[Alan Fud]

When I first started carrying, a Kahr MK9 seemed as big as a cannon. I now regularily carry guns MUCH bigger (Sig 229, Para Tac-4, etc.) without a problem. How has your CCW gun evolved? Bigger? Smaller? Or remained the same?

[DougW]

Been carrying a Bersa Thunder .380 for past 7 years. Also will cary the Glock 19 when I am heading into more populated areas. I have also been known to carry the 1911, but no more than about 4 or 5 times total.

[cookekdjr]

At first I carried a .32 J-frame, then a Makarov. But mostly I carried a J-frame or Taurus 85 series, usually in some amount of titanium. I still think a j-frame is the best little gun you can throw in your pocket.
Now that the number of folks who'd like to shoot me has continued to increase (job-related), I've been favoring semi-autos, and have been known to slip a Glock 19 into my cargo-pants pocket. Its very comforting to have 15 rounds or so of +p+ or 147gr man-stoppers at your disposal.
Right now I'm looking at single-stack 9mm's, but I'm tempted just to find a good holster for the G19. I shoot it well, its reliable, and I don't see why I can't carry it every day. Half the folks I know at work carry a 19/26, 22/27, or similar combo. I don't know why I can't.
-David

[rocky]

I started with a USP 40 F . went to a 1911 champion for summer carry. I still carry the USP in cooler conditions , but it s a larger gun to conceal easily with light clothing.

[wheelgunslinger]

I started with a Ruger Vaquero, went to a Webley, then to a Baby Desert Eagle subcompact 40 cal. I'd say I've had my carry pieces become smaller as the years have gone by. Now, I have a Dan Wesson I carry and a CZ85 combat. next will probably be a CZ PCR or something like it.

[Azrael256]

Much bigger. Started with a j-frame .38, but have since moved to either a P11 or a double-stack 1911.

[Chupacabra]

I've pretty much stayed the same. I Started with a compact USP40 and I also carry my 1911 occasionally. I would like to get a single stack 9mm though, like a Sig239.

[Srigs]

I use 4 different sized guns depending on the need. They all are DAO so usage is the same. ;)

[Dollar An Hour]

I've only been carrying a short while so I can't really vote. Depending on the situation I carry either a diminuative P32, a S&W J-Frame or a Walther P99 Compact.

[Mooseman]

Used to carry a Rossi 357 full size in a shoulder rig, now a sp101 IWB. Opens up the clothing options a lot.:D

[10-Ring]

Let's see...I guess it has gotten smaller...conversly, as my collection has grown bigger! I went from carrying a large 380, to a 9 mm, a 45 acp, to a j-frame.

[C-grunt]

smaller.....started with a Glock22, then a XD4" 9mm, now a Glock 23.

[bpisler]

I started out with a 2" S&W 15-3 and moved on
to a 3"' S&W 65-3.

[marklbucla]

CZ PCR -> CZ RAMI -> Kahr MK9

I'm looking to add a STI LS9 soon, as well.

[Mortech]

Pretty much full size all the time , 19911A1 -> CZ75 -> Steyr M357 -> M&P40

[1911 guy]

Except for one summer as a kid when I carried a 44-40 single action of my Grandads due to some trouble, I've always carried a full size 1911.

[Double Naught Spy]

Went from a Kimber Ultra Elite with a 3.16" barrel to a full size 1911 with a 5" barrel for my normal carry gun, both .45 acp.

For dress carry, I went from a Colt Pony in .380 to a Kahr PM9 in 9mm.

[SpookyPistolero]

Glock 33 to 5" 1911.

[mtnbkr]

In the end, it remained the same. However, I went from a steel 2" J-frame 38special to a P32 to a Kahr K9 and then back to an alloy 2" J-frame 38special. I still have the P32 in case I need gun for those times I can't conceal the J-frame, but I haven't had an excuse to carry it since purchasing the alloy j-frame.

Chris

[Zen21Tao]

When I first got my CWP the only handgun I had was an fullsize HK USP .45acp. It was too big for daily IWB carry but I would ocassionally tuck it in my waist band when I needed to go to the ATM at night.

When I looked for something to actually carry more often I couldn't pass up an AMT .45ACP Backup. It was a great pocket gun but rather heavy with a hell of a trigger pull. I would actually consider the AMT my first REAL CCW pistol.

From there I went to a Sig P239 7+1 .40S&W with a K&D IWB Holster that has been the most comfortable and easiest to conceal IWB/OWB I have tried out.

From there I went up in caliber to a 10mm Glock 29 carried IWB in a Comp-Tec CTAC holster. Being a double stack pistol (compared to the Sig which is a single stack) it is wider and less comfortable than the Sig but a bareable trade-off for 10+1 10mm rounds.

[Doug Add]

About the same, I guess. Started with a Browning Hi Power, then went to a SIG P228.

Now it alternates between the SIG and a 2.25" Ruger SP101, which is essentially the same dimensions as the P228 (though obviously configured differently).

I have thought about getting something smaller for summer use, but have never found anything I am comfortable with.

[Sistema1927]

Bigger, but for reasons that might seem a little bit strange.

Prior to the introduction of the CCW license in NM, I would often carry either an NAA .22 mag min-revolver or a KT P32 in deep concealment. That is because even though unlicensed carry was only a misdeameanor (except in places that sell alcohol), I didn't want the hassle of ever being made.

Now that we have CCW, I carry either a Kahr PM9 in a pocket holster, or a larger weapon (Glock 17/S&W 19/Colt Commander) IWB. I don't care now if they notice a bulge or get a flash of a holster, especially since open carry is also legal.

[James T Thomas]

Alan:

Have remained the same.

Summer; without a jacket, I pocket holster carry my Mauser HSc, or the Ruger SP101, IWB.

With coats and hats, I "hump" the Ruger Super Blackhawk, GP100, or will carry the Taurus Tracker 45ACP, 'pending on holsters or coats.

I had been "broken in" during my military years by humping whatever we had to, and was glad often to have it, and therefor, disreguarded the weight.

A good quality holster and belt go a long way towards being comfortable to the point where you aren't noticing.

[Dr_2_B]

This is an insightful question. Mine's gone from a tiny NAA 22mag to NAA 32 to NAA 380 to Kel-tec 9mm to baby GLOCK 27 to mid-size GLOCK 23 to mid-size GLOCK 30. Now my favorite ccw is my GLOCK 23 and I'd never have believed I would carry a gun that size regularly.

In a pinch (and I mean a real pinch), I'll carry only my Kel-tec 380.

[Mizzle187]

Wow Dollar an Hour we basiclly carry the same things. Ive basiclly stayed the same. I try to carry a semi and revolver all the time if not a semi. I carry a P99c and SW 642 w/Laser Grips 90% of the time. I carry a P-3AT in certian situations. Im gonna try to carry my XD45 this winter as well.

[dev_null]

Started with fullsized Kimber 1911. While I've occasionally carried my SIG P232, the Kimber has always been my mainstay. Now it varies between that and a S&W 1006.

[conkmwc]

Started out with a CZ-75, then went to a Delta Elite (thinner gun, bigger caliber), now a PM-9. And I'm eyeing up the P3AT now...

[Working Man]

Bigger frame.... smaller rnd.
I went from the one I CCW'ed the most being a snuby .44 sp. to a H&K USP .40c.

[MCgunner]

The gun's physical size has stayed about the same, but instead of a .380, it's a 9mm +P.

My .38 got lighter, got an alloy frame and sold the steel one.

[denfoote]

It's June second here in Buckeye Arizona. :evil:

The temprature got up to 110 degrees today. :evil: :evil:

It's supposed to hit 111 tomorrow and 113 by Sunday!! :evil: :evil: :evil:


No way am I packing a hawgleg in this heat!! :eek:

It's the KT P32 for me, Bucko!!! :neener: ;)

[msb45]

but not length. First CCW was a S&W 686 4", now my primary is a 1911 5".

[Tigerseye]

When I started carrying, I was only carrying a few hours a day and I carried a full size 1911.

When I began carrying on an all-day basis I changed over to an Officers ACP Lightweight.

[res1b3uq]

Went from a steel frame .380 to an alloy .45.

[Charles S]

When I first started carrying concealed my only guns were a Berretta 92F and a S&W 645. Obviously I how gone to smaller weapons. My routine carry gun is now a Kahr K-9.

Charles

[usp_fan]

Started out with a usp40c. I've been leaning towards my 1911 and as soon as I get leather for it, my SIG 220. So I guess I'm going bigger. The compact is still the goto gun for summer.

--usp_fan

[jobu07]

I started out carrying a S&W model 36 snubbie in my pocket. It was fine and dandy, and i'm sure it woudl continue to suffice. But after a surreal dream one night I retired the ol' girl to target duty and upgraded.

Now I carry a colt 80 series officer's model. It made me feel a lot better after the dream anyway! :evil:

[TonyB]

I went a little smaller,but about half the weight...from an SP101 to a 642 airweight....pocket carry rules!:neener:

[rhubarb]

I started with a KelTec P11 'cause I was scared somebody might see my gun.:uhoh:

I now carry a Ruger P95 'cause if somebody sees my gun I want it to work. I don't worry anymore about someone spotting my concealed gun. It's not that I don't care, it's that I just don't think anyone notices. If they see it, it will only be because I have drawn it.:neener:

I am certain that I could carry a full size Desert Eagle or one of the hand howitzer revolvers under a shirt without being noticed. :cool:

[DMK]

I used to carry a Colt CCO 1911 almost exclusively. Since I got my little S&W 642 J-frame though, I tend to drop in in my pocket and go. It's just so much more convenient and I don't have to mess with chambering/unchambering a round.

[nitesite]

Me evolution began with a NAA Guardian .32ACP.

Didn't feel confident so upgraded to a S&W 442. I love how easily it pocket carries in pants or jacket.

I have, however, begun CCW a Glock 29 10mm or a 4" SA XD-45 because I have bought a variety of good leather and Kydex holsters. With a good concealed-carry holster and proper clothing I can easily carry IWB or OWB.

Still carry the 442 sometimes, but the 10mm Compact is carried more often now. Come fall/winter it will be the XD-45 mostly.

[usp9]

Astra Constable .380 to a

Charter Arms Undercover 38 spc. to a

Seecamp LWS32.

[Okiecruffler]

Kinda funny, I started out with a Colt Pony and it's like I've stretched it out to my 1911.

[walpur6isknight]

A 1911, I'm telling J.P.

:neener:

[freebird]

Went from 9mm to .45 ACP

[Hogfan1911]

Switched from a Kahr K40 to P40. Doesn't fit my hand quite as well & definitely has more recoil (nothing that couldn't be handled w/a little practice), but much easier to tote all day if necessary & just as accurate. In coat-wearing weather I carry my full-size Kimber .45.

[psyopspec]

Started with a 1911 that wasn't up to my standards of reliability. Went to a Glock 19, but didn't like the grip angle.

Now I've got a Beretta 92 for cold weather, HK P2k for the other two seasons, and a Kahr PM-9 for deep concealment. It's a good combo with a similar manual of arms -draw and shoot- and serves my every need. I carry the Beretta half-cocked since it makes the safety harder to accidentally engage, making the 92 a draw-and-shoot pistol like the others.

Essentially I haven't gone bigger or smaller, just diversified.

[Croyance]

Mine stayed the same, because from the beginning I had planned on having several sized guns to cover different manners of dress. So my first CCW gun was never intended as my only.

[Kenneth Lew]

In this order

Beretta Bobcat (caliber too small after almost getting beaten up by a meth head)
HK USP40F (too big and bulky)
P7M8 (rust bucket, jams after 50 rds.)
Colt 1991A1 Commander (jammed to much)
P7M8 (rusted through hard chrome)
HK USP40LEM (could not get used to trigger)
P7M13 (had early rear sight that the set screw would not work, would fly off)
P7 PSP (hard to get parts)
Kimber Procarry Series I (bullets denting feed ramp, jamming issues)
HK USP40c (did not like carrying gun, 40 caliber)
Glock 27 (flipped too much)
Glock 26 (too small)
Kel-Tec P32 (too small, meth head issues)
Glock 23 (hate .40 caliber, why do I keep going back)
Glock 19 (too big)
Taurus Ti Snubnose Revolver (can shoot worth a flip with it rapidly)
Kimber Procarry Series II (feeding problems)
Browning Hi-Power (hammer dug into my back, cannot get used to short trigger pull)
Walther PPKs (stupid thing did not feed worth a flip, slices my hand)
Glock 26 (just right)

[fiVe]

From an East German Makarov to a S&W 642.

[nero45acp]

Seecamp LWS .32 to a S&W 432PD (occasionaly a 640).


nero

[Richard.Howe]

A bit smaller -- after several disappointing tries to like the commander-size 1911, I fell back to a Sig P245.

Rich

[Haymaker]

Got 3 CCW's = One BIG, 2 lightweights.;)
Seldom carry more than 2:p

[roo_ster]

(Primary/Secondary/Tertiary)
SW686 .357mag
AMT BU DAO .45ACP/Beretta 21A .22LR
AMT BU DAO .45ACP/Kel-Tec P32 .32ACP
Kel-Tec P40 .40S&W*/Kel-Tec P32 .32ACP
SW1911 .45ACP/Kel-Tec P40 .40S&W/Kel-Tec P32 .32ACP
SW1911 .45ACP/Taurus 651 Total Ti Snubby .357mag/Kel-Tec P32 .32ACP
* First CCW with useable sights

With the exception of my first handgun (SW686), my preferred carry has gotten larger. I suspect that this correlates to my knowledge of gun-carrying techniques, especially the value of good leather. Also, I put more value on being able to shoot the weapon well and quickly.

(hate .40 caliber, why do I keep going back)
I, too, have not been able to warm up to .40S&W. If I want a big hole, I'll choose .45ACP. If I want less recoil, I choose 9mm.

I would actually consider the AMT my first REAL CCW pistol.
Same here.

[Marshall]

My carry gun is one of several but my J Frame .357 is always with me. So I'll vote stay the same.

[Pappy John]

The size hasn't changed all that much, but the power's been going up.

I went from a Walther PPK in .380, trading that up to a S&W 642 in .38 Spec., and in turn trading that on my present Ruger SP101 in .357 magnum.

I've carried larger stuff now and then, but these three have been my main "grab and go" guns over the last ten years.

[41 magnum fan]

I started out carrying either a S&W model 36 or a Colt 25 AUTO.My main carry guns now are either a S&W model 657 Mountain Gun(41 magnum) or a full size blued steel 1911.

[j1133s]

As I get better at shooting, I feel more comfortable carrying a smaller pistol. Now, if I stop practicing for a while, I may have to go back and carry something w/ lots of ammo again.

But right now, given my skill level, I'm comfortable w/ a PM9 w/ only 6 shots (which I think I can handle 2-3 attackers). Note the Kahr PM9 can be loaded w/ 6+1 rounds, but I only have 6.

I used to carry a G19 w/ 16 rounds plus a backup mag w/ 15 rounds.

[.45FMJoe]

Went from a Kel-tec .380 to a Glock 32 and now a full size Colt 1911. I still use the Kel-tec as a BUG and the Glock has nightstand duty (soon with a surefire attached to it).

[Zach S]

Bigger. I started with a Para Companion (or a Kimber Compact), now I carry a 5" Kimber.

[Old John]

Started out carrying a Taurus Mod.85, 38 Spec. about 16 yrs.
ago. I felt kinda under gunned

In '94, I went to a Ruger KP 90, .45acp. Carried that a few years.
Like a block of wood on your hip. But it shot well.

In '99, Went to a 1991A1, Colt Comm., .45acp.carried that 'til
early last year.
I switched to a SP101, .357Mag. I don't feel undergunned.
I'm Real content with it.

Bottom line........whatever works for you.
Diverse Folks like diverse options.
Have Fun.
Take Care.

[xd9fan]

goin sound like a girl here......but it all about the accessories.....is it summerwear or winter wear? Need a gun to match the weather!!

[Anna's Dad]

I got the Springfield XD-9 *thinking* I would carry it. I just can't get used to IWB carry--especially here in South Florida.

I then bought a Beretta Tomcat INOX (.32ACP) and carried it happily for several months.

Finally I bought a Kel-Tec P32 and that is what I carry today in a De Santis Gunhide pocket holster.

My guns have definately gotten smaller (can't get much smaller that the Kel-Tec P32, actually)!

This trend may change, however, with the release of the Skyy Industries MPX-9. Its the smallest 9mm I've seen (especially the width). If they turn out to be reliable guns, I'd definately prefer to carry a 9mm.

[meef]

How about a check option for "all over the board"?

[Slow]

I voted gotten smaller...everywhere gun is P32 but I also keep a .357 snub as always real close too

[deputy tom]

Same sizes just getting lighter(alloys).tom.:)

[aryfrosty]

In the late 1960s and early 1970s I carried many handcannons because they were big, because I was bad, (badly naive), and because I was a cop and nearly everyone I saw knew me. Also in the south seeing someone carrying in civvies wasn't earthshaking during those years.
Now I have been retired for a few years and live in a different place, so: I need something completely concealable yet reliable and serviceable. My usual CCW in 1971 was a Remington Rand version of the 1911 .45ACP. In 2006 it's an AMT BackUp DAO in .45ACP. I have my permit from where I live in ... addition to my retired ID and badge, but the best defense against getting put on the wall and embarrassed is CONCEALED carry.:eek:

[Still 2 Many Choices!?]

But the caliber got bigger!!! Glock 23 in .40, went to a Taurus PT-145 in .45...
I still carry the Glock more times than not, unless it is unseasonably hot.

[30 cal slob]

I've carried the same sized CCW more or less.

However, I've grown wider.

Does that make my CCW smaller?

No?

What if I'm wearing black? :neener:

[LiquidTension]

My primary carry has stayed the same but I started carrying a backup about a year ago. Sometimes I'm slack and just take the pocket gun, but my original is still my primary so I voted "stayed the same."

[Zundfolge]

My overall trend has been from larger to smaller, however its gone up and down over the years.


Steyr M40 -> Kahr MK40 -> Makarov -> Steyr S40 -> Kahr MK9 (and occasionally my wife's P3AT at the gym).

If I was to move from my MK9 to a different CCW piece it would be a Commander sized 1911 in 10mm (which I don't see the funds appearing for any time soon). Actually if I start feeling undergunned with the MK9 I'll just go back to the S40 (which while larger, weighs almost the same).

[GroovedG19]

My carry piece has remained the same for the past 3 years.Glock model 19.

[leadcounsel]

Same. I always carry the biggest gun that the situation will allow. Sometimes that's a P3AT, sometimes that's a 5" Glock 35, sometimes it's in between.

[southlandarms]

My first carry gun was a Tomcat. I changed when the P3AT first came out. A few month ago I started carrying a PM9. The PM9 is by no means large, but it is not a pocket gun for a man my size. I have had to adapt to IWB carry instead of simple back pocket carry.

All these guns are excellent choices. They have worked great for me. Of course, I like the idea of the 9mm over the .32 and .380.

[TimboKhan]

I went smaller, sort of. I started off carrying a Springfield Compact, but I ended up trading it away because it just wasn't reliable enough for me, plus, I found it to be too heavy to be used as a daily rig. I went somewhat smaller in the sense that my main carry gun now is a Taurus 605 (.357 mag), and that fits my bill perfectly. On rare occasions, I have packed my P90 with success, but it really is too big and certainly too heavy to ever be a good carry gun. My situation is such that I don't actually carry all that often: I am in and out of high schools and college all day, and neither place allows concealed carry. I am NEVER without a gun in my truck however, and in that case, my gun choice is one of my two Taurus PT99's, both of which are hi-cap. With all of that having been said, I find myself wanting an even smaller gun for quick trips to the store and what not, and I fully intend on purchasing a Keltec within the next couple of months to accomplish that. So, smaller for my person, larger for my truck!

[GlenJ]

Started with a Ruger P97. Now carry P3AT daily.

[orionengnr]

started with an S&W j-frame. Then a Kahr PM9 (summer) and a G-23 (winter). More recently, a Kahr P45.

[BRASSM]

I've always carried a Browning Hi-Power and two extra magazines. I figure if I can't get out of a tight situation with that at least I'll go down trying. Although sometimes when I'm out at night in the mountains I carry my .357 SIGPro with night sights. and two extra magazines.

[kilogulf59]

My normal carry piece is my old Charter Arms 2-inch Undercover .38 Special loaded with 158grn. LSWCHP +Ps, usually Remington brand, in a UM Super Belt Slide with a Speed-Strip in the pocket.

The gun is pushing 24 years old but functions perfectly with many thousands of rounds through her, non +P for practice of course.

[JassenB]

I only got my CCW back in March, so I'm completely new to the ballpark. I originally carried my Taurus PT-140 just because it was the smallest of the three pistols I had at the time.

Due to the weight and reliability issues I started having with it, I bought a Kel-Tec P3AT, which turned out to be the most failure-prone weapon I've ever touched in my life (commonly would FTE every other round). I sold it and replaced it with a Kahr P9 that I bought as a "factory test fire" gun, so got a great deal on it.

I've been carrying it daily for over two months now, with over 700 rounds through it without a hitch. It's lightweight, very slim, and easily concealable with my normal attire.

-Jassen

[TimboKhan]

JassenB,

Ahhh.... a fellow Fort Collins-ite! I think the Kahr is one hell of a good pistol, and while my experience with KelTec has been different than yours, I think you made a good choice. I have long maintained that if I got the chance to pick up a K-Series Kahr at a reasonable price, I would sell my 605 off to help pay for it.

[Supertac45]

I voted smaller; but once my VM-2's all come in from Milt Sparks, it'll probably go back to my 5 inch Baer Supertac from a Sig 229. Who knows since I practice with all my pistols and feel that they will all do the job.

[ibanda]

Started out thinking I would only be satisfied with a 5" steel 1911. I bought a quality belt and holster but I am finding I don't like the weight even though I can conceal it easily. I am looking for something lighter, carrying my J frame more often and looking into a Sig 239 or Glock 36 next.

[RugerSAFan]

Started out carrying a .45 Colt Ruger Birdshead Vaguero.
Eventually, carried a Glock 27.
Currently carry a 642 sized Taurus.

If I lose some weight, wouldn't mind trying my Colt 1911 Govt. model.
A lot skinnier than the G27!

[countertop]

Glock 23 to Colt 1991A1 - I don't know if thats getting bigger or smaller.

In the warmer months, its gone from a Colt Detective Special in .38 Spl or Beretta in .25ACP to sometimes now I carry a keltec in .380 depending on my dress and the occassion (basically to replace the .25ACP beretta)

[lance22]

Only been carrying for three years (every day all day) and reaching a point where I want more choices.

Have used a Kahr P40 which has been the perfect size. Full size grip and 6+1,
it's nice and thin.

I am getting wider to the point where it is forcing me to adjust my carry methods. So ... am thinkinga bout buying a 4 or 5 inch 1911 for winter and a PTA3 (or maybe a Kahr PM9) for summer. This would make my changes bigger and smaller :rolleyes:

[progunner1957]

The older and more broken down I get, the more I realize that I am in need of a CCW gun that will have the best chance of stopping an attack - hopefully with sheer intimidation power.

Failing that, I want a gun/caliber that will drop an attacker with 1 or 2 well placed shots. I have no desire to fight a 300 pound biker thug - or any other thug - mano a mano.

That's why I carry a 1911 in .45ACP or a H&K USP45.:D

[kilogulf59]

progunner1957
The older and more broken down I get, the more I realize that I am in need of a CCW gun that will have the best chance of stopping an attack - hopefully with sheer intimidation power.

Failing that, I want a gun/caliber that will drop an attacker with 1 or 2 well placed shots. I have no desire to fight a 300 pound biker thug - or any other thug - mano a mano.

That's why I carry a 1911 in .45ACP or a H&K USP45.

Sir, being 46 with currently questionable health, I can see the logic of your statement.

You have me thinking that perhaps I should retire the .38 and bring out the G30 or GM MkIV Series 70.......

[mmissile]

Went from a USP, to a compact USP, to a SIG 225, to a .32 Keltec, and now carry a Rohrbaugh. I'll carry larger stuff in colder weather.

[Redneck with a 40]

I carry a Taurus MIL-PRO 40, this gun combines affordable price and quality to me. 10+1 capacity = firepower.:D I'm not a fan of the 9mm, I've become very proficient with my 40, I'm comfortable with it.

[Nail Shooter]

It's gotten larger. Went from a 32 to a 9mm, now contemplating going to 45acp. Also CCW a 357 J frame at times.

NS

[s&w 24]

stayed the same. Sig 225 in galco summer comfort IWB holster and 124 +P gold dots