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gun type for CCW/accuracy

blueskiesblueskies Member Posts: 95 ✭✭
edited February 2008 in Ask the Experts
I accidentally posted this message incorrectly in the general messages forum earlier. [B)]

I need your opinions please on deciding the type and caliber of semi-auto pistol to purchase. I know these questions have been asked but I could find them during my search. I will be using it primarily for target shooting (of course) and it will be my primary concealment weapon. I would like the pistol's shooting capability to be within 2 inches at 25 yrds but cost comes into consideration. I am over 6' and feel I can conceal a 1911 so I don't belive the stub noses are a necessity (and the accuracy issue). My hands are rather large and Glocks just don't feel comfortable. The most comfortable I have found are the Sigs (239), S&W M&P, and Springfield's XD. I have looked primarily at 40 cal due to its smaller frame and capasity but I am open to 45 suggestions. I plan on shooting various models prior to purchase, but I would like them narrowed down prior to range study. Any thoughts on concealment, accuracy vs price, reliability, 40 vs 45 (cost, etc), and any other considerations are greatly appreciated.

Thank you in advance.
Blueskies
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Comments

  • Laredo LeftyLaredo Lefty Member Posts: 13,451 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    This question comes up a lot. Since your a big guy with big hands, you might like one of the Para full size .45s. The Springfield XDs are also excellent guns.

    In your last sentence... " I plan on shooting various models prior to purchase" you've sort of answered your own question.

    I would suggest selecting maybe 4 models your considering, shoot & handle them, then make you decision.
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  • Mk 19Mk 19 Member Posts: 8,170
    edited November -1
    Joe is right on this, it is going to come down to the gun that fits you the best. Shooting handguns is all about fit, if a gun does not fit you well you are not going to be able to shoot it well. However if a gun fits you like a glove then you will be able to shoot the gun much better. I personally do not care for the Glocks and XD's, they are great guns but they do not fit me. A Sig 226 or CZ-75 is a perfect fit for my hand, so those are the bast fit for me. What is best for you? I can not answer that question, that would be like buying you a pair of shoes, they might work for me, but they wouldn't fit you at all.

    What is the best cartridge? The best Bullet design? That is a easy question. The best one is the one that is accurate and reliable through your gun.
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  • allechalleyallechalley Member Posts: 888 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    I agree with the others, but it sounds as if you want a target pistol and a carry gun all in one. While this is somewhat possible to an extent, it is unlikely to satisfy both. The pistols you mentioned are fine, but for carry, espec. in warm weather, how do you intend to conceal it? The other point you need to remember is that this weapon will likely be on your person for 8 to 10 hours. Weight becomes real noticeable after awhile. The large frames sometimes feel like they are pulling your pants down slowly.
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  • gsmyth64gsmyth64 Member Posts: 68 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    You will find allot of opinions on this subject, and I even have a few my-self. It has always been my thought that in a carry gun, absolute reliability is your first priority because should you ever NEED it, you will at that moment need it to work more then anything else you ever needed to work in your life. I think at the moment the Springfield XD's may be at the top of the heap. Now for concealability, I sort of like the Bersa/Firestorm .380's.
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  • Aaron.Combs1Aaron.Combs1 Member Posts: 217 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    i am a 5'9" 140 lb guy and i can CC a HK 40 USP (winter) glock 26 (summer) with ease. but yeah try out different models. caliber. i like the .40 but since your bigger you might want the .45
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  • dcs shootersdcs shooters Member Posts: 10,870 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    The S&W M&P 45 would be my first choice followed by the XD45 [:)]
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  • XracerXracer Member Posts: 1,990 ✭
    edited November -1
    My "carry gun" for the last 35+ years has been a Series 70 Lightweight Commander in .45ACP. Over the years, I've "tricked it out" & "tweaked it" some to suit my personal preferences & comfort.

    But.....if I were going to buy a "new" CCW gun, it would be a Kimber Pro Carry II. http://www.kimberamerica.com/pistols/compactprocarry/procarry.php
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  • Dangerous TDangerous T Member Posts: 119 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    I would reccomend a CZ75 or Taurus PT in .40 S&W. You really can't get a better bang for the money. I own those guns, bu in 9mm. I like CZ 75 better then I like glock 17

    Just my 2 cents
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  • md1634md1634 Member Posts: 644 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    The Para p-14 LDA is also a pistol to think about,especially if you have big hands. The grip is pretty thick but you get an accurate double action gun with a very good trigger pull and 14 rounds of .45 acp.
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  • SkeedaddySkeedaddy Member Posts: 95 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    How 'bout a wheel gun? Perhaps something in a 38 special (+P) with a 3" barrel.....
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