Which do I "need" more, an H&K P7 or a S&W 19/586?

[mongo4567]

Big, heavy gun?

I guess I should have said for the caliber. The shorter barrel is nice, but for CCW purposes it doesn't really hold a torch to a S&W j frames, 1911 compact/subcompact, Keltec PF9, Kahr PM40, or Kahr PM9 in my mind. Yes, I would carry a KT PF9 over an HK P7....here it comes.

They are fine guns, just not for me.

 

[valorius]

It is not a shorter barrel, actually. The HK P7 has a full length 4.2" fixed, polygonal barrel, but in an extremely compact pistol.

That means you have full sized pistol accuracy, power and range...but in a subcompact size. So while a PM9 is making due with a tiny barrel that is going to cost you 150-200fps in velocity, the P7 user has a full length polygonal barrel that will let his ammo perform to it's max. Where your J frame is making due with a 2" barrel and is producing under 300fpe of energy even with hot loads, the P7 with hot +P+ ammo can be prodicing over 500fpe of muzzle energy- which, by the way, is solidly into .357 magnum territory. And the P7 carries 9 rounds vs the J frames 5.

Yes, the P7 is heavy, as it is all steel (to me, that's a plus- not a minus), but as most people who CCW tell you, a properly designed holster renders that point moot.

 

[buckeye8]

The P7 is one of those guns that I just don't "get", but I've learned to not argue with its fanboys. I guess you either "get it" or you don't. I don't. It looks like a goofy movie prop to me.

I should note that I am biased by the 4" 586 no dash in my safe. It would be one of the last I'd ever part with.

Then again, you twice hinted that you were somewhat recoil-shy, or at least prefer low-recoil for whatever reason. To me, that is part of the enjoyment of owning a big, strong .357. If you have no intention of enjoying its upper limits, then it may not be the best choice for you. It would be like owning a sportscar and never taking it above 50.

Unsolicited advice: Looking back over your post, it sounds to me like you need a good medium-sized carry gun... and none of the guns you listed would be among my top choices to fill that particular need. P7 would work, but there are better choices. No sense in having that CCW license and not putting it to use on a daily basis.

 

[David E]

The P7 does not require a specific way to hold it.

Yes, it does, or it's not going to fire.

It requires a "front to back" grip utilizing more strength from the strong hand than from the support hand. This is totally contrary to the Moden Isosceles "side to side" grip.

For those that have already ingrained the latter into their technique, the P-7 will require more time to get accustomed to, if used for defensive purposes.

 

[valorius]

Really...no it doesn't. Once cocked, the squeeze cocker requires only 3lbs of force to keep it engaged. I can hold mine in with my pinky finger.

Any reasonable grip on the weapon, it will discharge. But then, what do i know, i just own one...

The P7 does in fact have a distinctive and unique manual of arms though, which, if you are ever relieved of the pistol by a bad guy, you will appreciate very much.