Looking for some CCW input

[allaroundhunter]

Hi guys, it's my first post here, and I will update everyone with a little about me here in a little bit, but first I have a few questions.

I am looking into a CCW weapon that could also be used in home defense duty and have done a little research and I will throw in a few personal preferences, but I would like to know what y'all have first-hand experience with just to help with a decision.

Living in Texas, summers obviously get HOT, so this is a major consideration when picking a CCW weapon. I would like a few opinions on the following weapons, and possibly other recommendations for handguns that could fit the role I am describing (but please, if you recommend another handgun, a reason for the recommendation is appreciated).

1) Glock 23 (gen 3 or gen 4?) - .40 S&W, more recoil than a 9mm, but I can still control it well enough for follow-up shots

2) Springfield XDm 3.8 9mm compact - I know, comparable to the Glock 26, and opinions on both would be appreciated.

Funds are fairly limited, and the XDm is about the limit for what I want to spend.

Sorry for the lengthy question, but I like to be thorough on important decisions.

 

[ErikO]

I vote for XDm, with the caveat that if you can get a good deal on the G26, the option of using G18 magazines is nice.

Not that I'd advocate carrying 32 rnd mags in TX when it's hot, but they are available.

 

[montgomery381]

The Glock 27. The Glock 23 will be difficult to conceal, but a lot of people think that the compacts are the best Glocks. The .40 has got more knock down than the 9mm. With a an extension you will have 11 rounds. A Glock 26/27 should run around $450-$500. Also, I believe that Glocks are just a little thinner and lighter than the XD's. And IMO THE the XD's aren't as well balnced. The 27 will be as worry free as it gets.

 

[daytodaze]

Glock 27. Get some night sights, get pinky extensions for two mags and keep one stock for your ccw. I love this setup, and use it myself.

Fortunately, all of your choices will yield great results, but I find a g23 and g19 difficult to conceal.

 

[mgmorden]

I've found that one of the most important issues regarding comfortably concealing a firearm is the width. Grip length isn't as important and for IWB barrel length is almost a non-issue.

I'd look at something single-stack in 9mm. Something like a Kahr CW9 or even a TP9 if you want something more to hand onto (still the same width though, which is the important part IMHO).

Glock's 36 is single stack but due to it being .45 it's not really much thinner than a double-stack 9mm. They may indeed have a single-stack 9mm or .40 available soon though - it's a very active market segment right now.

 

[miles1]

If it fits your hand well then my vote would be for either the XDm or G19.Cant go wrong with either gun

 

[Carter]

I voted glock 23. I really like the .40 round and the compact models are the perfect size and feel good in my hand. I've always gone with 9mm handguns though due to ammo cost, but if that isn't an issue then don't worry about it. If it is I'd change my answer to a glock 19.

Either way you'll be fine.

 

[Plan2Live]

I have the XDm 3.8 in .40 and carry it. I'm still playing with holsters trying to get the right fit. I decided to go Outside the Waistband simply because I didn't want to have to buy a bunch of new (larger) pants if I were to carry Inside the Waistband. It shoots well, is easy (for me) to grip the standard mag without the Pearce extension but has the extended mag with boot if you want more rounds, has lots of gripable area on the slide for racking, and once loaded I think it has good balance. After shooting mine, a shooter with exerience on more brands than me including 1911 platforms said it had a good trigger in his opinion. The biggest negative in my opinion is that it is a tad heavy. It is NOT a pocket pistol. This is my first striker gun and while I am trying to get used to that system, I am looking at other brands with a hammer and DA/SA in case I decide to go in that direction but those options weren't on your list. I'm told Springfield is running a special where you get three mags with original purchase. Mine has run flawlessly, go for it and be more unique at the range.

 

[Girodin]

The Glock 27. The Glock 23 will be difficult to conceal, but a lot of people think that the compacts are the best Glocks.

In my experience a G19 is not really much harder to conceal than a 26 (they are of course the same size as the G23/G27 respectively)

Truth is any of the guns you've listed would be a very serviceable concealed carry gun.

I'd go with a 9mm simply do to ammo costs. My personal belief is that the extra trigger time and training (this argument of course presumes one will train) is more likely to be outcome determinative in SD situation than any terminal ballistics advantage of the .40 S&W.

Other guns worth looking at include the Kahr CW 9/P9/K9. I really like the size of this gun for carrying. It is small enough to be easy to conceal yet large enough to shot and run well. For those that find the various double stacks too thick it is worth looking at.

I also think that anyone looking at a glock or similar really ought to look at the Steyrs. They are lesser known but compare very favorably to glocks. A steyr M9/M9A1 is a G19 sized weapon that holds 17 +1, has a lower bore axis, a better trigger, a thinner grip with no hump, and a grip angle that many glock haters find to be much more comfortable.

One reason I might still get a glock (if I were only going to own one) is that there is a much stronger aftermarket. There are more choices in holsters. One can also buy a .22LR upper for more cheap trigger time with the glock.

If you can try to shoot some of the guns you are considering or at a minimum go handle them. Really though any of the guns you've mentioned will be fine provided you put in the time to become proficient with it.

 

[ForumSurfer]

In my experience a G19 is not really much harder to conceal than a 26 (they are of course the same size as the G23/G27 respectively)

Truth is any of the guns you've listed would be a very serviceable concealed carry gun.

I agree. I like the 26 a little better for concealed carry owb.

If I could have only one, I'd take the 19.

I prefer glocks over xdm's. I've owned both. If I bought the xdm first and then evaluated the glock, I'm sure I'd have preferred xdm's. As it is, I bought a few glocks before owning an xdm and I simply prefer glocks. Glock, m&p's or xdm's/xd's...you can't go wrong with any of them.

<inserting recommendation>

<reason: I've carried glocks, revolvers and all sorts of stuff...this one seems to be a sweet spot for me. $371 shipped new at budsgunshop since you mentioned cost being an obstacle>

I'd also recommend taking a look at the kahr cw9 (7+1) or cm9 (6+1). Both are low cost, reliable single stack 9's that are very easy to carry concealed in the lightest of clothes. I've tried pocket carry and it isn't for me, so a single stack owb or iwb is the way to go. The kahr being noticeably slimmer than the glocks is very easy to wear.

Edit: it has better than decent non night sights, but the front sight is staked on. For $100 more or so, you can get the next model up with or without night sights...but the front sight is dovetailed so you have many options for replacement sights.

 

[tmoore912]

Glock 19 3rd Gen can do everything you want your first handgun to do. It conceals very well, and isn't much bigger than the G26. Tons of holsters are out there on the market for it. It's capacity gives you plenty of rounds for Home Defense with the ability to use G17 or G18 mags. The reliability or the G19 speaks for it's self. That would be my choice.

 

[Fishbed77]

If you can tolerate a lower ammo capacity, something thinner like a Walther PPS will be a bit easier to conceal in light clothing than a Glock.

 

[basicblur]

Springfield XDm 3.8 9mm compact...Funds are fairly limited, and the XDm is about the limit for what I want to spend.

Well if you do go the XD route, and funds are limited, unless you really need some of the 'upgrades' of the M over the regular XD line, you might consider forgetting the M line?

You may need the interchangeable backstraps (I don't), forget the 'match grade barrel' marketing hooey (the regular XDs are plenty accurate), and I also prefer the rear sight of the old models over the M-the regular line's rear sights can be used for one-handed racking with their perpendicular front face.
The rest of the changes on the M line offer me nothing.

There is an essentials package on certain calibers of the regular XD line-you don't pay for all the not quite ready for primetime accessories that may very well end up in a box in your closet-right next to your holster box!

Springfield also has their free magazine rebate now in effect.

EDIT: Fergot to add-since cost is a factor, I'd go with 9mm. I've tended to move down in caliber over the years as SD ammo has improved. I originally carried and XDSC40 'cuz way back when I bought it (pre-Melonite) the 9mm held only one more round than the 40. When they redesigned the 9mm magazines and upped the capacity, I switched from an XDSC40 to an XDSC9.
I have no trouble with the recoil of a 40, but on a sub-compact, I prefer the 9mm for doubletaps etc due to less muzzle flip.

 

[justice06rr]

XDM9 compact is my recommendation. Can't go wrong with 19+1 capacity; for CC you can always use the compact mag then have the 19rd for spare.

 

[rskent]

Your pistol choices all sound pretty good.

The only help I can offer is to make sure you get a good gun belt and holster. With the wrong belt and holster even a baby Glock will pull my pants down.
There is nothing more obvious than someone continuously pulling their pants up and repositioning their gun.

 

[Paladin38-40]

Glock 19 of the choices you offer. Conceals well IWB or OWB with appropriate holster and belt. 9mm ball ammo is relatively cheap for practice and some of the +P HP ammo packs a good wallop .

For an "other" catagory the Kahr K-9 or P-9 gets the nod. The magazine capacity is less than the various double stacks but unless you plan on a gun battle with a group of Hells Angels it will be enough. Probably will be enough anyway because you won't live long enough to take advantage of the higher capacity guns.

 

[soonerboomer]

Four things to consider....
1) You say funds are limited. A BIG cost factor is ammo. If you shoot only two boxes of ammo per month, and assuming 9mm costs about $12 a box and .40S&W costs about $15 per box, that's a $720 difference over a 10 year period.
2) The Glock 19 is a popular choice and a nice compromise for carry/home defense. Its relatively easy to conceal, plus it has a rail for light/laser attachment. It cost a bit less than the XDm and it weighs a bit less too.
3) The Glock 19 does not fit my hand, but the Glock 26 does (go figure). Therefore, I carry the Glock 26. Its even lighter, and the short grip is even easier to conceal. On the negative side, the G26 does not have a rail. Of your choices, the Glock 26 is for me.
4) The Smith & Wesson M&P9c kind of fits right between the Glock 19 and the Glock 26 in size/weight. It might fit the bill and does comes with an accessory rail.

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

I had no particular difficulty carrying a Glock 19 in Phoenix, AZ, where it also gets plenty hot. Summers here, while not terribly hot, can be quite humid. An "other" gun I would recommend looking at is the S&W M&P compact, which in 9mm splits the difference between the G19 and G26.

 

[cfrench]

i was in your position a couple months ago..did alot of research and visits to lgs. i went with a kahr cw9. otd price was 411.00. it came down to the kahr and the ruger sr9c. i went with the kahr because it is alittle smaller and easier to conceal. good luck!!

 

[david_the_greek]

I'm going to throw in a vote for the g23 and let add my 2 cents why.

First, if you're worried about heat and size being a huge pain in the ass then try looking at a S&W 642. It's not the most fun to shoot, but with some practice you can do some pretty darn amazing things with these little .38's. They are light, easy to conceal, easy to manipulate and reasonable priced.

For an auto gun, I personally didn't see enough difference between the 19/26 and 23/27 to choose the one with less capacity (other than maybe on weight), I feel that especially holds true if you decide to go with the +1 grips. Others opinions obviously vary and it is likely at some point I'll get a 26/27, I just didn't feel they were THAT much different when I handled them. I can say I handled the 36 slim frame and liked the overall feel but HATED the trigger when I shot it. Probably needed more trigger time that's all.

In terms of the 19 vs 23 (9 vs 40), I won't even mention anything ballistics. I feel if you can hit **** you are aiming at, good for you. Search the boards and web and you'll find endless debate on it. I've never felt undergunned with either 9mm or 40 and will continue to use both. I initially disliked the 40 caliber round, I felt it was snappier and harder to control than either 9mm or 45. Then I shot the glock 23 (did I mention I tried my best to hate glocks... mainly because the 1911 in my safe wouldn't put out if it knew I liked them). I find the 23 concealable, EASY to control, good capacity (13+1) and chambered in a good, proven round. My old lady and I spent all day together and she didn't know I was carrying till we got back to our hotel room and I put it on the night stand.

I understand cost is an issue. 9mm is cheaper than 40. This is true. Not THAT much. You can find a lot of police trade in glocks for reasonable prices, giving them a price advantage. I'm finishing college and trying to get into medical school, I feel your pain. With the 23 I can at some point purchase a 9mm conversion barrel when I have the funds. Cheap practice and/or the ability to carry 9mm or 40 cal depending what ammunition is available (insert end of the world scenario or simply huge sale on _____ at the store).

All that said (yeah I'll shut up now), I have only shot an xd once and I thought it was well made. Now that I have a glock I have much more respect for its simple manual of arms. If weight is the biggest issue throw a .38 642 in your pocket. Oh yeah, buy what you like!

 

[Purgatory]

If you really want to be able to conceal it well, I would say Glock 26 or 27. I would prefer the 26 simply because I'm not a fan of the .40.

As much as I love my Glock 19, personally, I wouldn't feel as comfortable concealing it on the hottest days of the year with shorts and a T on.

If you're planning to have one gun that you can feel comfortable carrying all year round, out of your choices, I'd go 26/27 frame.

You can conceal it with its shortest mag and carry a G19/23 mag, or larger, for a reload.

As far as my knowledge and experience go, I think it's the smallest, most concealable of those you mentioned.

Not sure if you like .45s, but the Glock 36 is even slimmer than the 26 and about the same dimensions otherwise.

That's my Hot day, light clothing go-to.

And, personally, I find .45s to be softer recoiling/muzzle rising than .40s.

 

[Snowbandit]

With the US economy in shambles, you want to send more money to Europe? Smith & Wesson makes an equivalent gun for every Glock and their warranty is better. Ruger makes some decent stuff too. Then there's FN and Beretta while foreign owned are built here with American labor. I'm not Glock bashing either. There's nothing wrong with the guns except their looks and that's just my opinion. No question the foreign guns work but they don't do anything a domestic one doesn't do as well or better.

 

[david_the_greek]

while I tend to agree.... isn't the xd made in Croatia? or did they bring the manufacturing back this way?

 

[Purgatory]

And I'm pretty sure they do have a factory and build Glocks in Smyrna, Georgia.

Could be wrong, though. Wouldn't be the first time.

 

[Snowbandit]

And I'm pretty sure they do have a factory and build Glocks in Smyrna, Georgia.

Could be wrong, though. Wouldn't be the first time.

Glock has an assembly facility in Smyrna, Georgia. They specifically state it is not a factory. The guns are manufactured in Austria.