A number of years back, John Taffin coined the phrase perfect packin' pistol, as a way to describe just that. He initially defined the gun as a DA or SA revolver, with a 4" to 5 !/2" barrel, in any caliber capable of doing all duties......self defense, survival hunting, comfort of carry.

After being reminded of the PPP in a recent Amercian Handgunner issue, I have given considerable thought to what my PPP would be. Having owned nearly every caliber and barrel length of J, K, L, and N framed Smith's over the past 40 plus years, and with great difficulty, I have narrowed my personal opinion down to one gun. It was and remains a difficult choice which I have changed temporarily on a number of occasions....but I return to the same gun and am locked into it now.

My choice is made from precisely what Taffin invisioned....the perfect PACKIN' pistol. Packing is highlighted because that is what is of primary importance in this catagory. It may not be the 'perfect gun'.....but will do nearly everything and is capable of being carried regularly.

My decision is made with the following considerations.... small enough to be concealed.....light enough to not be uncomfortable after all day carry......durable enough to be relilable......powerful enough to perform most any task. To me, that means, smaller in frame, shorter in barrel, stainless construction, and the first number in the caliber begins with a four.

Before I reveal my PPP, I would like to expand Taffin's PPP to include automatic pistols as well as revolvers. Mr. Taffin is a world famous writer and expert on all firearms but has a history of being a big bore revolver guy. While I am also, I think it would be fun to open the category to all PPP's regardless of action. Why can't the PPP be an auto, or any configuration for that matter?

Knowing you are all waiting anxiously for me to reveal my PPP, without further ado, here are my choice(s). My favorite PPP, forgoing all my 'N' frames and my second runner up, a 629 Backpacker......I choose my model 696! Stainless, 'L' compact, 3 inch, adjustable sigthts, 44 Special. The best metal, perfect frame size, sufficent barrel length and adjustablility for sight radius and cartridge performance, and the finest caliber in a compact hangun available, IMO.

My PPP auto, for those of you who haven't decided I'm out of my mind and are still reading this.....the Colt Government model, Mark IV, Series 70, 45 ACP.

Now, what are your favorite FIRST choice PPP's?