Suggested CCW? Make and manner.

[PlayboyPenguin]

I was wondering if anyone had some suggestions as to what would be a good CCW weapon for someone like myself and how best to carry it. Here are the factors to consider...

1. I prefer revolvers but would not rule out pistol (stainless of course:))
2. I am 6'-6'1" , 220lbs with some love handles (not sure how those got there, could it be my bad diet and sloth like lifestyle :))
3. I am not looking for a powerhouse weapon, I rely on accuracy (.22mag-.38spcl ok with me)
4. I will not be carrying every day, just on occasion
5. Not a rich man, would prefer it not be too pricey a weapon (under $350 if possible)
6. Rather it be on the smaller size. I want something that will not show buldges or be too obvious or uncomfortable.

All suggestions appreciated. I keep going back and forth with no real conclussions. I bought a Beretta Tomcat .32 but I am having second thoughts about it. Thanks in advance.

[Mulliga]

How do you plan on carrying it? If you're a pocket carry guy, S&W and Taurus are pretty much the only game in town when it comes to small .38s (though you could buy an old Colt snubbie). For a belt gun, a mid-size J-frame type (either S&W or Ruger's SP101) chambered in .357 with a 3" barrel would be pretty comfy and certainly powerful.

With autos there are just way too many choices.

[Ala Dan]

Two weapons come too mind~!:uhoh:

The first is everybody's favorite revolver, a Smith N' Wesson model 642
.38 Special; that can be had in my area brand NIB for $349.88.:) The
other, is a Kimber Stainless Ultra Carry* in .45 ACP. Its lightweight is
said too be 25 ozs unloaded, small and compact, and very easy to
CCW. Price depends on your locale, as I got mine brand NIB for $645.:D

*FootNote- I retail the Kimber Stainless Ultra Carry NIB everyday for
$739.88.

[Stickjockey]

6', 220# hmm? I'm 5'11'' and 250#; EDC for me is a full-size Gold Cup in OWB. Less expensive? Check out the CZ line of 9mm's if you're into autos, S&W or Ruger revolvers. Good starting place, anyway.

[Chrontius]

Kel-Tec's new 9mm, the PF-9, is available from $314; it's roughly analogous to the Kahr polymer-frames. If you're looking for cheaper still, the P-11 can be found used for $200ish (:what: ) -- I'm sorry I passed that one up, but I just didn't have the funds.

[Brian Williams]

S&W 642...



Others
good 1911,
Keltec pt-11, waiting on reports on the Keltec PF-9,
any number of S&W K frames in 38/357 my favorite is a 3" model 13,
Ruger SP101.

[PlayboyPenguin]

That S&W 642 says "Ladysmith" on it. Does it come without that or are you trying to tell me something about my carry preferences?:D I am secure in my masculinity but that might be a bit too much for me (and I even owned the first pair of pink Vans slip ons in my town when I was in high school).:D

[TallPine]

Ruger Super Blackhawk in .44 magnum with a 10" barrel :p

[fletcher]

I think a GP-100 with a 3" or 4" barrel meets most of your criteria. Only one in question would be the "smaller size".

I'm 5'11" / 185, and I don't have a problem concealing mine - typically carry it OWB in a leather Don Hume.

[xsnydx]

My step-dad has a Bersa Thunder .380 and it's a nice little gun. They're not real flashy (except the dual tone), and get the job done. Should be able to get a hold of one for around $285 or so. It's a little heavy compared to some of the polymer framed Kel-Tecs and whatnot, but I dont think a guy your size would worry about the little bit of extra weight. Good luck with finding what you're looking for...

-xsnydx

[Car Knocker]

3. I am not looking for a powerhouse weapon, I rely on accuracy (.22mag-.38spcl ok with me)

Just remember that while a .22 mag will definitely stop someone, it may take a lot longer than a .38 or a .45. The situation may deteriorate significantly while you are waiting for the guy to drop.

4. I will not be carrying every day, just on occasion

Tell me, do you only carry the spare tire in your car when you expect to have a flat? Do you just wear the seat belt when you think you may be in an accident? How does one determine when it is auspicious to carry a weapon?

5. Not a rich man, would prefer it not be too pricey a weapon (under $350 if possible)

I've never heard or read of anyone who had occasion to use his handgun in a defensive situation say that he wished he had a cheaper gun. Quality (not price but quality) should reflect the value you place on your life. Used guns are a fine way to achieve quality at an affordable price.

6. Rather it be on the smaller size. I want something that will not show buldges or be too obvious or uncomfortable.

The thinness of a handgun is often more a factor in concealability than overall size. Body-type, clothing styles and carry style are other important factors in concealing a handgun. Ala Dan mentioned the Kimber Ultra Carry. This is my primary carry piece and I often carry it in a pocket holster by Eric at hbeleatherworks.com (he has a picture of this holster and gun on his site). It's small, comfortable and at hand (literally) if things go south. And, as the last couple of thousand rounds have proved to me, utterly dependable.

Glad to see you are giving this the appropriate thought before making a choice, rather than buying a gun and trying to make it fit.

[Father Knows Best]

That S&W 642 says "Ladysmith" on it. Does it come without that or are you trying to tell me something about my carry preferences?:D I am secure in my masculinity but that might be a bit too much for me (and I even owned the first pair of pink Vans slip ons in my town when I was in high school).:D

Not all of them. S&W makes a "Ladysmith" version of the 642, but it is a distinct model. A plain jane 642 is fine. In fact, the 642 is about the perfect all-around CCW. The model with Crimson Trace lasergrips is even better, but they add about $200 to the price and aren't really necessary.

[Ala Dan]

by xsndyx:

"Should be able to get a hold of one for around $285 or so."

Pardon me Sir, but are we talk'in about the same Bersa Thunder DT
.380 ACP that I sell? If so, I'm sorry too say but you are getting
ripped off BIG-TIME~!:uhoh: I sell 'em NIB everyday for $199.88:D

[PlayboyPenguin]

Ruger Super Blackhawk in .44 magnum with a 10" barrel :p
I actually own one of those with the Bisley grips. Great gun...however I would like to actually be able to sit down or bend at the knee if I had it inside my pant line.:D I would probably loose some weight hauling that thing around all day though.:)

[Kramer Krazy]

Used, stainless S&W j-frame.....in the area of $300.

[SMLE]

A Sig 229 in 40 S&W with Sig Lite night sites, carried IWB in a Galco Summer Comfort holster. This is THE ultimate set up. I know this because it is what *I* carry! :neener: :evil:

[PlayboyPenguin]

Why woul dthis thread be moved to "Tools and technologies"? Seems like it is more on topic of general firearms discussion than most the threads currently going on there.

[ChristopherG]

Your description makes you the perfect candidate for the most popular concealed weapon of all time, the small-framed .38 revolver. The fact that you're second-guessing the .32 means you're thinking about what might happen in a situation when you actually might have to USE a concealed gun, and if it ever comes to that, you will NOT be sorry to have gone with a .38 (at least). The decision you need to make, and which will decide the model that's probably right for you, is how you intend to carry it.

If you want the option to put it in a pocket at times--and want to rely on the experience of thousands who have gone before you in this--then you want an alloy-frames S&W 'airweight' .38, the much-vaunted 642.

If you plan to carry it on your belt and rarely or never to pocket carry (or ankle carry, a less popular option that sounds a little more troublesome on average), then the advantage of the light weight of an alloy frame is less relevant, and the greater shootability of a steel frame takes the day. Then, you just need to decide whether you want a hammer-exposed model (like the S&W 60 or the Ruger sp101) or a concealed-hammer model like the S&W 640 (the stainless version of the 642).

The best idea is always to find a range that will let you rent and try different models. It's important to buy a gun that you know you will be willing (and preferably eager) to shoot at least enough to know what you can and can't do with it. You don't have to be able to make head-shots at 20 yards with a pistol for SD; but you do need to know what you CAN hit, and at what distances and how fast, and what it feels like. And that means getting a gun you're willing to shoot. For some people, that right there rules out the lighter guns, which are less comfortable to shoot--the penalty you pay for the greater comfort of carrying them.

[ChristopherG]

Why woul dthis thread be moved to "Tools and technologies"? Seems like it is more on topic of general firearms discussion than most the threads currently going on there.

It's the subforum that counts--Handguns: General Discussion

[lyricsdad]

That S&W 642 says "Ladysmith" on it. Does it come without that or are you trying to tell me something about my carry preferences?:D I am secure in my masculinity but that might be a bit too much for me (and I even owned the first pair of pink Vans slip ons in my town when I was in high school).:D

My carry pistol is usually a SW model 60LS in .357
Would have to be a really stout lady to shoot full house .357s through her.
I carry .357 in mine, I like it quite a bit. Very reliable, stainless, and of course can shoot .38s through it if I want to.
Oh yeah its full steel so it has a very good weight about her. Carrys easy w/ a pocket holster, I have yet to get me an IWB holster, but I want one.

Another carry pistol I carry is a full sized walther p99. No complaints in that department as I wear a owb kydex type holster for it, long shirt, its winter, no problems at all either.

Both have been 100 percent reliable, never failed ever. I prefer the ladysmith because the size. My 14 year old daughter can pump out .357 comfortably if they are the wwb 125 grainers, which are pussycats btw.

saying that heck for under 500 bucks for a pistol, holster, and a few boxes of ammo, brand new, get the ladysmith.

OH yeah there is just something intimidating about 5 copper hollowpoints being aimed at you..

[Waitone]

A J-Frame is good. So is a Taurus 85 or 850. Dress it up with a Barami Hip Grip and you will have no trouble concealing it at 4 o'clock.

Bersa .380 is definitely the best bang for the buck out there. A little larger than a J-frame but stone cold reliable. Don't be put off with a .380. Americans believe in bigger is better. Japanese won't agree.

Really concealable? Consider a Kel-Tec P-3AT in a pocket holster. It will never be seen.

Oh, BTW, only an idiot would make fun of a man packing a "Lady's" gun.

[ChristopherG]

I prefer the ladysmith because the size.

A Ladysmith is no smaller than a typical J-frame; it's just a 'special edition' sorta thing.

[only1asterisk]

If your shooting style is like your posting stye I think you need something belt fed.

David

[RugerSAFan]

I carry a Taurus 85 Titanium (S&W copycat) in a Galco pocket holster most times. The only time I don't is when wearing thin dress pants or tight jeans.

Generally don't have an excuse not to carry with the Taurus (currently have a G27 on my belt under a cardigan sweater as well as the Taurus in the pocket).

Been known to carry a Birdshead Vaquero .45 "by God" Colt concealed when hiking in the woods...

[PlayboyPenguin]

I think I have narrowed it down to a S&W 642 .38 that many have suggested or the Ruger SP101 .357. I went to my gun shop here locally and held both. the S&W is definately lightweight and compact...the Ruger is a little larger and heavier but looks very nice. Thanks to all that have given their two cents. As a newbie I appreciate the help. :)

[Zen21Tao]

My CCWs are a Sig P239 .40S&W with an IWB KD Holster, a Glock 29 10mm in a IWB C.T.A.C holster and an AMT Backup .45ACP in a DeSantes pocket holster. I saw in another forum that you don't like Glock so I won't stress the behefits of it. Actually I really don't care much for Glock either but it is the only thing I could find in a subcompact 10mm. The Sig and the AMT, on the other hand, are both single stacks. I tend to prefer single stacks for concealed carry because they are less bulky and don't print as bad as a double stack.

[fiVe]

PlayboyPenguin,

You need to get a Smith&Wesson 642 and a Robert Mika pocket holster.

[thorazine]

5. Not a rich man, would prefer it not be too pricey a weapon (under $350 if possible).

Blah. That is what credit cards are for!

P2000SK or P239 gets my vote.

[PlayboyPenguin]

I really liked the S&W 642 but the Ruger just won me over with it's style and finish. Plus the little extra weight and size is worth it for the added bang of a .357mag over the .38 spcl.

[revo]

Hi there. I've been full circle with this issue myself. I have the same build. I can't recommend enough the S&W 642.

- Slips into a pocket.
- Rides nicely on a belt.
- IWB is also comf, but I don't find it as suitable (to me) as others.
- I too am perfectly comf with 38 +P.

Seriously, I started with a J frame, moved on to at least 8 other items to try -- pistols and revolvers alike. Some kept, most traded. Circled all the way back to the J frame.

Save yourself the hassle, $$$s, and time. S&W J frame is the way to go.

BUT...this is only personal opinion. Something else may just work better for you.

Sorry, no easy answers here. :-)

Good luck. Happy shopping/experimenting.

[revo]

That S&W 642 says "Ladysmith" on it. Does it come without that or are you trying to tell me something about my carry preferences?:D I am secure in my masculinity but that might be a bit too much for me (and I even owned the first pair of pink Vans slip ons in my town when I was in high school).:D


There are 2 flavors of the 642. The 642 and the 642LS. LS = Lady Smith. Although I wouldn't throw her out of bed, I'd personally go with the regular 642. Cheaper to boot.

Pink Vans? Sweet... The black checkered did it for me, but I'm thinking to pick me up some pink checks here now that you got me thinking. AND a 642LS while I'm at it. :D

[TOADMAN]

Hi there. I've been full circle with this issue myself. I have the same build. I can't recommend enough the S&W 642.

- Slips into a pocket.
- Rides nicely on a belt.
- IWB is also comf, but I don't find it as suitable (to me) as others.
- I too am perfectly comf with 38 +P.

Seriously, I started with a J frame, moved on to at least 8 other items to try -- pistols and revolvers alike. Some kept, most traded. Circled all the way back to the J frame.

Save yourself the hassle, $$$s, and time. S&W J frame is the way to go.

BUT...this is only personal opinion. Something else may just work better for you.

Sorry, no easy answers here. :-)

Good luck. Happy shopping/experimenting.

I agree...I did the same thing. It has to be easy to carry or one will just leave their carry gun home.

[Zen21Tao]

Last month I was in the market for a small pocket sized revolver in either .38 special or .357 magnum and hoped to spend under $400. I ended up leaving the gun store with a Smith and Wesson 500. :banghead:

[azrael]

A KT 32acp is my EDC gun in a rear pocket holster..

My personal favorite is the Smith snubby 638 or 640 in once of my large Goblins ...hard to go wrong with either

Mika is a sweet choice for pocket holster for whatever ya decide

[Car Knocker]

I ended up leaving the gun store with a Smith and Wesson 500. :banghead:

Some people just have deep pockets. :neener:

[bigmike45]

PlayboyPenguin,

I cant speak for the S&W 642. I have never had the opportunity to own one. I can however comment on the SP-101. I have carried one of and on for over 10 years, shot all kinds of ammo through it, and gave it up to my wife for home defense, at her request. It is one fine firearm and shoots like a dream. It is small and easy to conceal. I carried it with 158gr. hollowpoints but my wife likes the 125gr. Mine has had about 800 rounds through it without a single failure to fire. You won't be disappointed.:D

Mike

[Glockman17366]

For pocket carry, I use a Taurus 85 Multi-alloy (.38 Spl, +P rated, aluminum frame/titanium barrel shroud and cylinder) in a Galco holster. This gun was one of the early 85 Multi-alloys so it has a hammer spur. I've had the gun for several years, so I really don't want to trade on a concealed hammer version. That's where the Galco holster helps protect the pocket.

Even with a concealed hammer revolver (or any gun), I'd want a holster as it lessens the potential for an AD.

Otherwise, it's a Glock 19 or an MK9. I really like both those guns, but that little 85 goes in the pocket 90% plus of the time. The light weight is what does it...