Concealment: M&P vs M&P compact

[oboe]

Although I have been a shooter for the past sixty years, I've only recently joined the ranks of concealed carry. Easier said than done! Yes, I carry - but I'm having problems. I have a very bony pelvis that interferes. I already have explored shoulder holsters - and I may have always have one available - but I really must find a decent concealment belt holster.

That said, I am wondering - All other things being equal [this is a theoretical hypothesis], does the Smith & Wesson M&P 9 compact conceal better than the M&P full size? Obviously, it must to some degree, but - really, how MUCH better? I'll trade this full size for a compact if it makes that much difference.

I'm asking people who actually have been familiar with both.

What's your take?

 

[Chris Rhines]

I've tried both - in fact, I own both. My preference is for the full-size M&P, carried in a strong-side IWB holster.

Concealment is pretty much a wash, and the full-size gun is much nicer to shoot than the compact.

-C

 

[catnphx]

The 9c conceals better because of the shorter handle. The height of the full-size is 5.5" vs the 9c's 4.3". The width is the same and the barrel (from a concealment perspective) is not applicable.

I have both but carry the 9c in a Crossbreed Supertuck IWB holster.

Good luck!!

 

[9mmepiphany]

I explored both (belonging to friends) before deciding on the FS. I didn't think the size difference made that much difference in a good holster and on a good belt...but them I'm used to carrying a Sig 220.

You might find it a bit more comfortable if you move it a little further back on your belt into the hollow behind the point of the hip

 

[Tomac]

I'm 6'2"/200lbs and have CCW'd both the M&P & M&Pc. I find the M&Pc better for my needs as I carry AIWB and the compact's slightly shorter length doesn't dig into the front of my hip when sitting down.
If you want the M&P's mag capacity w/the M&Pc you can always use an M&P mag w/grip adapter (see pic).
HTH...
Tomac

ETA: I use the "MrSofty" & "Upper Cut" holsters for AIWB: http://www.highnoonholsters.com/Product_Line/_Mr_Softy/_mr_softy.html

 

[samurai]

I also have both and like the 9c better for concealed carry- both IWB and OWB.

 

[kd7nqb]

I carry a full size S&W M&P almost every day. I have only 2 holsters that I use. For IWB carry I use a Comp-tac MTAC for OWB carry I use a Talon from Dragon leatherworks.

The talon is far more comfortable but sometimes OWB is not an option. I wrote a full review of the Talon HERE I can not speak highly enough of both Dragon Leatherworks and Comp-tac both are very well respected in the gun community and they make products that cant be beat.

 

[silverking]

My choice is the M&P .40c. At 5'-10" and 215 lbs, I present a rather portly shape.(My hips have pretty much gone away). I carry in a Kramer owb horsehide and couldn't be happier with the comfort of all day wear. I have a very well made Amish belt and also wear heavy duty suspenders(see hip issue). I'm four months on the light side of 70.
Be safe.