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Member Section => Down Range Cafe => Topic started by: alfsauve on February 21, 2018, 09:16:55 AM

Title: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on February 21, 2018, 09:16:55 AM
Got the hankering for a true pocket pistol.  Been researching. 

On the far left of the chart, small and light weight, is the NAA .22 revolver.  Out of bounds, too big and heavy, on the right side is the Shield, Nano, Glock, and Walther PPK.

Some wherein the middle is the Bond Bullpup9, the Beretta Bobcat & Pico.

Other thoughts?  Preferences would be under 16oz,  less than 5" long. 
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Majer on February 21, 2018, 09:43:03 AM
If you can find one a S&W model 342PD, rated for 38 special +P weighs 11.5 ounces empty, It's also available in .357 Mag as the model 340PD. will fit in most pockets and has enough power to stop most threats.

(http://picturearchive.gunauction.com/5648180059/8923005/12226-1.gif_thumbnail1.jpg)

(https://s3.amazonaws.com/mgm-content/sites/armslist/uploads/posts/2015/02/07/4005336_01_smith_and_wesson_342pd_airlite_640.jpg)
Title: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Timothy on February 21, 2018, 09:43:53 AM
My Ruger LCR in .38+p is quite easy to carry in a Kydex pocket rig except with jeans.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: billt on February 21, 2018, 10:08:44 AM
Bond Arms .45 Colt / 3" .410

(https://i.imgur.com/WLZ6pMc.jpg?1)

Beretta Cheetah .22 L.R. (Also available in .380 in either a single or double stack).

(https://i.imgur.com/FfGYGMw.jpg?2)
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on February 21, 2018, 01:16:44 PM
Very nice, but the revolvers and the Chettah are ~6" long & the derringer +20oz.

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: PegLeg45 on February 21, 2018, 01:20:44 PM
My usual second gun, that backs up my EDC on my belt, is a NAA .22lr in my right jeans pocket.
If I'm headed to church (ours allows CCW, but I try to be discrete) or to somewhere with those silly little signs on the doors, like our local hospital, I leave my EDC in the truck and slip my Colt Agent .38spl into my right jeans pocket (in an Uncle Mike's pocket holster) instead of the NAA. I wear Wrangler jeans and the pockets are deep enough to conceal the gun, and the aluminum frame makes it light enough to not really feel its presence.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: TAB on February 21, 2018, 03:00:58 PM
Colt cobra. 13 oz loaded 6 shot 38 +p.  Only 1/2 oz heavier then the Smith but one extra shot.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on February 21, 2018, 05:58:42 PM
Colt cobra. 13 oz loaded 6 shot 38 +p.  Only 1/2 oz heavier then the Smith but one extra shot.

7.2" long!

Let's review, people.

Length <5"
Weight <16oz

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on February 21, 2018, 06:03:46 PM
Here's the prime suspects in .22

Walther TPH (5.3")
NAA .22 Rev
Beretta Bobcat

Close in 9mm though

Bond Arms Bullpup9,  5.1" and 18oz

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: TAB on February 21, 2018, 06:08:10 PM
7.2" long!

Let's review, people.

Length <5"
Weight <16oz
not with a 2"
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Rastus on February 21, 2018, 06:15:25 PM
Ruger LCR in 38 special or 357 (or 327 for that matter).

Meets your weight constraints and has a really nice trigger.  I love mine.

I dumped my Bond Derringer in 45/.410.  Too heavy for how I carry and I hated the derringer trigger.

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: PegLeg45 on February 21, 2018, 07:35:35 PM
not with a 2"


Yeah, I just measured my Agent (equal to the Cobra) just a tick over 7" ......but it still disappears in my pocket.

Alf, maybe you need to shop for different pants with a tad deeper pockets. There are some good options for pocket guns that will allow for greater caliber choice, but even if they make the weight requirement, that <6" rule will eliminate most of them. That's what I did after losing some significant weight a couple years ago. When shopping for new pants, I sought a brand with deep enough pockets to conceal a 2" revolver.

Like I posted earlier, I normally carry a NAA mini revolver.....but it is mostly for snakes and such and maybe face-shooting someone if my Glock runs dry.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Timothy on February 21, 2018, 08:14:09 PM
I concur with the Pirate!

My LCR with hot +p was tough to shoot so I bought the Hogue full grip for it that pushes it to about 6-3/4” overall.  I disappears in slacks or loose shorts even with the longer grip.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on February 21, 2018, 09:24:28 PM
It's not just the pants pockets, but the jacket and vest pockets as well as the ankle holster.   6" length Just doesn't sit fully down in some of these.  And 20oz feels like a concrete block in my ankle holster.

BTW a typical day at work is 10+ Flights of stairs.  That's 16' between floors, no wussy 8' or 11'.  12,000+ steps.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: les snyder on February 21, 2018, 09:30:45 PM
Alf...I have a safe full of pocket pistols, or had several... TPH bit me every time I shot it...Beretta M21 very accurate, but overly thick in the grip... NAA mini, much more shoot able when you brace cylinder with weak thumb...Wilkinson Sherry, my first pocket pistol, would carry only with empty chamber...Beretta 950 (.25acp) would rather have one in .22short... PPK overly heavy and terrible trigger...

Ruger SP101... too heavy, SW 640 still heavy... SW442 getting better

KelTec p32 good shooter, but traded for KelTec P3AT (design flaw in the way the trigger is connected to the trigger axis )... my first suggestion is a Ruger LCP (preferably the II... as it has better sights and much better trigger with the lever) it will bark in your hands... best recommendation for a .380 is a Glock 42... very accurate and shoot able...I carried it in a Recluse holster for cargo pants, which also holds my G43

recommendations... if you need tiny, an LCP II with good holster that keeps from printing... I can carry mine in a nylon Columbia flats fishing shirt in the left front pocket... I wear suspenders, so they help keep it in place

for a very shoot able, accurate .380, a Glock G42

for an accurate 9mm Glock 43 with Taran Tactical +2 base pad, that barks pretty well... with 124 +P Gold Dots chrono better than 1130fps

I've switched to IWB with the G43 using a Tulster holster

good luck YMMV

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on February 21, 2018, 09:37:34 PM
The Kahr CW380 is only 10.2 ounces without a mag in it and 4.96" long. It's just a tad shorter than an LCP or LCP II, and just a bit heavier. It's under 5", barely, while the others are slightly over 5". https://shopkahrfirearmsgroup.com/cw380-cw3833/

ETA: The Glock 42 is 5.94 in. long, almost exactly an inch longer than the Kahr CW380.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: billt on February 22, 2018, 03:49:56 AM
Is this going to be just a play toy, and not a self defense tool? I ask because I have 2 North American Arms Mini Revolvers, (one in .22 L.R., and one in .22 Magnum), and both are better in a fight than a sharp stick, but not by much. Same with my Bauer .25 Auto Baby Browning copy. The problem when you get that small, these things are all but impossible to hit anything with, at distances any greater than across a card table. And they have less stopping power than a mad woman with a rolling pin.

(https://i.imgur.com/0vOV22j.jpg?1)
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Rastus on February 22, 2018, 05:58:42 AM
Duuhhhhh.....you said pistol and I was hung up on revolver. 

Get the Ruger LC9.  I carry that when not carrying a full sized HK VP9 or a S&W M&P or a Ruger SR9.

I just measured the LC9 and it comes in at 6".  Weighs not so much and is not too bad to handle when just shooting.  I run it with Liberty Ammunition Civil Defense ammo (+P) which weighs in at 50 grains for the bullet portion which makes this thing a real joy to carry.  Also, the pistol's rounded edges don't snag when you pull it.  I really like this thing more that I ever expected...I bought it more on a lark because I like the color and I don't have one in this color...or size/style.  The LC9 is much easier to handle than an LCP and I really do carry this.  I carry it especially when in summer shorts and I'm going to get a leather IWB made for it because the plastic stuff available is uncomfortable (but cheap).

I have the PPK....a heavy brick and has sharp edges you need to round off.  It's in 380 and not 9MM (unless you call it a 9MM short).  It comes out for range play when James Bond movies are featured on cable....other than that no so much.  It stays in a drawer for defense but not for carry.

Browning BDA 380.  You maybe want to check on this one.  It's in the safe so not handy for me to get to right now and maybe it's not too large but it does weigh a bit being a steel gun.  It also holds 13 rounds if I remember right.  Probably not what you want for weight but you may want it anyway....just because it's sweet.

Les is right about the SP101...though it's fun to shoot. 

I've owned a Taurus titanium plus a couple of other Taurus and I like them for size and feel for shooters.  But...that Ruger LCR has a better trigger and doesn't snag.

My wife has a Kahr PM9.  I have got to say it's a fine little pistol but it is pricey.  It has smooth rounded edges and is great for carry and not bad to handle.  It's never done anything but shoot when we've pulled the trigger.

In fact, to sum it up, I really like a lot what Ruger has in the LC9 and the LCP.  The LCP soaks up a little of the recoil in the frame too.  You know, you can spend a lot more and not get anything as good or better than what Ruger is offering at an affordable price.  Solid performers that are reliable.  Smoothed and rounded edges for carry.  And backed by a strong company that is diversified (unlike Remington). 

Yep.  Go Ruger and buy one of each of the LC9 and LCP.  For the money spent for both you'll probably come in just above or right at just above the price of one of say, the other good one I recommend, the Kahr PM9.  The Browning BDA wins it if you want to up the weight a little to have more than 5-7 rounds available...and it feels best in the hand of all of these.

Remember.  One is none and two is one. 

I'm just sayin'.....
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: crusader rabbit on February 22, 2018, 08:17:50 AM
I'll echo some of the thoughts already covered--LCP II.  The .380 may not have all the stopping power of a 9mm, but with that ittybitty gun you are most likely going to be"shooting across a card table" so it shouldn't be a problem.  I have the .380 and I will say it's a jumpy little gun.  It's not something you'll want to spend a day at the range shooting.

If you want to go a little bigger, the SCCY CPX 2 in 9mm is a good choice.  Small, relatively thin, relatively light weight: 
Barrel Length: 3.1″
Height: 4.2″
Length: 6.0″
Width: 1.1″
Weight: 15oz

I have one that cycles as my EDC.  I've put a large number of rounds down range. It's a good shooter. And the price isn't bad, either.  It's DAO, so the trigger pull and reset is a little long, but you can still crank out some speedy shots.

FWIW

Crusader Rabbit
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on February 22, 2018, 08:56:16 AM
Saturday is a large gun show in Atlanta.  I'll go down and fondle these choices.

A .380 is a possibility, but like the SCCY most are either long, bulky or heavy.

I'm intrigued by the Bullpup9, but the prime driver is small and light.

Standby for news.

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Jim Kennedy-ar154me on February 22, 2018, 10:37:54 AM
You all can laugh if you wish but I always carry a Kel-Tec P-11. Less than 6 inches long and a little less than 22 ozs.  7+1 cap.

Has never given me any issue to not carry it, I have had it in my pocket every day for about 4 years.

In fairness, it is my backup piece as I usually carry a 1911 on my belt as primary.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on February 22, 2018, 02:45:23 PM
"Preferences would be under 16oz,  less than 5" long." Obviously none of the ~6"-7+" guns that have been recommended come close to that. There are pistols that meet the 5" length preferred, like the Kahr CW380 I mentioned.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: PegLeg45 on February 22, 2018, 08:04:24 PM
Is this going to be just a play toy, and not a self defense tool? I ask because I have 2 North American Arms Mini Revolvers, (one in .22 L.R., and one in .22 Magnum), and both are better in a fight than a sharp stick, but not by much. Same with my Bauer .25 Auto Baby Browning copy. The problem when you get that small, these things are all but impossible to hit anything with, at distances any greater than across a card table. And they have less stopping power than a mad woman with a rolling pin.

(https://i.imgur.com/0vOV22j.jpg?1)


Agree with this.

I do carry the NAA as mentioned previously with three CCI snake shot rounds and two Aguilla HPs. It will dispatch a reptile adequately if close enough. It might deter a human, depending on the mindset of the human.

I forgot about the Baby Browning. I have an original pre-ban that belonged to my uncle. Its bark is worse than its bite, as in way louder than the punch it packs (but I still wouldn't want to be shot with it).
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on February 22, 2018, 10:40:51 PM
I have a .22 Magnum/.22 Long Rifle NAA mini with 2 cylinders. I guess you could carry the spare cylinder for a "speed load". Even the magnum size mini with the longer 1 5/8" barrel only weighs 6.5 ounces. One day I stuck it in my pants pocket and forgot about it. The next day when I got dressed I didn't even notice it was in there until I put my hand in my pocket. I put it in an ankle holster and walked around a little, and the weight was barely noticeable. A gun like that doesn't need to be accurate. It's a face gun. If the need arises, you stick it in someone's face and pull the trigger, without worrying about things like sight picture.

The boot grips that are available for it makes it much easier for me to hang on to, and without the bulk of the ridiculous looking oversize grips. I filed down the sides of my oversized grips to thin them down some but it didn't do any good. I haven't shot it with the boot grips on it yet but it has to be an improvement over the standard bird's head grips. For 5 bucks more you can get an engraved and checkered pair. They make a pair that will fit the .22 Short and LR too. https://northamericanarms.com/shop/accessories/magnum-boot-grip-w-engraving-2/
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Overload on February 23, 2018, 12:35:48 AM
How about a hidden gem: Colt Pocket 9.  Not on anyone’s radar, so they’re affordable. The gun that killed Colt.
That said, I don’t carry mine. I carry a Kahr PM9 or a Keltec 3AT.   I figure that parts might be hard to find for the Colt.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on February 23, 2018, 07:30:49 AM
How about a hidden gem: Colt Pocket 9.  Not on anyone’s radar, so they’re affordable. The gun that killed Colt.
That said, I don’t carry mine. I carry a Kahr PM9 or a Keltec 3AT.   I figure that parts might be hard to find for the Colt.
d

You and bills have got me broadening my search.  Thanks.



Of course, as I sit here with my SW M60 in its IWB, Comfortable and well concealed under my t-shirt I wonder if I really do need something smaller.   
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: crusader rabbit on February 23, 2018, 08:05:59 AM
How about a hidden gem: Colt Pocket 9.  Not on anyone’s radar, so they’re affordable. The gun that killed Colt.
That said, I don’t carry mine. I carry a Kahr PM9 or a Keltec 3AT.   I figure that parts might be hard to find for the Colt.

Now I understand GunBroker.com isn't the end-all in pricing, but they are offering the Colt Pocket 9 for $1400.00.  That's not quite in the "affordable" range around my wallet.

Crusader Rabbit
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: les snyder on February 23, 2018, 08:12:50 AM
Overload... check your (unloaded) P3AT for a possible problem.... look behind the trigger... there is a pin that connects the trigger to the trigger axis that connects the draw bar to the hammer... if the pin slips down, it will not allow enough trigger travel to release the hammer before the trigger stops on the grip frame...if it is high and in good operating condition, I'd suggest a drop of epoxy to lock it in place...the LCP has a shouldered pin that does not allow this, and possibly KelTec has made a similar change to their newer models
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Overload on February 23, 2018, 05:01:11 PM
Now I understand GunBroker.com isn't the end-all in pricing, but they are offering the Colt Pocket 9 for $1400.00.  That's not quite in the "affordable" range around my wallet.

Crusader Rabbit
Prices are all over the place. I’ve seen $300 and $1200 listings at the same time. It’s like people can’t agree on how much it’s worth.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Overload on February 23, 2018, 05:07:43 PM
Overload... check your (unloaded) P3AT for a possible problem.... look behind the trigger... there is a pin that connects the trigger to the trigger axis that connects the draw bar to the hammer... if the pin slips down, it will not allow enough trigger travel to release the hammer before the trigger stops on the grip frame...if it is high and in good operating condition, I'd suggest a drop of epoxy to lock it in place...the LCP has a shouldered pin that does not allow this, and possibly KelTec has made a similar change to their newer models
Will do. 
Haven’t had a problem with it so far, but haven’t shot it recently.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols and Gun Show
Post by: alfsauve on February 24, 2018, 03:53:49 PM
Went to the RK Show today at ATL Expo Center.  Usually biggest one in Atlanta.  Not as big as in the past though.

Major disappointment was not finding any Federal Small Pistol primers. Nada.    When I got home I found Everglades Ammo had them in stock.  Order 10k.  $3.75/100

Only one Ruger PC9 at the entire show.  Small dealer wanted $699+tax.   I'll wait.

I saw, Taurus, Ruger, S&W, Sig, Kimber, Kahr, Kel-Tec, Jennings, FIE, Unique (French), and many others.  There were some older, collectible pocket Colts and Brownings.  I know they were collectibles because of the prices, at which they will collect a lot of dust.

So many, so confusing.

I did not see any Walther TPHs.  I loved my PPKs, I'd buy a TPH just to have it.  AT A REAONABLE Price

But, after looking at specs and dimensions, it looks like I'll be getting a .380.  I mean the smallest pocket pistoll is of course the NAA revolver in .22lr, but in semi-auto, might as well go .380.  Not that big a savings in .22

Jenning or FIE;   nope nope nope.
Kel-Tec or Kanr; call me a snob, but I just can't bring myself to buy these
Taurus;  really don't trust them after the reset problem on their 738
SCCY;  gave a serious look after Michael's 2 show visit to their factory, but too big
Kimber, Sig, Walther PPK, S&W, and others;  To big or too heavy.
Bond Bullpup9;  Cool but can't find any and the price will probably be $750+

So I'm down to,

Ruger LCP  & Beretta Pico.   I've owned an LCP.  It was fine.  But I'm intrigued by the Pico.

Probably next Friday I'll go to the LGS and fondle both.





Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Majer on February 24, 2018, 04:36:53 PM
Alf, Having owned a Kel-Tek P3AT and still own a Kahr K9, I can tell you either of these pistols will serve you well. The K9 is all steel and recoil isn't bad shooting Federal 115Gr. +P+ JHP.(1350fps)
 With standard 9mm ammo it's a pussycat. The KelTek .380 is much smaller and has manageable recoil when loaded with Hornady TAP 90 Gr HP/XTP FPD ammo (1000fps at muzzle)
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on February 24, 2018, 04:53:34 PM
The NAA .22 Short mini revolver is 0.37" shorter than the .22 LR with a 1 1/8" barrel. It's the smallest production handgun I know of. But if you want something more effective, I don't think you'll find a current production .380 pistol smaller than the Kahr Arms CW380.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Timothy on February 24, 2018, 05:52:32 PM
I won’t buy a Kahr either so call me a snob too!

I’m sure they're fine guns but they’re made here in the People’s Republic, about ten miles north! 

Much like S&W, I can buy pretty much everything they manufacture here and snippets of other brands!  So, because I can, I won’t! 

Restriction list is BS so I won’t give either my money...  looking at a G43 or LC9s.

Anyone need a Sig P6 with 5 OEM mags?  Clean, swallows anything!

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: les snyder on February 24, 2018, 09:56:23 PM
Alf... pay the extra bucks for the LCP II if that is your final choice.. much better trigger and sights
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: les snyder on February 24, 2018, 09:59:28 PM
Timothy...after about 30yrs search, I think the G43 with TT+2 in a Tulster holster is my choice... I have a tritium front sight plain rear incoming from Dave Dawson
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Timothy on February 24, 2018, 10:27:49 PM
Timothy...after about 30yrs search, I think the G43 with TT+2 in a Tulster holster is my choice... I have a tritium front sight plain rear incoming from Dave Dawson

Thanks Les!

Any issues with the +2 extension?
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Rastus on February 25, 2018, 07:00:13 AM
Alf, did you look at the LCR and LCP side x side? 
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: les snyder on February 25, 2018, 08:07:39 AM
Timothy... so far no...it came with the extra power spring...I put 200 hand load hollow points through it, and about 300 factory FMJ mix of 115/147s and about 15 of the Speer 124 +P Gold Dots that I carry (I'm old school)...other than drifting the rear sight to the right before I ever shot it, has worked well and accurate... I do one shot draws from my IWB rig at 20m on 8" plates with pretty good success rate with a nylon cover up shirt... the 124 Gold Dots chrono better than 1130fps .. I'm a member at an outdoor range that allows me to draw from holster, so I try to shoot it at least every other week with a magazine or two

I don't think I'd recommend it to a first time buyer.. it is a hand full when it goes off
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on February 25, 2018, 02:54:42 PM
Alf, did you look at the LCR and LCP side x side?

LCR - 6.5" long. No go.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Conagher 45 on February 26, 2018, 07:04:49 PM
The 1903 Colt in .32 acp is most likely too long and too pricey but it sure is a good looking classic.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on March 10, 2018, 09:43:56 AM
After 2 weeks I still haven't been able to handle a Beretta Pico.

SO WHAT TO DO?

Well as a OCDA, Obsessive Compulsive Data Analyzer, I made a spread sheet.   Of Course

Turns out the Diamondback and the LCP are actually the smallest and lightest. 

Looks like I'll be going with the LCP.

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Rastus on March 10, 2018, 11:12:25 AM
I don't know which LCR you measured, but mine is an LC9S and is maybe...6.05".  If you'd like to carry 9MM instead of 9MM short in the LCP.  It is bulkier and heavier to carry the 9 though.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on March 10, 2018, 12:28:37 PM
I don't know which LCR you measured, but mine is an LC9S and is maybe...6.05".  If you'd like to carry 9MM instead of 9MM short in the LCP.  It is bulkier and heavier to carry the 9 though.

Your revolver is a semi-auto pistol?

Alf, I was just going to point out the the LCP is about 2 ounces less than the Pico.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on March 10, 2018, 03:18:00 PM
I don't know which LCR you measured, but mine is an LC9S and is maybe...6.05".  If you'd like to carry 9MM instead of 9MM short in the LCP.  It is bulkier and heavier to carry the 9 though.

LCP (typo I'm sure).   I've got a pretty good 9mm, S&W Shield.  I'd love to fondle the Bond Bullpup.  Innovative, but none of the local stores has one.  Some don't even know they exist.  Of course, yesterday neither of the two clerks behind the pistol counter at Cabela's had heard of the Beretta Pico, much less the Bond.

Looking to go smaller and lighter as a backup and a deep cover gun.  Got to be around 5" long.  Under 13oz.



 

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on March 10, 2018, 07:14:12 PM
It no longer surprises me when people working behind the gun counter don't seem to know a lot about guns. Years ago at Gander Mountain, both of the gun counter guys thought Springfield Armory, Inc. in Geneseo, Illinois was the same as the former U.S. government arsenal, Springfield Armory in Springfield, Massachusetts. Even when they were looking in a gun book they couldn't work out that Springfield Armory, Inc. was only using the Springfield Armory name.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: les snyder on March 10, 2018, 08:28:09 PM
Alf... they are not cheap, but if you need to prevent printing the Recluse line works for me... I carry a G42/43 in their two sided cargo pocket model... note that the spine is cut to allow you to grip the pistol while in your pocket

https://recluseholster.com/ruger/page-2?osCsid=ed583fc37f7eba6f920cb4c01cd606a1
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on March 23, 2018, 12:54:51 PM
...if you need to prevent printing the Recluse line works for me....

That, of course, is the next challenge.  I've got 2 Uncle Mike pocket holsters and the one that came with the LCP.  None quite what I want.   I like the Recluse that primarily protects one side.   But, heck, I can barely get the gun in my pocket much less my hand at the same time.

Might make my own.  Thinking a square piece of leather on one side and expandable fabric on the other.  Thin is the op word.   No needing or wanting "sticky". 
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on March 23, 2018, 01:13:26 PM
To round out the story.  Got the LCP II today.  Minor size differences between the I and II, but decided the internal features would be good.  Didn't really care about hold-open.

I know LCP's have been reviewed to death, so just skip the rest of this post if you're sick of them.  I'll make it brief.

1) Flat base plate on mag is slight shorter than plug behind magazine.  Some sanding to do. Can't remove plug as it protects a spring in the back of the grip.

2) Magazine loads very easy, even the 6th one.

3) Gun runs well with 6+1.  Some guns are not reliable with full magazine and one in the tube.

4) Runs well rapid fire. 

5) A drift pin near the top rear of the frame was sticking out ever so slightly on the left side.  Rubbed a hole in the base of my right thumb.  Will take it out and round it.

6) Straight from the counter to the range 63 rounds, no problems.  (No I didn't remove the manufacturers grease.  Just check to make sure the barrel wasn't plugged with something and blasted away.)

7) Points and shoots well one handed on up close targets.

8 ) Not near as unpleasant to shoot as I thought it might be.

Here is a picture of it laying on top of my Shield.
The drift pin can be seen on the left just below the slide, where the stipling comes to a point.
Also notice the grip plug which I think can be rounded down a little.

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Gun-General/i-jRKwvZW/0/6826dc2f/L/IMG_7870-L.jpg)
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on March 24, 2018, 10:03:46 AM
What a great Disassembly video.  I want to rip it and have it on my tablet on my work bench.
This 3 minute animation tells you more than some of the 8 minute long field stripping ones.



Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on March 24, 2018, 02:08:27 PM
Cool video Alf. That looks just like my stainless LCP. I haven't gone any farther than taking the slide off mine and taking the barrel out. I hope I never need to. There are a lot more disassembly and operating videos that on that channel. 195 of them, I think. They cover some oddballs like a lemon squeezer, and Liberator pistol, as well as more common firearms. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3D2NwJzlEL6NBeM559bS3w/videos
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: les snyder on March 25, 2018, 11:34:08 AM
Alf... before I went with the Recluse and the G42/43, I carried the 3AT and LCP in a wallet holster from Sam Andrews, Andrews Custom Leather in Alachua, Fla... I carried in the right front pocket, so wanted the leather flap to prevent printing... I used a LEFT hand holster which is normally designed to be used in the rear pocket, putting the flap out in the front... the leather is very good, and will take a little time so the edges fold to help blur the square outline


it is not as easy to draw from as the Recluse as you need to get your hand behind the flap, and on the grip, but at the time Florida had a pretty strict requirement of  "no printing" or exposing your concealed blaster

http://www.andrewsleather.com/pocket.htm#wallet
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on March 25, 2018, 11:42:33 AM
Andrews Leather makes holsters from traditional leather and exotic skins too. They make other things too. I took a look at their billfolds and decided exotic skins are out of my price range. I'd rather carry a nylon wallet at less than 1/10 the price. http://www.andrewsleather.com/
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on March 25, 2018, 02:23:41 PM
Perfect.  Thanks Les and Frank.    Andrews look exactly what I had in mind.

I'm being anal, but the Uncle Mike's adds over .2".  It's made of a soft material squishy material.  I've used it in the back pocket this weekend and it's fine, but I want something just a tad stiffer and thinner.

This looks like the ticket.   Though I may try making one first myself since I have a few scraps of leather around.

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on March 25, 2018, 10:51:26 PM
The Movies, Unique, Special pages of Andrews are worth checking out.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on April 10, 2018, 03:36:31 PM
The safety on the M&P 380 SHIELD EZ can move to the on position while shooting and keep the gun from firing. Not an ideal situation for self defense. Smith & Wesson has come up with a new safety that's less likely to do that and is offering free upgrades. https://www.smith-wesson.com/mp-380-shield-ez-consumer-advisory
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on April 10, 2018, 08:44:04 PM
I had no idea what an EZ was.  Had to look it up.   A small M&P in .380 with a grip safety.    No I don't have one.

https://www.smith-wesson.com/firearms/mp-380-shield-ez-0 (https://www.smith-wesson.com/firearms/mp-380-shield-ez-0)





Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on April 10, 2018, 10:37:37 PM
I had no idea what an EZ was.  Had to look it up.   A small M&P in .380 with a grip safety.    No I don't have one.

https://www.smith-wesson.com/firearms/mp-380-shield-ez-0 (https://www.smith-wesson.com/firearms/mp-380-shield-ez-0)

Me neither, but someone reading this thread may have one, or be looking at them. I don't think there's a gun recall/upgrade thread so I posted it here. I still have an LCP, and my fancy PPK safe queen. Which reminds me, it's about time I changed my profile pic.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on April 12, 2018, 06:42:40 AM
Love your PPK, Frank,

I've owned and carried several.  Even in "plain" blue I like their looks.
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Big Frank on April 12, 2018, 11:15:50 PM
Love your PPK, Frank,

I've owned and carried several.  Even in "plain" blue I like their looks.

That was a stock photo shrunk down. The original pics of both sides looked better than anything I could take. There were only 1500 made. I downloaded some pics of someone's gun put couldn't post them because they were JPEG, not JPG.  ???  I tried converting them to other file types with Paint and couldn't get a good quality pic in a format and size that would work.

http://www.firearmdealersonline.com/Adv_Search_Model.asp?Manufacturer=Walther+PPKS+75th+Anniversary+Engraved
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on April 13, 2018, 09:15:15 AM
......, I carried the 3AT and LCP in a wallet holster from Sam Andrews, Andrews Custom Leather in Alachua, Fla...

LES,

Had a nice chat with Sam today.   We have an Ontario connection (which helps when spelling my name).  Ordered the wallet from him.  Dropped your name.  He said, "Hi."
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: les snyder on April 13, 2018, 07:08:13 PM
Alf... if I had known... his son's first sale at the Lakeland (Fl) Gun Show was the pocket holster when he was a little guy... he didn't understand why I wanted a left handed pocket holster and was right handed
Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: alfsauve on April 14, 2018, 08:11:08 PM
....I wanted a left handed pocket holster and was right handed

Back in the '70s/'80s when IWB wasn't a big thing, I bought simple left handed clip-on leather holster to use for right side IWB.   Sam made sure I knew what I was getting and which pocket it worked best in.  ;)

Title: Re: Pocket Pistols
Post by: Rastus on April 15, 2018, 09:21:40 AM
I just bought a cheap $5 on clearance floppy leather holster by Blackhawk for an LC9 from Midway.  Great price and a great purchase experience.

I won't buy another one.