The M1 Carbine was designed to be a replacement for the 1911 which many folks just couldn't, or wouldn't, learn to shoot. The M2 is a fine close range SD gun. I used to carry one on duty until they started letting us carry some kind of Assault Rifle. I then switched to a G3/HK91. The M1 is OK within its limits but its limits are pretty tight. BTW, I have also carried the M3 Grease Gun and really liked it better than an M1.