I started carrying one about 1985. I switched from a 1911 because the size and wieght was killing me. Plus the 1911 cocked and locked thing may be ok for law enforcement or the like, but concealed under a shirt and working hard all day, there were times I'd find the thumb safety in the off position at the end of the day. At that time the P7 was about the smallest lightist 9mm around.
Having shot a lot of rounds through these, I think the heat issue is somewhat over exaggerated-
It still has some advantages-
The weapon has a consistant single action trigger pull.
It is not carried in a cocked or semi cocked condition.
If dropped, it will be uncocked before it hits the floor.
Very accurate.
Very reliable
Totally ambidexterous.
Very ergonomic- no safetys, decockers, etc, slim and trim ideal for IWB carry.
small package, long barrel. Due to the gas retarded action, the breech is set well back toward the hand.
Low muzzle flip due to the hand being close to the bore axis.
The cons-
Single stack magazine so 9 rounds are all you have in the gun
There are now a lot of 9mm's smaller and lighter.
All the "improvements" bastardized the gun- I still think the original P-7 is the cleanist design.
Too expensive