Favorite Inexpensive Compact CCW Pistols

Status
Not open for further replies.
I've decided to give CZ clones a chance. I'm really pleased with the real deal ( CZ ) so I'm trying a couple of the clones. Two compacts from different makers.
The first one I got is a Sarsilmaz P6B compact. The trigger is really stout on DA but around 5# SA. I've dry fired it enough to smooth both DA & SA to the point that I'm satisfied with them. Cost...less than $280.00 with transfer.

If a little more cash could be invested a Tristar T100 might be considered. It's a little more refined. Out of the box triggers are both lighter and smoother. The finish is classier. Cajun Gun Works makes some upgrade parts to make things even better. Cost... $370.00 with transfer.

Both are adaquate shooters for SD as they are accurate & reliable.

Just another set of opportunities
 
The Kahr CT9 goes for $319 (before tax) at a lot of the gun shows here. It has a slightly longer grip and barrel than the CW9 but it's just as thin. I was impressed with the one I shot and carrying it could be manageable with the right clothes.

I got my shield for $339 before tax at a gunshow, but haven't seen them at that price since then. Deals can be found though if you're willing to look.

The LCP is an excellent deal in my opinion and it's a carry anywhere kind of gun. Easy to hide no matter what. I wouldn't want it as my primary gun for HD and range use, but if you already have those covered it's not a bad CCW choice. Most people who start with a bigger gun end up with one that size eventually, just for the convenience.
 
I become very fond of my KT PF-9 In fact I will carry it before my Kahr CW-9 its lighter a little smaller and I shoot it better . I just came in from outside a while ago where I fired another 50 rounds of trouble free 9mm. That puts me right at a 1000 rounds . So its proven to me to be reliable. Has pretty much put my 380 KelTec in the safe for a carry pistol.
 
Commercial Russian Makarovs are widely avail. in .380 Auto or 9x18 Mak chamberings for approx. $300. Makarovs are so reliable/rugged that I bought four of them.

This recent wave of Bulgy Mak. imports could be the last, with about twenty five years gone by since the Iron Curtain fell. They list now for about $300, many being "unissued", often based upon their near-mint condition.
And the present/future White House Administrations (likely Mrs. C.) are not known to be gun-friendly, are they?:scrutiny:
 
Last edited:
I bought a Smith and Wesson SD9VE almost a year ago. It's a great pistol, but I'm not sure it'll work that well for carrying IWB.

So, I'm looking at more compact options that will be more conveniently carried. Like the Tarus PT738, Ruger LCP, etc. I played with a Diamondback DB9 at a local gun shop as well, the owner seemed to like them, but they have hit and miss review online.

The Taurus seems like a good value at only 199.99 from Academy, but I've never been there when they had them in stock to feel it in my hands.

I strongly prefer 9mm, but I'm okay with 380. Looking at the 300 dollar range.

I'll be taking the CCW class in September, so I have plenty of time to decide.

Open to all suggestions, don't mind buying used either.
Use lay-a-way and get a Glock 43. Cost somewhat more than your budget but..

You will be thankful you did.

Deaf
 
I like David Blane carry a kahr CW9 and love it. It's extremely comfortable to shoot and reliable as a glock, it's a great buy and tucks away nicely.
 
I've decided to give CZ clones a chance. I'm really pleased with the real deal ( CZ ) so I'm trying a couple of the clones. Two compacts from different makers.
The first one I got is a Sarsilmaz P6B compact. The trigger is really stout on DA but around 5# SA. I've dry fired it enough to smooth both DA & SA to the point that I'm satisfied with them. Cost...less than $280.00 with transfer.

If a little more cash could be invested a Tristar T100 might be considered. It's a little more refined. Out of the box triggers are both lighter and smoother. The finish is classier. Cajun Gun Works makes some upgrade parts to make things even better. Cost... $370.00 with transfer.

Both are adaquate shooters for SD as they are accurate & reliable.

Just another set of opportunities
I agree with the Sar b6p. I have the full size and it has been an excellent gun. Over 1k rounds with no failures/issues at all. The trigger really broke in after 500 or so rounds. I usually only shoot it in single action because there is no decocker, but the trigger is much better than my taurus g2. They also have a compact model with 3.8inch barrel and the K2P model which is basically the same gun with adjustable rear sight and a rail. They can be had for 250-275$ and are one of the better values out there imo. The only thing to take into consideration with these guns is there is not a lot of after market support such as sights etc. Holsters can be found though, and they will accept Mec-Gar mags. I have the 19rd ones and they work great in my full size.
 
I still cannot believe that people select a caliber based on their "likes". Absurd.

I've been carrying a Ruger LCP for years and it has been pleasurable to carry and been 100% reliable when I have shot it. I've regularly seen them on sale for ~$200 new, for that price, they are a no-brainer.

If one decides that they "like" 9mm, there is a plethora of small CCW 9mm pistols to be had, Glock 43, Walther PPS, Ruger LC9s Pro, S&W Shield, I am sure I missed quite a few.
 
Both my wife and myself have the NAA Black Widows .22 MAG/.22LR. Sweet guns in the $300 range.


I have owned a Beretta Model 21A in .22LR for several years - pretty sweet and in the $300 range.


Just gave my daughter an NAA Guardian in .32 ACP. I had the gun for about 10 years and it was also a real performer.


Occasionally you can still find the Manurhin and Walther PP series guns in the $400 range. My Manurhin PP is one of my favorites.


Be patient, I snagged a S&W Model 649, police trade in, off of Guns America for $230. New grips and a little TLC and it looked factory new.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top