Best concealed carry gun

vector91 · February 13, 2013, 10:30 AM

So up until now I have carried a ruger lcr looking for a good semi auto hand gun to carry. Was thinking of something bigger then a 9mm such as a .40 or .45 but still concealable. Any suggestions would be appriciated. Also looking in the price range of up to 500-600.

CWKahrFan · February 13, 2013, 10:48 AM

I prefer polymer single-stacks for every-day-carry:

Walther PPS in .40...

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/49847

Glock 36 .45...

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/73560

Budget: Kahr CW.45 or CW40... or CM40 if you want to go smaller:

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/52707

http://www.budspolicesupply.com/cata...ducts_id=14227

gordyt · February 13, 2013, 10:57 AM

Vector91 I really like the S&W M&P Shield in .40 caliber. They are a little hard to find right now. The MSRP is $449.00 but often sell for more. Our local Academy store sells the 9mm version for $399.00.

vector91 · February 13, 2013, 11:01 AM

Thank you very much I will look into those.

vector91 · February 13, 2013, 11:02 AM

I have heard mixed things about the .40 have you had any problems with it in your use

loose_holster_dan · February 13, 2013, 11:42 AM

the new springfield armory xds is a great size for a very concealable 45.

18DAI · February 13, 2013, 11:55 AM

Glock 30S

S&W 4513TSW - early 6-round variant.

HK45C

Glock 36

Colt Defender

The HK45C and Colt Defender are a little higher than the price range you are looking at. Regards 18DAI

AndyWest · February 13, 2013, 12:09 PM

+1 what dan said. Check out the Springfield XDs line. Seems marketed toward what you want.

vector91 · February 13, 2013, 12:11 PM

Thanks 18DAI I accually really like the Colt defender, the only ones I have been able to find are 850-900 is that a good price also have you ever fired one?

vector91 · February 13, 2013, 12:13 PM

Thank you both I just started looking into the XDs as well I like them alot and the price isnt too bad has either of you fired one before?

RBid · February 13, 2013, 12:26 PM

The best CCW is one...

1. You'll carry every day.

2. ...with which you can quickly put multiple hits on target with while shooting one handed, on the move.

3. that is reliable, and corrosion resistant.

AndyWest · February 13, 2013, 12:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vector91

Thank you both I just started looking into the XDs as well I like them alot and the price isnt too bad has either of you fired one before?

I haven't fired the XDs but I own an XDm 40 compact and it's quite reliable and easy to shoot considering the small size.

loose_holster_dan · February 13, 2013, 12:59 PM

my buddy carries one. i had a chance to fire his a couple weekends ago. surprising little recoil, and very similar feel to my walther pps. nearly identical in dimensions.

vector91 · February 13, 2013, 01:08 PM

Thank you very much dan and just to clarify we are talking about the .45 correct

Tactical Jackalope · February 13, 2013, 01:36 PM

So just to be 100% clear.

You don't want to carry full sized right?

vector91 · February 13, 2013, 01:49 PM

I wouldnt mind the weight of a full size as long as it is easy to conceal wearing regular clothes. I have only ever shot a full size .45 so I am also wondering what the recoil is like from a compact.

Tactical Jackalope · February 13, 2013, 01:59 PM

Alright, because I only have full sized handguns and only carry full sized handguns.

In .45ACP I pack a West German SIG P220. It's really light compared to other single stack .45's in it's size. Alloy frame and folded carbon steel slide. A spare mag or two and you're golden.

Another weapon I carried a lot doing work in Liberty City, Miami. Was a Glock 21sf. With 2 spare mags at 8:00. Isn't that heavy either.

Most important thing about comfortably carrying IWB or OWB is a good holster and belt.

Now you can find both of those used for a decent price. I think you mentioned your budget is $500-$600. The Glock can be found at that price for sure. The SIG, would have to be used and maybe a little bit more.

Another thing, if you're not huge on full sized CC. The Glock 30sf..One I also have. Feels like a full sized gun in your hands but it's not even close.

Check out those options. With a good belt and holster. Also, what Dan said about the XDs. Very good deal also. In terms of single stack .45's that are that size the XDs and Glock 36 should be looked at.

loose_holster_dan · February 13, 2013, 02:00 PM

Quote:

Thank you very much dan and just to clarify we are talking about the .45 correct

correct. the xds is ONLY offered in 45. the recoil is surprisingly well handled in that package. it had less felt recoil than my colt defender 45.

vector91 · February 13, 2013, 02:24 PM

thanks constantine I am going to look into some full size ones as well right now definately leaning towards the xds will have to go and find one at a shop.

vector91 · February 13, 2013, 02:26 PM

thanks alot dan thats good to hear im hoping to find one at a local shop

bt380 · February 13, 2013, 02:50 PM

I am partial to the PX4 Storm Type F in 40 cal. I put a Hogue HandAll grip on the smallest grip that came w/ the gun. It fits pretty good but with a small slight bubble near the top by the tang but it doesn't interfer since it is in the webbing of the hand. The rotating barrel helps on the perceived recoil control and dampens the barrel hop as well for follow up shots. In comparison, the SR9 WITHOUT the Hogue grip had a more snappy feeling than the 40 cal WITH the Hogue. But the 40 cal does have a more stout thud kick. Using the Hogue with the finger grooved grips also makes better control for the follow up shots. I used 4 hard syllabus plastic sheets cut into strips at grip width and 11 inches long to allow the grip to be worked onver the gun handle. Then I used the excess plastic length to pull the plastic out from between the Hogue and handle. I really like my 9mm because I have a Hogue HandAll on that as well (same slight bubble near tang). They are both fun to shoot and w/ the good defense rounds make them both great for carry. The only real negative for me I'd speak to depends on the type holster you use for the PX4 Type F...that is the rough decocker/safety edge that would rub against the skin if you use open top holsters...so look into that if you lean that way....

Skans · February 13, 2013, 03:02 PM

Kahr PM 40
STI LS40
AMT 45 Backup - DIY gunsmithing required.

happyguy · February 13, 2013, 05:55 PM

If I had to choose just one, it would be a Glock G26 or G27...well maybe a G33, but you get the idea.

happyguy

vector91 · February 13, 2013, 05:57 PM

Thanks a lot guys I really apriciate all of the suggestions definitely considering the XDS seems like the best for what I am looking for.

thedudeabides · February 13, 2013, 05:59 PM

I will always say that CPO P229 40 SW is the BEST EDW gun. But the hammer sometimes pokes my love handles, so I've started to carry a G30 as of late.

February 13, 2013, 10:30 AM	#1
vector91 Member Join Date: February 12, 2013 Location: RI, MASS Posts: 49	Best concealed carry gun So up until now I have carried a ruger lcr looking for a good semi auto hand gun to carry. Was thinking of something bigger then a 9mm such as a .40 or .45 but still concealable. Any suggestions would be appriciated. Also looking in the price range of up to 500-600. __________________ "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington Last edited by vector91; February 13, 2013 at 10:46 AM.

February 13, 2013, 10:48 AM	#2
CWKahrFan Senior Member Join Date: November 3, 2010 Posts: 2,016	I prefer polymer single-stacks for every-day-carry: Walther PPS in .40... http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/49847 Glock 36 .45... http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/73560 Budget: Kahr CW.45 or CW40... or CM40 if you want to go smaller: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/52707 http://www.budspolicesupply.com/cata...ducts_id=14227 __________________ What did Mrs. Bullet say to Mr. Bullet? ... "We're having a BeeBee!"... IF THE SHOE FITS, WEAR IT!... IF THE GUN FITS, SHOOT IT! "Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it."

February 13, 2013, 11:01 AM	#4
vector91 Member Join Date: February 12, 2013 Location: RI, MASS Posts: 49	Thank you very much I will look into those. __________________ "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington

February 13, 2013, 11:02 AM	#5
vector91 Member Join Date: February 12, 2013 Location: RI, MASS Posts: 49	I have heard mixed things about the .40 have you had any problems with it in your use __________________ "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington

February 13, 2013, 11:42 AM	#6
loose_holster_dan Senior Member Join Date: April 5, 2011 Location: NE Ohio Posts: 2,461	the new springfield armory xds is a great size for a very concealable 45. __________________ Favorite range gun for the money - CZ 75B or STI Spartan V 9mm Go-to carry setup - Walther PPS or PPQ in FIST kydex holster 1AK Favorite semi-auto design - HK P7 "A Sig is like a lightsaber - not as clumsy or random as a Glock."

February 13, 2013, 10:57 AM	#3
gordyt Member Join Date: January 15, 2002 Location: Humble, TX Posts: 16	Vector91 I really like the S&W M&P Shield in .40 caliber. They are a little hard to find right now. The MSRP is $449.00 but often sell for more. Our local Academy store sells the 9mm version for $399.00.

February 13, 2013, 11:55 AM	#7
18DAI Senior Member Join Date: September 30, 2005 Location: NC Posts: 2,156	Glock 30S S&W 4513TSW - early 6-round variant. HK45C Glock 36 Colt Defender The HK45C and Colt Defender are a little higher than the price range you are looking at. Regards 18DAI __________________ S&W Model 19 Combat Magnum. Everything you need in a revolver, and nothing you don't.

February 13, 2013, 12:09 PM	#8
AndyWest Senior Member Join Date: October 14, 2011 Posts: 627	+1 what dan said. Check out the Springfield XDs line. Seems marketed toward what you want. __________________ Shoot smart. Shoot S-Mart.

February 13, 2013, 12:11 PM	#9
vector91 Member Join Date: February 12, 2013 Location: RI, MASS Posts: 49	Thanks 18DAI I accually really like the Colt defender, the only ones I have been able to find are 850-900 is that a good price also have you ever fired one? __________________ "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington

February 13, 2013, 12:13 PM	#10
vector91 Member Join Date: February 12, 2013 Location: RI, MASS Posts: 49	Thank you both I just started looking into the XDs as well I like them alot and the price isnt too bad has either of you fired one before? __________________ "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington

February 13, 2013, 12:26 PM	#11
RBid Senior Member Join Date: March 10, 2012 Posts: 1,059	The best CCW is one... 1. You'll carry every day. 2. ...with which you can quickly put multiple hits on target with while shooting one handed, on the move. 3. that is reliable, and corrosion resistant. __________________ Currently Own: Beretta PX4 9mm, Glock 23 (Gen 4), Glock 19 (Gen 4) x2

February 13, 2013, 12:59 PM	#13
loose_holster_dan Senior Member Join Date: April 5, 2011 Location: NE Ohio Posts: 2,461	my buddy carries one. i had a chance to fire his a couple weekends ago. surprising little recoil, and very similar feel to my walther pps. nearly identical in dimensions. __________________ Favorite range gun for the money - CZ 75B or STI Spartan V 9mm Go-to carry setup - Walther PPS or PPQ in FIST kydex holster 1AK Favorite semi-auto design - HK P7 "A Sig is like a lightsaber - not as clumsy or random as a Glock."

February 13, 2013, 01:08 PM	#14
vector91 Member Join Date: February 12, 2013 Location: RI, MASS Posts: 49	Thank you very much dan and just to clarify we are talking about the .45 correct __________________ "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington

February 13, 2013, 01:36 PM	#15
Tactical Jackalope Senior Member Join Date: December 5, 2010 Location: Miami, Florida Posts: 6,429	So just to be 100% clear. You don't want to carry full sized right?

February 13, 2013, 01:49 PM	#16
vector91 Member Join Date: February 12, 2013 Location: RI, MASS Posts: 49	I wouldnt mind the weight of a full size as long as it is easy to conceal wearing regular clothes. I have only ever shot a full size .45 so I am also wondering what the recoil is like from a compact. __________________ "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington

February 13, 2013, 01:59 PM	#17
Tactical Jackalope Senior Member Join Date: December 5, 2010 Location: Miami, Florida Posts: 6,429	Alright, because I only have full sized handguns and only carry full sized handguns. In .45ACP I pack a West German SIG P220. It's really light compared to other single stack .45's in it's size. Alloy frame and folded carbon steel slide. A spare mag or two and you're golden. Another weapon I carried a lot doing work in Liberty City, Miami. Was a Glock 21sf. With 2 spare mags at 8:00. Isn't that heavy either. Most important thing about comfortably carrying IWB or OWB is a good holster and belt. Now you can find both of those used for a decent price. I think you mentioned your budget is $500-$600. The Glock can be found at that price for sure. The SIG, would have to be used and maybe a little bit more. Another thing, if you're not huge on full sized CC. The Glock 30sf..One I also have. Feels like a full sized gun in your hands but it's not even close. Check out those options. With a good belt and holster. Also, what Dan said about the XDs. Very good deal also. In terms of single stack .45's that are that size the XDs and Glock 36 should be looked at.

February 13, 2013, 02:24 PM	#19
vector91 Member Join Date: February 12, 2013 Location: RI, MASS Posts: 49	thanks constantine I am going to look into some full size ones as well right now definately leaning towards the xds will have to go and find one at a shop. __________________ "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington

February 13, 2013, 02:26 PM	#20
vector91 Member Join Date: February 12, 2013 Location: RI, MASS Posts: 49	thanks alot dan thats good to hear im hoping to find one at a local shop __________________ "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington

February 13, 2013, 02:50 PM	#21
bt380 Senior Member Join Date: December 14, 2012 Posts: 331	I am partial to the PX4 Storm Type F in 40 cal. I put a Hogue HandAll grip on the smallest grip that came w/ the gun. It fits pretty good but with a small slight bubble near the top by the tang but it doesn't interfer since it is in the webbing of the hand. The rotating barrel helps on the perceived recoil control and dampens the barrel hop as well for follow up shots. In comparison, the SR9 WITHOUT the Hogue grip had a more snappy feeling than the 40 cal WITH the Hogue. But the 40 cal does have a more stout thud kick. Using the Hogue with the finger grooved grips also makes better control for the follow up shots. I used 4 hard syllabus plastic sheets cut into strips at grip width and 11 inches long to allow the grip to be worked onver the gun handle. Then I used the excess plastic length to pull the plastic out from between the Hogue and handle. I really like my 9mm because I have a Hogue HandAll on that as well (same slight bubble near tang). They are both fun to shoot and w/ the good defense rounds make them both great for carry. The only real negative for me I'd speak to depends on the type holster you use for the PX4 Type F...that is the rough decocker/safety edge that would rub against the skin if you use open top holsters...so look into that if you lean that way....

February 13, 2013, 03:02 PM	#22
Skans Senior Member Join Date: November 20, 2008 Posts: 11,132	Kahr PM 40 STI LS40 AMT 45 Backup - DIY gunsmithing required.

February 13, 2013, 05:55 PM	#23
happyguy Member Join Date: May 5, 2006 Posts: 65	If I had to choose just one, it would be a Glock G26 or G27...well maybe a G33, but you get the idea. happyguy __________________ "Hope" is not a strategy!

February 13, 2013, 05:57 PM	#24
vector91 Member Join Date: February 12, 2013 Location: RI, MASS Posts: 49	Thanks a lot guys I really apriciate all of the suggestions definitely considering the XDS seems like the best for what I am looking for. __________________ "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington

February 13, 2013, 05:59 PM	#25
thedudeabides Senior Member Join Date: August 22, 2012 Posts: 1,031	I will always say that CPO P229 40 SW is the BEST EDW gun. But the hammer sometimes pokes my love handles, so I've started to carry a G30 as of late.