No one can tell you what works best for you for your self defense

[shouldazagged]

Well said, lawandorder. An awful lot of thought went into my choice. My EDC, primary and only carry gun, is a steel J-frame, a 640 in .38 Special, pocket carried in a holster. (Even if I were still physically able to shoot .357 Magnum I damn sure wouldn't want to do it in a snubby.)

I've carried it for fifteen years plus, maybe sixteen, can't remember for sure. A lot of people, LGS hangers-on, tried to tell me when I chose a J-frame that a five-shot .38 was grossly inadequate, that I should tote a 9mm at the very least, preferably one with at least an eight-round capacity. Heard the same thing when I went to the range, until I quit answering the ones who asked if that was my carry gun, which didn't take long. Some strongly implied that real men only carry 1911's.

But as Lyndon Johnson was quoted as saying, "I don't push worth a damn." I'm content with my decision, I'm absolutely confident in the reliability of the gun I chose, and I'm sticking with it.

I try to extend the courtesy of letting people choose what will work best for them. If they aren't happy with their choices, they won't carry them.

 

[Rastoff]

It is a personal journey, like the rest of your life, that is yours to travel. All of us as we go through life are influenced by many factors, but our choices remain our own.

This stands on its own and is so very true.

However, this...

...people need to carry a firearm every day after they become competent, and responsible with it.

...is the part most people miss.

While it's true that it's a personal choice, those of us with more experience can help new (and even experienced) people with this choice. We can help them avoid some of the extra expense we paid along the way. We can help them learn by telling them of our mistakes. It may not be a mistake for them, but how will they know unless they hear and can choose for themselves?

The biggest problem I see as an instructor, is people picking the gun for the wrong reason. Far too many pick the gun based solely on size. Small guns are difficult to manipulate and grip for many people. That doesn't mean they aren't effective.

It matters not what type of tool you use or what purpose that tool is for. If you don't practice with it, it won't be as effective as it can be. When you life is on the line, don't you want to be able to be effective with the tool? So, why don't people practice like they'll use it on the street? Why are so many so resistant to practicing from the holster? Or even shooting at all? I know plenty that bought a gun for defensive purposes, took it to the range once and then never fired it again. Do you think that's wise?

 

[Lobster Picnic]

For carry, a J-frame is almost never a bad idea. There's a weight / caliber / hammer configuration to suit almost everyone.

 

[pawncop]

Totally agree with the concepts reviewed here. I would add the same goes for your spouse/significant other. They need to choose the sidearm best suited for them.

I have settled for a different style as my primary off duty sidearm but carry a model 36 as my second gun when on duty. It can serve as an off duty as well.

 

[MajorD]

While no one can tell you what will work best for you, unfortunately my home state sure has tried- very difficult and long waits for ccw permit ( that now will require renewal!) mag capacity limits etc.

 

[Old cop]

Like many others here I too have carried a J for well over 40 yrs. The luck of the draw being what it is I had to use deadly force during my 30 year LEO days. The revolver, loaded w/the FBI +P round, saved the day for me. In one instance I was carrying my issued Colt Det. Spl., about the same size as a J frame, and it served me well.

Right now I'm considering a small .380 for those rare instances when I'm wearing dress slacks (I pocket carry), but otherwise it will be a small revolver. It's where my comfort level is, based on real-world experience, and I see no reason to change now.

 

[rwsmith]

I'm good on what I think I can use...

I'm good on gun and caliber, but the carrying rig is up in the air. I've got Home defense pretty well nailed.