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Old 04-15-2019, 01:28 PM
JayFramer JayFramer is offline
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Question Derringer: Primary Carry?

Inspired by the lively feedback from my Single Action Revolver Defense thread, I am now curious what the board thinks about using 2-shot Derringers as a primary carry gun:



I personally know a man (retired Desert Storm vet) who uses a Bond .410 derringer as his main carry weapon, and have heard of others using these handguns as their primary. What do you all think about this? They seem reliable and can be chambered in some effective cartridges but of course are capacity limited, but does it really matter?

Who here carries a double barrel derringer as their main concealed and carry, or would feel comfortable with it for defense?

Discuss!

Last edited by JayFramer; 04-15-2019 at 01:30 PM.
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Old 04-15-2019, 01:39 PM
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I suppose its better than no gun, but not by much.
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Old 04-15-2019, 01:58 PM
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I sometimes pocket carry my NAA .22 WMR, which kinda the same thing. Whatever makes you comfortable . . .
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Old 04-15-2019, 02:11 PM
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Based on the rationale expressed in the SA thread I’ve decided a cut down TC Contender is the answer for EDC. If you can’t get it done with a single .357 Herrett, 375 JDJ or a 45-70 maybe more training is in order.

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Old 04-15-2019, 02:22 PM
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As a primary? Well, yeah.....if I carry my regular backup (mdl 38).

Actually, no. I don’t even own a derringer.
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Old 04-15-2019, 02:42 PM
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Yes, one can. No, I wouldn’t.
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Old 04-15-2019, 03:10 PM
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Any gun is better than no gun.

But why carry a derringer?

They are almost as big and heavier than an Air Weight J frame and much less effective.

Last edited by Cal44; 04-15-2019 at 03:14 PM.
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Old 04-15-2019, 03:11 PM
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Folks can do as they like in selecting a sd weapon: freedom of choice is a great thing indeed.

However, I suspect those who would use a derringer as a primary weapon either have no alternative or little practical experience with them.
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Old 04-15-2019, 03:17 PM
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"A slightly better choice would be a scalding hot cup of coffee."
Manny Mansfield
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Old 04-15-2019, 03:25 PM
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The trouble with Derringers is you have only two shots and the bad guy KNOWS you have only two shots. Also, with any sort of serious cartridge, they are unpleasant to shoot so most people don't shoot them much. ON top of that beyond contact range the accuracy is highly suspect. Definitely not my first choice. Or even second or third choice.
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Old 04-15-2019, 03:34 PM
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They are heavy for only having two Rd's. They have to be cocked for each shot. They generally have horrible triggers and little to hold on to in the way of a grip. Oh yes I forgot to mention the rudimentary sights. Other than that they would be a fine choice but not my first choice!
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Old 04-15-2019, 03:46 PM
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The way guys fret about the lack of rounds in a Shield I can’t imagine a 2 shot derringer would seriously be considered.
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Old 04-15-2019, 03:48 PM
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Hmm. Derringer or 342PD? Well, it's not the olde west, and I don't own a gold lame vest, so I guess I have to go with the 342.
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Old 04-15-2019, 04:30 PM
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Not even Paladin carried one as his primary.........
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Old 04-15-2019, 04:47 PM
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Sincerely I’m not sure that’s a good idea. Slow to use, inaccurate, small capacity very hard to reload quickly and poor quality specially when it’s expensive.
If you like small things a LCP, see amp or roughtback will do the job.
On my opinion the derringer is just a big boy toy with a touch of vintage romantism. It can be very cool in a gun collection, but not in a pocket for fight
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Old 04-15-2019, 04:58 PM
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Carry what you like.

I do.
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Old 04-15-2019, 05:10 PM
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I started to go down this slippery slope just about like all of us. We inadvertently "dress down" gradually for a multitude of reasons.

"It's a hot day"... "I'm only running to the store to pick up something"..., etc.

One day, I was struck by a nasty thought..... "What if this is the DAY?"
What if this is the day that I'm going to have to use this thing to safe my life?

Do I really want to be standing there with a two shot derringer in my hand? Do I want only two shots at saving my life? Do I want trust the remainder of my life on my ability to get a defensive round on a target more than 5 feet away?

From that day forward, I never again dressed down going anywhere. I was, and remain well armed. I kept my derringer, and sometimes it's actually in my pocket....but never alone!

Last edited by 2K7; 04-15-2019 at 05:11 PM.
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Old 04-15-2019, 05:20 PM
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Mee too on an NAA .22mag revolver. Just sent my longer-barreled version back to Provo for open-heart surgery. I only carry four rounds in mine ... and as Cal 44 said - any gun is better than no gun! I carry mine in a little DeSantis cheapy sticky holster - got it used for $150 and it's the best $150 I've spent in years!!

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Old 04-15-2019, 05:24 PM
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Everything I said in your earlier thread applies here with respect to justifiable shootings, etc., and everything everyone said about carry what you like always applies. OTOH, there are few guns that you can choose that are worse for self defense than a single action derringer.

They are hard to cock, impossible to aim, with effective calibers recoil is a disaster, they are too large and heavy for the trade-off in firepower, and except for the cool, Old West factor, there is nothing one can say about them that is positive.

That about sums it up for me in re derringers for self defense.
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Old 04-15-2019, 09:33 PM
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The Bond 45acp weighs 23 1/2 oz. My 325pd with a 2 1/2" barrel and titanium cylinder weighs 21.5 oz. Has decent sights and a great trigger. Load it with 5 rounds off 200 gr Gold Dots, put 2 in the Bond and they should about level a balance beam scale. Guess which I carry.

The NG I am converting to a 45 colt will have a steel cylinder so it will be heavier, but not much.
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Old 04-15-2019, 09:37 PM
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Some folks carry a gun, others carry a good luck charm.
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Old 04-15-2019, 09:43 PM
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No. Just no. I've never seen any point to carrying one as a primary, except riverboat gambler retro-romance.

I doubt I would even carry one as a backup, but I might consider it.
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Old 04-15-2019, 09:52 PM
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I carry Two J-Frames. I don’t think I could do less than that but, that’s just me.
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Old 04-15-2019, 09:55 PM
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A derringer is a nice thing to have when you're not carrying a gun.

Actually, it's pure silliness. I'm more serious about my self-preservation than that.
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Old 04-15-2019, 10:02 PM
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I can think of so many reasons not to carry one and basically no reason to carry one. I will pass but to each their own. You like it then go for it.
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Old 04-16-2019, 08:52 AM
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Pretty silly
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Old 04-16-2019, 09:00 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by delcrossv View Post
Hmm. Derringer or 342PD? Well, it's not the olde west, and I don't own a gold lame vest, so I guess I have to go with the 342.
I always thought the PD stood for Perfect Derringer...
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Old 04-16-2019, 09:24 AM
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yes i carry a derringer from time to time. the trouble with todays derringers are that they are heavy and or to large and one might as well carry a j frame or small auto. the lighter and smaller derringers are not as well made as i would wish. i would also wish for DA and todays Da derringers seem to be designed to be as painful as possible to shoot. ( WHAT WERE YOU THINKING?) derringers can be accurate with practice. luckily i can stand on the back or front porch and shoot at targets as i wish. of course i have to wait till the Mrs. (a bit of a night owl) wakes, as she seem to not like being brought around to the sound of gun fire. 2 shots? well if that day comes (and i'm not expecting it to) and i have a derringer i'll wish i had the j-frame, if i have the j-frame i'll damn skippy wish i had an ak, or better still just not be there EACH TO HIS OWN
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Old 04-16-2019, 10:36 AM
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How is this different than the other thread(s)?

And yes, you're free to do things I think are dumb and pointless.
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Old 04-16-2019, 10:59 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Wise_A View Post
How is this different than the other thread(s)?

And yes, you're free to do things I think are dumb and pointless.
To spur discussion on the defensive application of firearms.

Really don’t need any attitude, okay? For one thing I never said I was going to carry a derringer OR a single action revolver. But I wanted to hear from those who did, why they chose it, and from those who chose derringers. It’s just getting the juices flowing and pass ideas around. No need to make a big and bold (and rude) point just for the sake of puffing oneself up.
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Old 04-16-2019, 11:43 AM
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So you only want to hear from those that are pro-derringer and not the counter-points against choosing one? If so, that doesn't make for a very productive discussion.
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Old 04-16-2019, 11:58 AM
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As a reminder, this was the first sentence of the OP. I think we have a consensus . . .

Quote:
Originally Posted by JayFramer View Post
Inspired by the lively feedback from my Single Action Revolver Defense thread, I am now curious what the board thinks about using 2-shot Derringers as a primary carry gun:
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Old 04-16-2019, 12:29 PM
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Great thread with some good info - Thanks OP! Just had two guys in the house working on shutters. They're from a good company, and they had no idea I was carrying my little NAA. Did I need it? Of course not. Could they have overpowered me in a few seconds; of course! Would I have been carrying a dinky little 4-shot if I thought they were a threat? Once again, of course not.

I think there is an unspoken understanding - at least for me anyway - that most folks posting here have good sense and will tailor their self-protection needs based on the perceived threat. I also always home carry a little cheapie iPhone 5 running T-Mob at $3 a month. Just in case I slip and fall, or whatever, as I meander around during the day. I haven't, yet, needed either the cell phone or the NAA (or TPH .22 or BER 21a .25). But, they are there just in case. Hearing various opinions, pro and con, in a thread like this have kept me around SWF for a couple of years...
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Old 04-16-2019, 01:06 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Muss Muggins View Post
As a reminder, this was the first sentence of the OP. I think we have a consensus . . .
On what would you happen to might mean, Muss Muggin?
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Old 04-16-2019, 01:35 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by JayFramer View Post
On what would you happen to might mean, Muss Muggin?
I believe they agin' it . . .

Quote:
Originally Posted by JayFramer View Post
Inspired by the lively feedback from my Single Action Revolver Defense thread, I am now curious what the board thinks about using 2-shot Derringers as a primary carry gun:
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Old 04-16-2019, 01:56 PM
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I guess I'm the 3rd to say me to on the NAA 22 mag. There was also a thread here recently that confirmed that the mere presence of a gun is usually all that was needed to stop something bad from happening. And I'll bet the OP's Bond Arms 410 with buck shot would be a great option.
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Old 04-16-2019, 02:43 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by GeoJelly View Post
Great thread with some good info - Thanks OP! Just had two guys in the house working on shutters. They're from a good company, and they had no idea I was carrying my little NAA. Did I need it? Of course not. Could they have overpowered me in a few seconds; of course! Would I have been carrying a dinky little 4-shot if I thought they were a threat? Once again, of course not.

I think there is an unspoken understanding - at least for me anyway - that most folks posting here have good sense and will tailor their self-protection needs based on the perceived threat. I also always home carry a little cheapie iPhone 5 running T-Mob at $3 a month. Just in case I slip and fall, or whatever, as I meander around during the day. I haven't, yet, needed either the cell phone or the NAA (or TPH .22 or BER 21a .25). But, they are there just in case. Hearing various opinions, pro and con, in a thread like this have kept me around SWF for a couple of years...
Ok devils advocate. If you are so sure you do not need a firearm for self defense, then why carry something so totally inadequate at all? Just in case? You stated yourself you would have been over powered, so what good is the little gun in your pocket, other than to feel good? The true 2 shot derringer is even worse. Two slow shots, then you have a really poor club. So I am back to a folding fighter as a better too than any derringer.
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Old 04-16-2019, 03:32 PM
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Quote:
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Ok devils advocate. If you are so sure you do not need a firearm for self defense, then why carry something so totally inadequate at all? Just in case? You stated yourself you would have been over powered, so what good is the little gun in your pocket, other than to feel good? The true 2 shot derringer is even worse. Two slow shots, then you have a really poor club. So I am back to a folding fighter as a better too than any derringer.
I have the good sense to live in a great and safe neighborhood, in a good state - so I have options. Your "devil" is in the details; what makes you so sure that I would be stupid enough to let folks into the house who look like they might try to jump me? Good Lord - I understand the concept of Armchair Quarterback, but give me a break!! Actually, and this point continually flies over the head of so many commenters here - the best weapon we all have is that chunk of neurons between our ears. So, let me say this another way: I have the good sense to not put my self into any dangerous situation without having some recourse. I carry the little NAA often because it is small and inconspicuous - but I wouldn't take it to an assault on the Manson family compound ... Doh!!

Edited to add: Dock - where you be gettin' that holster? That's pretty slick!

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Old 04-16-2019, 03:35 PM
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Originally Posted by Muss Muggins View Post
I sometimes pocket carry my NAA .22 WMR, which kinda the same thing. Whatever makes you comfortable . . .
Mine is the Sidewinder.. allows for quicker reloads if things get that bad..
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Old 04-16-2019, 07:34 PM
dockmurgw dockmurgw is offline
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I have the good sense to live in a great and safe neighborhood, in a good state - so I have options. Your "devil" is in the details; what makes you so sure that I would be stupid enough to let folks into the house who look like they might try to jump me? Good Lord - I understand the concept of Armchair Quarterback, but give me a break!! Actually, and this point continually flies over the head of so many commenters here - the best weapon we all have is that chunk of neurons between our ears. So, let me say this another way: I have the good sense to not put my self into any dangerous situation without having some recourse. I carry the little NAA often because it is small and inconspicuous - but I wouldn't take it to an assault on the Manson family compound ... Doh!!

Edited to add: Dock - where you be gettin' that holster? That's pretty slick!

stellarrigs.com for the holster. It is pretty slick, a t shirt over it and its un detectable. Not that I need it anyway, nothing ever happens in VT...just the way I like it.
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Old 04-16-2019, 08:20 PM
Wise_A Wise_A is offline
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Great thread with some good info - Thanks OP! Just had two guys in the house working on shutters. They're from a good company, and they had no idea I was carrying my little NAA.
I regularly accomplish the same feat with a Glock 26. But hey, if you wanna conceal in a Speedo...

Concealed carry isn't that hard.
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Old 04-16-2019, 08:50 PM
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Not for a primary.
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Old 04-16-2019, 08:55 PM
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I think Derringers are neat. I am thinking of getting a few. I used to have a couple long ago, .22 calbre. I would not consider it a viable / practical or reasonably defendable defense choice but I can see one for trail hiking in .45 with .410 shot for snakes etc. On the other hand if it's all one has & can be shot well, U got 2 for sure & as many extra rounds as U can carry.

The likely scenario of have to present a weapon quickly is generally a pretty low likelihood event for most folks. So cocking a SA I don't see as a make or break factor. Also, once presented at close range U have a compelling reason for someone to change their mind regarding taking an offensive action against U. That's both sides of the coin in my opinion.
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Old 04-16-2019, 08:56 PM
GeoJelly GeoJelly is offline
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Originally Posted by Wise_A View Post
I regularly accomplish the same feat with a Glock 26. But hey, if you wanna conceal in a Speedo...
Me in a Speedo ... ... an absolutely shocking concept. On a serious note, I have heard about folks being assaulted, robbed or worse after allowing seemingly legitimate workers into their home. I guess I have the good fortune of not having anything visible in the house that anyone else would want! Sure enough, I have a G26 Gen4 that I haven’t even fired ...
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Old 04-16-2019, 10:38 PM
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Originally Posted by GeoJelly View Post
I have the good sense to live in a great and safe neighborhood, in a good state - so I have options. Your "devil" is in the details; what makes you so sure that I would be stupid enough to let folks into the house who look like they might try to jump me? Good Lord - I understand the concept of Armchair Quarterback, but give me a break!! Actually, and this point continually flies over the head of so many commenters here - the best weapon we all have is that chunk of neurons between our ears. So, let me say this another way: I have the good sense to not put my self into any dangerous situation without having some recourse. I carry the little NAA often because it is small and inconspicuous - but I wouldn't take it to an assault on the Manson family compound ... Doh!!

Edited to add: Dock - where you be gettin' that holster? That's pretty slick!
You didnt answer my question but that is ok. If i have someone coming to my house that makes me think i should be armed, i carry a suitable fighting pistol & pay extra attention.
Like many, you carry an unsuitable pocket gun because it makes you feel good. You even admitted they could have over powered you so were you really properly prepared? I would submit no. Like having a squirt gun when you need a fire extinguisher. Yes, devil is always in the details. For most that ccw though, its about feeling good, not really about ready to protect yourself, imho.
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Old 04-16-2019, 11:35 PM
JayFramer JayFramer is offline
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Thanks, gang. Lots to chew on in this thread.
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Old 04-17-2019, 08:08 AM
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Originally Posted by fredj338 View Post
You didnt answer my question but that is ok. If i have someone coming to my house that makes me think i should be armed, i carry a suitable fighting pistol & pay extra attention.
Like many, you carry an unsuitable pocket gun because it makes you feel good. You even admitted they could have over powered you so were you really properly prepared? I would submit no. Like having a squirt gun when you need a fire extinguisher. Yes, devil is always in the details. For most that ccw though, its about feeling good, not really about ready to protect yourself, imho.
sorry. if i think i need to be armed in my own home they aint getten through the door and best be high tailing it down the road.
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Old 04-17-2019, 08:23 AM
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I’m old enough to remember the TV western “Yancey Derringer” where every confrontation was engineered for him to win w/his little gun and look good doing it. To each their own but it’s not something I’d carry.
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Old 04-17-2019, 08:58 AM
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A few years back a retired state trooper (of all people) was carrying one of those tiny 22 revolvers. He went into a changing room and some how the little gun dropped and discharged.

This was a large shopping center in the Albany NY area and boy- o- boy did it give a lot of help to the ban the gun people and media that infests this area!
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Old 04-17-2019, 09:12 AM
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Interesting subject, as the prevailing wisdom these days seems to gravitate to 18+1 bottom feeders with two or three spare mags and a BUG. The same crowd raise both eyebrows when someone says their EDC is a five or six shot revolver, ("Do you have a death wish?"). Seriously, with as much info as is on line regarding the ineffectiveness of pistol rounds, especially out of a short barrel, two shots and a cumbersome reload tend to raise my eyebrows too.
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