Upgrading from .380

[alfsauve]

For many years.  Many, many years, I carried a PPK/s.  I don't think it was a James Bond thing, but I did like the mystic of the gun.  I had a home made "Sneaky Pete" style holster long before Sneaky Pete.  I had an IWB and an OWB.  I finally dumped my home made case and adapted a commercially made case (made for an external disk drive).



But having worn out my second gun and also figuring out that I agreed with Col. Cooper on the SA/DA being the answer in search of a question, I decided to go modern, first with a Taraus TCP then a Ruger LCP, which I've carried for almost 3 years.

Then I spent a day or two with Gabe, Michael and Kevin, and developed a fresh view of self-defense.  I also came back to find two local establishments, very close to home, had been robbed.  I decided it was time to get a little more serious about what I carried.   Not looking to start the .380/9mm debate.  In fact, .380, with current SD ammo is a lot better option than when I started carrying it 40+ years ago.   I figured it's time to upgrade and pay the size/weight penalty.

So my newest carry. 



S&W Shield 9mm.  And I love it.  Very heavy slide.  Very light frame.  The frame is also significantly smaller in width than the slide.  It handles (shoots) so much better than the old PPK/s or the LCP.  Much more controllable.  Better sights (actually they're real sights compared to the LCP).  Yes it is heavier and bulkier, but as I said, I'm ready to make the commitment to have more firepower. 

I've only used an Uncle Mike's soft holster for IWB both as IWB and in the pocket with the clip out.  My Crossbreed Mini-Tuck shipped today.

At the range, I've shot it mainly one handed, which is the way I envision it being used primarily.  It is not near the handful the LCP nor the PPK/s where.  The heavier slide of course helps.  Very pleased with S&W Shield..  (Disclaimer, I'm part owner of the company. ~1/209000th.)  I've only put about 50 rounds through it so far, but it worked flawless with both magazines and both with regular hardball, ~130PF plated HP, and with +P self defense loads.

[kmitch200]

Nice upgrade! 
My first 380 was a POS Walther knockoff (Astra?) back in the 70's. Yuck! Pot metal parts that very soon gave up the ghost.
I've been looking at Galloway for LCP parts and may place an order soon. Won't do anything for the sights but the trigger should be better.
http://gallowayprecision.com/ruger/lcp/

I usually carry my G27 anyway...

[alfsauve]

I'm in a internal debate over whether to keep the LCP as a very small BUG, or to just ditch .380 altogether and simplify life.

I can see possibly carrying it in a few situations where maximum concealability might be paramount.  I'll wait untill the Crossbreed arrives and I've had a week or two using it.

[TAB]

keep it for when you need it.  I personally don't feel the need to carry a bug, but there are times when a 1911 or a snubby is just not practical.

[PegLeg45]

keep it for when you need it.  I personally don't feel the need to carry a bug, but there are times when a 1911 or a snubby is just not practical.

The bold is my general thoughts on the matter, FWIW.


Nice addition to your arsenal, Alf.

[Sponsor]

[alfsauve]

Looky, looky what arrived!   My Crossbreed for the S&W Shield.  Holds the gun very close to the body.  Much closer than the Uncle Mikes soft side.  I feel very confident that the gun won't print, especially during the winter under my heavier shirts.  Have worn it almost constantly for the past several days.




Also, this one is mine!  Made just for me.  Custom you might say.