[bgeddes]

I have a couple handguns to carry. I prefer a 1911 because I am much more familiar with them than any other pistol or revolver. 1911 in 5" I find a challenge to carry casually, I have a 3.5" on order.

The LCP I can hide in any dress, it disappears, but I always feel a bit 'lightly loaded' with the .380 even though it shoots where I point it and the confidence in ammo and usage have been covered.

Between the them I would like a smaller sized piece. Although I am typically am an auto loader guy, learning the new system will be a requirement so a revolver is an option. Something in either 9mm or .38sp seems to fill the gap.

Based on the $300 cap the list is limited. In the possibilities are Kel-tec 9mm (new), one of the J frame Smiths, used, imported 9mm Maks or FEGs, and COUNTLESS others.

Best option would be a 1911-ish or something so different I would have to learn a completely new setup. Where should I look and for what?

[matt g]

Originally Posted by bgeddes

The LCP I can hide in any dress, it disappears, but I always feel a bit 'lightly loaded' with the .380 even though it shoots where I point it and the confidence in ammo and usage have been covered.

Got any pictures of you in those dresses?

A short barreled, short gripped 1911 sounds like it's you best bet.

[oldandslow]

bg, 11/18/08

It is going to be hard to find a new or used 1911 type pistol for $300 or less. Your best bet is to look at some of the quality used guns. Mark at www.summitgunbroker has the SW 6906 for $269. This is an alloy framed DA/SA 9mm pistol with a 12 round capacity. I got mine from him and it is accurate, light, reliable and easy to carry. I am sure others will chime in to add other possibilities. Good luck.

best wishes- oldandslow

[matt g]

Originally Posted by oldandslow

bg, 11/18/08

It is going to be hard to find a new or used 1911 type pistol for $300 or less. Your best bet is to look at some of the quality used guns. Mark at www.summitgunbroker has the SW 6906 for $269. This is an alloy framed DA/SA 9mm pistol with a 12 round capacity. I got mine from him and it is accurate, light, reliable and easy to carry. I am sure others will chime in to add other possibilities. Good luck.

best wishes- oldandslow

He did say that he has a 3 1/2" barreled 1911 on order.

Bgeddes, what 1911 do you have on order?

[bgeddes]

Another Rock Island. The one I already own shoots perfectly. It should be easier to conceal being shorter barreled. I am trying to get familiar with a new piece before the warm weather hits and I can't hide a 1911.

[matt g]

Originally Posted by bgeddes

Another Rock Island. The one I already own shoots perfectly. It should be easier to conceal being shorter barreled. I am trying to get familiar with a new piece before the warm weather hits and I can't hide a 1911.

My Kimber disappears pretty readily even in shorts and t-shirts. It's a 4" barrel and a mid length frame.





IWB, arms raised:

[Rich_C]

Smith n Wesson Sigma 9mm are reasonable or for a little more maybe a XD.

[Benning Boy]

Going sub-$300, CZ-82. Close enough to the 1911 in deployment, 9x18 beats out .380 in power, surplus with an ugly holster and spare mag is under $200. 13 round capacity, and a rifling design that resists wear. Undetectable in the summer without being under equipped.

[Mark F]

Originally Posted by Benning Boy

Going sub-$300, CZ-82. Close enough to the 1911 in deployment, 9x18 beats out .380 in power, surplus with an ugly holster and spare mag is under $200. 13 round capacity, and a rifling design that resists wear. Undetectable in the summer without being under equipped.

Yeah, J&G Gun Sales has CZ82 for 179.00. These are tough little "high capacity" 9mm Mak's.

[ebo202]

Its actually the 3rd time I've mentioned this gun in just as many posts, but I swear its coincidence!

I'd go for the Kel-Tec P11. Small, VERY EASY to conceal even with gym shorts, 10 rounds of 9mm, made in the USA, and all under 300 bucks.

The only drawback is its crappy trigger. It's like 7lbs and LOOOOOOOOOOOOOONG. Just get a snap cap and you'll get over it real quick. That, and spend some time at the range. Already posted the pic twice, but here it is again!