The best all around do everything pistol!

MetalMan · #51 02-19-2017, 07:06 AM

How about one of each? My Kimber Ultra Carry Series I has been as flawless a performer as one could hope; purchased in 2000 when Kimber quality was still top notch.

And then there's my Model 66-4.....

Choices, choices......

holo · #52 02-19-2017, 07:44 AM

My Ruger GP100 3" .357 Stainless

ContinentalOp · #53 02-19-2017, 07:57 AM

Based on your parameters and my own personal needs, I'd have to go with a Glock 19, even though I prefer revolvers. Not too expensive, easily replaceable, parts are readily available, 9mm ammo is inexpensive and available most places, mags are inexpensive, good reputation for reliability, and it's compact enough to conceal but big enough to be easy to shoot.

If I were to stay with the revolver, I would pick a 3" S&W 65 as a good all-around gun. The only issue I have with choosing it is gun and spare parts availability.

ContinentalOp · #54 02-19-2017, 08:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dandyrandy

Im surprised no one has mentioned the Ruger SP101 yet.

I think that would be a really good choice. While I think a 3" S&W 65 would be a better choice, the SP101 would probably be close behind. I've often thought a DAO Wiley Clapp SP101 with a bobbed hammer would suit me quite well.

paragain · #55 02-19-2017, 08:23 AM

My 28-2 is the finest go to, do anything handgun imaginable. Take down a deer, defend yourself with awsome fiepower, easy to carry and reliable as heck!

muzzleblast · #56 02-19-2017, 08:39 AM

This one:

OLDSTER · #57 02-19-2017, 08:51 AM

No further explanation required

tops · #58 02-19-2017, 09:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FifthWheel

But what would it do to a squirrel?

I have never shot a squirrel with a .45 ACP but if I was a betting man I would give 2 to 1 odds that it would kill him.

Larry

patrickd · #59 02-19-2017, 09:43 AM

Since you mentioned the Gestapo and gun confiscation I pick my G19 for the following reasons.
It's 9mm and for ammo resupply purposes, the most readily available caliber anywhere in the world. It's very concealable. It holds 15 rds. Lastly it goes bang every time the trigger is pulled. Super simple and the most reliable pistol I own.

okiegtrider · #60 02-19-2017, 09:44 AM

"...and they're dishwasher safe."

loeman · #61 02-19-2017, 09:45 AM

I know I'm getting to the party a bit late, but my choice is very easy to make. The S&W Model 681 would be my keeper.

Since taking these pics I have refinished the Ahrends Tacticals with an oiled finish that is not nearly so glossy as seen here. Much better!

Lee's Landing Billy · #62 02-19-2017, 09:58 AM

It pains me to write this! 1st Generation Glock 17.
1. It's the one they built their rep on.
2. Decent ballistics
3. A bizzillion parts
4.Holds lotsa bullets
5. Monkeys can work on them
6. Good in any environment
7. Cheap
8. They work
Here's the downside...NO pride of ownership!
I will have a dozen or more shooters here today. Invariably some one will say "wanna see my new Glock?" The answer will be shouted in unison..NO! We've seen one!! They are square and black...Right?
A lot of good things and one bad thing...I'll take those odds anytime.
I can tell you what I won't see, I won't see as many folks clearing malfunctions as with other makes. I'm a S&W man but these square, black, ugly, Glock 'things' WORK. So, for one gun left to work with ..G17, 1st Gen.

BB57 · #63 02-19-2017, 10:14 AM

9mm Luger ammunition is easy to find, and hand loading components are everywhere, so it's not a bad choice (not the best, but not bad).

I like the Browning Hi power in it's FN, licensed FM, and FEG P9 forms, but it's large and not horrible comfortable for all day long concealed carry.

The CZ 75 Compact does a better job as a concealed carry handgun and in it is more flexible in terms of operation allowing either SA carry in Condition 1 or Condition 3 (depending on the users training and preference, or can be carried in DA mode.

Plus, unlike most .22LR conversion kits, the Kadet kit for the CZ 75 is exceptional and creates a no compromise needed .22 LR pistol. That makes there CZ 75 Compact a much stronger candidate than the Hi Power, even though it pains me a bit to say it.

However, I prefer both my 6 shot Model 66 and my 7 shot Model 686+ in .357 magnum.

They can use either .38 Special or .357 Magnum, and the latter is hard to beat as a self defense round. Others do it as well, but none of them does it better.

The 66 is 4 oz lighter, while the 686+ holds one more round, but both fit the same holster and both are readily concealed and are comfortable to carry all day long in an IWB holster with a good belt. Both are also comfortable to shoot in .357 Mag, and with some practice accuracy is as good as a High Power or CZ 75. Also, with a speed loader and some well practiced Universal or Stess Fire reload techniques they can be reloaded in not much more time than the average shooter can reload a semi-auto pistol.

66 and 686+:

686+ with night sights - the one I'd have if I could just have one:

thomasinaz · #64 02-19-2017, 10:24 AM

I haven't found it yet, but I'm still trying....

Faulkner · #65 02-19-2017, 10:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dandyrandy

Its okay share your opinion dont be scared to do so its a free open forum as long as people dont get vulgar about things. So far a few members on here already mentioned some of the worlds best pistols ever! Read and learn!

I ain't scared to show mine.

CRT2 · #66 02-19-2017, 10:30 AM

10 mm, either Glock 20, Kimber Custom TLE or new Colt Delta Elite.

Ozark Marine · #67 02-19-2017, 10:35 AM

My two top choices are my S&W 686-2 four inch and S&W 457.
But if I could have only one, the 457.

Ron M. · #68 02-19-2017, 10:38 AM

My 1942 Vintage Victory .38 Special revolver. If it was good enough for our home defense contractors, and for servicemen fighting evil on several continents in World War II, it's good enough for me!

bananaman · #69 02-19-2017, 10:44 AM

In my opinion, there is no 1 for everything gun. I have my favorites of course. Where would the "Firearm Industry" be if we could all get by with one? Bob

Telecaster · #70 02-19-2017, 10:59 AM

Either my 3" GP100 or 9mm Shield. The Shield because it's small and light enough to deep-conceal from that Gestapo, and holds 9+1 (Magguts). The GP100, well, that's been covered. My only S&W revo is a 28-2, and I like the Ruger better!

BigMuddy · #71 02-19-2017, 11:59 AM

I would've been putting a S&W revolver, probably a 357 M66, right there with my choice of a 1911 if I hadn't broken a firing pin on my pre 27 Friday. Never had it happen before, but when it went click instead of bang that gun was dead in the water. I also prefer big slow bullets to small fast ones.

Dan

Grayfox · #72 02-19-2017, 12:07 PM

I think its been established for a very long time that the best "Jack of all trades" handgun is a 4" medium frame .357 revolver with adjustable sights. And even that isn't perfect for every use because it can be a little rough on small game.

Its big enough to shoot well, small enough to conceal, light enough to carry well and heavy enough to handle any load.
Ammo is readily available and easy to find. And the variety of ammo it'll use is mind boggling.
I specify adjustable sights just so that you can zero to whatever ammo you might have.
This being the S&W forum, I'd say that one of the L-frame models would best fit the bill. I would say a K-frame if it wasn't for the known, but still questionable, forcing cone issue that has haunted them for years.
However, because its just a little smaller and lighter, I have to give the nod as the best all around handgun to the old Ruger Security Six. They're built like a tank, will digest anything you put in it and if necessary, easy to take apart.
I've always said that the worst mistake Ruger ever made was discontinuing these fine revolvers.

Smithpride · #73 02-19-2017, 12:08 PM

While there a lot of great, personal choices on here, mine would be the M&P 9c.
-compact
-easy to conceal
-great sights
-13 rounds in regular mag and can accept the 17 rounders
-can add a light on the rail
-easy to shoot
-no manual safety
-comfortable and broken in for me

Bozz10mm · #74 02-19-2017, 12:12 PM

I'm sitting here with my head spinning trying to come up with a good answer. The most versatile handgun I can think of is the venerable Glock 17. Okay, it doesn't have to be a Glock. Any S&W, Springfield, or Ruger full size, double stack, 9mm would work.

SLT223 · #75 02-19-2017, 12:14 PM

If you reload, the easy answer is a short barrel .44 Mag like the 3" 629 or the 629 Mountain Gun. The .44 Mag can be loaded from warm .38 Spl ballistics to something that can reliably down a brown bear.

NYlakesider · #76 02-19-2017, 12:20 PM

Way back in the dark ages (mid 70s - mid 80s) when I was a firearms instructor (that included doing my counties pre issue pistol permit course I got asked questions like that often.

NYS has some seriously restrictive laws and I got asked a lot --"I'm only going to get one handgun whats a good gun for that".

My reply get a good quality stainless steel 4'' 357M with adjustable sights. You can shoot target or practice with much cheaper 38s its small enough to conceal if you work at it it has enough power to do most any thing or hunt animals that you can think of (not many elephants or cape buffalo in NYS

)

That was my advice back them and I'm too old now to change my mind!

Ron M. · #77 02-19-2017, 12:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Grayfox

I think its been established for a very long time that the best "Jack of all trades" handgun is a 4" medium frame .357 revolver with adjustable sights. And even that isn't perfect for every use because it can be a little rough on small game.

Its big enough to shoot well, small enough to conceal, light enough to carry well and heavy enough to handle any load.
Ammo is readily available and easy to find. And the variety of ammo it'll use is mind boggling.
I specify adjustable sights just so that you can zero to whatever ammo you might have.
This being the S&W forum, I'd say that one of the L-frame models would best fit the bill. I would say a K-frame if it wasn't for the known, but still questionable, forcing cone issue that has haunted them for years.
However, because its just a little smaller and lighter, I have to give the nod as the best all around handgun to the old Ruger Security Six. They're built like a tank, will digest anything you put in it and if necessary, easy to take apart.
I've always said that the worst mistake Ruger ever made was discontinuing these fine revolvers.

Agreed, Ruger made a mistake by dropping the Security Six from their lineup. I have a 4 inch SS version, its weight handles .38 Special like it was shooting .22LR. And when you can find them for sale, they don't carry as much a premium as a similar Colt or S&W revolver would. Not as pretty, but built to last.

apollo99 · #78 02-19-2017, 12:31 PM

Glock 19. The gun I love to hate.

Cellar Hound · #79 02-19-2017, 12:37 PM

Forced to pick one is very difficult but S&W model 19 would probably be the pick.

Gulfecho · #80 02-19-2017, 12:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dandyrandy

As you know from reading my threads I like a do everything type of gun. I dont really have to many specific duty single purpose type firearms. For example I love shotguns because they can do everything! I love revolvers because of their simplicity reliability and firepower. I also love the Colt 1911 because it's a battle hardened and proven weapon system and the platform has a never ending supply of bullets and parts. But there is a reason that I dont have a Colt 1911 now. In my opinion its not the best do everything type of gun. It comes close but it falls short on some important things...

What would you consider as the best overall do everything type of firearm? If the Gestapo broke down your door slapped you around and took all your firearms but you outsmarted them and hid one pistol that they could not find.. What would that be?? Keep in mind some important things... Is it affordable? Not everyone is Donald Trump here in this forum so I think maybe that gold plated Dan Wesson or Ed Brown Signature Special is out of the picture here.. Is it practical? Is it simple enough that any fool off the street can use it with little training? Can you even find parts for the thing? Warranty? Is it safe and reliable to carry for self defense reasons? Is it lite and small enough to carry comfortably or does it weigh like a tons of bricks? Does it chamber a cartridge thats more than a mouse fart? Can you even get ammo EASILY for the thing? As in can you get the stuff at your nearest Walmart? Can you hunt with it? Is it durable? Does it hold a respectable amount of bullets? For example NOT a derringer.. lol All these things should be considered. I value and respect your opinion so what do you think some of the best pistols are? To help out here is a few examples of what I would consider an acceptable do everything type of pistol. Thanks!

Took way to long to get any other pictures of other guns so deal with it!

The best all around do everything pistol!:

By your definition, the Smith and Wesson Governor chambers 6 of various .410, .45 Colt and .45 acp rounds utilizing customized ammunition. It doesn't get more "all around do everything pistol" than that!

Will Carry · #81 02-19-2017, 12:50 PM

Glock 19. If you want to enter it into a beauty contest, go with one of them purdy wheel guns. If you are using it to defend home and family go the Glock 19.

Shark Bait · #82 02-19-2017, 01:07 PM

For me it would have to be my 686-4+ with a 2.5 inch barrel. If I'm headed into the back country, probably my 629-4 with a 4 inch barrel.

30-30remchester · #83 02-19-2017, 01:35 PM

I enjoy these threads. It interests me on peoples choices and why they choose what they do. No one gun works for everybody. My pursuit is hunting and woods wandering. I can think on no better gun for me than my old Colt Woodsman.

snowman.45 · #84 02-19-2017, 01:45 PM

I've been carrying Glocks for many years as duty and off-duty guns. They work, and a G19 would likely be the perfect one, if there was a one and only. However, being an old revolver guy (as well as 1911 guy), I'd have to consider a 3" or 4" S&W 686+ for all-around versatility, firepower and reliability. If I could only have one, and it would have to cover all bases, a .357 revolver has got to be the most versatile.

JaPes · #85 02-19-2017, 04:13 PM

*flame suit on*

For me, the best all round do everything semi-auto pistol is a Glock 19.

It doesn't do any single thing well. Rather it does everything slightly above average while using the minimum number of parts without being a detriment to reliability and longevity. IMO, Glocks are tools: no more, no less.

Now if you were to count in all handguns, IMO the best do everything all around handgun is a revolver. For me, it is a S&W 686 Plus with a 4" barrel.

Genetically Swiss · #86 02-19-2017, 04:33 PM

A 4' .357 magnum would be the one. Many to choose from. You can hunt, defend hearth and home and more.

GS

BAM-BAM · #87 02-19-2017, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dandyrandy

What would you consider as the best overall do everything type of firearm?

If the Gestapo broke down your door slapped you around and took all your firearms but you outsmarted them and hid one pistol that they could not find..

[I

If we take your premise to heart.................. then we are dealing with the SHTF.......

Then I'd go with my PC Shorty 9........hi-cap and easy to conceal carry, 9mm, I've got lots of magazines..... including +2 grip extensions.... allowing me to use my 12,15 and 17rd Mec-gar magazines as back ups.........Milt Sparks holsters......and I'd stash my back-up Shorty 9 just in case!!!!

A Browning HP would also be a good choice...... or a 915 !!!!

Any would be better than a single shot .45 "Liberator" ....... while I collect an MP-43

If I could "only own/keep" one gun it would be either my 3" 66, or customized 4" 686......... I would not be displease with a stock 4" 66...........................

Arik · #88 02-19-2017, 05:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JaPes

*flame suit on*

For me, the best all round do everything semi-auto pistol is a Glock 19.

It doesn't do any single thing well. Rather it does everything slightly above average while using the minimum number of parts without being a detriment to reliability and longevity. IMO, Glocks are tools: no more, no less.

Now if you were to count in all handguns, IMO the best do everything all around handgun is a revolver. For me, it is a S&W 686 Plus with a 4" barrel.

Agreed. Accurate, reliable, light, thin.

Sent from my XT1650 using Tapatalk

WVSig · #89 02-19-2017, 06:41 PM

It is hard to beat the Glock 19 for an all around pistol that can play multiple rolls and do it well. It is just as accurate as a fullsized gun like a Glock 17 but it is lighter more compact and easier to carry.

They are reliable. They are simple to clean. Do not need to be run wet like a Sig or 1911. There are very few parts and even is something breaks there are parts all over the world for these guns. There are tons of Glock 19 and 17 mags of various sizes that will function in this gun. It will shoot 115, 124, 147 etc... grain 9mm JHPs and FMJ.

About the only thing it does not do for me is stir my soul. It is a lifeless tool nothing more. It is ugly it is blocky it sits lifeless in my hand but the gun works. It shoots and I shoot well enough with it that it is my TEOTWAWKi gun.

Now if I was picking with my heart not my head it would be this BHP. Followed closely by the Sig P228.

31FordA · #90 02-19-2017, 08:59 PM

My choice for a single, do everything gun is my 3" SP-101. Not too big to carry, but not too small either. It's a revolver, so it's not particular about ammunition. Load it with .38 wadcutters to plink, or with the heaviest .357 loads for less pleasant encounters. There's nothing I use a handgun for that it won't do.

My runner up choices would be either my 3" GP-100 or my 3" Model 65-5. If adjustable sights are a must have I'll take my 2.5" Model 19-3.

Big E3 · #91 02-19-2017, 10:57 PM

Here’s my thoughts and tortured analysis; If the Gestapo just grabbed all the guns it’s safe to assume they didn’t leave behind my pallet of 9mm and 45acp ammo in the basement. It’s doubtful that Walmart is still selling ammo when all guns have been confiscated. Therefore, I don’t want to shoot a semi-auto and have to crawl around on my hands and knees policing brass so I can keep feeding it. I probably only have the ammo I hid with the gun in the first place, reloading may be the only option. If you’re not supposed to have a gun, small and compact would be prudent because I don’t want anybody noticing. A custom long slide, pearl grip 1911 could be a nightmare to hide and carry. Stainless steel might be a good idea because I may need to hide it again and again in damp places. I would want something very durable because I won’t be running my now illegal gun to a local gunsmith when it breaks. For me it would need to be a stainless revolver and concealable with a 2” to 4” barrel.

That narrows it down to 38/357 in something like a J, K, or L frame Smith or a Ruger Six series, GP100, SP101 or an LCR.

Great now that I analyzed it, I need to sell about 25 semi-auto Smiths, Glocks, Hi-Powers and 1911’s that I won’t need in this hypothetical apocalypse.

6GUNSONLY · #92 02-19-2017, 11:58 PM

In a revolver, for me it would be a 4" 66. Right now I don't have one, but plan to remedy that. I do have a 2 1/2" 66, which wouldn't be bad, either.

In an autopistol, I'd go with a Browning Hi-Power 9mm. 2nd choice a CZ 75 variant of some sort.

Just me, but if I had to I could get along with just either of those. Sure hope I don't have to, though.

federali · #93 02-20-2017, 12:43 AM

Yes, the muggers, robbers, miscreants, car jackers and home invaders are still out there. But now, we also have an ever-increasing number of true terrorists who may strike anywhere at any time, from schools, houses of worship, businesses, bars, malls, etc.

Yes, I really like my S&W Model 37 and my S&W M65, 3" round butt. However, the changing nature of crime in America tells me to leave these two revolvers at home and to carry either my Glock 19 or 34, or my Browning HP anywhere that could be a likely terrorist target. First, the autos are more accurate than a snubby, have greater ammo capacity and reloads far more quickly. I also have a 5" Model 1911 and an S&W M&P .45 ACP available to me but these latter two are simply too large and heavy for comfortable carry. And no, my two wheel guns are not for sale.

Biggfoot44 · #94 02-20-2017, 03:07 AM

Never mind the controversy over the gun. The real Controversy is in setting the parameters of the question.

To be truely ALL around would include all of ;

Fun to plink with
Accurate enough for club level bullseye match
Suitable for personal defense against 2 and 4 legged threats.
Suitable for small game hunting
Suitable big game hunting, at least up to deer

And that right there establishes a very short list of sufficient power for deer, while modest recoil for extended plinking sessions. Add in reasonably common caliber for ammo availability, and the choices are medium frame .357 and accurized .45acp .

petepeterson · #95 02-20-2017, 09:26 AM

My 3" 60-15 in .357 is my do-it-all revolver, so I would probably pick that. I'd prefer something lighter for CCW, but if you factor in target shooting, woods bumming, etc., I'd live with the weight.

Zoner · #96 02-20-2017, 10:20 AM

if i could only have one pistol theres no question it would be a 5" 1911 in 45acp. Why? because i shoot that gun better(more accurately) than any other.......Mike

WVSig · #97 02-20-2017, 10:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Biggfoot44

Never mind the controversy over the gun. The real Controversy is in setting the parameters of the question.

To be truely ALL around would include all of ;

Fun to plink with
Accurate enough for club level bullseye match
Suitable for personal defense against 2 and 4 legged threats.
Suitable for small game hunting
Suitable big game hunting, at least up to deer

And that right there establishes a very short list of sufficient power for deer, while modest recoil for extended plinking sessions. Add in reasonably common caliber for ammo availability, and the choices are medium frame .357 and accurized .45acp .

Sorry but if I am taking down deer I am using a rifle. You are creating a criteria in order to justify your conclusion. Circular reasoning.

I own many all around pistols and none of them have been purchased with the consideration of taking large game. The OP does not talk about taking large game with a pistol. If you want to use that criteria have at it but for me that consideration is irrelevant. LOL

Rangerpat · #98 02-20-2017, 11:04 AM

My .357mag stainless-steel 4" Ruger GP100 because it is built like a tank and can digest a wide variety of ammo.

mrchuck · #99 02-20-2017, 11:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by swsig

My M&P 40c qualifies:
Accurate.
Reliable as dirt.
Easy to use, especially with an Apex kit.
10+1 rounds of easy-to-find .40 cal. goodness.
Not picky. It has fired whatever I've fed it for 8300 rounds.
Easy to field strip and reassemble.
Can get with or without a thumb safety.
Parts and service readily available.
S&W Lifetime Service.
Excellent carry gun. Can be comfortably carried in a Nemesis pocket holster, a Galco KingTuk IWB holster or a 5.11 undershirt holster. I carry mine every day in one of these, usually the Nemesis.
I know it's a plastic gun.
I don't care.
So there!

My "old" Smith&Wesson SW40C that was my issue I retired with
still shoots and carries easily.
I fondly pick it up and the past memories of using it "on the job"
flow freely.
The First S&W 40 cal issued to us.
It never jammed, accurate, had plenty of ammo in it, and yes,,,this was the EXACT pistol Glock sued S&W over it being an exact copy of a Glock, and Glock won and just about ruined S&W economically!
This "old" pistol gave me superior service and safety.
THANKS Smith and Wesson.

silentflyer · #**100** 02-20-2017, 12:22 PM

6" Model 19 or 66....