Have you switched your concealed carry gun? Why?

The round count is just a personal observation/deduction from reading various Shooting encounters. If the affairs are not over with 2-3 shots then things get sticky in a hurry.If multiple BG's are present more rounds may be required.

The Glock high cap mag also means no extra mags are usually needed vs lower round count guns like the 1911 with 8 rounds and the 10 round b/u Wilson mag I used to carry.

If anyone wants to carry a two shot derringer go for it-and Godspeed!!. Personally,I think I want more options though.I am willing to carry the extra ammo weight for the mental comfort it gives me.
 
glock06; obviously, the only reason for carrying a gun that has a higher capacity magazine, is because you believe for whatever reason that you might have a need for MORE than 6-7 rounds. (Depending on the gun). Unfortunately, no matter what the logic behind it, there's a fallacy with the argument. The argument will always end with the question: "Well, if 7 isn't enough, then 15 might not be enough. You might as well carry an additional 15 round mag. Shouldn't you?"

The problem with any of this is; it only takes 1 round to kill you. At the same time, some people believe that for every extra round they have, they are that much safer. Well, that's just not true. You should NOT be putting your life in the capabilities of a gun. It's an inanimate object. It can deduce and think. Put your life in YOUR capabilities. If you do that, you will have the best chance. And that's even if you don't have a gun at all. You've heard the argument the Pro-Gun have had with the Anti-Gun: "Guns Don't Kill People.... People Kill People". They argue that a loaded gun on a table that is NEVER touched, can't even accidentally go off. Well, these people are 100% correct. Guns DON'T kill people. Guess what; Guns also DON'T SAVE PEOPLE. "People save People". The gun is simply a tool.

I wish I could link to a blog. (I don't think I'm allowed to in the forum); but it's all about how to mentally and physically be prepared as you are out in public; in the parking garage late at night; in certain parts of town; etc... Basically how to take care of yourself. I've been teaching and studying Aikido and other arts for more than 20 years. The one thing you learn is that the MORE you learn, the LESS you'll need it. You become much more aware of your surrounding. And that's what you need to do. That will save your life. Not the gun.

But by all means, if you can find some articles or such that shows some statistics of how 15 rounds saved a person's life over 7 rounds, I'd be very interested in reading it. But don't confuse this discussion with me saying that a glock 22 with a 15 round magazine, or a similar firearm is the wrong choice. If that is the best feeling gun for you; you're able to shoot it accurately; it's reliable; you can carry it comfortably; and it feels like an extension to you (Like a tool should; e.g. hammer, saw, violin bow, etc... then that is the gun you should get. The key is; the gun that meets all those requirements and fits you perfectly is the one you should get; whether it's a 5 round revolver; a 6 shot 380; a 7 shot 1911A1, or a 15 shot Glock 22. If you say no or yes to a gun because of the number of rounds it carries, then you're probably giving up the gun that's best for you. A cool headed, accurate marksman with a 7 shot 32auto is better than some panicking, scared, adrenaline shocked, person with a 15 round glock. EVERY DAY!!!!!
 
Agreed.

Absolutlely agree on awareness and mindset.The most important shot in a gunfight? The first of course!!

The Glock just "fits" and there is some comfort in knowing if 6 rounds do have to be discharged a magazine change is not a pressing concern. I tend to shoot in threes. Two threes in the LCP and I'm dry.Two three's in my Kahr and I'm dry.Two threes in the 1911 and I am down to one(I only load 7 in 8 round mags).

The recent trend I seems to read about is BG's tend to come in pairs or more vs singles.The Olkahoma Pharmacy shootout, etc--
 
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One should have the skill base, of course - and then carry a reasonable amount of ammo. :D

A 15 semi may seem a magic wand to some as does the low capacity Judge. But most magicians have to go to Hogworts to be any good.

Of course, those of us who train intensively will never miss one shot from our snubby and that one shot will be immediately incapacitating. Like I said, a car full of 5 killers and a snubby - that's an interesting scenario. But statistics say that will never happen (huh? :D)
 
In a comment on 5 round vs 6 round snubbies, Mas. Ayoob said, "It's not the last shot that matters, it's the first."

An unknown said, "If you can't handle a social situation with 5 rounds, you're in the wrong place."
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Hahaha! How would Ayoob know? How many gunfights has he been in? Think he's ever even been present at a gunfight? Probably about as many times as he's spent inside a law school classroom...but that doesn't stop him from giving legal advice. :)
 
I find it funny how people argue that handgun is absolutely necessary even though the odds of needing it are incredibly unlikely, but a higher capacity handgun is foolish and unnecessary because the odds of needing them are incredibly unlikely.

People pick the gun first, then come up with reasons for choosing it. Do be careful.
 
I find it funny how people argue that handgun is absolutely necessary even though the odds of needing it are incredibly unlikely, but a higher capacity handgun is foolish and unnecessary because the odds of needing them are incredibly unlikely.

People pick the gun first, then come up with reasons for choosing it. Do be careful.
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Pretty tough to argue with that one !!!
 
If I could find a way to wear summer clothes and carry a 45acp (P220 in my case); then I would carry it all the time.
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You must not be trying to hard. :)

I've carried P220s, as well as P226's, and now mostly P229's on a daily basis, year round, and even here, in PA's upper 90's+ humid summers, its really not a big deal.

I tried a smaller 45acp, but I just can't seem to feel good with it. 45acp just shouldn't be shot out of a small gun. There's just something not natural about it. Plus it's very uncomfortable to shoot.
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Your missing out if you havent shot a P245. Its as big as a 3" 1911, but unlike them, 100% reliable. Its also very accurate and very easy to shoot well with. Certainly its as easy to shoot well with as your P220. Unless of course, you choose it not to be.

"Well, if 7 isn't enough, then 15 might not be enough. You might as well carry an additional 15 round mag. Shouldn't you?"
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Of course you had better be carrying a spare mag, regardless of capacity. Its the weakest link (besides the shooter) in the gun, and you may just need to be rid of it if for whatever reason it decides to be a problem. Having the extra ammo along isnt a detriment in any case either. Well, I dont think it is anyway. Is it for you?

If 7 isnt enough, 15 cant be bad then, can it? If I can carry 15 in a gun basically the same size as the one what carries 7, why would I carry the one that carries 7, especially if I shoot either well?

Put your life in YOUR capabilities.
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Absolutely. But make sure you have the skills and right tools along to maximize your efforts.

The key is; the gun that meets all those requirements and fits you perfectly is the one you should get; whether it's a 5 round revolver; a 6 shot 380; a 7 shot 1911A1, or a 15 shot Glock 22.
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I agree to a point. These days, we are lucky enough to have enough options available, that you can have a gun that fits and have capacity too.

Your also leaving out training and practice. Sometimes, people who dont initally like one type of gun, have a totally different opinion when they actually spend some quality time with it and learn to shoot it. First, and especially limited impressions, arent always the right one.

If you say no or yes to a gun because of the number of rounds it carries, then you're probably giving up the gun that's best for you.
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This works both ways. You need to spend enough time with as many different guns as you possibly can to make an educated choice as to whats best. Most people dont seem do that, and make their choices based on looks or other means besides actually putting out the cash for the gun they think they might like, and putting in quality time and effort to know.

Absolutlely agree on awareness and mindset.The most important shot in a gunfight? The first of course!!
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Awareness and mindset should be a given, or at least if your the least bit serious about all this. The most important shot, is EVERY ONE NEEDED to solve the problem. If your so sure your only going to need one, then only load one in the gun and see how you make out. I'm betting you load 'er up. ;)

If you shoot until the threat is down, you may well go through all five rounds in your J frame before your target is down. The first bullet may well have killed him, but he was still on his feet pointing that gun at you. Are you going to shoot once and evaluate, then shoot again and evaluate, etc, until the threat is down, or are you going to shoot them to the ground right off?


One thing I notice a lot on the different gun boards these days is, smaller is better, with the main reason being because its easier to carry and hide. Caliber doesnt seem to concern a lot of people, as long as the size of the gun doesnt become an inconvenience to their lifestyle and choice of fashion. Many times the gun seems to be more of a fashion statement itself. Most of the pics of those shooters and their accessories posted, look pristine, and show little to no use. If your so serious about wearing a gun (or guns), shouldnt it be an every waking moment thing, day in and day out? Or is it all just a cool fad?
 
Dubs; I hope you aren't implying that I have said: "higher capacity handgun is foolish and unnecessary because the odds of needing them are incredibly unlikely". If you think I have said this, then you are wrong. But for those who may believe I have said or implied this, let me clarify 1 very important point. I am saying the EXACT OPPOSITE. What I am saying IS:

NOT choosing a a handgun because it ISN'T higher capacity handgun; is foolish. Because choosing the RIGHT gun for you is MORE important than how many rounds it carries."

There are no "Finite" answers when it comes to hand guns and self/home defense. For some people, a particular handgun is PERFECT. And they will tell the world. For others, it's the worst gun in the world. For some, the right answer is a mouse gun. For some, it's a 44 magnum snubby. But there are 3 important things about ANY handgun that you choose.

1. It has to be reliable. It has to go bang EVERY TIME you've pulled the trigger. If it doesn't verify it isn't just picky on the ammo. If it doesn't always go bang, then get a different gun.

2. Know how to use the gun. Practice as much as you can. Practice shooting while you are backing up. Practice while moving sideways. Practice shooting 3 quick shots, then 3 more, etc... Practice.

3. Know WHEN TO PULL OUT YOUR GUN. This isn't Hollywood. There is a time to leave the gun in your pocket, purse, etc.. and to leave the area or if not noticed; REMAIN UN-NOTICED. Just because you have a concealed weapon doesn't mean you are suppose to pull it out. Pulling out your weapon is the 2nd to last thing you should be doing. The last thing you should be doing is pulling the trigger. And when you do, you need to be able to forget all your fears; all moral choices; all values; and all sympathy. If you decide to pull that trigger, it's for one and only one reason. To KILL the person you are aiming at. You are not there to wound the person or scare them away. The scaring away can take place instantly when you pull the weapon out. But when you decide to PULL THE TRIGGER; the purpose in life then becomes to KILL the person you are aiming at. If you aren't willing to do that, then don't be pulling out the weapon. And seriously consider even carrying one. Because a weapon that you pull but aren't willing to pull the trigger on can get you killed easier than not having a weapon at all. (P.S. That's another reason for Hollow Point Bullets. They are "SAFER" for the bad guy. With only 1 hole going in and nothing coming out, their chances of survival are greater.

Anyway, just wanted to qualify that there is absolutely nothing wrong with a gun like the Glock 22 that has a 15 round magazine. As long as it is the right gun for you. That it fits good. That you can carry it well. And that it's accurate and reliable. On the other hand; there is nothing wrong AT ALL with a 6 shot revolver; 7 shot 45acp; or 6 shot 380 if those guns ALSO Fit you right, you carry well, you are accurate with, it's reliable, and it simply feels right for you. And anyone who tells you you SHOULDN'T be carrying THAT gun, and you SHOULD be carrying a DIFFERENT gun; because it DOESN'T hold enough rounds, is 100% WRONG. And that is NOT up for debate. They are WRONG. The right answer of WHY you carry the gun you do, should be because of the reasons I mentioned. Round Count should have absolutely NOTHING to do with it. If the gun that is the perfect gun for you happens to hold a large magazine capacity; I guess that's a bonus.

But there are no "Trends" or anything else that imply you need high capacity magazines. If you are in a bank, and 3 masked men come in with shotguns and hold up the bank, the first thing should NOT be to pull out your gun and be the savior of the bank. We can debate whether or not round capacity is important when choosing a gun. A gun is for self defense (Home defense has other options). That self defense isn't to shoot the bad guy or to kill the bad guy. The purpose of the gun is to simply STOP the bad guy from doing the harm to you. The bad guy, robber, rapist, etc... did NOT choose you as a victim knowing that you had a gun. If they knew you had a gun, they would NOT HAVE CHOSEN YOU. Anyway; choose the gun that's right for you. Don't include round capacity as a reason. The perfect gun for you could be a revolver. On the other hand, if the perfect weapon for you is that Glock 22, then no argument here.
 
I coined a phrase in the mid 80s,

MORE IS BETTER, ALWAYS

IT IS A SELF DESCRIPTIVE STATEMENT.

This was the time when to get 18 rounds down range meant 2 speed loads for your revolver. Why carry them if no one had ever needed any more than 6?


Do I carry a Glock19, because of it's 15 round magazine? No, the big picture, it is really perfect for me. It just so happens to have a 15 round Mag; it could have ten! Would be perfect if it was slim. But it is not, so 15 it is.
 
christcorp, I agree with you, but you are missing that for some people, round count does factor into whether or not it feels right for them. In fact, your previous post comes to mind, which I completely agree with: mental conditioning is the most important facet of self-defense. If you are panicky and can't even remember how to use a handgun, CC is useless.

However, however, confidence in your weapon is one of the most important aspects of mental conditioning in times of extreme pressure. Some people are only confident with X+ rounds, no matter what the ideal CCW scenario. More power to them. They are not wrong especially if they have no qualms with concealing a bigger grip. Some people like the discomfort of a larger weapon because it reminds them they have protection and gives them confidence. Some people are more comfortable with mouse guns because they feel more confident about their small profile.

So, if someone is trying out weapons and says, "I really like the feel and reliability of this gun, but I'm not comfortable with the magazine size," s/he is not making a bad choice because capacity does factor into which handgun is right for you.

My point is that I agree with you completely: Don't let anyone tell you that a handgun you are comfortable with holds too few rounds. But I think you are being small-scoped: Don't let anyone (especially on the internet) tell you that the handgun that feels right for you isn't right for any reason. If it happens to be unreliable, for instance, the shooter will learn soon enough and decide that the gun doesn't give him/her confidence.
 
For me It's always gonna be a 1911, a Glock, or a small frame revolver. I'm always switching them out. One day this one, one day that one, then a lot of the time two of them. I guess it depends on what I'm wearing or what the weather is like, or where I am going.
 
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Have you switched your concealed carry gun? Why?
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My first CCW (1975) was a .38 special, 5 shot revolver. It lasted a few years, then I switched to a small .380 Astra. WHY; I could never shoot the little revolver worth a hoot.

In 1991 I traded the Astra in for a Beretta 84. WHY; The Astra had seen better days and besides... a friend wanted it. I also picked up a Seecamp for times a real little gun was needed.

Then in 2006 I retired the Beretta and now carry a HK P2000sk. WHY; This one was "just because I wanted to". The Beretta is still a favorite. The Seecamp still works great and is carried often, but has needed a few parts replaced.

I suspect I'll replace the HK P2000sk in about 2025...sooner if HK managed to ever make a better CCW than the P2000sk. :D
 
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I'd still be using my 657 3" with 175 Silvertips, but it was stolen. Really like my 22 ounce Taurus PT145. Half the weight of the Smith and 11 rounds of Golden Sabre!
 
Having extra rounds is a comfort but also possibly a liability.

The local sheriff in our hunting club does worry about the "pray and spray" mentality of some of the local LEO's(and may be one of his own?). He is rightfully worried about innocents in the line of fire.

Having the rounds means nothing unless you have the discipline to manage those rounds.If you can't manage them you got a real problem. Then you are not the solution but part of the problem.
 
I started with a 1911 45, then added a P14/45, later added a .22 mag derringer. Later I droppedthe Derringer and added an XD45 Tact. I carry what ever I am in the mood for carrying of the three 45s.
 
You can spray and pray with any of them, you just need to reload more with the 5 and 6 shooters, thats all.

I own and shoot SMG's. With one, I can dump a 30 round mag in 1.5 seconds, and still easily keep every round COM at 10 yards. I can also put a five round or so burst into COM on five separate targets as fast as I can acquire them if I want. Either way, no spray and pray. Its all about training, practice and trigger control, regardless what the gun or how it shoots.

Now if you want to see how disciplined and focused your local police are, stand in the next stall at the local indoor range and let a long burst go each time they try to shoot while the chief tries to qualify them. :)

Most didnt do to well here. :D
 
For me, the trend over the years has been smaller and smaller. I started out with full-size autos on the waist. Over time, I have gone to pocket-carry exclusively (the warm/hot climate here in Alabama favors light clothing).

For the last several years, I have carried J-frames, then went to a P11. Currently my carry is a PF9, but have been thinking about a P3AT or Ruger LCP. Most recently, I'm kicking around the idea of bringing my J-frame back out. Working outdoors in summer is making shot loads attractive.
 
carry guns

I started out with a .380 PPK/S, it fed unreliably after a little work it fed great...until you carried it for a day then it would go bang once then jam on lint.....could stop the problem, replaced it with S+W 6906 carried it till just 2 and a half years ago (18 years), replaced it with a HK P200SK LEM .40, this thing just "fits" me, I will probably carry it the next 20 years also. Have a good day.
 
My first carry gun was an S&W 3913, thin but too big for pocket carry and a bit heavy compared to the latest small handguns.

Next was an S&W 642 stoked with 38 spl +p. Light, but the grip just barely stuck out of my pocket, the cylinder was broader than I would like, and my aging eyes had trouble with the rear top strap groove and small front sight.

Then came the Kahr MK9. Small enough for a pocket and heavy enough to suck up recoil. It really is a very nice carry gun.

Then, I was bewitched by the same size but much lighter Kahr PM9. Its just a dream to carry. There are always tradeoffs, and with the PM9 I have to put up with the snappy recoil.

I shoot the MK9 best of them all.

Ron
 
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