Best 'pocket' guns

[Milkshakeed]

I saw many threads on specific pocket guns, but none as a thread to compare (I may be blind though, I'm sure you all have discussed it). I am looking for a good pocket pistol/second carry pistol. I lean towards a 9mm or a .22. I owned a LCP but sold it because I want to consolidate to just a few types of ammo (too poor to have to many calibers). This will also be a good thread (unless someone can point me to one that is already going) for us to compare and for others to come to for information.

When you post please include the following information.
Brand:
Make:
Caliber:
Type: (semi or wheel)
Cost:
Reason you carry/like it:
Link to the manufactures web page for that gun:
Available Holsters/Add-ons:
How you carry:


This is a thread for research. Lets keep the fan-boy (I know I have what I love, but there has to be a reason behind it) in us all as the only reason for what we like. Lets get facts down.

GO!

 

[SERparacord]

Sadly I lost my carry in a tragic boating accident.

 

[ghostdncr]

Brand: Kel-Tec
Make: P3AT
Caliber: .380, 6+1
Type: Semi-auto
Cost: $225 (used)
Reason you carry/like it: It's tiny and it's light. Mine feeds 90gr Federal Hydra-Shoks like a champ and is unbelievably accurate.
Link to the manufactures web page for that gun: Kel Tec CNC
Available Holsters/Add-ons: Numerous holsters and belt clips, mag extensions, and a .22 conversion kit almost ready for beta release (I'm on the list for inclusion as a field tester)
How you carry: Right hip pocket, C1

 

[Manatee]

The best pocket rocket is:

a)One that you practice with repeatedly, that you carry all the time and that you are confident will not let you down.

b)Brand? Doesn't really matter. See a) above.

 

[scottka]

Brand: Kahr

Make: CM9

Caliber: 9mm

Type: semi

Cost: $369 new for the one I bought. (Many places are closer to $400)

Reason you carry/like it: As small as it gets while still remaining reliable. LC9, PF9, Shield, etc are too big for me to enjoy pocket carrying. I shoot it incredibly well too!!! Far better than any of my previous pocket guns.

Link to the manufactures web page for that gun: Kahr CM9 - Style # CM9093, Kahr Arms Pistols

Available Holsters/Add-ons: I use a DeSantis pocket holster, but there are more options than I can list.

How you carry: Pocket, sometimes front, sometimes back pocket

 

[Milkshakeed]

The best pocket rocket is:

a)One that you practice with repeatedly, that you carry all the time and that you are confident will not let you down.

b)Brand? Doesn't really matter. See a) above.

Agreed, I want the info so I can get as much information on it as I can before buying. After I have it I will be on the range with it. Good to have that clarified though. Thanks.

 

[cosermann]

Candidates==>> https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B22w...hl=en_US&pli=1

 

[cesna250]

Ruger LC9. 9mm. 7 round capacity. $300-$400.

 

[BehindBlueI's]

J-frame S&W or similar lightweight .38 snubby revolver.

Discussion here on J-frame and alternatives:
https://www.indianagunowners.com/forums/handguns/272926-modern_day_j_frame_replacement.html

S&W Shield also seems to be a popular choice.

 

[armiker]

Second the Kahr CM 9,about as small as you would want and be reliable with great reputation.If you want something even smaller look at the 380 line-up.

 

[Indycobalt19]

Brand: Smith & Wesson
Make: m&p shield
Caliber: 40
Type: semi
Cost: I got mine for a straight trade for a Sig SP2022 9mm but 500 and up
Reason you carry/like it: soo thin, light, accurate, comfortable to carry
Available Holsters/Add-ons: Lots of holsters available for the shield
How you carry: OWB/IWB in a custom kydex sharktac holster

 

[sliptap]

Brand: Kahr

Make: CM9

Caliber: 9mm

Type: semi

Cost: $369 new for the one I bought. (Many places are closer to $400)

Reason you carry/like it: As small as it gets while still remaining reliable. LC9, PF9, Shield, etc are too big for me to enjoy pocket carrying. I shoot it incredibly well too!!! Far better than any of my previous pocket guns.

Link to the manufactures web page for that gun: Kahr CM9 - Style # CM9093, Kahr Arms Pistols

Available Holsters/Add-ons: I use a DeSantis pocket holster, but there are more options than I can list.

How you carry: Pocket, sometimes front, sometimes back pocket

^This^



My father pocket carries his CM9 all the time and shoots just as nicely as my CW9. I'd do anything to trade my CW for his CM.


Edit: and no offense to the above post, but do you honestly pocket carry your shield? I'm 6ft, 160 lbs...no way I could get away with that without wearing MC Hammer's pants.

 

[Glockowner]

Brand: Kahr

Make: CM9

Caliber: 9mm

Type: semi

Cost: $369 new for the one I bought. (Many places are closer to $400)

Reason you carry/like it: As small as it gets while still remaining reliable. LC9, PF9, Shield, etc are too big for me to enjoy pocket carrying. I shoot it incredibly well too!!! Far better than any of my previous pocket guns.

Link to the manufactures web page for that gun: Kahr CM9 - Style # CM9093, Kahr Arms Pistols

Available Holsters/Add-ons: I use a DeSantis pocket holster, but there are more options than I can list.

How you carry: Pocket, sometimes front, sometimes back pocket

Third vote for the CM9. Recoil is surprisingly light, and it is easily concealed. Better trigger than any pocket gun but the SA options.

I also have a crossbreed holster when I don't have enough pocket space.

 

[Cole46845]

Kel tec DAO
P 11
10+1
$265 in my pocket

Upgradable to 12+1 flush fitting still

 

[scottka]

Edit: and no offense to the above post, but do you honestly pocket carry your shield? I'm 6ft, 160 lbs...no way I could get away with that without wearing MC Hammer's pants.

I feel the same way. When the Shield came out, I was currently carrying a LC9. I was excited to try out the Shield when a buddy bought one. Then... I handled it and put it in my pocket. Even bigger than the borderline (for me) too large LC9. Don't get me wrong, the Shield is a great little shooter, but it's just not pocket carry material for me.

FWIW, the post that recommended the Shield said he carried OWB or IWB, not pocket carry.

 

[outnumbered]

Ruger
LCR 38spcl +p
5 rnd revolver
13 oz unloaded(not sure of weight loaded)
$375 out the door
Seldom my only gun, but in my front coat pocket, much easier to access than my ccw carried iwb.

 

[whitetailbowhunter]

Ruger
LCR 38spcl +p
5 rnd revolver
13 oz unloaded(not sure of weight loaded)
$375 out the door
Seldom my only gun, but in my front coat pocket, much easier to access than my ccw carried iwb.

Second the LCR. Great little shooter. It's a little heavy on recoil with +P loads but can easily be concealed in your pocket.

 

[jamstutz]

Pocket Auto Comparison Chart

 

[Sublime49er247]

Brand: Ruger
Make: LCP
Caliber: .380 auto
Cost: $279
Reason you carry/like it: the feel of it in my hand, reliable
Available Holsters/Add-ons: Tons
How you carry: concealed with this one, open with my 9

 

[Bailey06]

I like my Ruger LCP.