CCW: Can't Decide

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Rifleman Article

Try before you buy.

Also check out the article in the February 2010 issue of American Rifleman.

Here are a few "low lights":

  • Kahr P380--several failures to chamber, Kahr says to shoot "at least 200 rounds" before relying on it
  • Kel-Tec P3AT--not easy to shoot, sights are hard to see, prone to malfunction with several kinds of ammuntion, needs a great deal of breaking in
  • Magnum Research Micro Desert Eagle--especially hard to get a shooting grip, sharp recoil, challenging to shoot, malfunctions in feeding and chambering
  • NAA Guardian--heavy trigger pull, tiny sights are hard to see, malfunctions indicate need for extensive breakin
  • Ruger LCP--recoil is almost painful, cannot get a good sight picture, had problems getting through the evaluation due to malfunctions with different loads
  • SIG Sauer P238--exhibited malfunctions, particularly failures to chamber

Think I'd choose something else....

The reviews of the Taurus 738 TCP and the Walther PK380 were much better.

The other day a guy at the range with a new LCP was having real trouble keeping his shots on a torso target at seven yards. He said he didn't like the trigger pull or the tiny grip. He is usually a very good shot.

Another guy had a SIG Sauer P238 that simply would not function with either of two factory loads he had. The P238 had interested me until then.

Years ago I really liked the idea of a .380. That was before I was actually permitted to carry. I'll go with something more useable.

I do not know your build, attire, concealment needs, or anything else about you, but I suggest that you try a revolver or a small 9MM such as a Smith & Wesson M&P 9c. They are easy to shoot well, reliable, effective, economical to feed and easy to find ammunition for, and for most people, quite easy to carry.
 
Take a look at the Sig P6. Single stack 9mm, steel frame but lightweight enough to carry comfortably all day long.

Another choice that is the same size and is underrated is the S&W mod. 910, also a single stack 9mm that can be picked up for around $300 in really good shape.
 
To answer the OP's question on the Taurus PT145 - I have one and carry it regularly if I am not carrying my Taurus Model 85 .38 snubbie. The PT 145 hides nicely and carries comfortably in a simple, cheap, and effective Uncle Mike's IWB holster. It covers very nicely under a regular T-shirt.
 
I would still have and carry a Ruger LCP if not for two things.

1. The magazine release really should be on the heel of the grip on that gun. It's too easy to activate unintentionally as it is.
2. .380 was too expensive to practice with, when I could find .380.

Otherwise, I was fine with it.

jm
 
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