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Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? #6158805 02/10/12 Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio K Kentucky_Windage OP Campfire Tracker OP Kentucky_Windage Campfire Tracker K Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio Interested in seeing what folks are actually carrying... for those times when a little gun beats no gun at all. I'm not talking sub-compacts or 45s here -- just true pocket pistols. What do you like, and why? My top criteria: reliability, concealability and weight. What say you? If you're fixin' to put a hole in something, make it a hole to remember.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6158833 02/10/12 Joined: Feb 2002 Posts: 32,044 Kpt.,TN , Montgomery, Co, VA bea175 Campfire 'Bwana bea175 Campfire 'Bwana Joined: Feb 2002 Posts: 32,044 Kpt.,TN , Montgomery, Co, VA My Model 36 Smith 38 Spl or Ruger SP-101 357 mag in revolvers and my Kahr P9 9mm in semi-auto. What I'm actually carrying at the moment is my Glock 23 40 S&W Fed 180 gr Hydra Shok's A Doe walks out of the woods today and says, that is the last time I'm going to do that for Two Bucks.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6158932 02/10/12 Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 30,934 USA J jwp475 Campfire 'Bwana jwp475 Campfire 'Bwana J Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 30,934 USA M-36 S&W or the Stainless version in the same 38 chambering the M-60 I got banned on another web site for a debate that happened on this site. That's a first

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? jwp475 #6158940 02/10/12 Joined: Mar 2006 Posts: 7,471 O Oldquailhunter Campfire Tracker Oldquailhunter Campfire Tracker O Joined: Mar 2006 Posts: 7,471 Smith 642. Dink

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Oldquailhunter #6158966 02/10/12 Joined: Sep 2004 Posts: 1,120 Pittsburgh, Pa B bluesman Campfire Regular bluesman Campfire Regular B Joined: Sep 2004 Posts: 1,120 Pittsburgh, Pa Daily carry. Taurus PT111 or S&W 442 with HydraShok ammunition and Crimson trace grips. Terry

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? bea175 #6159005 02/10/12 Joined: Nov 2009 Posts: 1,121 NC 4 41magfan Campfire Regular 41magfan Campfire Regular 4 Joined: Nov 2009 Posts: 1,121 NC Ruger LCP - With a round count of about 750 rds thus far, it hasn't missed a lick. I think that could be considered reliable. It's certainly small & light enough for pocket carry. The sights are spartan, but it's really not too much of a hindrance. Kahr P380 - After a couple of trips back to Massachusetts, and well over 500 rds of "break-in", it's finally starting to perform to some basic level of reliability. Great trigger & sights. If it was as reliable as the LCP, it would be my perfect pocket pistol. I carried a hammerless airweight J-Frame S&W for a few decades before the current crop of .380's came on the scene, but I can carry the small autos mentioned with no regard for any particular style of pants/shorts. Couldn't do that with a J-Frame. Everything else I've tried was either too heavy, too big or unreliable. Last edited by 41magfan; 02/10/12. The uninitiated are always easily impressed. NRA Endowment Member

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 41magfan #6159025 02/10/12 Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio K Kentucky_Windage OP Campfire Tracker OP Kentucky_Windage Campfire Tracker K Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio Originally Posted by 41magfan Ruger LCP - With a round count of about 750 rds thus far, it hasn't missed a lick. I think that could be considered reliable. It's certainly small & light enough for pocket carry. The sights are spartan, but it's really not too much of a hindrance. Kahr P380 - After a couple of trips back to Massachusetts, and well over 500 rds of "break-in", it's finally starting to perform to some basic level of reliability. Great trigger & sights. If it was a reliable as the LCP, it would be my perfect pocket pistol. I carried a hammerless airweight J-Frame S&W for a few decades before the current crop of .380's came on the scene, but I can carry the small autos mentioned with no regard for any particular style of pants/shorts. Couldn't do that with a J-Frame. Everything else I've tried was either too heavy, too big or unreliable. That's more in the ballpark. I have a 642 and a MK-9 elite. I'm talking smaller, lighter and even more concealable. I've seen a lot of bad reports on the P380, and some mixed reviews on the LCP, but those who like them REALLY seem to like them. Anyone weigh in on the little Sigs? If you're fixin' to put a hole in something, make it a hole to remember.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6159041 02/10/12 Joined: Nov 2009 Posts: 1,121 NC 4 41magfan Campfire Regular 41magfan Campfire Regular 4 Joined: Nov 2009 Posts: 1,121 NC The SIG is a bit of a different animal being a single action that must be carried cocked & locked. It has great sights and good ergonomics, but it's a tad larger & heavier than the LCP or Kahr. Reliability with them is a bit like Kahrs, as well ..... hit or miss. Last edited by 41magfan; 02/10/12. The uninitiated are always easily impressed. NRA Endowment Member

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6159055 02/10/12 Joined: Jul 2011 Posts: 11,047 so cal pal Campfire Outfitter pal Campfire Outfitter Joined: Jul 2011 Posts: 11,047 so cal S&W 640 stainless, hammerless, 5-shot .357Mag snub. Very difficult to shoot well, but simple and reliable d/a only. Teddy Jacobson did the action. Mine is pre-lock. http://tinyurl.com/82ad68t Last edited by pal; 02/10/12. "There's more to optics than meets the eye."--anon "...most of us would be better off losing half a pound around the waist than half a pound on our rifle."--dhg

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 41magfan #6159077 02/10/12 Joined: Nov 2009 Posts: 1,121 NC 4 41magfan Campfire Regular 41magfan Campfire Regular 4 Joined: Nov 2009 Posts: 1,121 NC Colt has reintroduced the Mustang Pocketlite - of which the P238 was patterned after. The original series sample I had some years ago was dead-nuts reliable but the sights were lacking. It too is several ounces heavier than the LCP or P380. Last edited by 41magfan; 02/10/12. The uninitiated are always easily impressed. NRA Endowment Member

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 41magfan #6159279 02/10/12 Joined: Aug 2006 Posts: 13,000 Oregon O Oregon45 Campfire Outfitter Oregon45 Campfire Outfitter O Joined: Aug 2006 Posts: 13,000 Oregon S&W 442/642.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Oregon45 #6159281 02/10/12 Joined: Feb 2011 Posts: 5,856 Michigan U UPhiker Campfire Tracker UPhiker Campfire Tracker U Joined: Feb 2011 Posts: 5,856 Michigan S&W M&P340.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6159399 02/10/12 Joined: Sep 2009 Posts: 13,860 T Take_a_knee Campfire Outfitter Take_a_knee Campfire Outfitter T Joined: Sep 2009 Posts: 13,860 Khar 380. Khar PM9.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Take_a_knee #6159507 02/10/12 Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 73,096 Punta Gorda, FL T LEE Campfire Kahuna T LEE Campfire Kahuna Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 73,096 Punta Gorda, FL Always have my 1st gen Kel-Tec P-32 whether I have anything else with me or not, it is my "always gun". George Orwell was a Prophet, not a novelist. Read 1984 and then look around you! Old cat turd! "Some men just need killing." ~ Clay Allison. I am too old to fight but I can still pull a trigger. ~ Me

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6159513 02/10/12 Joined: Aug 2011 Posts: 8,731 T TBREW401 Campfire Outfitter TBREW401 Campfire Outfitter T Joined: Aug 2011 Posts: 8,731 Kel tec 380 or s&w 442 Usually the 380

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? T LEE #6159522 02/10/12 Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 28,385 Likes: 1 Idaho, USA Jim in Idaho Campfire Ranger Jim in Idaho Campfire Ranger Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 28,385 Likes: 1 Idaho, USA Originally Posted by T LEE Always have my Kel-Tec P-32 whether I have anything else with me or not, it is my "always gun". Mine's the same - Kel-Tec P32 in a DeSantis Nemesis pocket holster but without the laser . Some of y'all must have really big pockets. That P32 is the only one I found that fits in the front pocket of my jeans without really printing. Gunnery, gunnery, gunnery. Hit the target, all else is twaddle!

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6159997 02/10/12 Joined: Nov 2006 Posts: 34,261 Montana, Lewis and Clark Count... derby_dude Campfire 'Bwana derby_dude Campfire 'Bwana Joined: Nov 2006 Posts: 34,261 Montana, Lewis and Clark Count... I'm told these work real nice and are Sig's version of the Walther PPK and PPK/S. I would seriously look into one of these if I had a need for a pocket pistol. http://www.sigsauer.com/CatalogProductDetails/p232.aspx Another choice would be: http://seecamp.com/products.htm in.380. A real pocket pistol. Last edited by derby_dude; 02/10/12. Don't vote knothead, it only encourages them. Anonymous "Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups." Anonymous "Self-reliance, free thinking, and wealth is anathema to both the power of the State and the Church." Derby Dude

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Jim in Idaho #6160001 02/10/12 Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio K Kentucky_Windage OP Campfire Tracker OP Kentucky_Windage Campfire Tracker K Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio Something about the Kel-Teks leave me cold. Fit and finish certainly isn't up there with some others. As for all you S&W J-frame fans, I have one (642). Ditto for Kahr MK-9 or PM9. (I have the MK-9 Elite). Just looking for something smaller, slimmer, lighter and semiauto -- but, above all, reliable. Leaning toward the LCP, but still researching... If you're fixin' to put a hole in something, make it a hole to remember.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6160096 02/10/12 Joined: Jun 2005 Posts: 27,500 Going BACK to Africa this year... safariman Campfire Ranger safariman Campfire Ranger Joined: Jun 2005 Posts: 27,500 Going BACK to Africa this year... I have had quie a few Kel Techs, as well as several Kahr's. LCP is only a Kel Tech P3AT re-made by Ruger. I have compared them side by side and there is VERY little difference. We really like our Kel Tech P3AT. Cannot seem to make it not work with any and all ammo, and EXCEEDINGLY light and thin. The two I own now and the other several I have owned had fit and finish that was just fine, considering what these guns are. They are not Colt Pythons. What they are is wonderful little guns, IMO. LOVE God, LOVE your family, LOVE your country, LIKE guns and sports. About 2016 team "R" candidates "We definitely need a crew with a sack of balls the size of hot water bottles, bloviated estrogen leaking feel-gooders need not apply." Gunner 500

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? safariman #6160408 02/11/12 Joined: Aug 2009 Posts: 11,347 Phoenix, Az....now Iowa W warpig602 Campfire Outfitter warpig602 Campfire Outfitter W Joined: Aug 2009 Posts: 11,347 Phoenix, Az....now Iowa Kahr CM9 or Taurus 605, usually the Kahr though.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? warpig602 #6160431 02/11/12 Joined: Oct 2008 Posts: 7,821 Oregon K kend Campfire Outfitter kend Campfire Outfitter K Joined: Oct 2008 Posts: 7,821 Oregon My Sig 232 is accurate and dependable. Oh, no plastic parts either! �Nothing is so permanent as a temporary government program." -- Milton Friedman

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? kend #6160438 02/11/12 Joined: Aug 2009 Posts: 11,347 Phoenix, Az....now Iowa W warpig602 Campfire Outfitter warpig602 Campfire Outfitter W Joined: Aug 2009 Posts: 11,347 Phoenix, Az....now Iowa Problem with a Sig 232, its not really pocket sized, by my standards. Best .380 on the market though.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 41magfan #6160601 02/11/12 Joined: Jul 2005 Posts: 5,335 South Carolina iambrb Campfire Tracker iambrb Campfire Tracker Joined: Jul 2005 Posts: 5,335 South Carolina KEL TEC P3AT Psalm 19:14-May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. _ Humble servant of Jesus Christ. Living His plan and praying to show it in name, word, body, and light.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6160632 02/11/12 Joined: Feb 2011 Posts: 5,856 Michigan U UPhiker Campfire Tracker UPhiker Campfire Tracker U Joined: Feb 2011 Posts: 5,856 Michigan Originally Posted by Kentucky_Windage Something about the Kel-Teks leave me cold. Fit and finish certainly isn't up there with some others. As for all you S&W J-frame fans, I have one (642). Ditto for Kahr MK-9 or PM9. (I have the MK-9 Elite). Just looking for something smaller, slimmer, lighter and semiauto -- but, above all, reliable. Leaning toward the LCP, but still researching... Anything smaller than them and you're going to find it hard to hold onto and the trigger is going to suck. I work in a large gunshop/range and find it funny how many people want the smallest gun made and then want to add extended mags and finger extensions. They have it in their heads that they still have the small gun that they started out with. I find this especially with G26's. They always want one but then want me to put on a Pearce extension. I pull out a G19 and show how little difference there is and explain about the much smaller capacity but they still want the 26 because it's "smaller" (to start out with).

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? UPhiker #6160662 02/11/12 Joined: Sep 2009 Posts: 13,860 T Take_a_knee Campfire Outfitter Take_a_knee Campfire Outfitter T Joined: Sep 2009 Posts: 13,860 The only gun that gets traded in more than a Glock 26 is a Glock 27. One of those "good ideas" at first blush that really isn't. Anything smaller than a G19 should be thought of as a BUG (backup gun). If all you are carrying is a 380, then you aren't really carrying, or barely so. Or, as Massad Ayoob says, "That's the gun I carry when I'm not carrying a gun."

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Take_a_knee #6160830 02/11/12 Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 8,532 RETIRED in Oregon, USA vbshootinrange Campfire Outfitter vbshootinrange Campfire Outfitter Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 8,532 RETIRED in Oregon, USA LCP with a belt clip. In hot weather I pack this pistol wearing shorts and an untucked tanktop . Did just that at the local police K9 competiton last summer, with the place crawling with cops, and none the wiser. (I have a concealed handgun licence) Virgil B.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? warpig602 #6161252 02/11/12 Joined: Apr 2010 Posts: 367 NM J Jlin222 Campfire Member Jlin222 Campfire Member J Joined: Apr 2010 Posts: 367 NM Colt Detective Special with hammer shroud, because it's dead reliable and I can shoot it better than I can shoot the alloy frame version or a Smith J-frame - plus there's that extra shot compared to the Smiths.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6161259 02/11/12 Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,614 Central KY B bobelk99 Campfire Regular bobelk99 Campfire Regular B Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,614 Central KY I have utilized the same old Model 38 Smith for 40 years. Naught's had, alls spent When desire is got without content

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 41magfan #6161267 02/11/12 Joined: Mar 2004 Posts: 20,840 2 2ndwind Campfire Ranger 2ndwind Campfire Ranger 2 Joined: Mar 2004 Posts: 20,840 Kahr PM 9... night sights, Crimson Trace.... Always goes bang and with the laser sight accurate enough to serve as a top shelf trail gun.... High Noon pocket holster. Some pants have deep enough back pockets to hold it.... That make for a very fast draw..... Front pocket from a seated position... Not so fast... I need to pick up an IWB holster designed to be used with the laser.... I may pick up a CM 9 so I can fool with cast bullets in one.... The trigger took some getting used to because it's so long... Not a problem now though.... Recoil even with hot loads is a non issue. Please don't feed the trolls!

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 2ndwind #6161308 02/11/12 Joined: Dec 2002 Posts: 22,274 Back in Texas, for good! tex_n_cal Campfire Ranger tex_n_cal Campfire Ranger Joined: Dec 2002 Posts: 22,274 Back in Texas, for good! The smallest one I own is a Sig P238, which has a good reputation. Mine, unfortunately, does not run very well. It appears at times to have too weak of a recoil spring. I did more checking last weekend, and did find that the extractor had a little too much tension. I strengthened the spring slightly, and took out a bit of extractor tension, so we'll see how it runs this weekend. "...the designer of the .270 Ingwe cartridge!..."

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? tex_n_cal #6162105 02/11/12 Joined: Oct 2003 Posts: 12,664 West Virginia D Dave_in_WV Campfire Outfitter Dave_in_WV Campfire Outfitter D Joined: Oct 2003 Posts: 12,664 West Virginia I've got a Keltec .32 and a Ruger LCP. I'm going to give the .32 to my oldest daughter as soon as I get a chance to shoot the Ruger. The Karma bus always has an empty seat when it comes around.- High Brass There's battle lines being drawn Nobody's right if everybody's wrong

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6162126 02/11/12 Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 23,638 MontanaMan Campfire Ranger MontanaMan Campfire Ranger Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 23,638 Originally Posted by Kentucky_Windage Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? S&W J-frame.........I have 2, a 442 & a 340PD. 135 gr. Gold Dot short Barrel loads. IMO, way easier to handle than a small auto........I just don't like the way they shoot compared to the J's. MM

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6163008 02/11/12 Joined: Aug 2011 Posts: 8,731 T TBREW401 Campfire Outfitter TBREW401 Campfire Outfitter T Joined: Aug 2011 Posts: 8,731 Kel tec fit & finnish? Function is what matters, and of course concealilibity

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? TBREW401 #6163027 02/11/12 Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 73,096 Punta Gorda, FL T LEE Campfire Kahuna T LEE Campfire Kahuna Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 73,096 Punta Gorda, FL Yep, we are not talking heirloom guns here, just work-a-day carry guns. George Orwell was a Prophet, not a novelist. Read 1984 and then look around you! Old cat turd! "Some men just need killing." ~ Clay Allison. I am too old to fight but I can still pull a trigger. ~ Me

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? T LEE #6163130 02/11/12 Joined: Jun 2003 Posts: 10,595 Wyoming Cheyenne Campfire Outfitter Cheyenne Campfire Outfitter Joined: Jun 2003 Posts: 10,595 Wyoming My top choice is a 642. It fits well and doesn't snag or print. "Don't believe everything you see on the Internet" - Abraham Lincoln

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Cheyenne #6163150 02/11/12 Joined: Apr 2004 Posts: 61,130 gone V VAnimrod Campfire Kahuna VAnimrod Campfire Kahuna V Joined: Apr 2004 Posts: 61,130 gone Revolver? 442/642 Semi-auto? Kel-Tec P3AT.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? VAnimrod #6163201 02/11/12 Joined: Jan 2006 Posts: 8,780 WNY L Lawdwaz Campfire Outfitter Lawdwaz Campfire Outfitter L Joined: Jan 2006 Posts: 8,780 WNY Kel Tec 32 or S&W Model 37 Airweight.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Lawdwaz #6163678 02/11/12 Joined: Mar 2008 Posts: 190 Northern IL, USA B bigbrie Campfire Member bigbrie Campfire Member B Joined: Mar 2008 Posts: 190 Northern IL, USA Fits in the pocket and it's 9mm I don't feed em I eat em

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? bigbrie #6163780 02/11/12 Joined: Dec 2011 Posts: 735 Nor. Calif. Dons99 Campfire Regular Dons99 Campfire Regular Joined: Dec 2011 Posts: 735 Nor. Calif. Clipdraw on an LCP, will go anywhere. http://www.clipdraw.com/ "Drop that or by the splendor of God I will blow your heart out." Kit Carson "Make sure you are doing what God wants you to do then do it with all your strength." George Washington

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Dons99 #6163949 02/11/12 Joined: Jan 2009 Posts: 23,319 Oklahoma OrangeOkie Campfire Ranger OrangeOkie Campfire Ranger Joined: Jan 2009 Posts: 23,319 Oklahoma True pocket pistols - Glaser Safety Slugs .25 ACP "All that the South has ever desired was that the Union, as established by our forefathers, should be preserved, and that the government, as originally organized, should be administered in purity and truth." – Robert E. Lee

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? OrangeOkie #6164185 02/11/12 Joined: Dec 2010 Posts: 38 A AKNHNTR Campfire Greenhorn AKNHNTR Campfire Greenhorn A Joined: Dec 2010 Posts: 38 Kel Tec 3AT - it has been 100% reliable!! Bought the Kel Tec 32 and used is for a while, as long as you loaded the semi-rimmed rounds properly in the mag it functioned great. But when the 3AT came out in almost exactly the same size gun I quickly went to the .380. Bigger, more powerful round in the same basic size package with out having to worry about the semi-rim ammo issues. Win Win situation. That said, if I were buying one today, I'd get the Ruger LCP. It is essentially the same gun as the Kel Tec, but the Ruger is smoother all over.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? AKNHNTR #6164249 02/11/12 Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio K Kentucky_Windage OP Campfire Tracker OP Kentucky_Windage Campfire Tracker K Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio Looks like it's a horse race now between the Kel Tec and the LCP. As I mentioned, I have a bunch of other stuff for IWB carry, etc., but I'm looking for a true pocket pistol. I don't put the Kahr 9s or 642s (I have both) in that category. Questions for LCP and Kel Tec owners: - Have they been reliable from the get-go, or did they require X number of rounds for break-in? - Is either finicky about ammo? - Does either require frequent or special lube to run smooth? - Any durability issues? I looked at both briefly today. The Kel Tec doesn't look nearly as ugly as it often appears in photographs. Guess it's just not very photogenic. I did notice it's priced at least $50 cheaper than the lowest-priced LCPs in this area. What's the biggest difference, other than the fact that you can lock the LCP slide back? If you're fixin' to put a hole in something, make it a hole to remember.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6164328 02/11/12 Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 28,385 Likes: 1 Idaho, USA Jim in Idaho Campfire Ranger Jim in Idaho Campfire Ranger Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 28,385 Likes: 1 Idaho, USA Kel-Tec P-32 here - - Have they been reliable from the get-go, or did they require X number of rounds for break-in? Mine was fairly reliable from the start. A couple of times in the first 100 rounds or so the slide would not go all the way into battery so I had to push it forward to lock but whatever that was seems to have smoothed out. - Is either finicky about ammo? Have only fed mine Wincheser white box FMJ and Federal Hydra-shoks. Reliable with both. BTW, some of that white box FMJ has a flat meplat. If one is concerned with penetration a good flat point will penetrate and still carry some shock. I believe some folks mix up hollow points with FMJ in the magazine to get the best of both. - Does either require frequent or special lube to run smooth? No special lube, I used Break-free on mine. Just keep it clean like you would any normal pistol you might bet your life on. Something folks don't think about is that pocket lint collects in odd places like the bottom of a pocket holster,so it's worthwhile to inspect the holster and look in the barrel now and then. Also, don't smother it in oil since that attracts pocket dust bunnies. I mostly pay attention to keeping the slide rails and lockwork clean and a light coat of oil on the moving parts, the outside stays fairly dry. - Any durability issues? Not yet, but mine's only had a few hundred rounds through it. Gunnery, gunnery, gunnery. Hit the target, all else is twaddle!

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6164344 02/11/12 Joined: May 2002 Posts: 10,255 ___ is what America was FreeMe Campfire Outfitter FreeMe Campfire Outfitter Joined: May 2002 Posts: 10,255 ___ is what America was KW - my PF9 has functioned perfectly from day one. Doesn't seem to matter if it's dirty or dry either. Lunatic fringe....we all know you're out there.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6164358 02/12/12 Joined: Jun 2005 Posts: 13,806 Dakota Territory P P_Weed Campfire Outfitter P_Weed Campfire Outfitter P Joined: Jun 2005 Posts: 13,806 Dakota Territory RE, Kentucky Windage: "What do you like and why?" - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A S&W 432 PD 'Airweight' snubnose revolver - 32 H&R Magnum. A Beretta 3032 'Tomcat' Inox pistol - 32 ACP I like BOTH because they are not TOO small ... and are fun to shoot and shoot accurately.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? P_Weed #6164441 02/12/12 Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia V VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter V Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia Between these two I would go Kel-tec, it has no magazine disconnect like the Ruger LCP. I will never own a pistol that is disabled when the mag drops out............Hb

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? T LEE #6164478 02/12/12 Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 7,920 Rochester, N.H. USA R RJM Campfire Outfitter RJM Campfire Outfitter R Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 7,920 Rochester, N.H. USA Originally Posted by T LEE Always have my 1st gen Kel-Tec P-32 whether I have anything else with me or not, it is my "always gun". ...same exact setup....Bob If you can not deal with reality, reality will deal with you....

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? RJM #6164746 02/12/12 Joined: Nov 2004 Posts: 21,694 Kentucky CrimsonTide Campfire Ranger CrimsonTide Campfire Ranger Joined: Nov 2004 Posts: 21,694 Kentucky The old deputy sheriff that I rode with when I first wore a badge, was called "Big John". Everybody knew him, and he lived up to every stitch of his reputation. He wasn't more than 6'1", but he was just huge. His fingers were so big, the hairs on them looked like pencil lead. His wrists were so big around that the old metal stretch band on his watch had gaps between the links that you could lay .22 LR rounds in. Anyway, Big John's pocket gun, which rode in his left front pants pocket, was a nickel plated model 59 Smith and Wesson. He had carried that pistol in there so long that all the nickel was worn off the right side of the gun. His belt gun was a 4" Colt Python, as he was a believer in the .357 Magnum. Myself, I don't think I could get one of those big Smith's to ride in my front pants pocket, but he sure did. "The number one problem with America is, a whole lot of people need shot, and nobody is shooting them." -Master Chief Hershel Davis

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? CrimsonTide #6165216 02/12/12 Joined: Jun 2004 Posts: 16,740 littoral North Carolina shreck Campfire Ranger shreck Campfire Ranger Joined: Jun 2004 Posts: 16,740 littoral North Carolina Ruger LCP, it actually fits in the bib pocket on overalls. A government is the most dangerous threat to man�s rights: it holds a legal monopoly on the use of physical force against legally disarmed victims.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6166018 02/12/12 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 7,441 Wtxj Campfire Tracker Wtxj Campfire Tracker Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 7,441 Read this thread if you missed it. http://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/topics/6135603/Re_New_Toy#Post6135603 ~Molɔ̀ːn Labé Skýla~

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Wtxj #6166839 02/12/12 Joined: Oct 2003 Posts: 12,664 West Virginia D Dave_in_WV Campfire Outfitter Dave_in_WV Campfire Outfitter D Joined: Oct 2003 Posts: 12,664 West Virginia Here's a link to directions for a Kel Tec P32 magazine mod to prevent rim locks. I did it for my P32. http://www.ktrange.com/articles/a5/a5.html The Karma bus always has an empty seat when it comes around.- High Brass There's battle lines being drawn Nobody's right if everybody's wrong

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Dave_in_WV #6167331 02/12/12 Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 73,096 Punta Gorda, FL T LEE Campfire Kahuna T LEE Campfire Kahuna Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 73,096 Punta Gorda, FL Have never experienced rim lock with mine using Winchester Silvertips in the K-T or the Colt 1903. George Orwell was a Prophet, not a novelist. Read 1984 and then look around you! Old cat turd! "Some men just need killing." ~ Clay Allison. I am too old to fight but I can still pull a trigger. ~ Me

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? T LEE #6168231 02/12/12 Joined: Feb 2005 Posts: 991 Michigan R RWL99 Campfire Regular RWL99 Campfire Regular R Joined: Feb 2005 Posts: 991 Michigan Ruger LCR in .357 "We live in the present, we dream of the future, but we learn eternal truths from the past"

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? RWL99 #6168274 02/12/12 Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia V VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter V Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia Originally Posted by RWL99 Ruger LCR in .357 An excellent "pocket rocket" this one actually has a little AZZ in case you do need the thing, I'm not a big fan of the little .380 or .32 cal pistols..............Hb

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? VaHillbilly #6168505 02/13/12 Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 9,517 Dublin, Ohio C ColsPaul Campfire Outfitter ColsPaul Campfire Outfitter C Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 9,517 Dublin, Ohio After my search? A Diamnodback DB 9 9mm 11 oz! 3" barrel it truly disapears and is always there. Just bought it but so far so good. The very first ones had issues ( as do most new guns ) Check out the Diamondback forum. It is a tiny Glock. The only differnce is it has two transfer bars. They are NOT rated for +p ammo. They are at the very edge of 9mm capability. But for discrete carry, can't be beat It makes the LC9 look huge! "wanna hear God laugh? Tell Him you have complete control now!"

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6168855 02/13/12 Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 59,158 Likes: 2 WI. R Redneck Campfire Kahuna Redneck Campfire Kahuna R Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 59,158 Likes: 2 WI. Kahr P-380... About as small as one can get.. And also noting that the .380 round is about totally worthless unless you place one or three in a perp's ear.. Ex- USN (SS) '66-'69 Pro-Constitution. LET'S GO BRANDON!!!

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Oldquailhunter #6169553 02/13/12 Joined: Jun 2006 Posts: 10,084 Texas temmi Campfire Outfitter temmi Campfire Outfitter Joined: Jun 2006 Posts: 10,084 Texas Originally Posted by DINK Smith 642. Dink There it is Snake That which does not kill us makes us stronger Friedrich Nietzsche

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? temmi #6170565 02/13/12 Joined: Aug 2009 Posts: 934 Northeast Florida J johnsavage Campfire Regular johnsavage Campfire Regular J Joined: Aug 2009 Posts: 934 Northeast Florida For a true pocket pistol: 1. Rohrbaugh R9s (9mm, the smallest made. Expensive but worth it. It's what I carry mostly. 2. Seecamp .380. Bites your hand (wear a shooting glove for practice) but for close work will do the job, and is EXTREMELY SMALL. 3. Seecamp .32...same size as the .380 but less abusive to the hand and probably darn near as effective. 4. Had a Keltec PF9 but couldn't keep it running so traded it. You have to truly TRUST your carry piece! Note: IMHO "pocket pistols" are generally for close in use at 7 yards or less, preferably less. If you plan on a gunfight, get a belt pistol/revolver that you trust in 9mm or larger with a minimum 4" barrel. Last edited by johnsavage; 02/13/12. Endure Fortis Marte Suo Tutus

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? johnsavage #6170662 02/13/12 Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 15,867 Likes: 5 M Mackay_Sagebrush Campfire Ranger Mackay_Sagebrush Campfire Ranger M Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 15,867 Likes: 5 Smith 442. It is extremely rare that I carry it as a primary gun though. Usually it serves as a second gun. The minimum I will usually roll with is a G19. THE CHAIR IS AGAINST THE WALL. The Tikka T3 in .308 Winchester is the Glock 19 of the rifle world. The website is up and running! www.lostriverammocompany.com

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6170997 02/13/12 Joined: Dec 2011 Posts: 735 Nor. Calif. Dons99 Campfire Regular Dons99 Campfire Regular Joined: Dec 2011 Posts: 735 Nor. Calif. Questions for LCP and Kel Tec owners: - Have they been reliable from the get-go, or did they require X number of rounds for break-in? - Is either finicky about ammo? - Does either require frequent or special lube to run smooth? - Any durability issues? 1. I have 2 LCRs. Both have been reliable from the start. NO PROBLEMS... 2. Shot 2 or 3 hundred rounds of PMC & a few Hornady Critical Defense through each, NO PROBLEMS... 3. Breakfree 4. Doesn't get sticky/tight like my revolvers after 50 or 100 rounds "Drop that or by the splendor of God I will blow your heart out." Kit Carson "Make sure you are doing what God wants you to do then do it with all your strength." George Washington

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Dons99 #6171019 02/13/12 Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 73,096 Punta Gorda, FL T LEE Campfire Kahuna T LEE Campfire Kahuna Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 73,096 Punta Gorda, FL All 5 of the Kel-Tecs I have or family now have worked first time all the time right out of the box, no break in and no problems. That would be 2 P32's, 1 P3AT and 2 P11's. George Orwell was a Prophet, not a novelist. Read 1984 and then look around you! Old cat turd! "Some men just need killing." ~ Clay Allison. I am too old to fight but I can still pull a trigger. ~ Me

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Dons99 #6171025 02/13/12 Joined: Dec 2011 Posts: 735 Nor. Calif. Dons99 Campfire Regular Dons99 Campfire Regular Joined: Dec 2011 Posts: 735 Nor. Calif. Originally Posted by Dons99 1. I have 2 LCRs. Both have been reliable from the start. NO PROBLEMS... 2. Shot 2 or 3 hundred rounds of PMC & a few Hornady Critical Defense through each, NO PROBLEMS... 3. Breakfree 4. Doesn't get sticky/tight like my revolvers after 50 or 100 rounds Sorry,#1. meant LCPs "Drop that or by the splendor of God I will blow your heart out." Kit Carson "Make sure you are doing what God wants you to do then do it with all your strength." George Washington

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Dons99 #6171048 02/13/12 Joined: Jan 2012 Posts: 2,152 Seminole39 Campfire Regular Seminole39 Campfire Regular Joined: Jan 2012 Posts: 2,152 My Taurus TCP has been very reliable To play the game, you first gotta have game. - Ike Turner

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? OrangeOkie #6171293 02/13/12 Joined: Feb 2010 Posts: 15,682 Likes: 1 ms N navlav8r Campfire Ranger navlav8r Campfire Ranger N Joined: Feb 2010 Posts: 15,682 Likes: 1 ms J-frame airweight with CCI 135 GD short barrel loads. NRA Life,Endowment,Patron or Benefactor since '72.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Redneck #6172503 02/13/12 Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia V VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter V Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia Originally Posted by Redneck And also noting that the .380 round is about totally worthless unless you place one or three in a perp's ear.. I agree 100%..If you knew you were going be in a gun fight that day do you really think you would slide a little .380 in your front pocket and go out the door? and isn't that the reason we carry concealed weapons because that day might come? If it ever happens to me you can bet your azz I won't be packin no weak kneed .380.......Hb

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? VaHillbilly #6172935 02/13/12 Joined: Feb 2004 Posts: 17,735 Likes: 1 Palmer, Alaska C Cariboujack Campfire Ranger Cariboujack Campfire Ranger C Joined: Feb 2004 Posts: 17,735 Likes: 1 Palmer, Alaska I have a Smith 642 and an LCP. I mostly carry the 642, Been thinking about an LC9. Very slim 2 oz more and 3 more shots. NRA LIFE MEMBER GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS ESPECIALLY THE SNIPERS! "Suppose you were an idiot And suppose you were a member of Congress... But I repeat myself." -Mark Twain

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Cariboujack #6172971 02/13/12 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 3 338Federal Campfire Regular 338Federal Campfire Regular 3 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 Anybody mention the LC9 yet? Had one for about two months before a friend talked me out of it. True pocket. Adequate sights, can be laser fitted. Minute of soda can at 15yds or so. Gonna get another one and keep it.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 338Federal #6173031 02/14/12 Joined: Jan 2006 Posts: 1,160 florida 2 257 roberts Campfire Regular 257 roberts Campfire Regular 2 Joined: Jan 2006 Posts: 1,160 florida S&W 642/125gr FederalPrem. Nyclad Glock 26/115gr Corbon DPX S&W M&P 40c/165gr Rem Golden Saber all 3 are pocket carried in DeSantis Nemies holsters sometimes carry a Glock 19,Glock 30, Colt Officer

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 338Federal #6173049 02/14/12 Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia V VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter V Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia Originally Posted by 338Federal Anybody mention the LC9 yet? Had one for about two months before a friend talked me out of it. True pocket. Adequate sights, can be laser fitted. Minute of soda can at 15yds or so. Gonna get another one and keep it. It also has a magazine disconnect which is unacceptable to Me in a self defense pistol, if not for that though I could live with one of these, they are a nice size for the pocket but so is a .357 Mag LCR............Hb

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6173250 02/14/12 Joined: Oct 2000 Posts: 9,009 Waders Campfire Outfitter Waders Campfire Outfitter Joined: Oct 2000 Posts: 9,009 Originally Posted by Kentucky_Windage My top criteria: reliability, concealability and weight. What say you? I've only owned one: a Sig P238. I like it well enough. It feeds with 100% reliability and is accurate. It is, however, on the heavy side for a true pocket pistol. If it were any bigger/heavier I would think it would no longer qualify as such. I chose the P238 for the simple reason that if I ever found myself in a gun fight, I'd like to be using a gun that I liked shooting. The Sig feels good in my hand and is a pleasure to shoot. Wade "Let's Roll!" - Todd Beamer 9/11/01.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? VaHillbilly #6173371 02/14/12 Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 59,158 Likes: 2 WI. R Redneck Campfire Kahuna Redneck Campfire Kahuna R Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 59,158 Likes: 2 WI. Originally Posted by VaHillbilly Originally Posted by Redneck And also noting that the .380 round is about totally worthless unless you place one or three in a perp's ear.. I agree 100%..If you knew you were going be in a gun fight that day do you really think you would slide a little .380 in your front pocket and go out the door? and isn't that the reason we carry concealed weapons because that day might come? If it ever happens to me you can bet your azz I won't be packin no weak kneed .380.......Hb If I KNEW ?? Nobody knows, unless they're planning to be the offender.. But I digress.. You'd be surprised how many times people have used little .22rfs successfully in a self-defense situation.. Anything is better than nothing.. So, curious here, during a nice, hot summer day and you're wearin' a pair of shorts, flip-flops and a muscle-T, just where and how do you hide that Desert Eagle .50?? Ex- USN (SS) '66-'69 Pro-Constitution. LET'S GO BRANDON!!!

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Redneck #6173456 02/14/12 Joined: Aug 2003 Posts: 13,547 Minnesota JOG Campfire Outfitter JOG Campfire Outfitter Joined: Aug 2003 Posts: 13,547 Minnesota Originally Posted by Redneck So, curious here, during a nice, hot summer day and you're wearin' a pair of shorts, flip-flops and a muscle-T... I would pray to get shot. Forgive me my nonsense, as I also forgive the nonsense of those that think they talk sense. Robert Frost

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? JOG #6173539 02/14/12 Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 18,005 Gone To Texas D DocRocket Campfire Ranger DocRocket Campfire Ranger D Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 18,005 Gone To Texas Originally Posted by JOG Originally Posted by Redneck So, curious here, during a nice, hot summer day and you're wearin' a pair of shorts, flip-flops and a muscle-T... I would pray to get shot. Laffin!!! "I'm gonna have to science the schit out of this." Mark Watney, Sol 59, Mars

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? DocRocket #6173627 02/14/12 Joined: Jan 2005 Posts: 1,102 Hawkins Michigan Suburbs H hawkins Campfire Regular hawkins Campfire Regular H Joined: Jan 2005 Posts: 1,102 Hawkins Michigan Suburbs The people that put down the 380 have never shot anyone with one (or anything else). People that have get results One Shot stopping data) that place it with a 38 special yet no one mocks that choice. somting to think about.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? JOG #6173660 02/14/12 Joined: Jan 2012 Posts: 2,152 Seminole39 Campfire Regular Seminole39 Campfire Regular Joined: Jan 2012 Posts: 2,152 Originally Posted by Redneck So, curious here, during a nice, hot summer day and you're wearin' a pair of shorts, flip-flops and a muscle-T... everybody can see what i'm packing when i wear shorts To play the game, you first gotta have game. - Ike Turner

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? hawkins #6173892 02/14/12 Joined: May 2002 Posts: 10,255 ___ is what America was FreeMe Campfire Outfitter FreeMe Campfire Outfitter Joined: May 2002 Posts: 10,255 ___ is what America was Originally Posted by hawkins The people that put down the 380 have never shot anyone with one (or anything else). People that have get results One Shot stopping data) that place it with a 38 special yet no one mocks that choice. somting to think about. Well IF you believe M&S "one-shot-stop" data, IIRC the .380 comes in about the same as .38 spl round nose. Plenty of people criticizing that load - including me. Lunatic fringe....we all know you're out there.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? JOG #6174311 02/14/12 Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 59,158 Likes: 2 WI. R Redneck Campfire Kahuna Redneck Campfire Kahuna R Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 59,158 Likes: 2 WI. Originally Posted by JOG Originally Posted by Redneck So, curious here, during a nice, hot summer day and you're wearin' a pair of shorts, flip-flops and a muscle-T... I would pray to get shot. OUTstanding!!!! Ex- USN (SS) '66-'69 Pro-Constitution. LET'S GO BRANDON!!!

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Redneck #6174447 02/14/12 Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 73,096 Punta Gorda, FL T LEE Campfire Kahuna T LEE Campfire Kahuna Joined: Feb 2001 Posts: 73,096 Punta Gorda, FL I would have to be already dead to be seen in an outfit like that! George Orwell was a Prophet, not a novelist. Read 1984 and then look around you! Old cat turd! "Some men just need killing." ~ Clay Allison. I am too old to fight but I can still pull a trigger. ~ Me

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Seminole39 #6174583 02/14/12 Joined: Nov 2005 Posts: 54,284 Parts unknown... EthanEdwards Campfire Kahuna EthanEdwards Campfire Kahuna Joined: Nov 2005 Posts: 54,284 Parts unknown... Originally Posted by Seminole39 Originally Posted by Redneck So, curious here, during a nice, hot summer day and you're wearin' a pair of shorts, flip-flops and a muscle-T... everybody can see what i'm packing when i wear shorts The chicks all say "nothing". Guess whatever it is it's well concealed.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Redneck #6174753 02/14/12 Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia V VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter V Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia Originally Posted by Redneck [quote=VaHillbilly][quote=Redneck] So, curious here, during a nice, hot summer day and you're wearin' a pair of shorts, flip-flops and a muscle-T, just where and how do you hide that Desert Eagle .50?? I like to carry My Old 2" dull blade Boyscout knife from when I was a kid cause just like you say anything is better than nothing, I figure a dull 2" knife blade will do as much or more damage than a useless .380 .............Hb

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? VaHillbilly #6175649 02/14/12 Joined: Sep 2008 Posts: 661 Texas Panhandle coyoteman23 Campfire Regular coyoteman23 Campfire Regular Joined: Sep 2008 Posts: 661 Texas Panhandle I am kinda new to carry weapons but I just picked up a Sig P238. Awesome little gun. Fits perfect in my hands. Small enough to carry in pocket or IWB. It will make a great carry gun. Last edited by coyoteman23; 02/14/12. �A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government.� ~George Washington

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 41magfan #6177104 02/14/12 Joined: Sep 2005 Posts: 9,031 show me mo R rockchucker Campfire Outfitter rockchucker Campfire Outfitter R Joined: Sep 2005 Posts: 9,031 show me mo ruger lcp FJB

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? rockchucker #6177149 02/14/12 Joined: Jul 2003 Posts: 609 Wetter Washington OlyWa Campfire Regular OlyWa Campfire Regular Joined: Jul 2003 Posts: 609 Wetter Washington Loving my S&W Bodyguard 380. Disappears in my front pocket with a DeSantis Nemesis holster. Way more accurate than a pocket pistol should be. Great sights and ergos, and feels much stouter than a Ruger LCP. About 800 rounds through it without a burp. Been a bitchin' ride so far...

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? OlyWa #6177208 02/14/12 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 3 338Federal Campfire Regular 338Federal Campfire Regular 3 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 Do alot of guys shoot these mini autos single shot?

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 338Federal #6177482 02/15/12 Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 9,517 Dublin, Ohio C ColsPaul Campfire Outfitter ColsPaul Campfire Outfitter C Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 9,517 Dublin, Ohio Originally Posted by 338Federal Do alot of guys shoot these mini autos single shot? single shot? as opposed to? double tap? Make the first one count! That said in a gun battle? I'm going to shoot to keep a perp down. I like the armoured car driver who was attacked between doors in a bank, He turned firing six shots in something like 1.5 seconds. Hit the perp from the knee to the top of his forehead, with every shot. "wanna hear God laugh? Tell Him you have complete control now!"

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? ColsPaul #6177710 02/15/12 Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 59,158 Likes: 2 WI. R Redneck Campfire Kahuna Redneck Campfire Kahuna R Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 59,158 Likes: 2 WI. Originally Posted by ColsPaul I like the armoured car driver who was attacked between doors in a bank, He turned firing six shots in something like 1.5 seconds. Hit the perp from the knee to the top of his forehead, with every shot. SWEET BABY!!! He'd give Doug Koenig a run for his money.. Ex- USN (SS) '66-'69 Pro-Constitution. LET'S GO BRANDON!!!

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? VaHillbilly #6177761 02/15/12 Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 59,158 Likes: 2 WI. R Redneck Campfire Kahuna Redneck Campfire Kahuna R Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 59,158 Likes: 2 WI. Originally Posted by VaHillbilly I like to carry My Old 2" dull blade Boyscout knife from when I was a kid cause just like you say anything is better than nothing, I figure a dull 2" knife blade will do as much or more damage than a useless .380 .............Hb Good point.. Ever seen one of these? Self-opening sheath - excellent as an alternate form of self-defense when you're in a place that does not allow a firearm.. Not meaning to hijack this thread, but the mention of a knife above reminded me of this little tool.. I have this on my belt when I'm on the Harley.. Ex- USN (SS) '66-'69 Pro-Constitution. LET'S GO BRANDON!!!

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? ColsPaul #6180777 02/15/12 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 3 338Federal Campfire Regular 338Federal Campfire Regular 3 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 Guess my question about single-shooting a mini was regarding the magazine disconnect thing. Seems some don't like the feature, but I'm trying to understand why a guy would want to shoot one without the mag in place anyway. Perhaps he's emptied and tries to slip one in across the follower? Somebody clue me in as to why mag disconnect is such a bad thing.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 338Federal #6181422 02/16/12 Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia V VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter V Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia If you can't figure that one out on your own there's no need in me trying to explain it............Hb

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Redneck #6181424 02/16/12 Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia V VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter VaHillbilly Campfire Outfitter V Joined: Feb 2007 Posts: 7,759 SW Virginia Originally Posted by Redneck Originally Posted by VaHillbilly I like to carry My Old 2" dull blade Boyscout knife from when I was a kid cause just like you say anything is better than nothing, I figure a dull 2" knife blade will do as much or more damage than a useless .380 .............Hb Good point.. Ever seen one of these? Self-opening sheath - excellent as an alternate form of self-defense when you're in a place that does not allow a firearm.. Not meaning to hijack this thread, but the mention of a knife above reminded me of this little tool.. I have this on my belt when I'm on the Harley.. very cool! I need one of these Myself.............Hb

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? VaHillbilly #6181732 02/16/12 Joined: Feb 2012 Posts: 20 J jtcarm New Member jtcarm New Member J Joined: Feb 2012 Posts: 20 S&W 640

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? hawkins #6181760 02/16/12 Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 30,934 USA J jwp475 Campfire 'Bwana jwp475 Campfire 'Bwana J Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 30,934 USA Originally Posted by hawkins The people that put down the 380 have never shot anyone with one (or anything else). People that have get results One Shot stopping data) that place it with a 38 special yet no one mocks that choice. somting to think about. Well I have shot 380's and they are crap in terminal performance and if you believe that BS spewed by Marshall & Sanow, then I have some beautiful oceanfront property in Utah that you may be interested in I got banned on another web site for a debate that happened on this site. That's a first

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? jwp475 #6182715 02/16/12 Joined: Apr 2008 Posts: 5,087 Northwest Iowa T trouthunterdj Campfire Tracker trouthunterdj Campfire Tracker T Joined: Apr 2008 Posts: 5,087 Northwest Iowa Anyone carry a S&W 637? Just wondering. ddj Many men go fishing all their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after. - Henry David Thoreau The best part of hunting and fishing was the thinking about going and the talking about it after you got back. - Robert Ruark

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? hawkins #6182779 02/16/12 Joined: Jun 2008 Posts: 2,143 Virginia Whitworth1 Campfire Regular Whitworth1 Campfire Regular Joined: Jun 2008 Posts: 2,143 Virginia Originally Posted by hawkins The people that put down the 380 have never shot anyone with one (or anything else). People that have get results One Shot stopping data) that place it with a 38 special yet no one mocks that choice. somting to think about. That there is funny! Max Prasac Semper Fidelis The Gun Digest Book of Hunting Revolvers: https://youtu.be/zKJbjjPaNUE Bovine Bullet Test https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmtZky8T7-k&t=35s Gun Digest TV's Modern Shooter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGo-KMpXPpA&t=7s

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? hawkins #6183402 02/16/12 Joined: Feb 2012 Posts: 20 J jtcarm New Member jtcarm New Member J Joined: Feb 2012 Posts: 20 Originally Posted by hawkins The people that put down the 380 have never shot anyone with one (or anything else). People that have get results One Shot stopping data) that place it with a 38 special yet no one mocks that choice. somting to think about. Please refer to the thread's title. If you ever have to shoot it from the pocket, you'll want a revolver, preferably hammerless or shrouded.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? hawkins #6183535 02/16/12 Joined: Oct 2004 Posts: 24,661 NW Nevada GunGeek Campfire Ranger GunGeek Campfire Ranger Joined: Oct 2004 Posts: 24,661 NW Nevada Originally Posted by hawkins The people that put down the 380 have never shot anyone with one (or anything else). People that have get results One Shot stopping data) that place it with a 38 special yet no one mocks that choice. somting to think about. I'm going to go out on a limb and just guess that you carry a .380...probably even as a primary gun.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? VaHillbilly #6185514 02/16/12 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 3 338Federal Campfire Regular 338Federal Campfire Regular 3 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 Now my curiosity is up. What is the down side of magazine disconnect? I could be the only fella at the fire that doesn't unnerstand it, but I'm not too proud to be educated. Seriously asking here. Someone explain please?

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 338Federal #6186759 02/17/12 Joined: Mar 2006 Posts: 19,504 Tip of the Mitten bruinruin Campfire Ranger bruinruin Campfire Ranger Joined: Mar 2006 Posts: 19,504 Tip of the Mitten Originally Posted by 338Federal Now my curiosity is up. What is the down side of magazine disconnect? I could be the only fella at the fire that doesn't unnerstand it, but I'm not too proud to be educated. Seriously asking here. Someone explain please? I'll answer your question. It's because in the event that your magazine fell (plenty of mag release buttons get bumped by the shooter under duress, or during pocket carry) or was removed from the gun, the gun would be rendered useless. You wouldn't even be able to fire the single shot in the chamber, assuming a hot chamber in the first place. 4 out of 5 Great Lakes prefer Michigan.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? bruinruin #6187000 02/17/12 Joined: Oct 2003 Posts: 12,664 West Virginia D Dave_in_WV Campfire Outfitter Dave_in_WV Campfire Outfitter D Joined: Oct 2003 Posts: 12,664 West Virginia Many police agencies like the magazine disconnect because at one time most police officers were shot with their own weapon. With the disconnect if an officer is in danger of having the weapon taken away, dropping the magazine renders the weapon somewhat safe. The military won't buy weapons with a magazine disconnect as a single shot is better than no shots. The Karma bus always has an empty seat when it comes around.- High Brass There's battle lines being drawn Nobody's right if everybody's wrong

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Dave_in_WV #6187117 02/17/12 Joined: Mar 2006 Posts: 19,504 Tip of the Mitten bruinruin Campfire Ranger bruinruin Campfire Ranger Joined: Mar 2006 Posts: 19,504 Tip of the Mitten Originally Posted by Dave_in_WV Many police agencies like the magazine disconnect because at one time most police officers were shot with their own weapon. With the disconnect if an officer is in danger of having the weapon taken away, dropping the magazine renders the weapon somewhat safe. The military won't buy weapons with a magazine disconnect as a single shot is better than no shots. I understand both schools of thought on disconnects. For my purposes though, I prefer my guns NOT have one. 4 out of 5 Great Lakes prefer Michigan.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? bruinruin #6187156 02/17/12 Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 988 Traverse City, Michigan N Natty_Bumpo Campfire Regular Natty_Bumpo Campfire Regular N Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 988 Traverse City, Michigan Ruger LCR NB NRA Life Member "Use Enough Gun"- Robert Ruark

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Natty_Bumpo #6187427 02/17/12 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 3 338Federal Campfire Regular 338Federal Campfire Regular 3 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 So, what all guns have the hated magazine disconnect? Seems some pretty popular guns have them. Some even with a better reputation than Ruger have them. Any actual confirmed instances where the MD caused a civilian, or a LEO, to be killed or worse?

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 338Federal #6187612 02/17/12 Joined: Feb 2005 Posts: 955 Green Valley, Az zimhunter Campfire Regular zimhunter Campfire Regular Joined: Feb 2005 Posts: 955 Green Valley, Az I have carried a Kahr Mk9 in my right hand pocket since they were introduced. When I don't carry the Kahr I carry a Walther TPH and still feel well prepared. It is deadly accurate.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? zimhunter #6188266 02/17/12 Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 284 S semi Campfire Member semi Campfire Member S Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 284 Do yourself a favor and check out the s&w bodyguard. 380, it's reliable, thin and light. Recoil isn't anything. Shot 200 rounds in about 25 min and didn't fail and didn't hurt the hand. Comes with a laser too

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? semi #6191011 02/18/12 Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio K Kentucky_Windage OP Campfire Tracker OP Kentucky_Windage Campfire Tracker K Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio Thanks for the suggestions. I saw a lot of mentions of Kahr and S&W. As I noted earlier, I already have an MK-9 Elite as well as a 642. Great guns, and there are times when I carry each, but they're not right for every occasion -- and I don't consider either optimal as a true "pocket" gun. So... I bit on an LCP today. My friendly nearby Cabela's had them on a doorbuster sale this morning as a kit (two mags, a soft case and a blackhawk No. 3 pocket holster)for 319.00. Throwing $50 in points toward it sweetened the deal further. Looking forward to feeding this tiny beast and seeing how it performs... although I'll probably get a couple of Pearce mag extensions for just a bit more purchase on the grip. They look a little more functional than the single Ruger extension that came in the box. Thanks for all the suggestions. If you're fixin' to put a hole in something, make it a hole to remember.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6191300 02/18/12 Joined: Feb 2003 Posts: 10,378 WA rain forest Clarkm Campfire Outfitter Clarkm Campfire Outfitter Joined: Feb 2003 Posts: 10,378 WA rain forest I am currently going back and forth between: 1) the LCP [ loaded with 1100 fps 90 gr Gold Dot] with laser in the shirt pocket 2) PF9 [loaded with 100 gr Hinterberger +P+] in the coat pocket. If I visit that hive of scum and villainy [Seattle] I carry a 45 in one pocket and a 9mm in the other. There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. -Ernest Hemingway The man who makes no mistakes does not usually make anything.-- Edward John Phelps

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6192980 02/18/12 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 3 338Federal Campfire Regular 338Federal Campfire Regular 3 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 KW, Thinking you're gonna like that LCP---even though it has the much hated MD. Sorry for booging your thread earlier. However, I learned some things from it and the other thread. Learned that the percieved evils of MD is minimal, but come resale time it'd be easier to hawk a non-MD handgun because of the rumoured evils. Sorta like the Push Feed vs. CRF schools of thought. (Anybody have any proof of anyone actually getting stomped because a PF rifle failed to feed? Doubtful.) But in the world of handguns it seems to be common thinking that one round in the pipe that will go bang is better than a disabled gun. Just wondering where the spare rounds are being carried if the magazine is already dropped/lost/stolen. Suppose I should carry my Glock (concealed of course) with a spare mag or two and a pocketful of loose rounds so it'll still be functional single fire when I lose my magazines? Just funnin here. Congrats on your new toy/tool. Betting that if you ever send it down the road it won't be because of the Magazine Disconnect.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 338Federal #6193078 02/19/12 Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio K Kentucky_Windage OP Campfire Tracker OP Kentucky_Windage Campfire Tracker K Joined: Feb 2009 Posts: 6,162 San Antonio Yes, it's been an interesting thread. If I really wanted to stir the pot I'd challenge everyone to post their top choice in a self defense load -- and prove why it's the best -- for each of the common self defense calibers. That argument could go on for years, but it's an important one. After all, it's the bullet that really gets the job done. I think I'll do a little testing with Hornady's Critical Defense 380 load for starters... I've been watching quite a few test videos lately and was surprised to see how often certain highly touted JHPs plug up with clothing material and fail to expand... or how often Rem Golden Sabers shed their jackets (despite having a great street reputation)... etc. The more you study all the studies and analyze all the variables, ad infinitum, the more you're drawn full circle to the timeless wisdom of old Wyatt: Accuracy is everything. If you're fixin' to put a hole in something, make it a hole to remember.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Kentucky_Windage #6200532 02/20/12 Joined: May 2010 Posts: 402 hugo, co C coflatlander Campfire Member coflatlander Campfire Member C Joined: May 2010 Posts: 402 hugo, co Desert Eagle Micro desert eagle that is. Failed a few times in first 100 rounds but flawless since even after slide cracked. Magnum Research customer service was excellent in repairing under warranty. After 1,ooo rounds thru it now, have no issues relying on it. Much more solid feel than LCP's and Keltec's.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? coflatlander #6240892 03/01/12 Joined: Dec 2001 Posts: 1,185 Great Basin Condition Yellow Campfire Regular Condition Yellow Campfire Regular Joined: Dec 2001 Posts: 1,185 Great Basin 442, but if I were to get another, I probably would lean toward the 642 to negate finish issues. Not for pocket carry, but approaching nirvana. A 3913 and Milt Sparks:

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Condition Yellow #6241330 03/01/12 Joined: Oct 2002 Posts: 3,727 East Ky. T TERRY8mm Campfire Tracker TERRY8mm Campfire Tracker T Joined: Oct 2002 Posts: 3,727 East Ky. Taurus TCP or CW 9.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? TERRY8mm #6242565 03/01/12 Joined: Dec 2002 Posts: 22,274 Back in Texas, for good! tex_n_cal Campfire Ranger tex_n_cal Campfire Ranger Joined: Dec 2002 Posts: 22,274 Back in Texas, for good! After working on my P238 - strengthening the recoil spring and reducing the excessive extractor tension, it got through 50 rounds with no failures. Much more testing is required, but that's way better then it was doing It's looking promising after all "...the designer of the .270 Ingwe cartridge!..."

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? tex_n_cal #6244926 03/02/12 Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 1,928 Texas L Lslite Campfire Regular Lslite Campfire Regular L Joined: Sep 2006 Posts: 1,928 Texas Taurus 85 Ultra Lite .38spc if it's jacket weather.NAA .22mag mini revolver if it's T shirt weather. " It ain't dead.As long as there's one cowboy taking care of one cow,it ain't dead ! " Monte Walsh

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Lslite #6245644 03/02/12 Joined: Nov 2009 Posts: 1,121 NC 4 41magfan Campfire Regular 41magfan Campfire Regular 4 Joined: Nov 2009 Posts: 1,121 NC The LCP does NOT have a magazine disconnect feature. The uninitiated are always easily impressed. NRA Endowment Member

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Condition Yellow #6246182 03/02/12 Joined: Feb 2002 Posts: 7,198 K keith Campfire Tracker keith Campfire Tracker K Joined: Feb 2002 Posts: 7,198 Ruger 380, Kahr CW9,40,45 The Kahr CW's will slip under your belt with the muzzle in your watch pocket...

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? Cheyenne #6246573 03/02/12 Joined: Mar 2001 Posts: 1,796 Tigard OR SeanD Campfire Regular SeanD Campfire Regular Joined: Mar 2001 Posts: 1,796 Tigard OR I've got a keltec P3AT, kahr CM9, and a springfield XD subcompact. I carry the keltec 90% of the time and its in my front pocket. And its very reliable. Sean

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 41magfan #6246579 03/02/12 Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 818 some where in Minn. M minnmarcus Campfire Regular minnmarcus Campfire Regular M Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 818 some where in Minn. 41mag is correct, LCP has no magazine disconnect. I have run about 250 rounds thru mine with out a glich, including some of my handloads. Point and shoot is excellent, accuracy is very good for a small gun. There's a reason Ruger took over 40,000 orders for them the year they were introduced at the Shot Show!

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? minnmarcus #6246593 03/02/12 Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 818 some where in Minn. M minnmarcus Campfire Regular minnmarcus Campfire Regular M Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 818 some where in Minn. The 380 was a common police and military round in Europe for many years, and probably still is in many countries. No, not the best defense round, but can't always conceal the 1911 too well! To call the 380 worthless is taking it a bit too far, IMO

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? minnmarcus #6246950 03/03/12 Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 9,517 Dublin, Ohio C ColsPaul Campfire Outfitter ColsPaul Campfire Outfitter C Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 9,517 Dublin, Ohio DiamondBack DB 9 The more I carry and shoot it, the more I like it. I can forget I have it on me. http://diamondbackfirearms.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=74 "wanna hear God laugh? Tell Him you have complete control now!"

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? ColsPaul #6247650 03/03/12 Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 818 some where in Minn. M minnmarcus Campfire Regular minnmarcus Campfire Regular M Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 818 some where in Minn. I have never seen one of these. Looks very good. How's it to shoot? 11oz is less than the LCP I believe. Recoil manageable? Can I ask how much these sell for? Thanks

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? minnmarcus #6247657 03/03/12 Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 818 some where in Minn. M minnmarcus Campfire Regular minnmarcus Campfire Regular M Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 818 some where in Minn. After checking the LCP weighs in at 9.75 oz

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? minnmarcus #6247805 03/03/12 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 3 338Federal Campfire Regular 338Federal Campfire Regular 3 Joined: Oct 2007 Posts: 2,027 DB9 looks like it may suit the "If Glock would build a single-stack, mini 9...." crowd. May have to check one out.

Re: Your Top Choice in a Pocket Pistol? 338Federal #6250343 03/04/12 Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 9,517 Dublin, Ohio C ColsPaul Campfire Outfitter ColsPaul Campfire Outfitter C Joined: Jul 2010 Posts: 9,517 Dublin, Ohio I found the LCP would sting the web of my thumb AND it was only a .380. I thought the DB might as well, but haven't found that to be the case. My only modification has been sanding the inside , bottom of the trigger guard. Below the trigger. Mine was rough and irritate my index. But so did my G 20. Some 240 and then 600 grit smoothed that right up. I wish the DB would remain open on empty. My only complaint after 5 boxes of reloads. "wanna hear God laugh? Tell Him you have complete control now!"