for NOTPARS

TeleDetective

Yes, by "suicide switch" I mean the decocking lever which also acts as a safety- our department policy was safety on ALWAYS, required one to push the decocking lever forward prior to pulling the trigger (not much different than the thumb safety on the 1911). We called it the suicide switch...I respectfully disagree with your dad- the 380 will hurt, it will kill, if one-shot stop is an issue get a .45 or .357. I trust my wife's life to a Keltec P-32 (.32 cal) w/ Winchester Silver tips- she knows to empty the gun into the stupid bastar... uh well you know. Try visiting Smith and Wessons web site at www.smith-wesson.com for information onthe various .40sConsidered the SW 340? five shots of .357 or 38 (w/+P is good enough) weighs only 12 oz (thats light) my father-in-law has one and carries where he can.

NOTPARS

For TeleDetective: Thank you sir for the information. I have been considering a Smith Auto, I believe its the 4013 model, in .40 caliber and compact but not as small as the Chief's Special. How would you rate Smith's auto pistols, in accuracy and reliability, say as opposed to Beretta, Glock, and Sig? Like I said, I am looking for a .40 caliber but not as big as the Rugers.Thanks!

TeleDetective

I consistantly shot higher than 95% with a 3913 on our law enforcement qualification course which included prone supported shots at 25yrds. NEVER MALFUNCTIONED, fired over a thousand rounds, at least. It shot as well as my glock 27 and a Beretta 92. My 3913 did not shot as accurate as a competition ready 1911. Remember, your buying a self-defense weapon not a match competition weapon. S&W is reliable, which is more important than group size at 50 yrds. At 10 yrds or less you should knock a large ragged hole in the center of the target with most any 4" barreled handgun. The shorter barrel will affect you accurancy, a little, a longer distances. Check natural point, let that guide your decision. Enjoy your S&W.[This message has been edited by TeleDetective (edited 03-10-2002).]