Best carry self-defense caliber for you?

SPC Randy Torgerson — Fri, 26 Sep 2014 23:15:20 -0400

This is a subjective question. Nobody can anticipate every circumstance and condition. So this discussion is about whats best for you.... Vote below and tell us why?

Response by CPL Corey Aldridge made Sep 27 at 2014 12:38 AM

CPL Corey Aldridge — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 00:38:13 -0400

Glock 19 in a 9mm it is highly accurate loose action means less chance of a stove pipe or jam. It will get the Job done. That is a personal choice however what one is familiar with and has ran enough rounds through to be comfortable with Your self defense weapon should be closer than your wife you need to not just be familiar with is you need to know it inside and out total darkness or in the light. Both your and your loved ones lives depend on that

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Sep 27 at 2014 5:55 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 05:55:02 -0400

The choice is obvious.......

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 27 at 2014 9:51 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 09:51:43 -0400

I have to go with my Sig 229 in S&W .40. Hits harder than 9mm and smaller than a .45

Response by SGT Richard H. made Sep 27 at 2014 10:21 AM

SGT Richard H. — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 10:21:30 -0400

I went with .380.....I would have chosen 9mm at any time in the past, but I recently picked up a Glock 42 after looking at nearly every .380 out there. Yes, it's a small round, but it's also a small frame that is easy to conceal in just about any attire.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2014 4:30 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 16:30:23 -0400

9mm, Sometimes a .40, .380 or even a .25 or .32.

I make sure to carry something whenever I can.

a .22 in your pocket is better than a .45 at home.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2014 5:33 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 17:33:07 -0400

I shoot a .40 Taurus and keep it in my gun purse. Has a laser on it too for extra accuracy. Beretta 9mm is a great and easy weapon to use. But glocks are the easiest and smoothest to shoot for me. I'm just speaking about cheaper weapons not the fancy and pricey handguns out there.

Response by SGT Kristin Wiley made Sep 29 at 2014 5:57 PM

SGT Kristin Wiley — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 17:57:42 -0400

Anything smaller than a 9mm isn't going to be sufficent for self-defense. If you really want a pea-shooter, the psychological factor may be your best bet to stop the bad guys. Something is better than nothing. Big gun = big purse. Guys need to find better hiding places.

Response by Cpl Kyle Nicholson made Sep 29 at 2014 5:57 PM

Cpl Kyle Nicholson — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 17:57:24 -0400

all around reliable calaber would have liked a .40 but the 9 is the next best in mho

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2014 7:39 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 19:39:11 -0400

I'm all about a .45acp. It's what I carried in combat and in Law Enforcement. A slower round but great knock down! But in the civilian world I have grown fond of my Ruger LCP. It's a .380 I carry Hornady Critical Defense rapid expansion ammunition. They're 90 grains of kick ass. I carried the Critical Defense 185 grain in .45 as duty ammo Anyways I like the LCP because it's small compact and I can hide it just about anywhere on me. Another caliber I like not mentioned is .357sig

Response by SPC David S. made Sep 29 at 2014 7:57 PM

SPC David S. — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 19:57:07 -0400

Glock 30S .45 But go to the range and become very proficient with you side arm. Learn to shoot with left and right. Or you could just be a bad ass like this guy and use whatever the bad guy is using.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RnlLeWLS5Iw

Robbery Victim Takes Shotgun From Robber in New Orleans

The NOPD is asking for the public's help in finding an armed robber who found himself on the run after the victim turned the tables. Investigators say the wh...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2014 7:58 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 19:58:22 -0400

As long as you don't short change yourself with cheap ammo, 9MM is plenty.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Sep 29 at 2014 10:24 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 22:24:37 -0400

I must say.... quite a selection! I have a Ruger Single 6 .22 with LR and Mag cylinder...good for fishing and deer hunting (I load bird rounds and a couple bullets for just in case), have a Taurus PT 145 that I carry sometimes, but mostly a car carry, and a Taurus TC738 .380 for general carry. I own no 9mm. ANYTHING that you have in the situation you need it is better then leaving it at home.....

Response by SFC Jason Bautista made Sep 29 at 2014 10:26 PM

SFC Jason Bautista — Mon, 29 Sep 2014 22:26:30 -0400

9mm is all you need as a carry caliber...However, a weapon is only as good as its handler. So on that note, spend more time and money on training and less about big caliber sizes.

Response by SFC Boots Attaway made Sep 30 at 2014 12:15 AM

SFC Boots Attaway — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 00:15:11 -0400

I prefer the knock down power.

Response by SSG Clint Browning made Sep 30 at 2014 9:55 AM

SSG Clint Browning — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 09:55:50 -0400

Small frame pistol with decent mag capacity.

Response by SSG Maurice P. made Sep 30 at 2014 10:30 AM

SSG Maurice P. — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 10:30:38 -0400

I WAS TRAINED IN THE MARINES WITH THE .45 AUTO AND I LOVE THE DAMAGE THAT IT DOES....... WHY THE MILITARY WENT TO THE 9MM I DONT KNOW GIVE ME A .45 ANYDAY

Response by SSG Jacob Wiley made Sep 30 at 2014 2:01 PM

SSG Jacob Wiley — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 14:01:58 -0400

Colt 1911 Mark IV 70 Series, Clark Custom.
Match grade barrel, Heinie sights, frontstrap checkered, trigger job.
Beautiful piece of awesomeness.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2014 2:03 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 14:03:20 -0400

I have a great Ruger LC-9 that is super compact, has great capacity, tritium sights, and is extremely reliable and accurate. More importantly - ammo is plentiful, fairly affordable, and I can train on it frequently.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2014 4:28 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 30 Sep 2014 16:28:42 -0400

My opinion is, carry the most potent round that you can. That may be a .380 some days, and a .45 on others. If concealment werent an issue I'd have a .45 on me all the time. I usually split the difference and carry a .40 (Glock 27) fall - Spring, and a .380 in the summer. Sometimes I slip a .45 into the rotation during the winter when I can conceal it.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2014 12:36 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 12:36:24 -0400

Although the round I feel is best and is left off is the .40 Good knockdown power similar round count to the 9mm without the over-penetrating problem. Also firm believer that you need to practice and be proficient with whatever weapon you choose. Unfortunately to many people buy them and carry or use them as nightstand protection without firing them regularly to maintain proficiency.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2014 7:54 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 19:54:19 -0400

Going with 9mm of the choices here. Because there are many subcompact and some pocket ones to choose from. But truthfully the best self defence weapon is the one you shoot well and accurately. And also have the most range time on. I personally carry a Beretta Nano or a Sig Sauar M11A1 both in 9mm. But I would love to have a Sig 226 or 229 in 357 sig.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Oct 1 at 2014 10:24 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 22:24:35 -0400

I have an old .45 Detonics that I have carried for decades SOB on a Brown & Pharr belt clip. same length but thinner than a snubby .38. 3# trigger, a lot of out of the box custom work, Packy grips, two spare mags. I sometimes just grab my Makarov. If headed for the badlands my Glock .40 LS.

Response by SrA Marc Haynes made Oct 1 at 2014 11:21 PM

SrA Marc Haynes — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 23:21:45 -0400

My summer weapon is a Glock 26 9mm & my winter weapon is a Sig .357. I am thing of getting an XDS .45 for my summer carry.

Response by PO2 Joe Kunsch made Oct 1 at 2014 11:43 PM

PO2 Joe Kunsch — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 23:43:23 -0400

Glock 19. Best Pistol I have ever shot. I have two of them and I'm turning one into a racegun for IDPA competition.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Oct 2 at 2014 12:35 AM

Cpl Dennis F. — Thu, 02 Oct 2014 00:35:54 -0400

I noticed a few comments regarding summer/winter guns and the 1911 being too large to carry. I live in the deep south and carried my Detonics forever and it is only marginally smaller than the std. Colt combat commander. I have never had a printing or carry problem even with a T-shirt, although I don't use a holster Just a belt clip and it sits low on the belt line in small of back. As to weight, the aluminum framed Star .45 is small/light enough to EDC but possibly not robust enough to shoot regularly.

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Oct 2 at 2014 8:28 PM

CMSgt James Nolan — Thu, 02 Oct 2014 20:28:21 -0400

Glock 27 (.40cal), tritium sights( if you don't have night sights, you are WRONG). Concealable, reliable, accurate. Carried for years, without issue.

Response by SPC Darin Taylor made Oct 2 at 2014 8:46 PM

SPC Darin Taylor — Thu, 02 Oct 2014 20:46:20 -0400

A Glock 26 Gen4 on my hip and a Sig Sauer P290 RS concealed with an extra magazine for both. A Springfield XD at home in case my family needs protection while I'm gone.

Response by MSgt Eric Petersen made Oct 3 at 2014 12:29 AM

MSgt Eric Petersen — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 00:29:41 -0400

Good mix of conceal ability and firepower.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2014 1:11 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 13:11:18 -0400

I like the old .45, and for closer contact I have a collection of swords, daggers, bayonets, throwing stars,/knives, and knives. And, YES, I keep them sharp!

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Oct 3 at 2014 4:45 PM

MAJ Jim Woods — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 16:45:31 -0400

Actually I have 3 that I carry depending on what I am wearing.
.380 with shorts
9mm with pants but no coat
.40 with everything else.

I used to carry a Combat Commander in .45 but the polymer framed pistols are much less weight.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2014 10:55 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 22:55:23 -0400

Sling shot and a Bible,
they both hurt.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2014 11:00 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Oct 2014 23:00:59 -0400

XD .45.. Love it.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2014 2:15 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Oct 2014 02:15:54 -0400

I have a SA XD9 compact. Love it. Small enough for easy concealed carry. Double stack mags mean I can bring plenty to a fight, fits very comfortably in my hand, and the recoil is very controllable. I can easily put multiple consecutive rounds on target in a short time. And if I ever want to change caliber, it's just a matter of swapping out for another XD barrel of the same length and getting the appropriate mag. I've tested this theory with my SO's XD 40.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2014 10:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 22:41:18 -0400

I carry the Ruger .380 auto mainly because it is soneasy to conceal.

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Oct 28 at 2014 11:51 PM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 23:51:47 -0400

There is such a little difference between the 9mm and .45 regarding 'knock down' ability. I carry a Glock 22 with a 9mm barrel. I practice...a lot. I am looking to purchase a new 9mm for EDC, maybe a Sig...

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2014 8:30 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Oct 2014 08:30:21 -0400

I live in Maryland, so... a rape whistle and a flashlight.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Oct 29 at 2014 8:49 AM

SSG Tim Everett — Wed, 29 Oct 2014 08:49:58 -0400

I've shot just about everything under the sun as far as calibers for small arms and handguns go. I am not a small man: I have big hands and the upper body strength necessary to control my sight picture. Therefore, I go with .45 for my home defense. I now possess my grandfather's 1911, I own a Kimber and a Wilson 1911-pattern, and I also have a Springfield XD45 LE. If I get the drop on anyone entering my house, he ain't walking out of there on his own power. Personally speaking, I don't feel that a 9mm will do the job.

I used to advocate something along the lines of "anything that isn't of a caliber starting with a 4 and ending with a 5 isn't good enough". After thinking it through, my new stance is "shoot what you can handle". Some people just can't handle anything more than 9mm for whatever reason: hands too small, not enough upper body strength, etc.

Response by TSgt Phillip L. made Nov 7 at 2014 4:04 PM

TSgt Phillip L. — Fri, 07 Nov 2014 16:04:49 -0500

Boy....no one gun for every situation, but 10mm sure makes a good try at it!

90% of my conceal carry guns are 40S&W. My bear gun is a 44mag (329pd). my BUG is a 637CT which rides in a pocket or on my ankle (38S+P) I've got a backup BUG which usually rides in another pocket...which is a North American 22MAG. But it's a 3rd option, last option.

9mm makes a solid people gun, but in climates where people where big coats, and workwear...I prefer a bit more punch. My little brother enjoys his selection of 380's, I try to keep to as few different calibers as possible.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2014 4:10 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Nov 2014 16:10:42 -0500

Im not too familar with any handgun other than a 9mm.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 7 at 2014 4:23 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 07 Nov 2014 16:23:31 -0500

I have a Glock 19, I'm able to conceal it very well, and 9mm practice ammo is affordable for me. Federal HSTs (when you can find them) fit the bill perfectly for me.

Response by SGT Duane Turner made Nov 9 at 2014 11:06 AM

SGT Duane Turner — Sun, 09 Nov 2014 11:06:12 -0500

the wife carries a .380 (Ruger LCP) and I carry a 9mm (Ruger LC9S). Both are very accurate, dependable handguns. Even tested the .380 on some water jugs, and I have zero concern with the .380 the wife has.

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Nov 9 at 2014 11:18 AM

LTC Paul Heinlein — Sun, 09 Nov 2014 11:18:38 -0500

If an Aircraft Carrier or M1 Abrams tank is not available, I usually have a .40 S&W.

But, first rule of a gunfight is to have a gun.....so the best carry defense weapon for me is whatever I happen to have at the time.

Response by SGT Charles Kime made Nov 10 at 2014 12:26 AM

SGT Charles Kime — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 00:26:35 -0500

EDC is 25 rounds of 230 grain Golden Saber and a 5" 1911. I have wide hands but short fingers, so single-stack for me.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2014 12:48 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 00:48:28 -0500

I selected .45 because .40 wasn't available. I carry on a daily basis my .40 Glock 22

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 10 at 2014 3:25 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 15:25:51 -0500

IMHO, a .45 ACP is too impractical to carry as a concealed self defense weapon. That's not to say I would not carry it in an open carry capacity. The .380 or .22 Mag are perfect for concealed carry. My concealed carry weapon of choice is my Taurus .380. I've tried the Rugar LC9 and the Taurus PT145 Pro and both are just too bulky for concealed carry.

Response by PO1 John Pokrzywa made Nov 10 at 2014 6:47 PM

PO1 John Pokrzywa — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 18:47:08 -0500

I believe in the theory that the mouse gun you have with you is better than the small cannon you left at home, so I went with .380 just for the many concealed carry options. Currently I carry (concealed) a full size 9mm, (and like .45s) but on days I carry I'm severely limited in what I can wear, not to mention comfort issues. A .22mag might be OK too, but we're hitting diminishing returns at that point I think.

Response by PO3 Anthony Farhner made Nov 10 at 2014 8:36 PM

PO3 Anthony Farhner — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 20:36:22 -0500

The 9mm was adopted by the US military in the 1980's to help streamline supply within NATO countries. With that being said, the .45 auto has greater stopping power. Combine that with a hollow point round and one shot stops what is being targeted.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2014 9:33 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Nov 2014 09:33:13 -0500

I have and have carried, .380, 9mm, .40, and .45 though. Not a huge fan of .380, 9mm all depends on ammunition selection, .40 is very snappy, .45 will do the trick in just about every scenario no matter the round...

Response by SrA Jay Strauser made Nov 11 at 2014 10:20 AM

SrA Jay Strauser — Tue, 11 Nov 2014 10:20:35 -0500

Taurus .45 it is compact and has stopping power.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2014 10:30 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 11 Nov 2014 10:30:37 -0500

I prefer my .45 ACP when I carry, because I like the stopping power. There are times when I do carry my 9mm because situation dictates.

Response by SGT William Howell made Nov 13 at 2014 1:10 PM

SGT William Howell — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 13:10:43 -0500

I am a .45 guy, but what you carry is dictated by what you are doing and wearing. I usually carry a .32 Tomcat in the summer and will move to a Para 1911 in the winter.

Response by CPT Steven Harder made Nov 14 at 2014 1:48 PM

CPT Steven Harder — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 13:48:14 -0500

Depending on the day, time, place . . . I carry either a SIG 2022 .40 or .357sig and/or a P9R 9mm. (Depends on which barrel and mag I have in at the time.) On rare occasions, I will care a PA63 or R61, both in 9x18MAK.

Response by SPC Jack Hunt, JR made Nov 14 at 2014 2:13 PM

SPC Jack Hunt, JR — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 14:13:15 -0500

.40 But I'm partial to that now. I couldn't afford the .45 I wanted

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2014 11:16 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 23:16:03 -0500

I prefer my Glock 23 in .40 cal. I like the reliability of the Glock, which has been proven over and over. I also like the "ready safe" mechanism and lack of external hammer (won't get caught on clothing). It's also compact enough so it's easily concealed, but holds a solid 13 rounds. The ammo I carry with it will also do the job very well should the need arise.

Response by Sgt Philip Edwards made Nov 16 at 2014 4:37 PM

Sgt Philip Edwards — Sun, 16 Nov 2014 16:37:56 -0500

I read this somewhere once in a magazine, "The .45ACP puts very big holes in very bad people."
I tend to agree with that. Springfield XD 4", cant beat 13 rnds of 45.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Nov 16 at 2014 4:42 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Sun, 16 Nov 2014 16:42:36 -0500

9 Mil with special ammo from Cor-bon, JHP, DPX or Glaser safety slug depending. Projectile impact is what matters.

Critically the best self defense weapons is the one you have on you ALL the time. Currently the "Armed Forces" are prohibited from being armed. Come support us in our efforts to change that.
https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/arm-the-armed-forces

Arm the Armed Forces! | RallyPoint

The outcome of the discussion "Concealed carry for CAC holders?" by [~222148:SGT Bernard Boyer III]. Below follows my skeleton letter to congress, based on the edits RP members have suggested to the 10 points. Anyone and everyone is welcome to edit and personalize the letter for their own use in writing to their congressional representatives. We sent a mass email on 3 January, the swearing in of the new congress, now it's a free for all. You...

Response by SMSgt Kevin Connair made Nov 18 at 2014 11:13 PM

SMSgt Kevin Connair — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 23:13:12 -0500

Depends on circumstances, .357 can also make for an excellent ccw/cw. The .22 is very much a lethal round with good shot placement. 9mm is readily available, has adequate knock down power with good shot placement and is inexpensive for practicing. .45 is almost as cheap to practice with, and has the most knock down power for the above mentioned common semi auto rounds. Ultimately whatever you have on you when you need it, along with enough experience, and the right kind of practice to make sure you can put rounds on target under stress makes for the best ccw/cw.

Oh, and yes I said practice, and not just punching holes in paper, but proper draw/shoot/move drills, dry fire drills and practice, and more live fire drills and practice. I augment live fire with "realistic" air soft pistols. You can shoot tens of thousands of "rounds" (cheaply), building muscle memory, practicing with left, right, and both hands, drawing and re-holstering, etc., and in most cases, you can do all of that in your own back yard, even in the city.

Response by PO2 Steven Erickson made Nov 19 at 2014 12:15 AM

PO2 Steven Erickson — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 00:15:50 -0500

Carry the largest caliber YOU can quickly draw and accurately fire. A .22LR in your hand is infinitely better than a .44 magnum on your dresser...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 12:28 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 00:28:36 -0500

I went with 9mm. The reasons I stated in another thread, but I'll repost it here.

1. Good self defense ammo available closes the gap with .45 ACP
2. Cheaper to shoot meaning I can afford to practice more often
3. Higher capacity
4. Easy for my wife and kids to shoot

While shot placement is key, in a stressed situation my accuracy will likely suffer. I prefer to have more rounds to send down range. One .45 in the torso versus three 9mm. I’ll go with three. More organ damage, more blood loss.

That said, while I most often carry a 9mm I also own other calibers and from time to time carry them. If in a rush and wearing just a pair of gym shorts I'll sometimes just slip my Ruger LCP .380 in my pocket. Any caliber on you is better than the hand cannon left at home.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 19 at 2014 4:13 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Nov 2014 04:13:32 -0500

I'm a huge fan of the Taurus "Judge". Chambered for either .410(shot gun) or .45 Colt.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Nov 20 at 2014 5:18 AM

Sgt Packy Flickinger — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 05:18:21 -0500

You said weapon, not handgun. I'm going to say belt. Easily unobtrusive, you can take it on a plane, good for defense against a knife, can add distance and power to your attacks and it can be deadly. It's a very capable weapon.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2014 10:16 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 10:16:08 -0500

i personally carry ruger sr40 and i also have an M&P40c. i never have a problem finding .40 ammo vs looking for .45 and 9mm always being on shortage and priced high due to inflation.

Response by SFC Dave Joslin made Nov 22 at 2014 2:03 PM

SFC Dave Joslin — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 14:03:58 -0500

I carry a TCP 380 or a S&W .40. It all depends on what I'm wearing and where I'm going. The wife carries an LC9 and always her 800,000 volt taser!

Response by SFC Dave Joslin made Nov 22 at 2014 2:09 PM

SFC Dave Joslin — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 14:09:42 -0500

i enjoy scanning through the comments. Most CCL instructors will tell you it doesn't matter what you carry, JUST CARRY! If you get into a shoot/don't shoot scenario, the receiver of your decision is not likely really measuring the diameter if your barrel. Most folks don't want to be shot by anything. Statistics will show that most situations are mitigated by the draw alone, if it gets that far.....size does matter however if you get yourself into a gun on gun situation, and that's when operator ability is most critical. A 12 year old driving a Ferarri will lose a race to Jimmy Johnson in Pontiac everyday of the week!

Response by SPC Gary Scott made Nov 22 at 2014 6:45 PM

SPC Gary Scott — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 18:45:45 -0500

I carry a Ruger 1911 .45. I choose .45 for its knock down power. I practice drawing and firing from a concealed carry at least once every two weeks. If you don't practice drawing from concealment you will not be able to draw and fire when the time calls for it.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 25 at 2014 4:04 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 16:04:44 -0500

Pocket Knife, concealed carry legal in all 50 states.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2014 5:11 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 17:11:20 -0500

Currently, nothing as I am stationed overseas. On a day to day basis, I am never without my Smith & Wesson M&P Shield in 9mm. Once i return, this will become my wife's and I'll switch to the M&P Shield .40, the frames of both are identical, and perfect for concealment.

Response by SSgt Jim Rooth made Dec 9 at 2014 1:47 PM

SSgt Jim Rooth — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 13:47:14 -0500

Nothing more convincing than a caliber that starts with a 4!
Carry a .40 cal as my personal weapon but everyone once in a while carry my Colt Commander .45. Either way , practice, practice, practice...

Response by MSgt Bj Jones made Dec 10 at 2014 8:40 PM

MSgt Bj Jones — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 20:40:30 -0500

I can't decide. I'd take all of them. I have an ambidextrous 9MM Ruger. I told my husband I want 9MM Ruger Revolver since my Ruger needs a sibling. I believe you should have a gun for each hand.

Response by LTJG Robert M. made Dec 11 at 2014 12:39 PM

LTJG Robert M. — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 12:39:35 -0500

9mm plus second mag, tactical pen, knife, flashlight, and keys.

Response by LCpl Clif Crosswhite made Dec 11 at 2014 12:58 PM

LCpl Clif Crosswhite — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 12:58:57 -0500

I've got 2 my wife carries one and i carry the other I've got a Glock42 and a para 1911 commander

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2015 8:55 AM

MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Jan 2015 08:55:15 -0500

.380 is solid enough. Plus, do you truly conceal carry a .45? If so, great. But, for me, I want a weapon that is not cumbersome.

If you're worried about stopping power, then you might not have the true intent of a concealed weapon. If I ever feel the need to pull out my weapon to defend my life, I'm not looking to slow you down. Too many variables. I'm looking to take you out. My .380 has enough gusto to turn the lights out; assuming I group my shots well enough.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2015 3:43 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Jan 2015 15:43:15 -0500

I carry a Military .45 for the punch it packs. It is a large carry piece, but it puts my mind at ease.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Jan 28 at 2015 4:05 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Wed, 28 Jan 2015 16:05:09 -0500

Former gun dealer here.

When we are talking carry, the choices above really don't give a good representation.

The .22 doesn't have the take down power. The .380 (like a keltec) is a great concealed piece, but it's essentially a low powered 9mm.

The 9mm is "snappish" but you get a lot of rounds in a magazine (15-17) compared to the 7+1 of the 1911 .45.

The .45acp is the defining standard of take down power though. It's a slow big bullet, which when people get hit, they fall down, and bleed to death.

One caliber not show, which others have mentioned is the .40 S&W. It's the best of both worlds, between the .45 & the 9mm.

In a stressful situation, chances are you are going to get 1/3 of your rounds on target (police data shows that), at under 7 yards. More bullets is better. Bigger bullets are also going to be better over all.

I was predominantly in the DC area, so the .40 was the more popular choice (FBI, DEA etc.), but only slightly so. My personal carry piece is a .45, but that is just the one I am most proficient with.

Response by MAJ Rich Thompson made Jan 28 at 2015 4:10 PM

MAJ Rich Thompson — Wed, 28 Jan 2015 16:10:43 -0500

Whatever you have and are accurate with, shot placement is more important than size/calibre!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 28 at 2015 5:30 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 28 Jan 2015 17:30:40 -0500

Love the 1911.

Response by SPC Larry Buck made Jan 29 at 2015 6:25 PM

SPC Larry Buck — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 18:25:10 -0500

Job Openings at NRA - including Friends of NRA!: The National Rifle Association has many job openings at NRA Headquarters in Fairfax, VA and a couple of NRA Field Representative positions in Georgia and Washington. If you've ever wanted to work for the NRA this is your chance!

The NRA is a proud EOE (women/minorities/disabled/veterans). If you need an accommodation during the application process, please contact Human Resources at [login to see] .

http://careers.nra.org/job-openings.aspx

Other than that.. The M9 Beretta Army issued

nra.org

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 29 at 2015 6:26 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 18:26:09 -0500

Whatever is in my holster.

Response by SPC Larry Buck made Jan 29 at 2015 6:28 PM

SPC Larry Buck — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 18:28:42 -0500

Soldiers Qualifying on the Beretta M9 Pistol and …: http://youtu.be/NAlsKta295w

Ba da bing ba da boom boom boom!!!

Response by SSgt William Hamilton made Feb 4 at 2015 2:02 PM

SSgt William Hamilton — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 14:02:31 -0500

I carry a Ruger P95 for general carry and in a drop down leg holster for hunting in GA WMAs and when a smaller platform is required a LCP9.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 7 at 2015 7:42 AM

GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad — Sat, 07 Feb 2015 07:42:27 -0500

Response by PO2 Mark Saffell made Feb 7 at 2015 9:03 AM

PO2 Mark Saffell — Sat, 07 Feb 2015 09:03:26 -0500

A CZ 75 P07 Duty in 9mm. Gives you 15 rounds. Great trigger pull.

Response by Lt Col Christine Peyton made Feb 7 at 2015 9:07 AM

Lt Col Christine Peyton — Sat, 07 Feb 2015 09:07:54 -0500

.45! I prefer to only have to shoot once. I want to make sure when I hit them, they are going down.

Response by SGT Francis Wright made Feb 7 at 2015 9:10 AM

SGT Francis Wright — Sat, 07 Feb 2015 09:10:48 -0500

.45 For up close and personal knock down power, due to the fact your target will not be getting up right away.

Response by Maj Jeff Dodd made Dec 2 at 2015 9:05 PM

Maj Jeff Dodd — Wed, 02 Dec 2015 21:05:36 -0500

.40S&W works for me. The Sig P239 SAS model is a great slim-gripped single stack magazine hand gun and is easily concealed--especially when paired with an alien gear IWB holster. I have never shot better with another hand gun and I have used a bunch over the years. That said, I shoot pretty good with a $300 Ruger 9mm that my dad gave to me over 20 years ago. I guess it all comes down to practice and fundamentals of good marksmanship.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Dec 2 at 2015 9:21 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Wed, 02 Dec 2015 21:21:08 -0500

A BFG-9000 of course. But lacking one, I'm old school so it's a 45 ACP Springfield xDS. It's always a matter of what you're most comfortable with and trust the most.

Response by CW4 Larry Curtis made May 11 at 2016 3:31 PM

CW4 Larry Curtis — Wed, 11 May 2016 15:31:59 -0400

After I became an Army Aviator, my personal weapon changed from an M-16A1 to a .38 Special. Near the end of my career it was changed to the 9mm Beretta, which I fell in love with. The .38 Special came in 3 versions...the Colt (least appreciated), the Smith & Wesson (great middle-of-the-road model), and the Ruger (the best of the three). So when I decided to purchase my own 9mm I decided to go with the Ruger P-89 and I have been very happy with it. There are probably other models which would be more preferable with a lot of folks, Glock or Sig probably being more popular, but the Ruger works just fine for me.

Response by SSG Paul Withun made Dec 3 at 2017 9:25 AM

SSG Paul Withun — Sun, 03 Dec 2017 09:25:33 -0500

.40

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2017 10:51 AM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Dec 2017 10:51:51 -0500

Although I have twice as many 9mm than .45. I would rather carry my tarus .45 acp everywhere

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2018 11:54 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 23:54:01 -0400

All of them will work, shot placement is the key.
Ok, I'll ask the question, "If you got shot in the head, which caliber would you prefer to be shot with???