First CCW: XD40c, USP40c, G36SL, S&W M&P40c, or Kahr PM40?

[dimension318]

I've done a lot of reading on all of these models but in th end I'm still a noob. I'm looking for a good first conceal and carry autoloading handgun. I have smaller hands, so most glock grips are too long for me. The Kahr PM40 fits great but I have heard way too much negative feedback to really consider it a good option. The H&K is a bit pricey for me at the moment, but if it's best I will wait and spend the money for it when I can. I have no tested the G36 slimline yet so I don't know about the grip on it. I'm considering the following:

1) Springfield XD40 compact
2) H&K USP40 compact
3) Glock 36 Slimline
4) Smith and Wesson M&P 40 compact
5) Kahr PM 40

I've shot the USP40c already and I'm going to try to test the others out within the next few weeks. I'm mainly interested in the quality of the hand guns. Also, I'm a smaller person (150 lbs, 5'9) so I'm looking for a smaller handgun as a carry that will still be comfortable. I'd appreciate any and all info or advice. Thanks in advance.

 

[Kacerdias]

Have you concidered a Walther or CZ RAMI?

 

[brashboy]

I voted for the Kahr, but consider the Taurus PT140, very well regarded by many here on the forum.

 

[Autolycus]

Go check out an HK P2000. I think it is a better gun for carry than the USPc. I much prefer HK over guns made by other manufacturers.

 

[ian928]

I voted for the USPc 40. I have one and it is a great gun. You mentioned quality and HK makes the highest quality polymer guns.

It also must fit your hand since you have shot one and didn't rule it out.

 

[10-Ring]

IMO, this is a no brainer -- HK!

 

[Quiet]

Even though I voted the USP-40 Compact, you really should check out the H&K P-2000 and P-2000SK.

 

[dimension318]

thanks for all the info. I never considered the P2000s. I'm going to see if I can find a local shooting range that has them for rent. It's looking like that might be the #1 candidate.

 

[Kimber1911_06238]

I'd take the USP 40......but the glock 36 is also a neat gun....you do sacrifice capacity though

 

[glockman19]

dimension318,

Welcome to THR.

I too would choose a H&K in a .40 the USP or the P2000sk.

Also what about a sig?

 

[8830]

I voted for the Glock 36. While I like the HKs I can get a G36 for $200 or more less than the HK. The G36 is reliable and carries well.

 

[goings_51]

I voted for the XD compact, but I assume you are also familiar with the sub-compact? No downside there (plus it's $400 cheaper than the H&K). Also, I stand up for Kel Tec for anyone carrying on their person. It's hot in Texas and shorts and t shirts limit your options.

 

[dimension318]

I went to my local shooting range today and checked out the S&W M&P 40. It fit well and I like the interchangeability of the grip backs but the trigger bothered me a little bit with how it folds in the middle as a quasi-safety. I also looked at the CW 40 from Kahr. It felt really good in my hands so I'll probably rent it and fire a few rounds through it later on this week. I checked on the Glock36 single stack as well. The grip felt too long for me after handling the Kahr and S&W. I haven't been able to find an XD compact to test yet so I'm still unsure about it. I think in the end I'm down to either the H&K P2000 / p2000sk or the Kahr CW40. If I can find an XD to test I'll still consider that one too. The shooting range also has a P2000 to test, which I'll try this week as well. I hope to have a final decision within the next week or two. Thanks for all the info and good advice. It's making my journey a lot easier.

Goings_51: I haven't been able to find a XD in subcompact form to hold yet. I have held a few sub compact glocks and haven't been too happy with them.

glockman19: I looked at a few sigs, but the grips are all too round for my hands.

 

[dimension318]

I shot the P2000 today as well as some of the others. It did everything 100% the way I wanted it to. I've found my new hand gun. Thanks for all the advice!