What is your favorite sidearm and why?

SGT Charles Vernier — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 20:30:56 -0500

For those of you who have personally owned sidearm or sidearms. What is your favorite sidearm and why? What do you like about YOUR sidearm? Please refrain attacking the choices of others.

My favorite is my S&W Model 19 with 4" barrel. I like it because it is versatile and accurate. I can take a new shooter and have them shoot relatively well using .38spl +P, using full power .357 JHP rounds it has plenty of "stopping power" against the most determined of aggressors. Using 158gr JSP rounds I could take a deer out to about 100yds. If needed, and I never have to worry about magazine springs wearing out. Yes it has limited capacity, but I'm not trying to take Fallujah with it either.

Response by CPL Rick Stasny made Dec 17 at 2014 8:39 PM

CPL Rick Stasny — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 20:39:09 -0500

1911 in a commander model. It's a little easier to conceal than a full size 1911. 45 ACP, but I also like the 38 super.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2014 8:49 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 20:49:17 -0500

HK USP 40
It may be higher in price than a Glock but it has never let me down. I have owned it more than 10 years and it still performs as well as the day I bought it. The only other one that I still want to own is a 1911 in .45 mostly because of its significance and I love the look.

Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Dec 17 at 2014 9:41 PM

LTC Paul Labrador — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 21:41:29 -0500

Glock 23.

Response by SGT Brian Richardson made Dec 17 at 2014 9:48 PM

SGT Brian Richardson — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 21:48:50 -0500

Ruger .40 and Ruger Sp101 .357 w 3"barrel

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2014 10:27 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 22:27:54 -0500

.45 ACP Springfield Armory XDm

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Dec 17 at 2014 10:48 PM

Capt Richard I P. — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 22:48:57 -0500

SGT Charles Vernier The best gun to have is the one you have on you, all the time.

Usually it's a Glock 19 for me. The working man's gun.

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Dec 17 at 2014 11:17 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Wed, 17 Dec 2014 23:17:55 -0500

SGT Charles Vernier: Browning Hi-Power, 9 mm. It's old school, I know, but I bought it new in 1975.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2014 3:49 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 03:49:43 -0500

My preferred handgun is a full sized M&P 9mm. M&P series handguns feel good in my hand, simple to use, I shoot it well, and I have 18+ 1 in the mag.

In the warmer months I switch to an M&P Shield 9mm.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2014 6:29 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 18:29:39 -0500

SGT Charles Vernier. I personally love the heft, sound, and accuracy of the 1911A1 .45 ACP when properly tuned up by a first rate gunsmith. But . . . it really depends on your specific application. There are times when Browning / Beretta / Walther 9mm, compact, subcompact, or subsonic 22LR fit better for the specific target(s) in specific environment(s). The subsonic 22LR can be very effective when concealed, transported, and used by a properly trained operator. Warmest Regards, Sandy

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2014 4:25 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 04:25:05 -0500

Sig Sauer M11A1 or Beretta Nano 9mm.

The M11-A1 is a compact version of the Sig P-226, just 7.1 inches long and only 1.5 inches wide. The Navy SEALs and Special Boat Teams consider it a favorite, and use it as their standard carry pistol as it is small, light, durable, accurate and easy to conceal. The M11 is a recoil-operated, semi-automatic pistol that fires a 9mm NATO round in both single- and double-action modes.

Produced to the exact same specifications as those which have been the official sidearm of the Navy SEALs since 1986.

The MU9 Beretta Nano is a thin, snag-free profile, the Nano effortlessly glides in and out of your holster, while its smooth contour and low weight offer you maximum comfort even for all-day carry. Its operation is simple and intuitive, and its modular design gives you several custom options requiring no gunsmithing.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Dec 19 at 2014 8:20 AM

SSG Tim Everett — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 08:20:11 -0500

I carry, exclusively, .45 calibre sidearms. They are my choice of weapon. I prefer stopping power and the surety factor that when I put the round downrange, the target is going down. The odds of this ever happening in my house are slim to none, but when it happens, it's 100% that something is going to happen. In that instance, I don't want the m-fer getting up and leaving, living to fight another day. Therefore, .45 is best for me.

Response by LTC Paul Heinlein made Dec 19 at 2014 8:39 AM

LTC Paul Heinlein — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 08:39:16 -0500

SGT Charles Vernier,

All my sidearms are my favorite! And of the sidearms I've sold in the past, I wish I still had them (too include a Nickel Plated S&W Model 19 .357).

But, for pure shooting...not taking in consideration weight, size, etc.... my favorite to shoot is a Ruger GP 100 .357. Its a tack driver.

If I'm carrying concealed, then.... Glock 27.

Response by SrA Craig Brockman made Dec 19 at 2014 10:47 AM

SrA Craig Brockman — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 10:47:35 -0500

I am a retired NYPD Police Officer. While I was on the job I carried a five shot SW Chief .38. Just before I retired we were finally authorized to carry 9mm off duty. I purchased a Glock 26 and have carried it almost everyday since 2001. I've tried the Ruger LCP but it's too small and my hands are just too damn big.

Response by SFC Steven Steingiesser made Dec 19 at 2014 11:48 AM

SFC Steven Steingiesser — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 11:48:04 -0500

I carry a Springfield XDM in .45. I believe it it is the 4 inch barrel. Unfortunately being stationed in Belgium I couldn't bring it over here so it is Stateside with family. I like it as it feels good in my hands. My wife's Glock in .40 feels too small and is uncomfortable for me to fire. It also fits well on my hip to where if I have it concealed I know it's there but it doesn't impede my movement. Also while most people understand there is no real difference other than preference between a .9 and a .45, saying I carry a .45 tends to make more people nervous. It especially bothers my tree hugging, hippy family members which adds to my enjoyment.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2014 1:18 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 13:18:25 -0500

My personal favorite is my Glock 32C .357Sig. I like the simplicity of the Glock, the ballistics of the .357Sig, and the mid size pistol is easy to conceal. However I believe that the best firearm is one that you are comfortable with, because no matter what make and model, if it is uncomfortable, you will not shoot well.

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Dec 19 at 2014 3:24 PM

Sgt Adam Jennings — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 15:24:57 -0500

Para Ordnance Commander Elite 1911 .45 ACP. Shots and actions as well as a Remington or Colt at almost half the price. And they're made in NC.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2014 3:25 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 15:25:23 -0500

My current sidearm Hi Point 9mm Luger C9 with 8 round magazine and a 10 round magazine full of hollow point ammunition.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 20 at 2014 10:20 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 10:20:55 -0500

I go with the Knife hand. It has never failed me yet. I mess one up I always carry a spare.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 20 at 2014 10:51 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 10:51:32 -0500

I'm still a big fan of my Colt 1911 .45 ACP.

Response by SCPO Burton Swanson made Dec 20 at 2014 11:51 AM

SCPO Burton Swanson — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 11:51:42 -0500

SA XDS .45 with a 3.3" barrel. Small enough to be very comfortable but large enough to handle with ease.

Response by CDR Thomas Gatliffe made Dec 20 at 2014 12:59 PM

CDR Thomas Gatliffe — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 12:59:18 -0500

I have several weapons at my disposal in different calibers and my favorites depend on the circumstances. My most beloved handgun is a Colt Government Model 1911-C that I bought in 1969 and had accurized for use in National Match Course competition. Thanks to a gnarly old Master Chief Gunners Mate who took me "under his wing" on the base pistol team and a skilled retired Senior Chief Missile Tech gunsmith, I was soon able to more than hold my own shooting "hardball" against "wadcutter" shooters at the NRA Master level around Virginia and North Carolina. Although I won the Fifth Naval District Championship in 1970, my command wouldn't spare me to go to the All Navy that year and the 5ND SAMI elected not to send a team because of that (at least that is what he told my CO.) I still have that gun and haul it out at the range for a few strings just to see how tight I can keep my groups when I really try. The monel barrel bushing was hand made by the Senior Chief and sweated into the slide and is immovable. I had to learn how to disassemble and reassemble the gun without removing the bushing which was a royal PITA for cleaning. However, like all 1911's, cleaning was only a priority when rounds began to fail to chamber properly as they seem to gain measurable accuracy (tighter groups) after a couple of hundred rounds so I always took a "dirty" gun, literally dripping gun oil, to competitions. Currently, I still prefer the 45ACP but have a PARA PDA LDA that I carry with a concealed-carry permit as it is far less bulky and is less likely to "print" through light weight clothing. For CCW I use hollow-point only because of the potential for FMJ penetration completely through soft tissue to cause unwanted collateral damage beyond the target. For home defense, I keep a Springfield XP-40 and XP-9 that I bought to try out for my wife and daughters to learn on because of the lighter recoil.

Response by SSG Dusty Holloway made Dec 20 at 2014 1:50 PM

SSG Dusty Holloway — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 13:50:03 -0500

My favorite side arm is my Kimber Super Carry Pro HD. 1911 45acp. I still have my SIG P220 45ACP. But both have outstanding accuracy and knock down power.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 11:54 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 11:54:46 -0500

Ruger Mark II .22
1. Precise
2. Dependable
3. Weighted heavy so can be used in the place of firearms. Practice with it and then transitioning to a larger caliber is seamless.
4. Cheap Ammo

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 12:04 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 12:04:16 -0500

My Para Ordnance Black Ops 14.45 ACP. 14 rounds of 45 ACP on a 1911 frame!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 12:15 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 12:15:06 -0500

SSG James J. Palmer IV, I like my revolvers in the .38/357 calibers as well. For cowboy action shooting and as a back-up when hunting, I carry this Ruger Vaquero.

Response by Cpl Mark McMiller made Mar 4 at 2015 1:30 PM

Cpl Mark McMiller — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 13:30:38 -0500

Wilson Combat .45 CQB Compact.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 1:54 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 13:54:20 -0500

Glock 29. I love it!! It has the stopping power you want with the 10mm round. Its compact and concealable. However, if you didnt like the small frame, it takes the glock 20 magazine, which ups the magazine capacity to 15+1.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Mar 4 at 2015 2:26 PM

1LT Nick Kidwell — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:26:55 -0500

I currently carry a Star Firestar chambered in .40 S&W.

I am hoping to someday get a Springfield Arms XD subcompact in the same caliber.

http://www.springfield-armory.com/products/xd-mod-2-3-sub-compact-40sw/

XD Mod.2 3" Sub-Compact .40SW Handgun with GripZone Handle

If you want a great competition shooting experience with a top quality pistol, get this XD Mod.2 3" sub-compact .40SW handgun from Springfield Armory.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 2:35 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:35:09 -0500

I personally prefer the 1911 .45 ACP. I've fired other sidearms, but I like the feel of a 1911.

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Mar 4 at 2015 8:37 PM

Sgt Adam Jennings — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 20:37:05 -0500

Well, I now have to change my favorite, lol. I was going to buy a Para Elite Commander 1911, I loved the action, feel, and price. But, after looking around I found a brand new Taurus PT 1911 for about $100 less and bought it instead after handling it and seeing that the action was actually smoother and that it felt great in my hand. After shooting it I am sold on this gun. The best part, it was only $500! It has features that usually only come on higher dollar 1911 like upgrade able sights, an 8 round mag instead of 7, ambidextrous safety, and a match trigger. I looked at a Springdield that was only $100 bucks more, but it had fixed sights that could not be changed out, no ambidextrous safety, a regular 7 round mag, and a regular, basic trigger. The action on the Taurus actually felt smoother than the Springfield as well. So, I broke down and bought it. Not one single regret. And after talking to several Taurus owners they have said that they have never had issues with their Taurus nor have any of them had one break. I'll keep you guys posted, I hope to have it for many, many years.

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Mar 4 at 2015 8:41 PM

Cpl Jeff N. — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 20:41:05 -0500

Glock 21 Gen 4. 45 caliber with 13 round mags. It is a little big but it puts a lot of lead down range very accurately. Big holes on the target and fun to shoot.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2015 4:11 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 16:11:39 -0400

IMI DE50W Desert Eagle® Mark XIX Pistol, .50 AE

Response by SGT William Howell made Mar 17 at 2015 4:23 PM

SGT William Howell — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 16:23:43 -0400

The M9. HAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHHA! Just Kidding. Not even I am that stupid!

Response by SSgt June Worden made Mar 17 at 2015 5:58 PM

SSgt June Worden — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 17:58:20 -0400

Glock 45 Gap!

Response by SPC Charles Shaw made Mar 19 at 2015 11:28 PM

SPC Charles Shaw — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 23:28:52 -0400

I carry a para ordnance 1911 hi cap .45 acp and love it the weight the grip feel frame size and everything fits me perfectly.

Response by SPC Edward Tapper made Mar 21 at 2015 2:58 PM

SPC Edward Tapper — Sat, 21 Mar 2015 14:58:40 -0400

Revolver:
I am in with you on the S&W Model 19. I have the S&W Model 66 .357 Combat Magnum 4" bbl. (same as Model 19, except my is stainless and yours is blued). Cheaper to waste ammo with the .38 +P, but a fierce fighter in 180 gn. JHP .357.

Pistol:
I have to go with the full size Colt 1911 Combat Commander .45 or any of the clones, thereafter. Parts are readily available everywhere, shoot one and shoot another manufacturer's and they are pretty much the same. Love the platform, feel, weight and balance. True joy to shoot and it makes me feel nastalgic. My personal 1911 is the Remington 1911 R1 Enhanced .45.

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Mar 23 at 2015 4:36 PM

SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA — Mon, 23 Mar 2015 16:36:43 -0400

The one on my hip right now: a Glock 19.

Response by SGT William Howell made Apr 3 at 2015 2:49 PM

SGT William Howell — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 14:49:33 -0400

I am a total gun snob so I have to match my gun with what I am wearing . I carry a Glock, HK, 1911, and FNX all in .45. My go to is always the Glock 21.

When I am wearing shorts I carry my little .32 Tomcat.

Response by Sgt Troy Fallert (Gurlin) made Apr 3 at 2015 2:53 PM

Sgt Troy Fallert (Gurlin) — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 14:53:58 -0400

Glock 19

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Apr 3 at 2015 3:15 PM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 15:15:40 -0400

1911A1
And do you really need to ask "why"?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2015 4:06 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 16:06:26 -0400

It all depends, there is many functions and uses. I like 40 or 45 caliber, but do owe the 92FS as I like to practice with the weapons I qualify with. I also carry concealed, and am an NRA basic and advanced pistol instructor. To carry, I think which it the best, for my person, according to what I am wearing, not in fashion wise mode, or color, but for the type of clothing and how well I can conceal it, as well as what type of holster suits me better for reaching and drawing shall an emergency occur. My favorite carry is the XD 45 acp S&W. But also have revolvers, and other pistols.

Response by PO3 Michael James made Apr 3 at 2015 7:52 PM

PO3 Michael James — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 19:52:20 -0400

Nice Choice.. Very dependable, Limited Capacity ?? I figure if you don't hit target with 6 rounds.. maybe you better use a Grenade !!

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Apr 3 at 2015 7:57 PM

GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 19:57:07 -0400

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2015 2:53 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 02:53:06 -0400

A slingshot with warheads.... bunker busters lol

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2015 3:17 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 03:17:05 -0400

Kimber Custom Eclipse II, 1911A1 .45 ACP. A 240 grain slug moving out at 820 fps. There is a reason the .45 lasted so long as the standard side arm of the military.

On the modern battlefield, I believe every Soldier should have a back-up. I wish they would allow us to carry personal side arms as long as they have the rounds in the inventory.

As a backup to that, a K-Bar. I do not want to die for lack of fighting back.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 5 at 2015 10:25 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 05 Apr 2015 22:25:57 -0400

For a short time I carried a 44 magnum revolver why because people hide behind things. As time went on I saw my errors and now carry a px4 storm it's far more practical than walking around with a piece of artillery however I prefer my Para ordnance 1911 above all the Beretta is just easier to conceal.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made May 16 at 2015 10:57 PM

SrA Edward Vong — Sat, 16 May 2015 22:57:17 -0400

Walther PPK/S. I prefer the older models to the newer ones though.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2015 12:06 AM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 May 2015 00:06:34 -0400

Colt .45 1911 the greatest handgun in history

Response by CDR Michael Goldschmidt made Jun 19 at 2015 12:59 PM

CDR Michael Goldschmidt — Fri, 19 Jun 2015 12:59:19 -0400

I, myself, prefer the large calibers, but I would expect that in an actual public confrontation, the most important type of fire is suppressive, so any caliber will do, and higher cap is better than lower cap. To minimize innocent casualties, it's important to make the aggressor go defensive. As to personal choices, I never discuss those in a public forum, as it's best not to draw undue attention, so I can neither confirm nor deny.

Response by SGT William Howell made Jun 23 at 2015 11:02 AM

SGT William Howell — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 11:02:28 -0400

Glock 21. I have many favorites, but it is the gun I gravitate to.

Last year my neighbor was being beaten by her ex husband in her front yard. When i went to my safe to grab a gun, I could have picked anything, but it was my Glock.

Response by SFC Douglas Davis made Jun 23 at 2015 12:13 PM

SFC Douglas Davis — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 12:13:51 -0400

I like my Springfield XD .40 it is just comfortable in my hand.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 23 at 2015 12:36 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 12:36:46 -0400

Glock 23 4th Gen. Great caliber, .40; Good size for CC, Compact; Good Capacity, 12+; fun to shoot and ammo is relatively inexpensive.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jun 23 at 2015 12:42 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 12:42:28 -0400

Dammit, another meaning of life question! We tend to be all over the board on personal favorites. They change with time, success, failure, etc. My favorites depend on what I'm doing.

For walking around with cargo pockets: 45 xDS or Sig 938 Equinox.

For remembering where I come form: Service Match 1911 and M1A.

For Man from UNCLE nostalgia: Kel-Tec Sub 2000 with a big mag.

Bad Ass ready: KSG.

Fun Jack Rabbit and Coyote chaser: PLR-16 with a holo sight.

So many choices, so little time.....

And for reloading? Get a Dillon or go home.

Response by PVT Robert Gresham made Jun 23 at 2015 1:09 PM

PVT Robert Gresham — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 13:09:55 -0400

I love my Springfield XD-s .45 ACP !! Here in Alaska, where concealed carry is legal without a permit, it nice to have a small handgun that is easily drawn and fired. I also like the knock-down power of the .45 !! If I am going to be standing face to face with a moose or other wild animal I like the feeling that I am protected.

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Jun 23 at 2015 1:17 PM

SGM Steve Wettstein — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 13:17:10 -0400

Glock 21. Big bullet little recoil.

Response by SrA Kevin Ridenhour made Aug 25 at 2015 7:40 PM

SrA Kevin Ridenhour — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 19:40:12 -0400

I would have to say my favorite was my Para Ordinance 1911 Expert. Full size, match grade barrel, adjustable trigger and comp. It was light, smooth and accurate. I carry an RIA M1911A1 FS now, a bit heavier, but still a nail driver.

Response by SPC George Long made Sep 7 at 2015 10:20 PM

SPC George Long — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 22:20:38 -0400

Whatever one I have in my hand when the balloon goes up. There is little doubt in my experience the 357 mag is the most lethal. The 40 SW is a close second and the 45acp and 9mm about equal. But I'll use a 22 if that's in my hand.

Response by PO3 Michael Peterson made Feb 10 at 2016 7:45 PM

PO3 Michael Peterson — Wed, 10 Feb 2016 19:45:51 -0500

This is my second favorite actually

Response by SrA Craig Brockman made Feb 25 at 2016 11:26 AM

SrA Craig Brockman — Thu, 25 Feb 2016 11:26:49 -0500

While on-duty with the NYPD I loved my Ruger Police Six .38, after being in a shootout in 1993 I became superstitious. But eventually I had switched to a SW 5946, and after retiring I carry daily my favorite G26 "Baby" Glock.

Response by SPC Marc Sachs made Mar 10 at 2016 2:05 PM

SPC Marc Sachs — Thu, 10 Mar 2016 14:05:39 -0500

1911.... There is no substitute!

Response by SPC Kenny Higgs made Apr 9 at 2016 10:40 PM

SPC Kenny Higgs — Sat, 09 Apr 2016 22:40:20 -0400

I carry an Enhanced Mirco Pistol (EMP) in 9mm by Springfield armory. It fits my hand perfectly, it is a great shooter. I have had zero malfunctions with it. It is easily concealable and very comfortable to carry.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Jun 20 at 2016 7:12 PM

Cpl Dennis F. — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 19:12:16 -0400

Detonics combat master .45.
I carried a 1911 through most of my RVN tour. It was an old POS, but I still liked the boom of that big round. I picked up the Detonics in the 70s and carried it day/night for over 10 years, but competed in IPSC with a Glock LS. Guess I'm just an old school throw back.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Jun 20 at 2016 8:23 PM

SGM Mikel Dawson — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 20:23:44 -0400

Ruger .45, 7.5" barrel. Weight is great in the hand, comes down real well. I've loaded 250g hollow points to 1350fps which is up in the .44 mag range. Killed three bear with it. Yes it bucks a bit when it barks, but it also bites!
I've also got my .45 1911. Yes it is a great put'em down weapon.

I've got a 9 shot, .22 High Standard, Sentinal. I carried it trapping. Was great for finishing of an animal, light easy to handle.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 20 at 2016 9:23 PM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 21:23:50 -0400

I would have to say my Sig P320, for those of you who don't know it is a relatively new model Sig 9mm. Mine is what I think they call the "carry size, not full size not subcompact. I like it because it is relatively thin for easy concealment yet still holds a lot of rounds and fits my hand really well. It shoots well also although my "baby eagle" is the most accurate pistol I have owned and now my wife claims it as hers LOL.

Response by PO2 Ron Burling made Jun 21 at 2016 7:46 PM

PO2 Ron Burling — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 19:46:28 -0400

My very favorite is the US Pistol, Caliber .45, Model of 1911 but due to an injured shoulder I sometimes have trouble racking the slide these days. My EDC is a Charter Arms .44 Special. I am looking for an old S&W Triple Lock .44 Special. I am quite taken with the .44 Special cartridge.

Leather by 'Simply Rugged', ammo by Hornaday, grips by Altamont, blade by Gerber.

Response by SSG Timothy McCoy made Jun 23 at 2016 8:44 PM

SSG Timothy McCoy — Thu, 23 Jun 2016 20:44:06 -0400

I must say that I am a bit old school as I carry a Colt series 80 Officers Model in 45 ACP in light clothes.

When I am dressed a little heavier or with a coat or heavy shirt I carry a Browning P-35 Hi-power with a Crimson Trace laser

Response by Sgt Jason Edwards made Jun 24 at 2016 11:38 AM

Sgt Jason Edwards — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 11:38:02 -0400

Sig P226/8 with S&W "M" Frame .357 for back-up

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jun 24 at 2016 11:48 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 11:48:23 -0400

Oooohhhh, favorite. It should really be what's your favorite at the moment for what use. So for just plain everyday carry, the Springfield xDS in 45 because I grew up on 45s. If I want a bit smaller and lighter, the Sig P938 Equinox. For being out there with the big critters, my Smith 5" 460 is a real comfort.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Jun 24 at 2016 11:51 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 11:51:26 -0400

SGT Charles Vernier, good choice. Mine is stainless steel, but otherwise the same sidearm for the same reasons. My next favorite is my stainless Taurus Judge car gun.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 24 at 2016 12:59 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 12:59:43 -0400

There's "good" points to be made, and "bad" about any firearm...sidearms come down to three aspects in my opinion (provided you have the choice):

1. Price-If you can't afford a customized Kimber (I can't), then the fact that it combines the .45 ACP with light weight and compact carry doesn't mean much to you. A $150 pimp pistol will put ordnance in the direction of the threat too.

2. Accuracy-Really, this is about what you've trained with, or what you shoot best with. I (incorrectly) used to think I shot "better" with my Dan Wesson .357, until I realized (many, many shots later) that it was because I was resetting the hammer each time, reducing the trigger resistance. Firing two rounds in succession, I was pulling the shot too much. With a semi-auto, like the Glock, I was getting better pattern at the same range.

3. Carry-The M9, the "big" Glock and almost any "wheel gun" are large and "print" easy-My current platform is the Smith & Wesson M&P sub-compact 9mm...It will hide well in just about any clothing and is easy to draw. I also like the frame safety-I "get it" with the Glock, but I'm no an "Operator", so avoiding NDs is pretty important to me.

All told, the M&P fits the bill; it's comparable in price to cheaper "Glock Clones", but is reliable, stable, and at less than 25 yards, almost feels like pointing. Only seven rounds, but a good "carry" weapons isn't always a good "field" platform, and vice versa.

Response by MSgt Cayle Harris made Apr 25 at 2017 10:39 PM

MSgt Cayle Harris — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 22:39:16 -0400

Maybe I'm just a boring guy, but I'm going to go with Glock 17 or 19. Boringly reliable, no frills, ridiculously easy user maintenance, tons of aftermarket accessories...how could you go wrong?

Response by CW4 Scott Hyde made May 21 at 2017 2:39 AM

CW4 Scott Hyde — Sun, 21 May 2017 02:39:08 -0400

I have a couple. I bought an old beater Springfield (made by Walther) P99 9mm I carry. Not too big, accurate and fits nice and natural in my hand. I think I paid $150 for it. The guy that had it never shot it and stored it in a sock. Was pretty ugly but I never won a beauty pageant so it works out. My second is a Bul M5 .45. Polymer frame, double stack, made in Israel. Bought it in Germany back in 98 and brought her her back. Kind of neat because she has no import marks on it.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made May 21 at 2017 10:43 AM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Sun, 21 May 2017 10:43:10 -0400

Your favorite the S&W, Model 19, 357 Magnum is a fine weapon and Your right about the stopping power. They are easy to use and maintain, pretty simple but very effective. In a S&W Model 15, Combat Masterpiece, a .38 caliber revolver very much like the Model 15 except it will on chamber a .38 round and not have the choice of a 38 or 357 round. The 357 round is a little longer and won't fit in thee cylinders of the Model 15. As to capacity In My earlier day on hte police Department We carried speed loaders that You could load 6 rounds all at once. Our normal was 6 rounds in the weapon and 12 rounds in two speed loaders. Both were very accurate and had adjustable sights.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2017 12:39 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 30 May 2017 12:39:44 -0400

I own and carry a Springfield XD40. However, while working as a Corrections Officer (prior to the Army) we all had to qualify with the S&W M&P .40. Even though it was the first pistol I had ever fired, I qualified first time, and actually shot more accurately at night, wearing Nomex flyer's gloves, with it.

I like my XD40 but the iron sights on it are not accurate; I can aim at the right side of the silhouette target, and it will put the rounds in the left side of the silhouette. Obviously I have to get the rear sight adjusted. But at least I can still put all the rounds into the torso of the target at 7 yards with it.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made May 31 at 2017 12:58 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Wed, 31 May 2017 12:58:21 -0400

My 1861 New Army Colt, may be blackpowder, but it has one heck of a punch.

Response by SSG Edward Tilton made May 31 at 2017 8:35 PM

SSG Edward Tilton — Wed, 31 May 2017 20:35:14 -0400

The one in the picture is fine. I carried one as a police officer for years, 2" or 4". I don't care for automatics

Response by SPC John Parmenter made Jun 5 at 2017 3:22 PM

SPC John Parmenter — Mon, 05 Jun 2017 15:22:19 -0400

My duty sidearm, which I loved, was a Smith & Wesson Model 19 .357 magnum with a 4" barrel. Wheel guns aren't as "sexy" as semi-autos but this has plenty of firepower &, with a little practice, is as accurate as anything on the range -- shot "highest" in my organization four years running.

Response by SSG Martin Reyna made Jun 28 at 2017 9:33 AM

SSG Martin Reyna — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 09:33:23 -0400

Definitely a Colt .38 Super Government Model. It is very accurate, reliable and needless to say a beauty... But, as previously mentioned any side arm is a good side arm....

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made Oct 5 at 2017 7:13 PM

MAJ Jim Woods — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 19:13:51 -0400

Glock 23, .40 cal. I carried one for over 15 years and before that a Colt Combat Commander in .45 cal. In the 90's my Department sent me to the Glock Armorers and Instructor course where we fired about 3,000 rounds in 5 days. Not one issue with it. I came home and sold all my steel pistols and bought my Glock 23. I recently bought a Glock 42, .380 cal. I also have an S&W M&P Shield in 9mm. My Shield has an external safety but now you have a choice with or without. I helped convert my Department from S&W Model 19's (2 1/2 inch) to the Glocks. One of the selling points was that it was similar to the revolver in that you just pull the trigger and it goes BANG. It was much easier to transition the ladies as most were only familiar with revolvers. Either Glock or S&W M&P are good choices. I have never been a fan of the Sig's. Don't get me wrong, they are fine weapons in the hands of experienced shooters. I owned a P226 for years but they are very difficult to train Newbies because of all the buttons, switches, and slides... I have been a firearms instructor since I ran my first range in 1967 for a bunch of Colonels. Talk about pressure. Colt .45's in a footlocker. Just grab one and a box of ammo. I do know that some of the SOC guys run Glocks.

Response by SPC Angela Burnham made Nov 11 at 2019 7:31 PM

SPC Angela Burnham — Mon, 11 Nov 2019 19:31:25 -0500

Hi Point 9mm!

Response by SGT Steve McFarland made Feb 23 at 2020 4:02 PM

SGT Steve McFarland — Sun, 23 Feb 2020 16:02:02 -0500

My "old faithful" is a Colt Trooper .357 Magnum which I bought in about 1983. These days, I carry either a SIG P365 (EDC) or a SIG P320, which I carry for church security.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 24 at 2020 8:18 AM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Feb 2020 08:18:39 -0500

Dan Wesson 15 w/short barrel in .357, or .45, depends.

Response by LCDR Joshua Gillespie made Feb 24 at 2020 11:24 AM

LCDR Joshua Gillespie — Mon, 24 Feb 2020 11:24:32 -0500

It depends; I have no "favorite" sidearm...same a I have no "favorite" screwdriver or power tool.

If you're trying to effectively conceal, you're probably going to have to sacrifice capacity, and possibly a little accuracy (though in my personal opinion, it's all relative with handguns). If you're looking at ballistics, you may have to sacrifice some concealability in exchange for other factors. If you don't train often, under stressors, inside of five yards and out to say fifteen yards, anticipating multiple assailants from multiple directions...it may be irrelevant.