Ultra Reliable Sub-Compact 9mm

[otis24]

I’m looking for my next EDC concealed carry pistol. I have a Glock 42 for pocket carry. I’m no “fan boy” of any particular brand. I’ve owned Glocks, Rugers, Sigs and S&Ws; with a preference for the latter.

I’m looking for a sub-compact 9mm that will be ultra reliable. I am considering the S&W Shield Plus (top choice right now) and the Glock 48. Are these two pistols pretty reliable out of the box? Anything else I should consider?

Trying to stay away from single action pistols.

 

[bobsguns]

Sig P-938 is about as sub-compact as guns get. Mine is accurate way beyond its size. I use the pinky rest mags so I can get all my fingers on the frame grip.

The P-938 is such a perfect sub gun, I've never bought anything for it to compete with. I would quickly buy it again, which is the highest compliment I can bestow upon a gun.

My .o2

 

[6GUNSONLY]

My wife's Shield 9mm (1st gen) has been 100% reliable through about 500 rounds, as has been my CSX with about that same round count. Zero failures of any kind.

 

[bobsguns]

My wife's Shield 9mm (1st gen) has been 100% reliable through about 500 rounds, as has been my CSX with about that same round count. Zero failures of any kind.

But would either of those be considered a "sub" compact? I would think not, IMO.

There're only a few guns made these days that might be considered a "sub" compact, IMO. Most would be called a "pocket rocket" due to their size. I would suggest an example would be the Colt Mustangs of years gone by, perhaps some of the Ruger LCP offerings (not that I recommend the LCP).

My .o2

 

[URIT]

Walther PPS m1 in 9mm or .40 S&W. This pistol was designed for undercover and off-duty police officers. I own both versions, and they are reliable and tack drivers.

 

[mscampbell2734]

If you already have a G42 I'd say go with the next size up, the Glock 43. When I tried one I was pleasantly surprised in how easy to shoot and controllable it was for such a tiny 9

 

[Eddie Southgate]

Tarus G3c

 

[Imissedagain]

Compare the size of the G43 with a Sig P239.
Same with G43 and Sig365.
My small 9mm, is the P239.
Often called a combat reliable pistol.
Accurate and fun to shoot.

 

[THE PILGRIM]

Kahr PM9 is my smallest 9mm. Small and Reliable. Trigger is like Revolver Double Action for us Old Revolver Guys.
When I bought an Sig, bought the P365X to get a longer grip and more capacity.
Also have an Sig P365 X Macro and a Glock 43x.
If I decide to double back, walk backwards in my tracks, create as much confusion as I can-
Might just get a P365.
I am liking these SIGs!

 

[dben002]

Sold my Sig P938 and got the CSX E series....one of my more intelligent choices in handguns....Yes the CSX is SA but it is more accurate than my Shield Plus and just as reliable. CSX E Series trigger is heads above the Sheild....Easy to conceal, light enough to carry all day and night if need be......

 

[dsf]

Kahr PM9 is my smallest 9mm. Small and Reliable. Trigger is like Revolver Double Action for us Old Revolver Guys.
When I bought an Sig, bought the P365X to get a longer grip and more capacity.
Also have an Sig P365 X Macro and a Glock 43x.
If I decide to double back, walk backwards in my tracks, create as much confusion as I can-
Might just get a P365.
I am liking these SIGs!

Beat me to it. Great choice and has that "DA revolver" pull to it, except shorter and smoother, easier. I like that the FP spring is nearly fully at rest too. Very compact, but can be had with slightly extended mags. Capacity with flush fit is a tad light though.

I've had the Sig 938. Great pistol, but I like the Kahr better.

 

[otis24]

I’ve always liked the Kahr K9. They have a trigger akin to a S&W J frame. Very smooth! I don’t have any experience with Kahr polymer pistols.

My next CCW weapon may have been decided. It’s probably not a subcompact. My brother-in-law has a Springfield Hellcat Pro with holster and several Mcarbo upgrades. I have something that he wants. He’s short on cash and so am I. A barter is in the works. I just need to get my hands on a Hellcat Pro and check it out to see if it is to my liking.

 

[Kanewpadle]

Smith has had quality issues across the board unfortunately.

I have a Glock 19, 43, and 48. Some may not care for Glock but they always work. Much easier to find parts and accessories for too.

Go to a range and test drive some guns.

 

[fatcat3]

can't get much better "subcompact" than this.