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toxic_shock
toxic_shock
What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 2:07 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 2:07 AM EST
Not long ago I asked what rifle I should buy for my bug-out bag. That has been but on the back burner now that I can legally carry a concealed weapon. I have been carrying my Bersa Thunder 380 for a couple weeks now. I'm looking for something larger and more powerful. I realize that a gun does not need to be the size of a bar coaster to be able to effectively conceal it.

Here are the guidelines that I am trying to stick with:
Needs to be 9mm
Needs to be concealable, but doesn't need to be as small as a Thunder 380. Thin as possible would be nice
Needs to hold more than 7 rounds.
Needs to have a manual safety
Needs to cost less than $450 new or used
Prefer steel frame, but may consider polymer.
Needs to have moderately affordable mags and holsters available

I'm looking for any experiences and suggestions you have to throw at me. Right now I'm looking at hi-power clones and I've thought about the Stoeger Cougar, Jericho 941 and Taurus 911. But I've never fired any of these weapons and there are no rental ranges in my area. Any input on concealed carry in general is going to be greatly appreciated.
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2WheeledSpeed
2WheeledSpeed
1. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 2:34 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 2:35 AM EST
I'm having trouble thinking of options right now, all my CCW guns are excluded for one reason or another. I own a Stoeger Cougar, it's reliable, accurate, and affordable, but it's pretty thick and hefty. I actually have never CCWed with it. It can be done, but I wouldn't call it my ideal CCW gun.

I'll try to think of some more ideas while I'm at work, I gotta run for now.

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toxic_shock
toxic_shock
2. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 2:41 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 2:44 AM EST
Thanks 2wheel. I have read that about the Stoeger. I started thinking about a used SIG, but am finding out the same in my research: wide and bulky. And at least some Sigs don't have a manual safety. Do you find this valuable?    
epic_epicness
epic_epicness
3. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 3:37 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 3:37 AM EST
"Thanks 2wheel. I have read that about the Stoeger. I started thinking about a used SIG, but am finding out the same in my research: wide and bulky. And at least some Sigs don't have a manual safety."
I tried on a lot of weapons when I first got my CC. Everyone said "glock this" and "XD that" but I have yet to find anything that fits me as nicely as my Rock Island 1911. The thin profile makes it hard to see, what it hits it stops, its accurate, if you run out of ammo you can still club the guy to death with it and the mags conceal nicely too.

I know this isn't the answer you want but its the only one Ive got.
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oldannyboy37
oldannyboy37
4. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 4:09 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 4:09 AM EST
"Not long ago I asked what rifle I should buy for my bug-out bag. That has been but on the back burner now that I can legally carry a concealed weapon. I have been carrying my Bersa Thunder 380 for a couple weeks now. I'm looking for something larger and more powerful. I realize that a gun does not need to be the size of a bar coaster to be able to effectively conceal it.

Here are the guidelines that I am trying to stick with:
Needs to be 9mm
Needs to be concealable, but doesn't need to be as small as a Thunder 380. Thin as possible would be nice
Needs to hold more than 7 rounds.
Needs to have a manual safety
Needs to cost less than $450 new or used
Prefer steel frame, but may consider polymer.
Needs to have moderately affordable mags and holsters available

I'm looking for any experiences and suggestions you have to throw at me. Right now I'm looking at hi-power clones and I've thought about the Stoeger Cougar, Jericho 941 and Taurus 911. But I've never fired any of these weapons and there are no rental ranges in my area. Any input on concealed carry in general is going to be greatly appreciated."
Take a look at the M&P9c; you can get them with manual safeties. It's reasonably small but still easy to use. It holds 12 rounds plus one in the pipe. You can probably find one used for about that price point. Mags aren't as cheap as Glock mags but are fairly cheap. There's all kinds of aftermarket goodies available for them too.
Lastly, it will take regular M&P mags, which means you can use 17 round magazines for it as well.
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demsmine
demsmine
5. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 6:50 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 6:53 AM EST
have you looked into a Kahr pm9? Don't own one myself but everybody that I talk to that does seems to really like them. It may be a little out of you price range, but you should be able to get damn close to 450$ for a used one.

here is NutNfancy's review
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHqkQ3CP1HM
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2WheeledSpeed
2WheeledSpeed
6. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 9:30 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 9:57 AM EST
"I tried on a lot of weapons when I first got my CC. Everyone said "glock this" and "XD that" but I have yet to find anything that fits me as nicely as my Rock Island 1911. The thin profile makes it hard to see, what it hits it stops, its accurate, if you run out of ammo you can still club the guy to death with it and the mags conceal nicely too.

I know this isn't the answer you want but its the only one Ive got."
Actually a Rock Island is one of the ideas I had at work. RIA makes 9mm 1911s that meet all Toxics requirements (unless he doesn't like 1911s). Even seems they make a hi-cap model. Rock Islands aren't the nicest 1911s, but most of their owners I've met seem to be happy with them.
http://centerfiresystems.com/rockisland.aspx

Danny is right about the S&W M&Ps, shop right and he can find one with a manual safety at the upper range of his budget. Just looking at one website (budsgunshop) I see both the M&P and M&P compact w/ambi safety for $478. I'd bet he could find one cheaper than that. I don't really like the trigger on M&Ps, but they're excellent guns.

Last option that came to mind, S&W 3rd gen pistols. Back when they still made them all metal. Should be able to find something like a 3913, 908, or 5906 used for under $450 if you look around. I think Sasquatch has a 3rd Gen Smith, they've got a reputation for being reliable and built like tanks.

And going back to the Cougar, if you can get past the fact that she's a bit of a fatty... It's an excellent handgun. You're essentially getting a Beretta at a big discount.
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OutlawJames
OutlawJames
7. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 10:43 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 10:43 AM EST
Check out the Ruger SR9 or SR9c ( the c is a compact).
My son has the SR9 and loves it, it is however a polyframe. I have fired it and for a poly gun aint to bad ( real dislike for polyguns here)
the SR9c is about an inch shorter in length and height and still carries 17+1 like the SR9
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inu-dude25
inu-dude25
8. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 10:48 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 10:48 AM EST
While I don't know if you can get it used for 450, in fact I doubt it, the USP Compact in 9MM may not be a bad choice. It still isn't really compact at all, in fact if you don't mind size a regular model may be better, but it has a thirteen round mag (possibly 14) and it's reliable and has good handling

Though if I may, why 9MM strictly? Just out of curiosity, have you tried .40? If you haven't, I'd urge trying it over any particular weapon. Personally, I've found it to be very similar to 9MM in terms of kick despite being a noticeably larger round. Especially for a CC, it could be a good choice, as it's more powerful yet still easily controllable.
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JunkCollector
JunkCollector
9. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 12:57 PM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 12:57 PM EST
I like my Kel Tec P11. Its a small gun 9mm, 10 and 12 rounds mags. plus 1 in chamber, and thinner than your Bersa, and can be found for under $350.

I really like mine, it shoots extremely good, accurate, and reliable. It also is easily concealed.
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Sharpie41
Sharpie41
10. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 1:13 PM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 1:13 PM EST
"While I don't know if you can get it used for 450, in fact I doubt it, the USP Compact in 9MM may not be a bad choice. It still isn't really compact at all, in fact if you don't mind size a regular model may be better, but it has a thirteen round mag (possibly 14) and it's reliable and has good handling

Though if I may, why 9MM strictly? Just out of curiosity, have you tried .40? If you haven't, I'd urge trying it over any particular weapon. Personally, I've found it to be very similar to 9MM in terms of kick despite being a noticeably larger round. Especially for a CC, it could be a good choice, as it's more powerful yet still easily controllable."
That was the goal of the FBI/ S&W/Winchester. 9mm frame, comparable recoil and better stopping power
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toxic_shock
toxic_shock
11. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 6:50 PM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 6:50 PM EST
Why 9mm? Mainly because it is still a good deal cheaper than .40, and that means more practice for old Toxic.

The SR9 and SR9c look like good guns if I can get past the trigger safety, which may be difficult.

My friend has a 5904 which he likes a lot. His isn't the most accurate in the world but I can't think of any other negatives with it. He got his for around $330.

I love my .45 1911, and have thought on a 9mm version. I was worried about it being a bit heavy, but I'll look around for the weight on the internet. I can't think of anyone who has had a bad experience with a RIA even though they are "entry level".


In my market Kahrs are sky high right now. Wisconsin just passed CC, so everyone and their mom is running out and buying up LCPs, Kahrs, and baby Glocks. Hell, even new Bersas sell for $350 around here. I doubt I will find a used Kahr or M&Pc, but I'll keep my eye out.

I think a Kel-Tec may be in my future, but for now I want something a bit larger that can provide a better sight picture than such a small gun.

Don't laugh, but I've seen these Arcus pistols imported from Century. Its basically a hi-power design pistol that sells for $350 new. On gunbroker they sell for around $250 used. I have read good things but its a complete no-name brand, so I'm a bit wary.
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2WheeledSpeed
2WheeledSpeed
12. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 8:17 PM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 8:18 PM EST
The weight of a full sized steel frame 1911 never bothered me (and I'm a small guy), as long as you've got a good belt and holster it's not a big deal. It's the barrel length that causes me to leave my full sized 1911 at home, 3-4" is my personal max. A 5 inch barrel just gets in the way no matter how I carry it. Do you find this valuable?    
epic_epicness
epic_epicness
13. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 9:49 PM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 9:49 PM EST
"Actually a Rock Island is one of the ideas I had at work. RIA makes 9mm 1911s that meet all Toxics requirements (unless he doesn't like 1911s). Even seems they make a hi-cap model. Rock Islands aren't the nicest 1911s, but most of their owners I've met seem to be happy with them.
http://centerfiresystems.com/rockisland.aspx

Danny is right about the S&W M&Ps, shop right and he can find one with a manual safety at the upper range of his budget. Just looking at one website (budsgunshop) I see both the M&P and M&P compact w/ambi safety for $478. I'd bet he could find one cheaper than that. I don't really like the trigger on M&Ps, but they're excellent guns.

Last option that came to mind, S&W 3rd gen pistols. Back when they still made them all metal. Should be able to find something like a 3913, 908, or 5906 used for under $450 if you look around. I think Sasquatch has a 3rd Gen Smith, they've got a reputation for being reliable and built like tanks.

And going back to the Cougar, if you can get past the fact that she's a bit of a fatty... It's an excellent handgun. You're essentially getting a Beretta at a big discount."
wouldn't trade mine for the highest price original Kimber custom Les Baer Chuck Norris approved super HOOAH 1911.

Mines short, sweet, and to the point and will end your life just as quick as the rest.
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SasquatchJim
SasquatchJim
14. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 28 2011, 10:09 PM EST | Post edited: Nov 28 2011, 10:09 PM EST
TS, IIRC you can buy Sig P6/P225s for like $250 outta shotgun news. Sure, capacity's only 8, but it's still a Sig.

@TWS: Close enough on the Smiths. I've got a 2nd gen model, the 915. Rule of thumb: 1st gens have two numbers (e.g. model 39), 2nd have 3 (e.g. model 915), and 3rd have 4 (model 5904.) I got mine pretty cheap (think it was either $230 or $250) and I love it; it's an excellent gun.
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Sharpie41
Sharpie41
15. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 29 2011, 12:38 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 29 2011, 12:38 AM EST
I currently cannot, but if I ever could carry, out of what I have now. it would be a Glock 17, good, reliable gun (as long as no one limpwrists it....) and with good ammo, effective man stopper. But my first choice would honestly be a DA revolver, why you ask? In case of "bad breath" distances my Glock may not fire (If contact shots are possible, and it gets pushed out of battery) and if it does, could jam with bodily fluids or solids Do you find this valuable?    
Unassigned
Unassigned
16. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 29 2011, 12:49 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 29 2011, 12:49 AM EST
SCCY CPX-2

I picked one up for the wife for $200, they are $230-$250 new, and are built like a brick **** house. Strip down ALMOST exactly like Glocks, comes with two 10-round mags and safety switch is an option. It is based upon the Kel Tec P-11 and fits into a Fobus P-11 holster, or just have a custom leather/kydex one made (I did the kydex for the wife, plus a spare mag holder.)

They are a small company, and I don't care how many gun snobs turn their nose up at them... this gun has been put through the ringer by me and I'm not an easy guy to impress.

*Steps off of soap box*
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Sharpie41
Sharpie41
17. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 29 2011, 12:57 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 29 2011, 12:57 AM EST
"SCCY CPX-2

I picked one up for the wife for $200, they are $230-$250 new, and are built like a brick **** house. Strip down ALMOST exactly like Glocks, comes with two 10-round mags and safety switch is an option. It is based upon the Kel Tec P-11 and fits into a Fobus P-11 holster, or just have a custom leather/kydex one made (I did the kydex for the wife, plus a spare mag holder.)

They are a small company, and I don't care how many gun snobs turn their nose up at them... this gun has been put through the ringer by me and I'm not an easy guy to impress.

*Steps off of soap box*"
Looks pretty cool, too bad I can't own it :-(
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possumblaster
possumblaster
18. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 29 2011, 1:01 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 29 2011, 1:40 AM EST
While still a small pistol, I would go with a Ruger LC9. (7+1 cap.)

http://www.ruger.com/products/lc9/models.html

I'm not entirely sure why you want want a larger pistol for CCW when this one fits all of the criteria you mentioned other than size and a safety. This pistol is very thin (don't know the spec) and very small, about the size of your hand. Are you asking for a normal size sidearm that you could conceal? I haven't shot the LC9, but I have shot the .380 version and it was extremely accurate for what it was.

I would also keep weight in mind, this pistol is only a touch over 17 ounces. A SA/DA Sig/Beretta is about double that, and the weight is very noticeable when CCW'ing. I had to wear a M9 on my belt for a solid year, and let me tell ya the extra weight gets annoying really fast.

And dual action only pistols don't normally use safeties because they are never cocked. There is no need for a safety to keep it from firing even when it's chambered. I would think of a safety on a DAO as a drawback more than a plus.

I know you specifically asked for larger pistols, but I at least had to mention the LC9 in this thread.
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toxic_shock
toxic_shock
19. RE: What CC gun should I buy?
Nov 29 2011, 1:23 AM EST | Post edited: Nov 29 2011, 1:42 AM EST
"SCCY CPX-2

I picked one up for the wife for $200, they are $230-$250 new, and are built like a brick **** house. Strip down ALMOST exactly like Glocks, comes with two 10-round mags and safety switch is an option. It is based upon the Kel Tec P-11 and fits into a Fobus P-11 holster, or just have a custom leather/kydex one made (I did the kydex for the wife, plus a spare mag holder.)

They are a small company, and I don't care how many gun snobs turn their nose up at them... this gun has been put through the ringer by me and I'm not an easy guy to impress.

*Steps off of soap box*"
Real interesting piece there. Right now I think I still want something a little larger than Kel-Tec size, but if I see one of these at the gun show this weekend I am for sure gonna handle it. There's a dealer who is always at the shows that comes up as a SCCY distributor.

EDIT: I am looking for a larger pistol because I want the benefits that generally come with a larger pistol. Better grip, greater accuracy,less recoil, higher capacity, better sights, and things like that. If I am able to conceal a larger pistol, I feel as though I should. I can carry the Bersa on "light" days and a larger pistol on days I wear a coat or find myself in the woods. Also I'd like a 9 that can also be an enjoyable gun to shoot at the range too.
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