What would be your choice for EDC semi

I guess the first question is, what can you even find locally in California? I can think of several suggestions but have no idea what is even available to you.
 
IWI Jericho for me, hard to beat the quality for the money too, ironically the cheapest guns I have, that's not a .22. My .45 is my EDC, and the only auto I will carry. It is a pretty big gun, but it's backed up by an N frame so obviously not a problem for me. I'd you can find one in Calli, definitely worth a close look.
 
My EDC for a long time was a Colt DS, 4th issue. My "goin' to the city" carry was a 39-2. Nowadays I find myself carrying the 39-2 more often than not, while the Colt goes along sometimes for a quick trip to the store.

But then, I might be what's referred to as "old school"!
 
After carrying various 3rd gen 9mms and 45s for the last 15 years, I have settled down to carrying my 4513TSW fairly consistantly. For the last 4 years it is on my person almost daily.

I will still occasionally carry a CS45, CS9, 4566 or a 3914. But the original 6 round mag 4513TSW is my primary and all time favorite carry gun. Regards 18DAI
 
I always have to carry a new pistol just for kicks. Usually lasts a few days then its back to the glock19. After running some rounds thru my recently acquired 6906, I slipped it into the 19's IWB sticky holster. Hmmm.... wonder how this feels? Tucked her in at 4 o clock and have never looked back.
The 19 ain't liking it, but she's still seeing bedside duty.
The smith is so comfortable I accidentally sent the courthouse metal dector into screaming mode....sheepishly red faced looking at the deputy I said: "I'll be right back, forgot to leave my knfe in the truck." Whew that was a close one.
 
I know you wanted to steer clear of polymer framed guns but I'd offer that EDC is where they shine. Durable, Lightweight and inexpensive.
I've had allot of carry guns over the years but have to say that my new Shield 45 PC is my all time favorite. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.
 
Well, this is the S&w forum and the replies reflect that, but if you asked on the Sig, Glock, Springfield, etc forums I'm guessing you would get different results.
I've heard very very good things about CZ handguns, and intend to check out either the Rami or Compact, but try finding any of them anywhere.
I never even considered one until I held it in my hands, fits like a glove, great ergonomics.
CZ's are well priced and appear to be a hidden gem.
 
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Lots of good suggestions so far...................but being in Calf makes getting what you want tough.

I've carried a 3913/14 or NL since the early 90s.

That said..... the Sig 239 is close in size.... as is the Smith 6906 (3913 with a fat butt).

Not a fan of "Cocked and Locked" for concealed carry...... but I do like 3rd Gen Smiths........ Sigs and CZ and Beretta's......... some not mentioned.....

Sig 225 and 245 or 220 Compact are good options in single stack 9mm and .45. The 245 has been my concealed carry .45 since the mid-90s.



Beretta..... does make a 92 Compact and Type M9(single stack) FYI both are about the size of a Colt Combat Commander. I've had a compact and Type M and carried them concealed since 1989.


Bigger guns I like and have carried are the Smith 915, Beretta Centurion and Sig 220,228 and 229.
 
Let me offer an alternative to the CS9 or CS45: That would be the Kahr MK9. Pricey, but nicey. Full disclousure, I like Kahr's and have had good experiences with them. One of my most carried semi's is a PM9. I have always wanted an MK9 but could never justify the cost given I already have and like my PM9.

What I really think is that you should first establish what caliber and size frame you prefer then go from there. Obviously for me I want small but other larger higher capacity options may fit the bill better for your personal needs.
 
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That would be the Kahr MK9. Pricey, but nicey.

Agreed. The MK9 is a beautifully made chunk of stainless steel. One of my favorites for sure. It's in the rotation along with a 3953TSW and 6904.
 
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My choice was a SIG P220 Carry, .45 ACP with a 3.9" barrel and a DAK (DAO) trigger. I'm not a huge fan of the slide safety of Smiths, nor the manual of arms for a 1911. I keep it simple, and a 4" barrel is easier to conceal, with quicker handling. At 25 oz dry, it's easy to carry too. It was my choice for CCW qualification too, rather than a lesser caliber that I wouldn't be tempted to carry. A DAK trigger is long and smooth, breaking at 6.5 lbs. The hammer is bobbed and always down - nothing to snag.

I have a S&W 1911 with a scandium frame. Nice shooter, but down the list for EDC.
 
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I looked high and low for an excellent condition 3900 type or 908 with reasonable price. no luck - shows what the owners think of them.
settled on an excellent Makarov 9x18mm fired 16 shots for 150$.
had to buy the dies for reloading - but doggone it's a great CCW, accurate and reliable. 9x18 is basically a .380 on steroids.
 
In 45acp, my choice would be a Sig P220. In 9mm, consider an older Sig P6.
 
S&W 6906

It's small enough to be readily concealable, but large enough to be able to shoot it well. It weighs 31.5 oz fully loaded and has 12+1 capacity.

As an added bonus it fits a Glock 19 holster.

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^ I would agree about the 6906 but the OP is in Kali and can't have the 12 round mags.
soooo.....
3913/3914.
You aren't going to beat those, in my mind, for any price.
 
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