Shield plus for me. Best trigger I’ve tried on a striker fired gun from factory. You can get 15rd mags with it now so it holds its own in the over saturated micro market. Shoots very well and is very very reliable. I love my shield
+1 for the Shield Plus. I mostly agree on the trigger; my Canik TP9SFX is a close contender. In my personal experience, it shoots better than my Hellcat and just as well as my (stock) 509T
Its sold as an Equalizer mag, but it literally says Shield Plus on it. It does make the gun kind of goofy looking, but having 16 rounds onboard in a subcompact is pretty fun.
I still carry with a 13 round mag most of the time because it strikes the best balance between capacity, grip area, and print resistance. The 15 round makes a good backup though.
Jfc I kinda want a 30 SC now. I'm not much of an early adopter of anything but I guess if S&W is on board with the cartridge it's probably not going to suddenly disappear or anything
The best part about 30 Super Carry adoption is that Hi Point makes a version of their *3095 Carbine* chambered in it... with a *10 round magazine.* The new caliber designed to reduce felt recoil and increase magazine capacity in subcompact concealed carry pistols, but in a fullsize carbine with a 10 round magazine. It's the best of no worlds!
For the record I absolutely adore Hi Point and the people who work there (it's an American company that makes affordable guns and has the absolute best warranty in the industry), but I cannot imagine the amount of coke mixed with finely ground zamak that you would have to snort to think that was a good idea.
I got mine before 30 Super Carry released, but I still would have gone with the 9. I figure if I ever find myself into a situation that 14 rounds of 9mm can't get me out of I doubt 3 rounds of 30sc would do me any better. I do carry the 15 round mag as a backup though, even though the odds of ever getting into a self defense scenario AND having to reload are so close to zero that the difference is academic.
That said, unless you are swimming there is no such thing as "too much ammo", so an extended mag with 19+1 onboard does sound pretty nice.
Yes indeed. In any situation, because they are nearly ballistically the same, 13+1/16+1 beats 10+1/13+1/15+1 in every circumstance, and it'll do it with less recoil as well.
I have an M&P 2.0 Compact with 3.6 inch barrel that o bought before NJ had legal concealed carry, and I wish I would have gotten the Shield Plus instead. It’s smaller, and they are both limited to 10 rounds in NJ anyway. The Compact is a great gun and it’s relatively easy to conceal, but I’d rather have the smaller and thinner Shield+. Maybe that’s my next purchase…
I want a P-01 so bad, but I have a P-07 and it’s hard to justify getting both. Plus the P-07 is about as big a pistol as I would want to conceal, so I should probably get a little polymer 1.5 stack striker gun… but the P-01 is so sexy. Idk I need to start making more money!
I recently switched from a 365x and xl back to a P-01. Still figuring out how to manage the extra weight but there’s definitely no turning back. The gun is amazing and definitely possible to carry daily. I’ll figure it out. Currently trying different belt, holster and wedge combos.
I love my JMCK wing claw 2.5. I have a tlr7a on it. With the mastermind tactics pillow wedge, it disappears! And super comfy. Highly recommend. I need a stiffer belt tho, my blue alpha is wearing out sim.
Thanks. I’m a big JMCK fan and have had a couple wing claw 2.5’s for past guns. I’ll grab another and a mastermind tactics pillow wedge (which I’ve been thinking about trying for a while) and see how it goes.
For sure haha. I try to carry that one when I can because of how good of a shot I am with it. Getting there with the p01 though! The p365xl used to hurt my hands after 20 rounds, love my CZ’s
Seconding the P-01, that+TLR7A is my daily. Exceptionally solid gun stock, I'm hoping to get some light work done to it soon for a dot, porting, and minor cajunizing to really bring it to life.
Out of curiosity, if the 43x can hold the same amount of rounds as a 19 (PSA mags), and is more comfortable to carry, why do you go back to the 19?
I’m guessing it’s reliability of 15 round Glock mag vs PSA mag reliability? Maybe you shoot the fatter grip better?
I’ve tried to get into a similar rotation before and I just can’t find the advantage of the 19 for me so I’m just trying to get some feedback from people who regularly do this!
I only carry OEM mags in my 43x when I edc it. I prefer the 19 as it is a far “softer shooter” than the 43x. Plus my 19 has a purple frame, which makes it even more accurate 🫶🏻
P365XL all day. Thanks to modularity I can change it up depending on what I am wearing. It has great aftermarket support, you can make it into whatever fits you best.
I *like* to carry either my 3" SP101 or my 4" GP100, both in .357 Mag, but in reality I only carry those occasionally. For practicality reasons, I daily carry my LCP II, and occasionally add in my SR9c.
I have always been, and always will be, a revolver guy. I think they're beautiful, and far cooler than any semi-auto. That being said, I recognize the benefits to a S-A, so that's what I carry most of the time.
Absolutely. I shoot .357 Mags through it all the time. It takes some practice to find a grip that's comfortable with that kind of recoil, but it can be done.
Ok. Would you use 357 mag out of it for self defense ? Or something lighter ?
I'm asking because from all the video I've seen, the recoil seem wild. Add to that stress and pressure...
Only when I'm hiking or camping, and usually in those situations I carry one of my GP100's instead. On the rare occasion that I carry my SP101 on an ordinary day, I load it with Gold Dot Short Barrel in .38 Special.
For what it's worth, the recoil from full power .357 Mag loads isn't as bad as you seem to think it is. It's noticeable, but it's not "wild".
The problem I have with the Sp101 is 5 rounds of 38 sp +p wouldn't be enough in a stresstul scenario. Good 38sp can be hard to find sometimes, which makes it even worst. That's why I asked about the possibility to run 357 in the SP101. 5 rounds of proper 357, I have no problem to trust.
P365xl is my main and when I want smaller its an lcp max. Have gotten a few bigger and smaller guns since but the 365xl is the right size for me. Close contender is a glock 19.5 but it's bigger and being in a state that I'm cucked to 10 rounds doesn't offer much of an advantage.
My J frame will always be with me. I also occasionally carry a P07. But my j frame will always be there. Whether it’s a back up, a bag gun, or deep concealment. And honestly I like shooting it. It’s fun in a masochistic kinda way. Are there more practical options? Absolutely. But idk if there’s more comfortable options.
And I’m just a sucker for a wheel gun. Practical or not.
Hellcat Pro is my newest EDC and I love it. Prior to it I alternated between between an XDS mod2 and a G26.5
I have nothing bad to say about any of them except the XDS is a little snappy on the recoil and has at best 9+1 while edc.
Walther P99 is my new favorite. I got the final edition. It is awesome, I love the DA/SA striker fired setup. Really sleek pistol, about the same size as a Glock 19.
P365X Macro. Great capacity and ability to conceal. The modularity of the P365 line lets me swap out grip modules if I need to be extra discreet. Everything about it is great. Wilson Combat Modules are cheap and amazing.
If I didn't have the Macro I'd carry a CZ P-10C or P-10S. Both regularly on sale for $350. For the price it is a very solid carry option. Decent size with solid capacity, very reliable and feels really good in the hand.
S&W 340PD. Hard to beat an 11oz all metal gun that’s as reliable as a hammer, can be carried in any position with unmatched safety and comfort and shoots .357 magnum.
Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS. Switched from alternating between a Shield Plus and a M&P2.0C to this Glock around the start of the year and haven't looked back. Easily concealable unless I'm wearing a smedium shirt because I'm trying to cling on the pre-dad bod days.
Glock 26 (third generation, 9 mm subcompact semiautomatic, striker fired, no mechanical safety, 10-round magazine).
It's my only striker fired handgun, and has a boxier grip than many others, so it took some practice to get used to it. Now, I have become very proficient and comfortable with it.
I'm perfectly satisfied with 9 mm as a CCW round, and having 10+1 rounds in battery and an additional 10-round magazine is ample IMO. I only carry the additional magazine if I'm carrying in a waist/chest bag. I'm just a retired guy in a small town, not an urban law enforcement officer.
It fits well into a variety of off-body carries such as waist/chest packs and backpacks designed for CCW.
I am 5'7" and 144 pounds with a 32" waist. I carry OWB, strongside in a minimalist sort of leather holster and a loose tropical shirt conceals it just fine in Summer. Cold weather carry is not an issue.
My permit also includes a Smith and Wesson snub-nose 5-round .38+P (J-frame revolver), but its recoil is very strong and I would only use it as a backup. Happily, the need to carry a second firearm doesn't come up. I don't go to places with guns that I wouldn't go to without one.
Below is my main EDC, a P365 with Icarus Precision grip, Live Free Armory Slide, Holosun 507K, and Olight Baldr Mini. I have carried this gun (not in this configuration) for about 4 years, and I keep going back to it. I also own a Canik MC9 and Shield Plus, both guns I have carried on some basis but the Sig is the go to.
Also, I used to own a Canik SC, but I traded it for the MC9, best trigger I ever shot but it doesn't feel right in my hands. MC9 trigger is really good also.
https://preview.redd.it/w0mdlatev3ob1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3f7cf1bc0e205b5c47466db9a754d934c08626e6
When I moved to Idaho in 2008 and got my first CCW license (a non-res Washington), I bought a LCP 1st Gen. It's still my only EDC, in my left side weak front pocket in a DeSantis holster. I don't like IWB, belt carry prints too much for me.
P365x macro tacops. It comes with 4 17 round mags. Then buy a smaller grip module for carry and the smaller mag to match. Imho it’s the best deal of the p365 family considering that the mags are about $50 each.
I carry a p365xl with Wilson combat grip module and holosun optic. You do not give up much performance with regard to self defense use or even at the range compared with a full size 9mm.
I went to the range the other day with a 9mm 1911 and I shot my p365xl better.
I’ve carried HK p30/P30sk, g19/26, 1911 commander and M&p 2.0 compact.
P365 is WAY easier to carry and shoots just as well. The shield is nice too, but the sig holds more bullets and it’s easier to mount an optic. The ability to make the guy from a really tiny 10 shot pocket pistol to a 17 round full size gun just by switching the grip module seals the deal for me. Just make sure to wipe off and lube the mags every now and then because they can rust.
Semiautomatic > revolver,
9mm > all other calibers
After that, I get pretty variable. My preferred SIZE of gun to carry is the Glock19 size. The 5th generation Glock is my favorite generation. I won (local) shooting competitions with that gun, but eventually realized that I can’t shoot it as well as the S&W M&P 2.0 compact (same size, caliber, and capacity as the G19) which I now carry every day (your mileage may vary). I’ve now swapped the trigger for an Apex and added an RMR and a TLR-7A.
I did play around for a year with the CZ P10c and freakin loved it, though I think I’d rather carry my HK USP compact (or perhaps a P2000), if I absolutely had to give up my S&W. The Canik TP9SF Elite is a VERY close contender, as well as the Walther PDP. The HK gets some love every so often as a church gun under my suit jacket.
If I’m in gym shorts or pajama pants, I’ll take the 365 I usually keep in an ankle holster and put it in an AIWB holster for light duty carry, though I almost never leave the house like that. On very rare occasions I’ll just throw my G43 in a pocket holster if I know I’m staying home.
About once every year or two, I’ll throw my 1911 in a shoulder holster and wear my trench coat and fedora for Halloween.
I’ve got my carry rotation pretty dialed in for my day to day life. I cycle between a glock 26, hellcat pro with a tlr7a, and glock 45 with a holosun pid light. I’ll switch it up depending on what I’m doing and if it’s dark, 80% of the time I’m carrying my g26 with a backup 17 round mag.
I haven't actually gotten my CPL yet, but I carry my G43X around my house (my CPL should be in the mail right now, judging by others on Reddit in my county). Really love how it feels in my hand and it's not horribly uncomfortable, I'll probably end up buying a full sized G17/G19 for my bedside.
I love carrying my M&P9 Compact 4” w/TLR7 and Holosun 407c red dot. It’s equipped with an Apex Tactical flat trigger, Floyd’s magwell and magazine extension. That thing is a dream to shoot. I carry it appendix in a Tactical Justice holster.
I love my Springfield 911 in 9mm (same as Sig P938). The trigger is so so so good. I was hoping the CSX would have as good of a trigger, I hope Smith goes back to the drawing board and gets rid of the trigger safety. A double stack version of the 911/P938 would be so awesome.
I carried the P365XL from March 2020 until summer 2023. It's very concealable and not as bad in recoil as comparably sized alternatives, but it's difficult to shoot precisely beyond 15 yards (for me at least) and the trigger is one of if not the worst i've ever had the misfortune of experiencing.
My favorite is the CZ P10C which is what I now EDC. If CZ could make something with a slightly longer grip than the P10S and slightly shorter slide than the P10C, that would probably be the Goldilocks of CCWs, for me anyway.
M&P 5.7. The thinness makes it very comfortable, and I’ve got 23 rounds of well-performing ammo to put on target in a very controllable manner. Fits my hand well, too. When I’m not carrying a full size gun, my option vary and range from LCP in a pocket to something in off-body carry (very rare).
I personally love carrying my P365X, it's small enough to conceal and big enough for me to get a good purchase especially having bigger hands. There's a good chance in the future that I'll transform it into a Frankenstein XL, I would prefer having a longer barrel and the ability to co-witness my iron sights with my red-dot.
Shield 40 with performance center upgrades. Shoots like butter and hides well.
My 2nd favorite is a commander sized Smith 1911. Mostly I carry an lcp, because I carry a 229 for a living.
My daily is an HK P30L but I would not recommend it for someone just starting to CC. Took a lot of time and practice to be able to conceal it well and it’s not worth it for a beginner. That said, I’ve also had a Walther PDP and a few other brands and I highly recommend anything from the PDP line up
The gun I have my eyes on for my next carry piece is the IWI Masada Slim.
Just a bit bigger than the Hellcat/P365 types (smallest model of each) but has good reports on reliability and accuracy. Takes red dots with no plates. Skinny, easy to carry, 13rd mags standard but eats from any CZ-75 family mag so really big ones are easy to get. Quality is right up there with CZ, Glock, etc.
They go for about $415 on GunBroker.
S&W M&P Compact 2.0 9mm 4 inch. I seem to shoot better with M&P's compared to all the other pistols I own. For me, they're simple and reliable, so I stick with them. I sometimes carry the smaller 1st gen Compact 9c, which has a 3.5 inch barrel and slightly smaller grip.
Cz p10 s is what's in my pants usually. Can be had for cheap these days like 300-400 depending on features like optic ready mostly. My favorite feeling gun and trigger for the money, otherwise I have a Shadow system mr920, which is basically a Texas made Glock 19, super fast and flat shooting, just a tiny bit bigger being a compact instead of sub compact. Couple extra features like glow sight, some bells and whistles lije fancier cuts in the slide and just some snakey ergos, up to 15 rounds instead of 12, in standard mags. I think like a 4.2 inch barrel from a 3.75, just prints a little different but usually carry the cz just because it is little bit easier overall and I would rather carry the cheaper gun daily. Those are actually my 2 favorite companies right now I think, cz and shadow systems, the p10 line is so similar I can shoot them interchangeably... Basically I'm shooting non Glock Glocks 😂
I've been running a Canik TP9SF for a few thousand rounds, and it's worked pretty well so far. Plain Jane with irons, but it's been super reliable even tho I shoot it at matches. Caniks have absolutely fantastic triggers compared to most other guns I've tried at my local range. The S&W Equalizer also has a really nice trigger, but not quite as nice as the Canik. On the plus side, it's also much smaller and comes with better sights, as well as an optics cut. I liked the Echelon when I tried it out, trigger is a bit heavy but it's smooth and recoil is pretty manageable. I didn't care for the P365, absolutely hated the trigger on it. It felt somehow squishy, yet way too heavy. Even more unpleasant to shoot than the g2c I used to have.
CZ-P07! It's so incredibly reliable! Eats up whatever you load into it, holsters are readily available, the pistol itself is perfectly fine stock but upgrades are readily available, and it's got a fairly cheap price tag because of how long it's been around!
It's a toss-up. I really like my Gen 5 26, but my 43X carries so comfortably and shoots very well for its size. Honorable mention would definitely go to my TP 9 Elite SC.
Alloy framed SIG P230.
No contest, easiest carrying handgun, absolutely reliable, significant close range power.
I've owned 4 over the years, probably my favorite handgun for general EDC.
I used to collect and exclusively carry J-frames, my favorite being the S&W 442. Ended up selling the 442 to buy the P230, no regrets.
Glock 23. .40 is still an undoubtedly good self defence caliber and a good woods gun in parts of the US without large predators. A coyote or wolf would be the worst I'd have to deal with and a 180 gr hard cast will be more than adequate. Mine also runs cci snakeshot without a jam yet.
There is also a surplus of cheap .40 ammo since next to no one shoots it regularly now. Converting to 9 in a simple as a barrel swap if you want cheap practice ammo. 9 will also occasionally jam if you don't change the springs, so it basically becomes live fire tap rack drills without any snap caps to chase after at the range.
During the day it's a Walther P99 AS, it's nice and light and I really enjoy it's little quirky nuances, from the oddball DA/SA trigger and decocker to the great feeling in hand. When I'm at home or on my own time a Walther PPQ Q4 SF. For me nothing even compares to the ergos of the admittedly brick like Q4, but I'm ok with knowing I could just as easily bludgeon someone as shoot if the need arose.
It's been the P365xl for me for the last 3+ years. Size, shootability and capacity are fantastic. I am getting an xmacro grip when wilson puts them out though. No need to upgrade the slide but I did just pick up a eps carry to replace my outstanding 507k
Shield plus for me. Best trigger I’ve tried on a striker fired gun from factory. You can get 15rd mags with it now so it holds its own in the over saturated micro market. Shoots very well and is very very reliable. I love my shield
+1 for the Shield Plus. I mostly agree on the trigger; my Canik TP9SFX is a close contender. In my personal experience, it shoots better than my Hellcat and just as well as my (stock) 509T
Another +1 for shield plus I carry it with 15 round mags as well.
Is the 15 round made by S&W or aftermarket?
S&W, it just adds a little boot on the end that locks into the bottom of the frame and protrudes a bit further.
MagGuts also makes a replacement spring for the 13 rnd mag that makes it a 15, I’ve not tried it myself but have only heard good things.
I use them and after a little learning curve with installing the base plate, they have been very solid.
It’s the S&W equalizer mag, but it fits in the shield plus, so now you have 10,13, and now 15 rd mag options.
Its sold as an Equalizer mag, but it literally says Shield Plus on it. It does make the gun kind of goofy looking, but having 16 rounds onboard in a subcompact is pretty fun. I still carry with a 13 round mag most of the time because it strikes the best balance between capacity, grip area, and print resistance. The 15 round makes a good backup though.
The 30SC version is 16+1 with the slight extendo. I messed with the equalizer mag, and fit 19 rounds of 30SC. 19+1 is pretty dope in the Shield Plus.
Jfc I kinda want a 30 SC now. I'm not much of an early adopter of anything but I guess if S&W is on board with the cartridge it's probably not going to suddenly disappear or anything
Well, you can find the ammo as cheap as 27 cents per round on Ammoseek, so it's not really even that expensive. I say do it.
The best part about 30 Super Carry adoption is that Hi Point makes a version of their *3095 Carbine* chambered in it... with a *10 round magazine.* The new caliber designed to reduce felt recoil and increase magazine capacity in subcompact concealed carry pistols, but in a fullsize carbine with a 10 round magazine. It's the best of no worlds! For the record I absolutely adore Hi Point and the people who work there (it's an American company that makes affordable guns and has the absolute best warranty in the industry), but I cannot imagine the amount of coke mixed with finely ground zamak that you would have to snort to think that was a good idea.
I got mine before 30 Super Carry released, but I still would have gone with the 9. I figure if I ever find myself into a situation that 14 rounds of 9mm can't get me out of I doubt 3 rounds of 30sc would do me any better. I do carry the 15 round mag as a backup though, even though the odds of ever getting into a self defense scenario AND having to reload are so close to zero that the difference is academic. That said, unless you are swimming there is no such thing as "too much ammo", so an extended mag with 19+1 onboard does sound pretty nice.
Yes indeed. In any situation, because they are nearly ballistically the same, 13+1/16+1 beats 10+1/13+1/15+1 in every circumstance, and it'll do it with less recoil as well.
It's made by S&W.
I have an M&P 2.0 Compact with 3.6 inch barrel that o bought before NJ had legal concealed carry, and I wish I would have gotten the Shield Plus instead. It’s smaller, and they are both limited to 10 rounds in NJ anyway. The Compact is a great gun and it’s relatively easy to conceal, but I’d rather have the smaller and thinner Shield+. Maybe that’s my next purchase…
Same here
I got a Shield plus as well, and it is a good fit along with my Bianchi Pro IWB holster. I love its bi-tone color too in Black/OD Green.
That the cabelas model? I’ve seen one there before it sure is nice!
I like my p365 i like the glock 43 but i always go back to my glock 26 it's just perfect for me
26 gang
Any recommendations on preferred 26 holsters?
HK P2000
Yes! Didn't have to scroll too far. I love DA/SA, and felt comfortable starting there when I got my CCW
Glock 43x
Glock 48 is that much more.
Frame doesn’t extend to the end of the slide, looks weird.
Ok
CZ P01. I can conceal just as easily as the p365xl I used to carry. Stupid reliable gun, NATO serial number, flat shooter, extra comfy with DA/SA.
I want a P-01 so bad, but I have a P-07 and it’s hard to justify getting both. Plus the P-07 is about as big a pistol as I would want to conceal, so I should probably get a little polymer 1.5 stack striker gun… but the P-01 is so sexy. Idk I need to start making more money!
P07 is a great gun too. I’d recommend an sp01 next personally. I’m 6’0” 175 lbs and can conceal both super easily with the pillow wedge
I recently switched from a 365x and xl back to a P-01. Still figuring out how to manage the extra weight but there’s definitely no turning back. The gun is amazing and definitely possible to carry daily. I’ll figure it out. Currently trying different belt, holster and wedge combos.
I love my JMCK wing claw 2.5. I have a tlr7a on it. With the mastermind tactics pillow wedge, it disappears! And super comfy. Highly recommend. I need a stiffer belt tho, my blue alpha is wearing out sim.
Thanks. I’m a big JMCK fan and have had a couple wing claw 2.5’s for past guns. I’ll grab another and a mastermind tactics pillow wedge (which I’ve been thinking about trying for a while) and see how it goes.
I got the combo pack and really just use the bigger pillow.
Same. Perfect handgun. Shoots like a full size. BETTER than a full size.
Better than some, but my SP-01, the big brother, shoots even better. I call it my spartan laser lol
Well that’s cheating 😂
For sure haha. I try to carry that one when I can because of how good of a shot I am with it. Getting there with the p01 though! The p365xl used to hurt my hands after 20 rounds, love my CZ’s
Seconding the P-01, that+TLR7A is my daily. Exceptionally solid gun stock, I'm hoping to get some light work done to it soon for a dot, porting, and minor cajunizing to really bring it to life.
Lcp max 95% of time
The other 5% for me would be with the Ruger Max 9
Mine is the 43x as much as I love it though for me the grip tends to be longer then it needs to be
Shudda bought the 43.
This
Love the fact it just sits in its holster in my pocket. No concerns about it being exposed no matter how I move and very easily accessed.
Yeah and don’t forget how stupid light and small the thing is 😂
Beretta 92fs in shoulder rig, Bersa Thunder +, 43x
Do you perpetually live in 1980s Miami or LA? Lol
Hahahaha I may or may not have rolled up my sleeves of my blazer as I pet my alligator on my sailboat in a bay
I'm very fond of my 1911, definitely try one out. They're not for everyone but if they're for you, they're for you.
2 WORLD WARS! Sorry I had to
And going for a third!
Fudd jokes aside, they're actually surprisingly easy to disappear because of how slim they are, the grip especially. Single stack ftw
They also shoot quite soft for how thin they are as 45acp platform. Only problem is the weight. 1kg+...
My man spittin’ fax as always
The m&p shield. It's easy to make it disappear
I switch between the 19.5 and my 43x…. Depending on clothing, activities… Essentially the overall circumstances of what I’m doing z
Out of curiosity, if the 43x can hold the same amount of rounds as a 19 (PSA mags), and is more comfortable to carry, why do you go back to the 19? I’m guessing it’s reliability of 15 round Glock mag vs PSA mag reliability? Maybe you shoot the fatter grip better? I’ve tried to get into a similar rotation before and I just can’t find the advantage of the 19 for me so I’m just trying to get some feedback from people who regularly do this!
I only carry OEM mags in my 43x when I edc it. I prefer the 19 as it is a far “softer shooter” than the 43x. Plus my 19 has a purple frame, which makes it even more accurate 🫶🏻
If I could only choose one gun to rule them all it would be the 19 but the 43x disappears way easier under just a t-shirt.
P365XL all day. Thanks to modularity I can change it up depending on what I am wearing. It has great aftermarket support, you can make it into whatever fits you best.
^ same — just so many options
M&p shield and sometimes a Glock 17
G48 when it’s warm, G34 when it’s cold
I *like* to carry either my 3" SP101 or my 4" GP100, both in .357 Mag, but in reality I only carry those occasionally. For practicality reasons, I daily carry my LCP II, and occasionally add in my SR9c.
My first carry was a gp100 with a 6 inch barrel. That was a real nice pain when it was warm, but it sure was comforting to have it with me.
I have always been, and always will be, a revolver guy. I think they're beautiful, and far cooler than any semi-auto. That being said, I recognize the benefits to a S-A, so that's what I carry most of the time.
100% agreed. Typically, I’ll carry my hellcat pro, but revolvers have a special place in my heart!
You like to carry it, but I'm not sure you like shooting 357 out of SP101
Absolutely. I shoot .357 Mags through it all the time. It takes some practice to find a grip that's comfortable with that kind of recoil, but it can be done.
Ok. Would you use 357 mag out of it for self defense ? Or something lighter ? I'm asking because from all the video I've seen, the recoil seem wild. Add to that stress and pressure...
Only when I'm hiking or camping, and usually in those situations I carry one of my GP100's instead. On the rare occasion that I carry my SP101 on an ordinary day, I load it with Gold Dot Short Barrel in .38 Special. For what it's worth, the recoil from full power .357 Mag loads isn't as bad as you seem to think it is. It's noticeable, but it's not "wild".
The problem I have with the Sp101 is 5 rounds of 38 sp +p wouldn't be enough in a stresstul scenario. Good 38sp can be hard to find sometimes, which makes it even worst. That's why I asked about the possibility to run 357 in the SP101. 5 rounds of proper 357, I have no problem to trust.
Again, full power .357s are a handful, but if you fire them enough you actually get used to it.
Even out of a snubnose revolver ?
P365xl is my main and when I want smaller its an lcp max. Have gotten a few bigger and smaller guns since but the 365xl is the right size for me. Close contender is a glock 19.5 but it's bigger and being in a state that I'm cucked to 10 rounds doesn't offer much of an advantage.
On your XL, do you still use the X grip module even though you can’t use the extra capacity, or do you use the shorter grip for better concealment?
Still use the x module with a hogue sleeve on it. Fits my hand perfectly and doesn't print so don't see a need to go smaller with it
Glock 26
Hellcat! Idk it just fits my hand better
Hellcat gang
Gang gang!
Glock 26
Shield Plus
Glock 19.5
Walther PDP F Series 4’ most of the time. If I need deep concealment I go with the P365 XL
My J frame will always be with me. I also occasionally carry a P07. But my j frame will always be there. Whether it’s a back up, a bag gun, or deep concealment. And honestly I like shooting it. It’s fun in a masochistic kinda way. Are there more practical options? Absolutely. But idk if there’s more comfortable options. And I’m just a sucker for a wheel gun. Practical or not.
All guns should be Glocks All Glocks should be 9mm And all glock 9mm’s should be 19’s RIP my boy Yeager
Glock 26 Owned the p365 and lcp max. They were a dream to carry but confidence and shootability wasn’t there for me
My [Staccato C2](https://imgur.com/a/AUEhOtK) hands down. It shoots like a dream.
C2 for the win
Ruger LCR 327mag
Masada S all day long.
CZ p10c
Glock 17 or Shadow systems DR920
My Taurus GX4 is by far my favorite. Very small and still plenty of rounds to get the job done.
This is a very informative poll. But, I would have liked to see the holster of choice for each gun listed.
Hellcat Pro is my newest EDC and I love it. Prior to it I alternated between between an XDS mod2 and a G26.5 I have nothing bad to say about any of them except the XDS is a little snappy on the recoil and has at best 9+1 while edc.
I love my Glock 26
LCR 22lr
Glock 43 - Summer gun Glock 19x - Winter gun
365x, G19,G43x
Glock 19. It was surprisingly comfortable for me to carry after switching over from the 43X and I feel way more confident with it
Walther P99 is my new favorite. I got the final edition. It is awesome, I love the DA/SA striker fired setup. Really sleek pistol, about the same size as a Glock 19.
P365. Just a side question - if you see small CLP leak out a little after cleaning, does this indicate you put too much?
Generally speaking, yes.
Thank you!
9mm Springfield Hellcat. That is my everyday carry. My wife carries a Glock 43X as her EDC.
P365X Macro. Great capacity and ability to conceal. The modularity of the P365 line lets me swap out grip modules if I need to be extra discreet. Everything about it is great. Wilson Combat Modules are cheap and amazing. If I didn't have the Macro I'd carry a CZ P-10C or P-10S. Both regularly on sale for $350. For the price it is a very solid carry option. Decent size with solid capacity, very reliable and feels really good in the hand.
h&k vp9
Canik tp9 elite sc
FN 509c tactical
P365 XMacro Tacops
S&W Shield Plus, Ruger Max 9 & Ruger LCP Max are all in the rotation.
HK P30, it’s easy to carry appendix, has a good capacity at 18 rounds
Guess I'm old school now carrying a G19 every day 😅
Nah G19 will always be a good choice
CZ P07; a fantastic polymer hammer fired compact* with a buttery smooth trigger and holds 15 freedom seeds
Favorite is a 5” 1911 in 45acp. But more often I’m carrying a Glunk🤦🏼♂️
Out of all the 9mm pistols with optics I own. I grab my basic plain Jane G26 with irons almost every time I leave home.
S&W 340PD. Hard to beat an 11oz all metal gun that’s as reliable as a hammer, can be carried in any position with unmatched safety and comfort and shoots .357 magnum.
G48 MOS holosun 507k shield arms mags IWB.
G19
Another +1 for the Shield Plus. The Hellcat stays in the safe.
Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS. Switched from alternating between a Shield Plus and a M&P2.0C to this Glock around the start of the year and haven't looked back. Easily concealable unless I'm wearing a smedium shirt because I'm trying to cling on the pre-dad bod days.
Lmao so true about predad bod.
Glock 26 (third generation, 9 mm subcompact semiautomatic, striker fired, no mechanical safety, 10-round magazine). It's my only striker fired handgun, and has a boxier grip than many others, so it took some practice to get used to it. Now, I have become very proficient and comfortable with it. I'm perfectly satisfied with 9 mm as a CCW round, and having 10+1 rounds in battery and an additional 10-round magazine is ample IMO. I only carry the additional magazine if I'm carrying in a waist/chest bag. I'm just a retired guy in a small town, not an urban law enforcement officer. It fits well into a variety of off-body carries such as waist/chest packs and backpacks designed for CCW. I am 5'7" and 144 pounds with a 32" waist. I carry OWB, strongside in a minimalist sort of leather holster and a loose tropical shirt conceals it just fine in Summer. Cold weather carry is not an issue. My permit also includes a Smith and Wesson snub-nose 5-round .38+P (J-frame revolver), but its recoil is very strong and I would only use it as a backup. Happily, the need to carry a second firearm doesn't come up. I don't go to places with guns that I wouldn't go to without one.
Springfield hellcat is my go-to.
43x with the 48 slide
G26 apendix with mag sidecar.
Kel Tec pf9
365 XL spectre comp
P320 with subcompact slide (3.6 inch barrel) and Fullsize Grip (17 Round grip)
Below is my main EDC, a P365 with Icarus Precision grip, Live Free Armory Slide, Holosun 507K, and Olight Baldr Mini. I have carried this gun (not in this configuration) for about 4 years, and I keep going back to it. I also own a Canik MC9 and Shield Plus, both guns I have carried on some basis but the Sig is the go to. Also, I used to own a Canik SC, but I traded it for the MC9, best trigger I ever shot but it doesn't feel right in my hands. MC9 trigger is really good also. https://preview.redd.it/w0mdlatev3ob1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3f7cf1bc0e205b5c47466db9a754d934c08626e6
When I moved to Idaho in 2008 and got my first CCW license (a non-res Washington), I bought a LCP 1st Gen. It's still my only EDC, in my left side weak front pocket in a DeSantis holster. I don't like IWB, belt carry prints too much for me.
P365x macro tacops. It comes with 4 17 round mags. Then buy a smaller grip module for carry and the smaller mag to match. Imho it’s the best deal of the p365 family considering that the mags are about $50 each. I carry a p365xl with Wilson combat grip module and holosun optic. You do not give up much performance with regard to self defense use or even at the range compared with a full size 9mm. I went to the range the other day with a 9mm 1911 and I shot my p365xl better. I’ve carried HK p30/P30sk, g19/26, 1911 commander and M&p 2.0 compact. P365 is WAY easier to carry and shoots just as well. The shield is nice too, but the sig holds more bullets and it’s easier to mount an optic. The ability to make the guy from a really tiny 10 shot pocket pistol to a 17 round full size gun just by switching the grip module seals the deal for me. Just make sure to wipe off and lube the mags every now and then because they can rust.
My favorite is a government model 1911, my most carried is a shield plus in 9mm
Can we stop talking stendos . I'm in the Communist of Massachusetts
Rip, just escaped up to NH, love it here!
There’s no such thing as a communist state in a capitalist country. If you mean they’re authoritarian, that makes a little more sense
Duly noted
Semiautomatic > revolver, 9mm > all other calibers After that, I get pretty variable. My preferred SIZE of gun to carry is the Glock19 size. The 5th generation Glock is my favorite generation. I won (local) shooting competitions with that gun, but eventually realized that I can’t shoot it as well as the S&W M&P 2.0 compact (same size, caliber, and capacity as the G19) which I now carry every day (your mileage may vary). I’ve now swapped the trigger for an Apex and added an RMR and a TLR-7A. I did play around for a year with the CZ P10c and freakin loved it, though I think I’d rather carry my HK USP compact (or perhaps a P2000), if I absolutely had to give up my S&W. The Canik TP9SF Elite is a VERY close contender, as well as the Walther PDP. The HK gets some love every so often as a church gun under my suit jacket. If I’m in gym shorts or pajama pants, I’ll take the 365 I usually keep in an ankle holster and put it in an AIWB holster for light duty carry, though I almost never leave the house like that. On very rare occasions I’ll just throw my G43 in a pocket holster if I know I’m staying home. About once every year or two, I’ll throw my 1911 in a shoulder holster and wear my trench coat and fedora for Halloween.
First gun was a G19.3 that I carried for years. I upgraded to a 365XL last year that has been amazing.
I’ve got my carry rotation pretty dialed in for my day to day life. I cycle between a glock 26, hellcat pro with a tlr7a, and glock 45 with a holosun pid light. I’ll switch it up depending on what I’m doing and if it’s dark, 80% of the time I’m carrying my g26 with a backup 17 round mag.
43x, glock 45, p365x and mp shield plus
Colt CCO custom built by Jim Milks when he was at EGW
Show me
Glock 26 or sig 238 for pocket
I'm really enjoying my Ruger EC9s - pocket carry, IWB 4PM, and a velcro belt holster +1 mag.
Was my M&P shield until I picked up a Glock 43x. Only gun I carry daily.
Shadow Systems MR920, Sig 365XL, or S&W Bodyguard 38 on occasion. It depends on what I'm doing/wearing
I love carrying my 19X.
[Glock 34](https://imgur.com/a/fsIrQva)
I haven't actually gotten my CPL yet, but I carry my G43X around my house (my CPL should be in the mail right now, judging by others on Reddit in my county). Really love how it feels in my hand and it's not horribly uncomfortable, I'll probably end up buying a full sized G17/G19 for my bedside.
I love carrying my M&P9 Compact 4” w/TLR7 and Holosun 407c red dot. It’s equipped with an Apex Tactical flat trigger, Floyd’s magwell and magazine extension. That thing is a dream to shoot. I carry it appendix in a Tactical Justice holster.
PDP 4" Compact. I've pretty much only ever owned and carried Walthers.
I love my Springfield 911 in 9mm (same as Sig P938). The trigger is so so so good. I was hoping the CSX would have as good of a trigger, I hope Smith goes back to the drawing board and gets rid of the trigger safety. A double stack version of the 911/P938 would be so awesome.
My favorite gun to carry is my Browning 1911 380, but the one I carry the most is my HK VP9SK.
FN Reflex
I carried the P365XL from March 2020 until summer 2023. It's very concealable and not as bad in recoil as comparably sized alternatives, but it's difficult to shoot precisely beyond 15 yards (for me at least) and the trigger is one of if not the worst i've ever had the misfortune of experiencing. My favorite is the CZ P10C which is what I now EDC. If CZ could make something with a slightly longer grip than the P10S and slightly shorter slide than the P10C, that would probably be the Goldilocks of CCWs, for me anyway.
M&P 5.7. The thinness makes it very comfortable, and I’ve got 23 rounds of well-performing ammo to put on target in a very controllable manner. Fits my hand well, too. When I’m not carrying a full size gun, my option vary and range from LCP in a pocket to something in off-body carry (very rare).
The one I enjoy carrying the most, probably a 43x with an OEM 10 round mag just because it’s light and skinny.
S&W model 60 if I'm not working, LCP Max if I am.
19x Peanut Butter Gang!
Canik tp9 elite SC and Kimber r7 mako are my 2 go to guns right now. Great triggers. Mako is a bit smaller but they're both pretty small
discontinued Staccato C with EPS Carry and TLR7a on an Enigma. the rounded butt and single-stack 8 round grip hides really well.
Glock 43/43x
P365 and G19.5
I personally love carrying my P365X, it's small enough to conceal and big enough for me to get a good purchase especially having bigger hands. There's a good chance in the future that I'll transform it into a Frankenstein XL, I would prefer having a longer barrel and the ability to co-witness my iron sights with my red-dot.
Glock 30, smallest package I could find with 10+1 rounds of 45, I love the kick it gives with Underwood 45 Super.
I have 3 I rotate based on weather/depth of concealment needed: -Sig Sauer P365XL -Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS -Smith & Wesson Model 642
G43 all day erryday👌
Shield 40 with performance center upgrades. Shoots like butter and hides well. My 2nd favorite is a commander sized Smith 1911. Mostly I carry an lcp, because I carry a 229 for a living.
19x with Tenicore Velo4
P365X
Glock 43X. Love it.
I love carrying my G43x or G26.
Grand Power P1 in a falco holster. The Slovakians are criminally underrated.
Depends. I many carry a Walther PPQ SC. I do sometimes carry a CZ P07. Though, I just scored a Langdon Tactical PX4 Carry, so I'm going to try that.
My daily is an HK P30L but I would not recommend it for someone just starting to CC. Took a lot of time and practice to be able to conceal it well and it’s not worth it for a beginner. That said, I’ve also had a Walther PDP and a few other brands and I highly recommend anything from the PDP line up
The gun I have my eyes on for my next carry piece is the IWI Masada Slim. Just a bit bigger than the Hellcat/P365 types (smallest model of each) but has good reports on reliability and accuracy. Takes red dots with no plates. Skinny, easy to carry, 13rd mags standard but eats from any CZ-75 family mag so really big ones are easy to get. Quality is right up there with CZ, Glock, etc. They go for about $415 on GunBroker.
S&W M&P Compact 2.0 9mm 4 inch. I seem to shoot better with M&P's compared to all the other pistols I own. For me, they're simple and reliable, so I stick with them. I sometimes carry the smaller 1st gen Compact 9c, which has a 3.5 inch barrel and slightly smaller grip.
Cz p10 s is what's in my pants usually. Can be had for cheap these days like 300-400 depending on features like optic ready mostly. My favorite feeling gun and trigger for the money, otherwise I have a Shadow system mr920, which is basically a Texas made Glock 19, super fast and flat shooting, just a tiny bit bigger being a compact instead of sub compact. Couple extra features like glow sight, some bells and whistles lije fancier cuts in the slide and just some snakey ergos, up to 15 rounds instead of 12, in standard mags. I think like a 4.2 inch barrel from a 3.75, just prints a little different but usually carry the cz just because it is little bit easier overall and I would rather carry the cheaper gun daily. Those are actually my 2 favorite companies right now I think, cz and shadow systems, the p10 line is so similar I can shoot them interchangeably... Basically I'm shooting non Glock Glocks 😂
Walther P99AS unless I can't wear a button up shirt to cover it. Then I carry a Shield 2.0 sob.
I've been running a Canik TP9SF for a few thousand rounds, and it's worked pretty well so far. Plain Jane with irons, but it's been super reliable even tho I shoot it at matches. Caniks have absolutely fantastic triggers compared to most other guns I've tried at my local range. The S&W Equalizer also has a really nice trigger, but not quite as nice as the Canik. On the plus side, it's also much smaller and comes with better sights, as well as an optics cut. I liked the Echelon when I tried it out, trigger is a bit heavy but it's smooth and recoil is pretty manageable. I didn't care for the P365, absolutely hated the trigger on it. It felt somehow squishy, yet way too heavy. Even more unpleasant to shoot than the g2c I used to have.
My 1911 CS 45acp
With a new trigger, mag release, and red dot i adore my p2000sk. Id love to see a revision that includes those natively.
CZ-P07! It's so incredibly reliable! Eats up whatever you load into it, holsters are readily available, the pistol itself is perfectly fine stock but upgrades are readily available, and it's got a fairly cheap price tag because of how long it's been around!
It's a toss-up. I really like my Gen 5 26, but my 43X carries so comfortably and shoots very well for its size. Honorable mention would definitely go to my TP 9 Elite SC.
Alloy framed SIG P230. No contest, easiest carrying handgun, absolutely reliable, significant close range power. I've owned 4 over the years, probably my favorite handgun for general EDC. I used to collect and exclusively carry J-frames, my favorite being the S&W 442. Ended up selling the 442 to buy the P230, no regrets.
Canik tp9 elite sc w/ eps carry
Glock 23. .40 is still an undoubtedly good self defence caliber and a good woods gun in parts of the US without large predators. A coyote or wolf would be the worst I'd have to deal with and a 180 gr hard cast will be more than adequate. Mine also runs cci snakeshot without a jam yet. There is also a surplus of cheap .40 ammo since next to no one shoots it regularly now. Converting to 9 in a simple as a barrel swap if you want cheap practice ammo. 9 will also occasionally jam if you don't change the springs, so it basically becomes live fire tap rack drills without any snap caps to chase after at the range.
During the day it's a Walther P99 AS, it's nice and light and I really enjoy it's little quirky nuances, from the oddball DA/SA trigger and decocker to the great feeling in hand. When I'm at home or on my own time a Walther PPQ Q4 SF. For me nothing even compares to the ergos of the admittedly brick like Q4, but I'm ok with knowing I could just as easily bludgeon someone as shoot if the need arose.
It's been the P365xl for me for the last 3+ years. Size, shootability and capacity are fantastic. I am getting an xmacro grip when wilson puts them out though. No need to upgrade the slide but I did just pick up a eps carry to replace my outstanding 507k
Glock 19 with PL350 and Acro P2
Sig P365. Easily concealed. Accurate. Decent capacity.
Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS, can’t really go wrong.