Decisions Decisions

[JCook5003]

Well I have another thread going about a pocket carry 45 ACP I'm not sure I'm sold on the velocity from a 3.2" barrel with a 230 grain bullet......

It seems the energy and expansion are nearly identical to a .40 anyone have any input? I am really wanting a large caliber CCW but am having problems understanding the compromises I have to make.....

So heres where I need some advice on choosing an affordable (sub $400) large caliber (9mm, .40, .45 ACP) autoloader that is easy to conceal or suitable for pocket carry.

As much as I would love to have a kahr mk40 I cant swing the cash right now....that's what made the Taurus PT145 so attractive, 10+1 in .45 ACP and all for $350 so there you go now you know my dilemma help me decide, what other options are out there....

Thanks Guys
Josh

 

[plevniak]

PT145 may have been my next CCW...

... were it not for a recent purchase.

My wife picked up Kel-Tec PF-9 (9mm, 7+1 capacity). It is a fine handgun. After trying it out in a holster, I find it to be a a very compact and competent package. You won't find a more affordable alternative either at less than $300. If your emphasis is on "pocket carry", this is the biggest small gun you can find that is practical for pocket carry.

The PT145 is small but I doubt it would work well for pocket carry for most people. If you are planning on a belt holster, I'm sure it would be a fine choice. Had it not been for the PF-9, I would not have had a doubt about trying out a PT145 myself.

If you plan on carrying all the time, the PF-9 is about half the weight of the PT145 (12.7 oz vs. 22.2 oz.). That's sure to make a noticeable difference.

I'm a fan of the 45ACP round, I just see that for daily carry, especially in the summer months, the PF-9 and the 9mm round makes a lot of sense. There's obviously a compromise on power at 7+1 in 9mm vs. 10 + 1 in 45ACP. I'm willing to sacrifice the extra 3 rounds for the daily comfort bonus.

Beware though, all of these pocket sized pistols pack some serious kick.

Reliability is a big factor for most people when selecting a CCW guns. You'll hear about spotty results with Taurus and Kel-tec. Personally, I trust both companies to fix any problem you might run into. Make sure to run a few boxes of the ammo you plan to carry in the gun to check function.

 

[MICHAEL T]

You don't use a 230 gr. You drop back to a 200 or 185. I use Corbon 185gr DPX +P These work fine in my Officer , Defender,and Detonics 1050fps and good expansion.
@30 just looses to many FPS in compact