Mouse guns...Love ‘em or hate ‘em?

[ThomasT]

I only own two autos that qualify as "mouse guns" A Beretta 950 in 25auto and a Taurus TCP. I really like both of these guns and am thanful I have them. The Beretta is the smallest gun I own. Its accurate as all get out if you take the time to line up the almost non existant sights. At least out to 7 yards or so.

I also own several S&W snubbies in 32 long, 32 mag and 38 special. Those are my normal first choice for a hide out gun. And I shoot them well. At 50 yards I can keep all my shots on a mans chest off hand. At SD ranges I feel very comfortable with them.

In the Auto forum I started a thread on pocket sized 9mm guns. And as always got many excellent suggestions. So many its hard to make a choice. I have went the last two days and looked at as many of them as I could find. Several were better suited to belt carry. Some would work for pocket guns with bigger pockets. None were mouse guns.

I looked at the Ruger LCP and a S&W Bodyguard. I like the trigger on the LCP II much better. That may be my next Mouse Gun. I wanted a 9mm because of the extra power and the fact that I reload 9mm and ammo cost me almost nothing. And I admit the new Church shooting has had an influence on me. That church is about 25 miles away from me and the black man that was killed was my sons old boss at Cooks Childrens Hospital. My son said the man was a class act and was not happy to hear he had been murdered.

So yes I like pocket pistols. They may be the weakest most ineffective guns you can own but at least they allow you to have a gun on you. And no attacker likes being shot. Or even just shot at. It makes them nervous. Hopefully they will break off their attack and leave. And if they leave with a hole or two in them so much the better.

 

[JERRY]

lets remember, mouse guns are not instead of guns, but in addition to or... for when for whatever reason a larger gun is not practical. shorts, tucked in polo shirt, 90 degrees, high humidity, outdoor function... a J frame in each front pocket is the best I can do. I can't thunder-wear, I've found that type of holster method uncomfortable when seated which is how we spend the majority of our time. I also don't wear those long pants shorts so the pockets aren't oversized either. my waist line is only 2" bigger than my inseam so I can't get away with some of the bigger guns others do.

 

[Kleanbore]

I would not own a firearm so small that it would be very easy to shoot oneself in the hand with it.

I would not choose to carry one that I could not draw quickly and safely and fire with a balance of precision and speed. Deep concealment is is not a critical requirement for me--I carry lawfully where I carry.

For a backup, some compromises may be acceptable--as long as the BUG is safe and effective.

 

[JN01]

I carry a mouse gun only on rare occasions, but I like them just for the fun factor.

 

[Kleanbore]

I carry a mouse gun only on rare occasions, but I like them just for the fun factor.

Is it really prudent to carry a firearm "for fun", when so much is at stake?

 

[Jeb Stuart]

Is it really prudent to carry a firearm "for fun", when so much is at stake?

I carry a number of firearms, Pocket guns, Micro 9m's, revolvers and all are very "Fun" to shoot. If I did not enjoy shooting them, I would not carry one. At that desire to train and practice often would diminish quickly.

 

[Mn Fats]

Hate 'em.

I know they have their place for back up and summer carry but they don't fit my large hands and I couldn't hit squat with my LCP. Rendered it useless.

I do like my Baby Browning, but more for the historical aspect.

 

[Kleanbore]

I carry a number of firearms, Pocket guns, Micro 9m's, revolvers and all are very "Fun" to shoot. If I did not enjoy shooting them, I would not carry one. At that desire to train and practice often would diminish quickly.

I cannot imagine any person carrying any firearm "for fun".

People whom I know carry one for self preservation, as a last resort. and they carry what they believe would suffice in the gravest extreme.

"A number of firearms"? I carry the same one the same way every day.

I can have fun at the range. Not carrying.

 

[franco45]

I pocket carry about 75% of the time but I often carry a 9mm on my hip at the same time. I guess my mouse guns can also be considered bugs. I consider the modern pocket 380s mouse guns. I've settled on an RM380 and a KelTec p32 as my go to mouse guns.

 

[Armored farmer]

So yes I like pocket pistols. They may be the weakest most ineffective guns you can own but at least they allow you to have a gun on you. And no attacker likes being shot. Or even just shot at. It makes them nervous. Hopefully they will break off their attack and leave. And if they leave with a hole or two in them so much the better.

^^this.
I own several handguns, but only one mousegun. One is enough.
I had a NAA mini revolver, and enjoyed it for a while but it was just too small. Then I got an lcp which I still use today. This little gun fills my minimum requirements of power, size, and accuracy.
A last ditch belly gun that I practice with at 15yds. I understand its' limitations. It's not a target gun, or a combat gun, or a hunting gun. It is however, a good backup for those guns.
It isnt uncommon for me to be carrying my lcp, and strap on another sidearm or shoulder a varmint rifle for an afternoon woodswalk, or maybe an ultralight fishing rod and then the lcp goes fishing too.
Another use for it is in the heat of summer when it's just jeans and tshirt. These little mousegun or b.u.g. is about as discreet as you can get. The same goes for "around the house" loungewear too.
Do I love mouseguns...? No not really. But I certainly don't want to be without one.
For all the above reasons, I got an lcp for my mrs too.

 

[94045]

I do have a .177 Air Rifle I use for Chipmunks...

 

[Jeb Stuart]

I cannot imagine any person carrying any firearm "for fun".

People whom I know carry one for self preservation, as a last resort. and they carry what they believe would suffice in the gravest extreme.

"A number of firearms"? I carry the same one the same way every day.

I can have fun at the range. Not carrying.

Read the post Kleanbore, I clearly said I carry guns that are fun to shoot. Fact: do not like to carry any gun period. Just one of the reasons I mostly carry pocket guns. I have more of them than needed because I like shooting them all. If I had to get rid of all my guns, the Beretta Pico would be the one I kept. Why, because it is the one I do carry all the time even if sometimes I carry a Micro 9mm. And I am competent with it. Yes, sometimes a small Snubbie.
Do not want or desire to carry a large gun, do not care about high round count, do not care about carrying extra magazines, do not train IDPA. But I do carry a Pocket gun, It is fun to shoot, and regardless of what anyone on the internet says, it is deadly.What started off as something hard, tuned into a challenge which turned into something fun to do.
And because it is easy to carry and fun to shoot, I shoot it often.And it you shoot them often, you can do more with then than what the internet says you can.
When it comes down to facts, the Pico and the Kahr, are carried 98% of the time.
And I am a firm believer that if you are going to carry, then get off you butt and learn to shoot it well. Yet another reason I have more than one. A lot of ammo going through them.

PS I do not like to carry a big fat A&& wallet or a key chain that weights a pound. I do carry a small pocket knife. There, that should be enough give the internet crowd something to loose there beans over.

While I do not like to carry any gun, I like the peace of mind it does offer. And the chances of having to use it are extremely slim to begin with.

 

[Jeb Stuart]

I would not own a firearm so small that it would be very easy to shoot oneself in the hand with it.

I would not choose to carry one that I could not draw quickly and safely and fire with a balance of precision and speed. Deep concealment is is not a critical requirement for me--I carry lawfully where I carry.

For a backup, some compromises may be acceptable--as long as the BUG is safe and effective.

And for some, they can carry with no worry about shooting themselves in the hand, can draw it fast with precision and speed. And concealment is not just for a requirement. It is also a tactic.

 

[ms6852]

I used to carry a naa 22 magnum sidewinder but the birdshead grips are tiny, so I bought the Springfield Armory 911 which is a .380. I bought this particular gun because it checked my boxes for what I needed it. I like to walk in the evening wearing warm ups you know regular work out clothes and they have an elastic waist band and my carry guns a 1911 or 686 will pull my pants down , so in order not to get arrested for indecent exposure in the park I decided to buy the .380. It is the only time I have it on me with one in the chamber and seven on the mag plus an extra magazine just in case even though it is a short 9. I also carry it in the house as this allows me to get to the other guns I have stashed in the house should an invasion occur. This particular gun has night sights that puts a firefly to shame and it is lighter than the sig and the micro Kimber and the magazine for my 911 are almost half the price of the sig 238 or the micro Kimber. Just FYI for you sig guys and Kimber guys you can buy the 911 magazines and they will work in your guns. We all have our loyalties and likes and what each and everyone of us have are unique tastes so no one brand is better.

 

[Jeb Stuart]

I used to carry a naa 22 magnum sidewinder but the birdshead grips are tiny, so I bought the Springfield Armory 911 which is a .380. I bought this particular gun because it checked my boxes for what I needed it. I like to walk in the evening wearing warm ups you know regular work out clothes and they have an elastic waist band and my carry guns a 1911 or 686 will pull my pants down , so in order not to get arrested for indecent exposure in the park I decided to buy the .380. It is the only time I have it on me with one in the chamber and seven on the mag plus an extra magazine just in case even though it is a short 9. I also carry it in the house as this allows me to get to the other guns I have stashed in the house should an invasion occur. This particular gun has night sights that puts a firefly to shame and it is lighter than the sig and the micro Kimber and the magazine for my 911 are almost half the price of the sig 238 or the micro Kimber. Just FYI for you sig guys and Kimber guys you can buy the 911 magazines and they will work in your guns. We all have our loyalties and likes and what each and everyone of us have are unique tastes so no one brand is better.
View attachment 882199

Nice Pistol. There is just something about a nice well made Pocket pistol/small 380. I find them to be a marvel of engineering. And love to just hold them and admire them. And find one that shoots well is the name of the game for me. Nice looking gun!

 

[Demi-human]

I love them!

 

[FL-NC]

To me, anything below a 380 is just a conversation piece.

 

[Kleanbore]

I carry a number of firearms, Pocket guns, Micro 9m's, revolvers and all are very "Fun" to shoot.

I like to shoot different guns, but there is more to surviving a dynamic critical incident than shooting.

And the chances of having to use it are extremely slim to begin with.

The likelihood that using a firearm will be necessary ceases to be relevant when the occasion arises.

When that does happen, speed is most likely of the essence. When one is "out shooting", one knows which firearm one is handling, and how to do it. But in concealed carry, one is not thinking about which gun one is about to reach for. Even the very short amount of time it takes to recognize which firearm one is carrying upon the first touch could prove critical.

Many people who enjoy going through the "carry rotation", for whatever reason, like to discount that factor. A rigorous scientific test might enlighten them.

 

[Jeb Stuart]

I like to shoot different guns, but there is more to surviving a dynamic critical incident than shooting.

The likelihood that using a firearm will be necessary ceases to be relevant when the occasion arises.

When that does happen, speed is most likely of the essence. When one is "out shooting", one knows which firearm one is handling, and how to do it. But in concealed carry, one is not thinking about which gun one is about to reach for. Even the very short amount of time it takes to recognize which firearm one is carrying upon the first touch could prove critical.

Many people who enjoy going through the "carry rotation", for whatever reason, like to discount that factor. A rigorous scientific test might enlighten them.

I do not know who "Many People" are that you are referring to. You should speak for yourself, If you cannot remember which firearm you have on you that is a personal problem for a individual. same with ability to draw a weapon any weapon fast no matter what you are carrying. I do not need any internet scientific facts to know what I can or cannot do. I know myself and I know my firearms and I am quite aware of what firearm I have at any split second.
That said, since I train with small barrel pistols and revolvers all the time. A large firearm, would not be best for me. It would be awkward,slow and heavy. Not the right firearm for the training and practice I do. If someone prefers a 3lb firearm loaded to the hilt, I have no problem with that and do not assume anything other than they do train often and know what is best for them.

Internet Scientific fact: Bee pollen makes you faster at the draw. Take it daily.

 

[Styx]

Some of you all over think things and take yourselves to seriously...

I carry a "mouse gun" when I am unable to conceal or carry a larger gun. If others choose to carry mouse guns for other reasons, so what? It suits them and their needs and at least they're carrying something... If mouse guns didn't exist, some people wouldn't carry at all. If someone is carrying for fun or whatever reason, what difference does it really make? Somethings really aren't worth nitpicking and obsessing over...

 

[Armored farmer]

Everyone has a different situation.
If most people on this forum knew my daily routine they would wonder why I even bother carrying, and they would be right. Most days I never leave my property.
I honestly feel my lcp is more than adequate for my needs.
If I weren't a gun enthusiast, I wouldn't carry unless I left my comfort zone.

 

[Thibaut]

I prefer the Milford made Seecamp as my pockets aren't that big and when I sit I don't want a big lump sitting on top of my leg. If your waist band is 4" or more than your inseam you can get away with it. View attachment 882072 View attachment 882073 View attachment 882074

View attachment 882075

That Seecamp looks so teency-tiny. Nice looking, though.

 

[Kleanbore]

You should speak for yourself, If you cannot remember which firearm you have on you that is a personal problem for a individual. same with ability to draw a weapon any weapon fast no matter what you are carrying.

A rigorous, objective scientific test might enlighten you.

I do not need any internet scientific facts to know what I can or cannot do.

Sure. Have you timed it accurately under different circumstances?

I know my firearms and I am quite aware of what firearm I have at any split second.

Wow. I have other things to keep my mind on.

Even so, scientific testing by human factors engineers and forensic analysts have shown that persons who drive different cars on occasion--yes, cars with which they are very familiar--can experience minute but potentially critical delays in the operation of controls in emergencies when they get out of one cars and into another. The do not have to "remember" what they are driving "at any split second"--they know it because they can see and feel it all the rime.

On that tangent, a new car company CEO with a strong background in commercial airliners noted the dissimilarities among the controls for wipers, head lamps, high beams, etc of his new company's products and immediately ordered a plan for rationalization.

You, of course, are special.

A large firearm, would not be best for me. It would be awkward,slow and heavy.

I agree.

I carry a compact 9mm, small and light enough for easy carry but with enough weight and a long enough barrel to help me achieve a good balance of speed and precision.

The instructors of two highly regarded defensive pistol classes I attended said to not bring a mouse gun. A friend if mine did--a gun with which he was very familiar--and he had a terrible time. That had to do with size and weight and not the "what shall I wear today" syndrome.

There are classes for snub revolvers and backup guns, but because few people attend them, they are hard to find. Perhaps Claude Werner will be giving one soon. He is very highly thought of in that field.

I would not select a sub-compact or a snub for primary carry unless Claude, Rob Pincus, Tom Givens, or the like pronounced me fit with it.

 

[GarrettJ]

Sorry, did you say mouse gun, or moose gun?

 

[JN01]

Is it really prudent to carry a firearm "for fun", when so much is at stake?

I guess I wasn't clear. On rare occasion (in a handwarmer pocket of a winter coat when my primary gun is basically inaccessible) I have carried a mouse gun. Aside from that, I like mouse guns, in general, for the fun factor- range plinking, collecting, etc.