Unsure of what gun to get next

[Luked]

I am outside a lot in the summer weather it be on the boat fishing or out with the family and I wear very light weight shorts. They are somewhat a cargo pant type shorts but are made of very thin material that makes them cool and light weight.

Problem is the smallest firearm I have is my normal size Sheild in 9mm. Which I really like a lot. But the clothing I wear in the summer does not work well with the way I carry. I am looking at other holster options also but have also thought about the small pocket pistols like a Ruger LCP or S&W Bodyguard.
Was hoping to hear some opinions from you all and get your ideas on how effective thse are or even other options to look at.
I know anything is better than nothing but always like to get more ideas vs. Jumping in with out some research.

Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk

 

[DesertFox]

G42 for 380?
G43 for 9mm?
They aren't S&W but they are pocketable.

 

[jack the toad]

Answers likely like belly buttons... everybody has one. Based on my personal preference and experience, I EDC a 642 in a Mika pocket or a G43 in a Nemesis, right rear pocket.
Both ride about the same height and I don't have deep pockets... money or pant wise...
For deeper concealment, I have the BG 380 in front pocket with a UM #3.
I also have a Keltech I use for .32 ACP on occasion since it shoots well in the Keltech but not very accurately in a 16-4.

 

[Echo40]

Personally, I have no problem carrying the following in a pair of 5.11 Taclite Cargo Shorts with a cheapo 5.11 Nylon Belt...

That being said, if an M&P9 Shield is too big/heavy, then I would definitely recommend carrying something very small/lightweight like a Ruger LCP. That gun is always on me, everywhere I go, because it carries so easily that it honestly takes more effort on my part to leave it behind than tuck it in my pocket with my wallet, keys, and phone as I head out the door.

 

[lrrifleman]

For 380s, I'd suggest either a Glock 42 or Sig P365-380. For a 9mm, I'd suggest either a Glock 43 or a Sig P365. Either of the 4 could be easily carried in either a Vedders or Alabama Holster pocket holster. For IWB with the 42 or 365, I use either Blue Star or Pole Craft IWB kydex holsters.

 

[Rustyt1953]

LCP + Sticky = happy pocket.

 

[stanmerrell]

My son has the same gun as you. He is quite a good shooter with that piece. Recently he bought a smaller gun, the shield plus also a 9mm. I asked him why he did not carry it. He said he can't hit well with it, and does not notice much difference between the carryability of the two. I agree with this and have found same to be true for me. I either carry a full size compact or just go without. That means I always have my CZ PCR or G19 on.

 

[JH1951]

Give consideration to a 2" J-frame in a Mika pocket holster.
That combination has served me quite well for years.

 

[shamuscull]

I have a Kahr p380. Nice long smooth trigger pull and about as small and lightweight as any other 380.

 

[Rpg]

Stay away from the Tupperware 38 revolver Smith now calls the bodyguard.

It is junk. It reliably jams: a design flaw Smith won't fix.

 

[Kanewpadle]

I second the J frame suggestion. A J frame in the front pocket is easier to conceal while wearing shorts. And easier to draw also.

I've carried several different guns in a pocket holster while wearing cargo shirts. And I've always gone back to a J frame. Semi autos are just to square and bulky unless you carry a small 380. But 38 +P is the smallest caliber I will carry.

Currently I carry a Kimber K6 with two reloads in speed strips. A Smith 442/642 is a good option.

 

[Billylee]

642 in a 'sticky' pocket holster year round.

 

[oldiegoldie]

P365. i have a Vedder Pocket Locker, and that combination pocket carries nearly as covertly as my Bodyguard in my Wranglers. and then, there's the modularity.

 

[URIT]

Living in hot, humid coastal North Carolina I understand your problem. I wear lightweight cargo pants made by Haggar, Clairborne, and Lands End to name a few during the summer months. The material is thin so I ruled out pocket carry because it printed.

After experimenting, I found the best solution for me was to wear a good gun belt and carry my normal EDC - a S&W 3953 in a Don Hume H715M-WCS.

I found that wearing a Hanes X-Temp long sleeveless t-shirt tucked in the pants under a SS t-shirt or dress shirt works well to keep the pants from sliding south and the weapon covered and not printing.

 

[murphydog]

Surprised no one else has suggested this...

If you are good with the Shield 9, "dress around the gun". A heavier pair of shorts and a belt won't be much warmer than a lighter pair. Even if you are good with a lighter gun it may still be too heavy to be supported with really light pants. Good luck in your decision.

 

[BabaBlueJay]

North American Arms .22 Magnum. I'd rather have it than nothing and you will have no issue concealing one. After all I cannot carry my 686 4 inch during summer often. I may take my own advice and get one of those tiny wonders myself.

Ruger LCP or Beretta Pico if revolvers aren't your thing.

 

[heeter3]

I like a 442 in a desantis pocket holster.

 

[giants1]

Great point, murphydog!

So the Glock 26 is about the same size as the M&P Shield, so how about a Glock 26?

Glock G26 Gen4 vs Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield size comparison | Handgun Hero

 

[Execpro]

Luked:You mentioned the two guns I would suggest in 380acp.
I have a M&P Bodyguard because I like the double strike capability
and the revolver type trigger action.
It is very thin for pocket carry with holster if that is you mode of carry. Holster is a Vedder light tuck.

 

[Bald1]

North American Arms .22 Magnum. I'd rather have it than nothing and you will have no issue concealing one. After all I cannot carry my 686 4 inch during summer often. I may take my own advice and get one of those tiny wonders myself.

Ruger LCP or Beretta Pico if revolvers aren't your thing.

What he said!!!!!!