for almost 70 years. I do not consider myself an expert in any way. I have hunted with rifles and handguns since the middle 1950s. I am probably not as good a marksman as I was 30 or 40 years ago, but probably better than the average citizen. I started everyday carry over 10 years ago. I bought a Springfield XDs in .45 ACP because of the good reviews in the magazines at the time and I like the .45. After studying several holsters, I decided on the Crossbreed Supertuck with a Crossbreed dual magazine holder on the off side for balance. My standard dress is a T-shirt or button down shirt tucked in. Never an untucked shirt. Most writers in magazines, and many here, seem to come from military or law enforcement backgrounds and are obsessed with minimum draw times. Considering their experiences, that may be a vital consideration. I try not to travel in places that require those same skills. I haven't fired my carry gun for close to a year which I know is not ideal, but it is what it is and I am content with that. I suspect that many if not most ordinary citizens who carry concealed are in a similar situation as I am. We hope to never feel the need to draw our "tool of last resort" from it's holster, but know that is always an option if the need arises.
NRA Benefactor
NRA Benefactor
I found a potential “new” carry gun. I purchased a Kimber Mako R7 and REALLY like it. I’ve been carrying a P365 XL for a year or so. Prior to that a S&W M&P 40 S&W compact (not the 2.0) for about 10 years. All 3 have been great for me, that Kimber trigger is really nice.
Anchorite
Member
I’m hoping to see a Mako R7 one day. Intriguing pistol.
WisBorn
Contributing Member
I really like my Kimber R7 9mm. Very ambidextrous, good night sights, cut for a RMR if you like, great texture, and 11&13 round capacity magazines.
Reloadron
Contributing Member
If You Could Have Only One Carry Piece For SD What Would It Be?
Several years ago a friend needed money. I ended up with a 3" Kimber as pictured below.
My intent was to just sell it off and move on. Then one day I took it to the range and was impressed. The little gun functioned flawlessly and was right on target. Today I have a stainless version. Never thought I would own a 3" 1911 type gun but I really enjoy this gun for carry. Prior to this it was a full size Colt 1911 Government carried in the small of the back IWB. That was bulky and hard to conceal well and I am not an open carry type.
The mag pouch came with the gun but I never use it. Ron
tomrkba
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We all have our biases. I would be fine with my S&W Model 19 4" for most carry needs if semiautos were ever banned or I couldn't operate one for some reason. I had Herrett's Stocks build the Jordan Trooper boot grips to my hand. Unfortunately, they went out of business soon after. My only problem with revolver carry is concealing and carrying two spare reloads. Magazines are much easier to deal with.
I am not sure about the Hellcat's reliability. I just do not see much about it. I'd rent one and put a few hundred rounds through it to see what it's all about. I'd research it before buying one and would only carry it after attending at least one class.
I like your list except for the SP101. I had two and just couldn't warm up to them. It feels like a big disappointment to me that the cylinder only holds five rounds. I'd substitute it with a S&W K-Frame with 3" barrel.
The Glock 43 is a great gun despite its magazine capacity. I bought four different magazine base plate systems: Taran Tactical +1, +2 and +3, and a Magguts +2. All four are reliable. My standard practice is to put TT +1 on any new magazine. The TT +2 make the gun Glock 19 height and the TT +3 correlate to the G17. I use a mag with the TT +3 as a spare. The Magguts +2 is a thing of beauty. It's only slightly longer than the TT +1; overall the gun is still very compact. But, the best part of the gun is the magic barrel. It's ridiculously accurate despite the slightly snappy recoil.
I prefer the Glock 43 to the SIG P365. The short frame of the P365 digs into my hand. I much prefer the XL grip. It's very comfortable and I keep it in the P365 X configuration ("Commander" -- long frame, short slide). The P365 is still pretty good.
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KnightHawk
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Yeah tomrkba the K-frames are my favorite revolvers period. I love the 14, 15, 10’s but the 19’s are certainly a favorite. I’ve only ever owned 6” model 19’s and can’t seem to find a 4 inch when I have some gun cash. But I will probably fix that in the near future.
As far as the autos go I need to just try them out and get familiar. I might find the Glock fits me better but just need to handle them and put some lead down range.
I appreciate your thoughts, good information.
Thanks John
As far as the autos go I need to just try them out and get familiar. I might find the Glock fits me better but just need to handle them and put some lead down range.
I appreciate your thoughts, good information.
Thanks John
BreechFace
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Is this question written for those who carry multiple CCW’s? I guess I see the point to it then. As for me I’ve got one that I carry 97% of the time. Don’t see why I would select something different if I had to carry it and only it.
It would be my boring Glock 48 with Trijicon RMRc and TLR-7 Sub
Same as it’s been since the 48 inception.
It would be my boring Glock 48 with Trijicon RMRc and TLR-7 Sub
Same as it’s been since the 48 inception.
Nicky Santoro
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I've only been in one situation where I really needed a gun to change the outcome of the confrontation. A 340PD would have been nice, but no possibility of a CCW then.
tomrkba
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I created a "Saved Search" and notification on Gunbroker for S&W Model 19, with 357 Magnum as filters, and "Used" or "Old Stock". Generally, I'd see two or three guns per week or month, depending, and managed to find a nearly mint gun built in the 1970's. Just save up your cash in an account with a debit card and pounce on it as soon as you see it. This worked for me.
tomrkba
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So 9x19mm is good for bear and moose?
This is why I choose a battery for carry. 9x19mm covers 90% of all my carry needs in an urban environment. 380 Auto covers the rest. But, for hiking, I much prefer a magnum cartridge (or hot 10mm that duplicates a deep penetrating 357 Magnum load). I like 45 ACP, but realistically 9x19mm in a small framed auto is probably just fine. Stacking the odds in my favor with a heavier cartridge makes sense. I consider modern 9mm to be 38 Special +P or +P+; it's great for what it is when you can shrink a gun around a small box magazine.
Skeeter Skelton's article on the 357 Magnum is interesting. http://darkcanyon.net/MyFriend_The357.htm
It seems to me that properly loaded 357 Magnum is probably more than enough for anything I'd encounter on the civilized hiking trails I frequent. But, there's just something about 44 Magnum and it's very wide performance window that is attractive. Heck, even Keith's 44 Special load is excellent.
Well, autos are at their most reliable when gripped by a strong, healthy hand, and, if something goes wrong, a strong, healthy support hand is available to manipulate the slide. I have an increasingly gimpy right hand, that has not aged well. So, auto-loaders are factored-out, if the rules of the game are “One Carry Piece.” So, my final answer is the Ruger GP100, 4” barrel, adjustable sights, .357 Magnum. See my avatar image, to the left of this paragraph.
The GP100‘s original-pattern factory grip is a custom-level best fit, in my hands. The reach to the trigger is a perfect best fit for my trigger finger. Everything fits. Everything is comfortable. Nothing is more consistently accurate, in my hands. If necessary, I can dress around a 4” medium/large revolver, year-‘round. While larger-bore weapons might be better in some circumstances, the .357 Magnum cartridge is notably capable, at the top end, and much milder cartridges can be used, for other purposes.
If the above are not reason enough, well, I defended myself, and others, successfully, one night in June 1993, with my first GP100. That is the one in my avatar image. It is NOT for sale. (Yes, my finger is on the trigger. That is from a series of images, showing how I grip the weapon, and place my finger on the trigger.) I have added more GP100 revolving pistols, since that first one.
The GP100‘s original-pattern factory grip is a custom-level best fit, in my hands. The reach to the trigger is a perfect best fit for my trigger finger. Everything fits. Everything is comfortable. Nothing is more consistently accurate, in my hands. If necessary, I can dress around a 4” medium/large revolver, year-‘round. While larger-bore weapons might be better in some circumstances, the .357 Magnum cartridge is notably capable, at the top end, and much milder cartridges can be used, for other purposes.
If the above are not reason enough, well, I defended myself, and others, successfully, one night in June 1993, with my first GP100. That is the one in my avatar image. It is NOT for sale. (Yes, my finger is on the trigger. That is from a series of images, showing how I grip the weapon, and place my finger on the trigger.) I have added more GP100 revolving pistols, since that first one.
tws3b2
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Revolver
