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  #1  
Old 08-20-2018, 10:52 PM
RGVshooter RGVshooter is offline
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Default Need new carry gun

Well guys & gals. Seems like I'll have to send in my 642 for repair or replacement and now I'm in need of a new carry gun. That just leaves me with my full size M&P 9mm or my Kel Tec P32 for quick trips out the door. I live in texas and since it's a open carry state I usually carry OWB and just throw a unbuttoned shirt over a tucked in T shirt. I don't mind carrying the M&P 9 but it is kinda on the big side.
Lately I have been leaning towards a M&P Shield 40. What say you guys?
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Old 08-20-2018, 11:00 PM
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I vote Shield in 9mm or M&P Compact in 9mm. Since you probably still have some JHP .38 Special in stock, maybe a 360J and add a tritium front sight.
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Old 08-20-2018, 11:01 PM
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I've been open carrying a 4 inch P&R .357 Magnum Model 65-1 in a Bianchi #5BHL. Need new carry gun

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Old 08-20-2018, 11:30 PM
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Originally Posted by BlackTalonJHP View Post
I vote Shield in 9mm or M&P Compact in 9mm. Since you probably still have some JHP .38 Special in stock, maybe a 360J and add a tritium front sight.
I actually still have a couple hundred rounds laying around...lol, sales
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Old 08-20-2018, 11:50 PM
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Originally Posted by RGVshooter View Post
Well guys & gals. Seems like I'll have to send in my 642 for repair or replacement and now I'm in need of a new carry gun. That just leaves me with my full size M&P 9mm or my Kel Tec P32 for quick trips out the door. I live in texas and since it's a open carry state I usually carry OWB and just throw a unbuttoned shirt over a tucked in T shirt. I don't mind carrying the M&P 9 but it is kinda on the big side.
Lately I have been leaning towards a M&P Shield 40. What say you guys?
Get another 642 identical to the one you just sent back.
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Old 08-21-2018, 12:10 AM
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Get another 642 identical to the one you just sent back.
Not sure if I want to stick with a aluminum alloy framed revolver again. I have a sneaky suspicion that S&W will either replace the 642 or at the very least give me a deep discount on a new gun. I don't know what to expect to be honest. They just might return it & say it's normal for all I know. I'm not sure the pitting on the frame is repairable though. It's a big IF, but IF it goes in that direction I might just get something different. Possibly a shield 9/40 or M&P compact 40c.
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Old 08-21-2018, 12:14 AM
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Kel-Tec P32??? I thought people liked things BIG in Texas!

S&W 442-1. Really any J frame. I'm really starting to like them...
S&W Shield .45 (I am no .40 fan)
S&W 325PD (hard to find though)
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Old 08-21-2018, 01:03 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by RGVshooter View Post
Not sure if I want to stick with a aluminum alloy framed revolver again. I have a sneaky suspicion that S&W will either replace the 642 or at the very least give me a deep discount on a new gun. I don't know what to expect to be honest. They just might return it & say it's normal for all I know. I'm not sure the pitting on the frame is repairable though. It's a big IF, but IF it goes in that direction I might just get something different. Possibly a shield 9/40 or M&P compact 40c.
How about a steel J-frame? It's the style you're accustomed to, and the additional weight isn't that great. More comfortable to shoot, as well, especially with +P ammo.
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Old 08-21-2018, 01:11 AM
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Kel-Tec P32??? I thought people liked things BIG in Texas!
It's not my EDC believe me. it was intended to be my bicycle trail companion. But I'll tell you this much... the thing is ridiculously reliable.
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Old 08-21-2018, 03:47 AM
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You didn't mention which of your two (M & P 9 or P-32) you shoot better, or if you carry a spare magazine? Unless you are determined to buy another gun (and who isn't? ) I would opt for the M & P - the principle being a carry gun should be comforting over comfortable. Good luck in your decision.
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Old 08-21-2018, 04:46 AM
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The Shield is an excellent carry gun. It's been my EDC since 2012 with no problems. I prefer 9mm, but get whatever you want to shoot--they are all good.
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Old 08-21-2018, 07:47 AM
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Not on your list, but I’d go with a 640, 640 pro, or LCR 357 and run them with .38 Special +P.

I have a Shield. It’s a good, reliable pistol, but the shape is too big and too square for a pants pocket and not great for a coat pocket.

The shape of a snub works great in a pants pocket, a coat pocket, IWB, OWB, cross draw.

You see a lot of people talk about how smart John Browning was with the 1911 and the High Power. Seems to me the guy that figured out the shape for a snub was right up there too. Conceals pretty much anywhere. Natural point shooter. The 640’s aren’t just good shooters. With the right grips and holster they are almost works of art.

Go snub.

ETA - if you really want a .40, you might think about a Glock 23. You can get conversion barrels for 9mm and .357 Sig for them.

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Old 08-21-2018, 08:05 AM
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Glock Model 30 .45acp
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Old 08-21-2018, 08:11 AM
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Based on my experience with the same issue on a 637, they'll send it to metallurgy to make sure it wasn't you beating on it with a hammer, and then offer you an array of replacement options. Direct exchange for the same pistol, or a 442, or similar pistol, or a like amount of credit to anything else . . .

Quote:
Originally Posted by RGVshooter View Post
Not sure if I want to stick with a aluminum alloy framed revolver again. I have a sneaky suspicion that S&W will either replace the 642 or at the very least give me a deep discount on a new gun. I don't know what to expect to be honest. They just might return it & say it's normal for all I know. I'm not sure the pitting on the frame is repairable though. It's a big IF, but IF it goes in that direction I might just get something different. Possibly a shield 9/40 or M&P compact 40c.
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Old 08-21-2018, 09:03 AM
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I've got the Shield in 9 and 40 and carry one or the other frequently. Another I have found to be an easy carry is the Kahr line, very light weight and extremely accurate after break in. My favorite carry however is a Sig P245. 20 years old and still doing it's job.
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Old 08-21-2018, 09:05 AM
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If the full size M&P is too much for you, the Shield will be, too. My pick for ultra-small, ultra-light carry is the Beretta Pico .380.
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Old 08-21-2018, 09:06 AM
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In the OP, you specifically (and only) asked about the Shield in .40 which is a fine piece and will likely serve well, but consider same in 9mm instead for ubiquitously available and less expensive ammo, better recoil management of the smaller pistol, comparable ballistics with quality defensive rounds, and greater carry capacity.

Specific questions about specific models are good in threads like these, which otherwise usually turn into free-for-alls with as many different suggestions as there are respondents all essentially playing a game of "what I like best and/or daydream about" bearing little relevance to your specific situation.

So, Shield good, .40 fine, 9mm suggested.
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Old 08-21-2018, 09:53 AM
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Given you have a full size M&P 9mm.... I'd look at one of the compacts as a concealed carry alternative.

IIRC someone makes a grip adapter to use full size mags in the compacts.
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Old 08-21-2018, 10:03 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by shouldazagged View Post
How about a steel J-frame? It's the style you're accustomed to, and the additional weight isn't that great. More comfortable to shoot, as well, especially with +P ammo.
He took the thought right out of my brain. I was just thinking that.
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Old 08-21-2018, 10:08 AM
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I agree that you need another handgun. Probably a good opportunity to get two or three more so you can try them all out and see which ones you like the best.

Seriously, in a revolver I prefer a steel frame. The lightweights are not enjoyable to shoot because of the sharp recoil. In semi-autos I prefer a dedicated single-action rather than a DA/SA or DAO because of better trigger control, making consistently accurate shooting easier (in my experience). I don't care very much for any polymer framed handguns (although I own a Kahr P40 that is very easy to carry and pretty accurate for a compact pistol). Lots of good choices out there.
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Old 08-21-2018, 10:26 AM
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Wink TIME TO TAKE ADVANTAGE.

Those "horrible" 40 cal semi's are priced to move. Since you carry OWB & the M&P 9 is too big, I can heartily recommend a single stack (all stainless) SIG 239 in 40 cal. Want to stick with the same revo, a 640, all steel. OR just wait it out with what you have.
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Old 08-21-2018, 11:09 AM
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Check out the Kel-Tec P-11 9mm. Get their extra ss pants clip the goes on the left side of this pistol for right-handed persons.
Also extended magazine that allows 12 rounds.
This gives you a great concealed package that can be brought into action very quickly.
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Old 08-21-2018, 11:14 AM
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I think a Shield 40 cal would be a good choice.

40 S&W is a great round, and just because the FBI switched back to 9mm doesn't make the 40 suddenly worthless. I don't have that much confidence in the FBI's decision making anyway.

Lots of low cost ammo available for the 40 cal, and the Shield 40 is a bit smaller than the 45 version.

Plus you can probably get a great price on 40 S&W guns these days.

I may pick one up myself, except I'd also look at one of the small Khar or Sig 40's.

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Old 08-21-2018, 11:25 AM
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I'd hang onto my greenbacks and wait for the verdict from the Mothership. I'd use what I had on hand while considering my options for replacing the 642.
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Old 08-21-2018, 11:39 AM
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Another vote here for a steel J-frame.
I rely heavily on my 649, and it never has let me down. I also find it more enjoyable to shoot than the light weight cousins.

DSCF3755.jpg
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Old 08-21-2018, 12:26 PM
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My original 442 had to be replaced due to a cracked frame. S&W offered me my choice of either a 442 or a 642. I chose the 642 and because my original gun was a no lock, they sent me a no lock.

My 442 was built on the early frame, so they couldn't just replace the frame. Depending on how old your gun is, they might just replace the frame and stuff it with the original internals.

As to a replacement, I don't know if I'd go for a Shield in 40. I'm biased against 40 anyway, so keep that in mind. I'd be more inclined to buy a Shield in 9mm, but that's me.
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Old 08-21-2018, 12:53 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Hapworth View Post
In the OP, you specifically (and only) asked about the Shield in .40 which is a fine piece and will likely serve well, but consider same in 9mm instead for ubiquitously available and less expensive ammo, better recoil management of the smaller pistol, comparable ballistics with quality defensive rounds, and greater carry capacity.

Specific questions about specific models are good in threads like these, which otherwise usually turn into free-for-alls with as many different suggestions as there are respondents all essentially playing a game of "what I like best and/or daydream about" bearing little relevance to your specific situation.

So, Shield good, .40 fine, 9mm suggested.
The Shield in 40 is for me uncomfortable to shoot. This is coming from a 45 guy & one of my carry guns is a G32. The Shield in 9mm is small, light & easy to shoot well. With good ammo, like 124gr HST, you are as well armed as with a 40, especially if you can not get good fast hits with the 40.
As you have learned, one is none. You should have at least 2 carry guns just for this reason. Identical or very sim is a bonus.
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Old 08-21-2018, 01:02 PM
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I would choose the Compact over the shield .. bigger grip is more comfortable to shoot !! and the extra rounds would also be a factor why I would go with the Compact .. 10+1 vs 7 or 8+1 for the shield and for the compact larger mags are available ..

Compact is as easily concealed as the Shield is .. My Compact 1.0 is as accurate as the shooter .. easily placing 10 rounds in a 3 inch spread off hand at 10 yards ..
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Old 08-21-2018, 01:07 PM
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I'm probably going to be tarred and feathered for this, but the best, reasonably priced concealable pistol with maximum firepower I have shot in the last year has to be the SCCY CPX-2. 9mm, 10+1 capacity and a DAO trigger. Think of it as a boxy 11 shot revolver.
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Old 08-21-2018, 01:21 PM
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Get another 642. When yours gets fixed you can carry a New York
reload.
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Old 08-21-2018, 02:25 PM
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I prefer a revolver over a semi for EDC. No failures to feed.
Dependability is the #1 priority for me. Very lightweight and easy to conceal, with reasonable power & 5 ready to go, my M638 is perfect.

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Old 08-21-2018, 02:45 PM
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Quote:
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I'd hang onto my greenbacks and wait for the verdict from the Mothership. I'd use what I had on hand while considering my options for replacing the 642.
I AGREE WITH URIT......

WAIT FOR S&W'S RESPONSE, SO THAT YOU CAN MAKE A MORE INFORMED DECISION.......
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Old 08-21-2018, 02:51 PM
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All great advice
the best value of this forum is the wealth of knowledge , expertise and occasional wise guy humor.

suggestions that stood out to me (except that Glock recommendation)

Another 642 yep , a great strategy (2 is 1)

Shield 9 (ya cant go wrong) has been my primary EDC for a couple of years now for summer mos , (fall & winter I switch to a Beretta PX4 compact).
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Old 08-21-2018, 04:01 PM
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Model 36 Classics | Smith & Wesson

I'd imagine with your trade in value it will be pretty cheap, and the Classics seem like very nice guns.
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Old 08-21-2018, 04:57 PM
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Great responses! Thanks guys....

This is one of those times where I seriously regret selling my Kahr K9. Although I did trade it towards the purchase of a new S&W 686 4", it was a excellent carry gun.

I live in deep south Texas and would like something that I can still dress in light clothing but still feel protected. My M&P 9 will get the job done but when there's a heat index of 108°, I'm not really in the mood to stuff a full size pistol in a safariland ALS holster while wearing cargo shorts and open toe sandals. That is why I chose the 642. it is light and carries very well in a pocket holster. A M&P shield in 9mm would be the better choice over the 40 since I have shot both and know how they feel.

I'll wait until the mothership makes their decision before committing to a new purchase. IF....they do give me the option of purchasing a different model I am leaning hard towards a M&P 9 shield. I'd like to stay away from aluminum alloy frames.
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Old 08-21-2018, 05:22 PM
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Quote:
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Go snub.

ETA - if you really want a .40, you might think about a Glock 23. You can get conversion barrels for 9mm and .357 Sig for them.
If you prefer a revolver, Charter Arms makes a dandy .40S&W snubby, the "Bulldog", I bought a used one in stainless, but thier Melonite finish is very appealing.
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  #37  
Old 08-21-2018, 05:24 PM
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M&P 9C or Ruger LC9S
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  #38  
Old 08-21-2018, 06:12 PM
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Originally Posted by RGVshooter View Post
Well guys & gals. Seems like I'll have to send in my 642 for repair or replacement and now I'm in need of a new carry gun. That just leaves me with my full size M&P 9mm or my Kel Tec P32 for quick trips out the door. I live in texas and since it's a open carry state I usually carry OWB and just throw a unbuttoned shirt over a tucked in T shirt. I don't mind carrying the M&P 9 but it is kinda on the big side.
Lately I have been leaning towards a M&P Shield 40. What say you guys?
Of course, carry a gun with which you are comfortable and capable. I live near Austin. I carry an S&W M&P M2.0 9mm 5inch openly in a Safariland ALS everywhere I legally can.
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  #39  
Old 08-21-2018, 06:29 PM
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Originally Posted by RGVshooter View Post
Not sure if I want to stick with a aluminum alloy framed revolver again. I have a sneaky suspicion that S&W will either replace the 642 or at the very least give me a deep discount on a new gun. I don't know what to expect to be honest. They just might return it & say it's normal for all I know. I'm not sure the pitting on the frame is repairable though. It's a big IF, but IF it goes in that direction I might just get something different. Possibly a shield 9/40 or M&P compact 40c.

I'm a believer in having 2 identical or very similar carry pistols. That way if one is in the shop or the evidence locker you grab the spare and roll.

I also know people who have 1 pistol that is used strictly for training with an identical second pistol that's used for carry.
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  #40  
Old 08-21-2018, 06:38 PM
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Go with a Steel J-Frame.
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  #41  
Old 08-21-2018, 06:46 PM
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a steel J frame is what I would get... same manual of arms as your 642.... I like my 640 ND .38 a lot
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  #42  
Old 08-21-2018, 07:15 PM
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Originally Posted by TomkinsSP View Post
If you prefer a revolver, Charter Arms makes a dandy .40S&W snubby, the "Bulldog", I bought a used one in stainless, but thier Melonite finish is very appealing.
I have a Charter Arms Pitbull in 40 and it is some revolver. It is probably the most accurate revolver I have that is less than 24oz. You get the .357 mag energy without the noise, but the recoil feels like a 357.
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  #43  
Old 08-21-2018, 08:03 PM
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I'm a believer in having 2 identical or very similar carry pistols. That way if one is in the shop or the evidence locker you grab the spare and roll.

I also know people who have 1 pistol that is used strictly for training with an identical second pistol that's used for carry.
I like this approach. When my 642-1 had to be sent back I was without a gun of any kind for a couple of months. I had no back-up or alternative. Soon after I was able to retrieve an older 642 no-dash that I'd had in storage and it now serves as a back-up to my 642-1.

I also recently purchased a Beretta PX4 Compact, which seems to be taking over EDC duties from my 642. I like it so much, I'm planning on getting another, hopefully in the next month or two, and setting the second one up just like my first (or maybe get the Compact Carry version...I haven't decided yet) so I can have a dedicated training gun that can also serve a back-up role.

As to your original question, seeing as how you're familiar with the M&P9 I think the Shield would be a good option, though I, personally, would lean towards 9mm. Actually, if I were looking for a similarly sized and featured gun, I'd probably lean towards a Kahr 9mm.

Or you could just get a Glock 19.
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  #44  
Old 08-21-2018, 08:47 PM
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I'm probably going to be tarred and feathered for this, but the best, reasonably priced concealable pistol with maximum firepower I have shot in the last year has to be the SCCY CPX-2. 9mm, 10+1 capacity and a DAO trigger. Think of it as a boxy 11 shot revolver.
IMHO, IF YOU ARE THINKING OF THIS WEAPON AS AN 11 SHOT REVOLVER, YOU ARE MERELY FOOLING YOURSELF......

I SINCERELY HOPE THAT YOU NEVER HAVE TO LEARN THE DIFFERENCE THE HARD WAY......
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  #45  
Old 08-21-2018, 09:08 PM
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IMHO, IF YOU ARE THINKING OF THIS WEAPON AS AN 11 SHOT REVOLVER, YOU ARE MERELY FOOLING YOURSELF......

I SINCERELY HOPE THAT YOU NEVER HAVE TO LEARN THE DIFFERENCE THE HARD WAY......
Over on Defensivecarry.com, one of the regular posters had a SCCY 9mm barrel blow up in his hand.

If I wanted a subcompact double stack 9mm, I'd personally go with the Keltec P11, which SCCY copied with apparently inferior metallurgy.
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  #46  
Old 08-21-2018, 09:12 PM
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Or you could just get a Glock 19.
I think we're done here
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  #47  
Old 08-21-2018, 09:17 PM
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Default I have several...

....carry capable weapons, revolver and semi. The Shield is my go to out of all of them for carry. The DAO trigger is very agreeable, close to being like an SA. I've got a big 'Sig' on my nightstand, but I need something light for carry.

My alloy third gen would be great for carry if I wanted a full size especially with a SA. My Kel Tec P 11 would make a good carry weapon or 'truck gun', though it ain't much on looks and only good for close distances, it's reliable. They say it's accurate enough for 7 yards, but the groups really do get 'big' beyond that.
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  #48  
Old 08-21-2018, 09:50 PM
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Originally Posted by dr. mordo View Post
Over on Defensivecarry.com, one of the regular posters had a SCCY 9mm barrel blow up in his hand.

If I wanted a subcompact double stack 9mm, I'd personally go with the Keltec P11, which SCCY copied with apparently inferior metallurgy.
THANK YOU, dr. mordo, FOR THIS VERY INFORMATIVE POST ! ! !
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  #49  
Old 08-21-2018, 09:56 PM
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I also know people who have 1 pistol that is used strictly for training with an identical second pistol that's used for carry.
Cops have to train and qualify with the pistol they carry. If yours ends up in evidence, even if you're issued the exact same make and model, you still have to qualify with it. Seems like a good idea to me . . .
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  #50  
Old 08-21-2018, 10:04 PM
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I really like carrying the Shield 9 but I love to carry my 640!
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