The .32 ACP Guardian Is An Outstanding Carry Gun!
Hi KYamateur,
Here is the contrary opinion to give a balanced view on the Guardian.
I have carried a .32 ACP Guardian as one of my three primary EDC weapons for over five years. I use a basic pocket holster in my front pocket, and keep a spare mag in a small knife pouch in my rear pocket.
Quality- I feel there is no comparison between NAA and Kel-Tec in terms of build quality. Most Kel-Tec’s that I have owned or handled look like poster children for chincy modern manufacturing techniques and materials. Spend some time over at the Kel-Tec user’s board for more information.
Ammo- I use Fiocchi’s 73 gr FMJ loading (Italy mfg ONLY), as it is the hottest example I can regularly find at a reasonable price (~$15) for both carry and practice. In my Guardian, it provides about 100 – 125 ft lb energy per shot. The only time my Guardian has malfunctioned (after a 50 rd break-in) was with some hard primers from S&B.
Weight- Yes, the Guardian does weigh more than a P-32, but I have not found the weight to be objectionable, and it does provide some steadiness while shooting. The weight also reduces the risk of rim lock, something that must be considered (long nose FMJ only) or rectified by the user (magazine modification) in the P32 series.
Trigger- I like the Guardian trigger because there is no way that it will get pulled by accident, especially if a chapstick, pen or other foreign object ends up in your pocket. With minimal practice, you can easily stage the trigger for more precision shooting, and I regularly practice out to 25 yards for “minute-of-felon” accuracy. I do not feel comfortable carrying a gun with no safety that has a light trigger with minimal travel.
Recoil- This will run me afoul of the other posters, but I have found that blowback steel guns are MORE pleasant to shoot than their lightweight lock-breech competitors. My PPK is much nicer to shoot than my friend’s LCP. I can run 50 rds though my Guardian at the range with no issues.
Grip Frame- I have medium to large hands, and have found there is plenty to hold onto with the Guardian’s frame. All of my magazines have the flat base plate, as the finger rest model fits just wrong for my hand and grip type.
I trust the .32 ACP Guardian to defend my life (or my families lives) multiple time per week, which is about the most confidence you can express in a carry gun. I have pulled it only once, when accosted by an aggressive Pit Bull on my parent’s property, but no shots were required.
Buy the Guardian!
Take Care,
Hunter