Best sub-compact semi-auto for the money?

[GOODWIN]

I just completed my handgun permit class and in the market for a new "carry" handgun. I'm also on a student budget so that limits me somewhat. I'm particularly interested in the Kel-Tec PF-9 and the Ruger LCP. They both seem reasonbly priced. Anyone have experiece with these or other similar handguns? Open to suggestions/opinions. Thanks.

 

[Kimberman]

I have an LCP, and so far I like it. I havent put many rounds through it yet, but it hasnt malfunctioed yet and is very easy to put in your pocket. I have a little more confidence in my S&W model 638 in 38 spl. I can shoot it a little better, and I like the 38+p round better than a .380.

 

[LCU]

I carry a Glock 27.
10 shots of.40 in a subcompact size is a ton of firepower.
Only pistol I trust to go bang if my life depended on it.

 

[Allen Sullivan]

I have a glock 9mm and a Kel-Tec 380 which I carry the most

 

[rdl65]

I carry a Kahr P9 in an Alessi IWB holster and like it better than any other I've carried. Easy to conceal and don't weigh much.

 

[jcb9901]

I carry a kahr CW9 lower priced version of the p9 above.very easy to conceal

 

[TNhunter]

Springfield XD Subcompact 9mm or 40 cal. If you want a pocket pistol check out the Keltec PFAT (.380).

 

[Model70Man]

When my permit gets here I will be carrying my Kahr P45.

 

[big 8s in Weakley county]

I carry a Glock 27.
10 shots of.40 in a subcompact size is a ton of firepower.
Only pistol I trust to go bang if my life depended on it.

I just bought one yestaurday and i love it. IT is what i will be carrying just got to get a holster already have a permit

 

[GOODWIN]

I wouldn't mind getting another 9mm so I could use the same ammo for both my handguns...and have little more stopping power than the .380. If it's too big then I won't carry it. I like the design of the kel-tec and ruger. does anyone know if the ruger LCP comes in 9mm?

That said I'm still not dead set on a semi-auto. Any companies make a reliable revolver with a cheap price tag? $400 is about my limit right now. What about a light weight revolver?

 

[BIGORANGE]

I wouldn't mind getting another 9mm so I could use the same ammo for both my handguns...and have little more stopping power than the .380. If it's too big then I won't carry it. I like the design of the kel-tec and ruger. does anyone know if the ruger LCP comes in 9mm?

That said I'm still not dead set on a semi-auto. Any companies make a reliable revolver with a cheap price tag? $400 is about my limit right now. What about a light weight revolver?

The LCP is not made in 9mm only .380. As far as the light weight revolver goes I would look at the Smith and Wesson model 637 Airweight it is a j-frame 5 shot rated for +p ammo. I think they run just a little over 400.00 at Sportman's Warehouse.

 

[Asaltwpn1]

My brother just got the Kel-tec p9 and after many rounds says it's awsome. Very lightweight and slim design. Not a bad price at $250 either. Mine is in the mail on its way.

 

[Hatchee]

You can get an Airweight S&W for $400 about anywhere. I've got the Bodyguard that I really like but I'd like to get a 642.

 

[Trapper John]

You said semi-auto but don't discount a good revolver. I have a S&W 642 that I absolutely love. Excellent pocket gun.

 

[Gravey]

That said I'm still not dead set on a semi-auto. Any companies make a reliable revolver with a cheap price tag? $400 is about my limit right now. What about a light weight revolver?

Look at the S&W model 642 Airweight. It shoots 38's and 38+P. I bought one last year and you can put it in your front pocket and never know it's there. I believe I gave $409 + tax and background check for a new one.

 

[Kimberman]

The S&W 642 is DAO, and doesnt have a hammer to snag in your pocket or on your clothes. The S&W 638 has a shrouded hammer that doesnt snag, but can still be cocked so you have a lighter trigger pull for range/precision shots. I like Smith revolvers, but if they are out of your price range, Taurus makes alot of snubbies in different configs. The price difference between a Smith and a Taurus is usually around 50$, and for 50$ I will go with the Smith every time.

 

[BGobbler]

i carry a glock 30 compact and 10 rounds of 45 will kill anything i will be shooting at. shoots great and no more recoil than a 40

 

[BGobbler]

you should be able to find a good used one for 400.00 to 450.00

 

[BZ911]

Springfield XD Subcompact .nuff said!!!

 

[LCU]

I carry a Glock 27.
10 shots of.40 in a subcompact size is a ton of firepower.
Only pistol I trust to go bang if my life depended on it.

I just bought one yestaurday and i love it. IT is what i will be carrying just got to get a holster already have a permit

a Glock is one heck of a pistol. I carry mine in a smartcarry,because it is so easy to put on and take off. I wear it in the summer with shorts and a tee shirt.

 

[GOODWIN]

I carry a Kahr P9 in an Alessi IWB holster and like it better than any other I've carried. Easy to conceal and don't weigh much.

Okay I've gained more interest in the Kahr Pm9 and P9. I like the slim, lightweight design. Gonna go price them a few places.

 

[GOODWIN]

Well looked around a little today and all I can say is wow! Handgun sales are through the roof! Selection is minimal right now, at least around Memphis. Some can't even order from the company. Being on a student budget the Kel-tecs are now looking a little more appealing. Although I couldn't find many of them. Would $246 OTD be a decent price on a used P11 considering the demand right now?

 

[LCU]

It's because everyone in Memphis has a pistol.
At least all the bad guys do, of which there are plenty of.

 

[GOODWIN]

It's because everyone in Memphis has a pistol.
At least all the bad guys do, of which there are plenty of.

They steal theirs from people like me that are purchasing them legally.

Sales are crazy right now. Handgun classes are full. I hand to stand in line for an hour and a half yesterday just to get fingerprinted. Got to also love those guys in the local gunshops wearing Obama t-shirts...all I can do is shake my head.

I just purchased a P11 on Gunbroker so my search is finally over hoping this deal goes through. Now comes the problem of finding ammo. I've got some 9mm ammo but not much. Need to probably get a few mags as well.

 

[moondawg]

Well looked around a little today and all I can say is wow! Handgun sales are through the roof! Selection is minimal right now, at least around Memphis. Some can't even order from the company.

It was that way several months ago. Top Brass in Millington has been busy with classes as well. Looks like ammo selection is also minimal. If you happen to see a gun you like, go ahead and buy it. You can pay more for a guy now, or wait for a few weeks/months and maybe get a deal. Me, I'd buy the gun now.

 

[LCU]

Must be due to the fear of a new fed admin banning carry permits.

If more than 7 states have banned hand held cellphone use in autos,and 3 other states about to pass banning all cell phones in autos, including hands free bluetooth, how long can we expect to be able to legally carry pistols?

 

[LCU]

I still suggest a used Glock subcompact for a carry pistol.
Used Glocks are repaired free by the factory.
Used as as good as new with a Glock.

I like having 10 shots of .40 in a subcompact sized pistol.