Sometimes, I'd like to dress a little lighter; it's relatively compact for a 13 round double-stack, but heavy and the grip is quite bulky.
My wife owns a LC-9 I bought for her, which we really like...but I think I want even smaller ...so I'm in the .380 camp for when I can't carry the CZ.
LCP is an obvious choice, as is the PF-9.
But I'm intrigued by the IO Hellcat, did a search here and didn't turn up anything recent.
Please...I know I can buy the LCP and get a "known" quantity..but for $100 less (Hellcat at $200, incl shipping) it's enough of a difference to justify checking it out.
If you own one, or have shot one, I'd be interested in hearing your comments.
Keltec p3at is $227-$237 through Bud's, and it's the original design both Ruger and IO copied to make the Hellcat. I've owned two without any issues.
Why get a cheap copy(Hellcat), when you can get the original?
If you really can't come up with the extra $ to get a Keltec or Ruger LCP, I would at least LOOK INTO the Taurus TCP(can be had for $199 through Buds.). I know there are alot of Taurus haters here that will probable talk you out of this. (Despite plenty of positive reviews on the TCP.)
Never said it was a matter of being able to afford it...
It's a matter of whether there's a justifiable reason to spend the extra dough.
Actually, Buds only sells the P-3at in blued for $265...unless, of course, you're a VIP member...but like I said, it ain't about the dough.
I was really intrigued by the Diamondback, but too many negative reviews. I haven't seen any negative reviews on this pistol (and I searched) other than a comment about needing high performance for best function which I'd expect in a lightweight like this.
Not looking for someone to tell me not to buy a "rip-off", I'm looking for comments from individuals that have experience with the weapon.
Has nothing to do with being a "rip-off", has to do with a product that has been on the market longer and has a more solid reputation and warranty. Your OP mentioned the IO Hellcat as an alternative to the Ruger LCP, was suggesting another altnative. Choices are good. I handled a DiamondBack at the LGS, wasn't horribly impressed with it. I can see why it sells, I just prefer to trust something a little more proven.
Jeff Quinn actually carried the KT p32 (the p3at's little brother) for years. So clearly he likes KT too.
Just saying.
I currently carry a Ruger Lc9, so don't mistake me for a KT fan-boy or something.
It seems the Ruger LCP sells so many versions because the fit&finish are nicer than the KT (and presumably the IO) and people often view fit&finish as overall quality. Also because its "Ruger", a trusted brand. Fit&Finish itself don't stop a threat.
I haven't owned an IO, but I have owned 2 KTs and know several folks who love their LCP's.
Good luck with whatever you purchase. I moved away from a .380ACP to a small 9MM and haven't looked back. It isn't THAT much larger or harder to conceal, but offers more "stopping power" .
If you decide on the IO Hellcat, post a range report and let us know how it does and what you think of it.:bier:
I have no personal experience with this gun, so I did a Google search to find out what I could. I came up with this review by Jeff Quinn of Gunblast, an online gun review website:
I read the review and Quinn, who has a good reputation, was favorable on the gun. He tested it with a variety of ammunition and had no problems with it. It does look like a bargain at the price you quoted.
Thanks.
I had never heard of the gun until I saw it featured on an episode of "Guns 'N Ammo" a few weeks ago.
They talked it up big time, but since I never really expect objectivity on shows like that I didn't attach a lot of cred to it...
There's not a lot I can find, but what I did, was mostly positive- except for extractor issues which seem to have been solved. Their warranty is also not up to Ruger or Kel-Tec, but I'm still interested.
Thanks, all good. As I mentioned above, the warranty is a consideration.
I'm with ya on proven reliability for a SD weapon, it's obviously got to go "bang" each and every time you pull the trigger...that's why I like my CZ...it has never, ever, failed to fire or extract, no matter what it's been fed.
But, this one's been around for a little while now; and sometimes ya gotta give the "new guys" a chance...you never know, they might be onto something...
The free shipping expires tomorrow on the pistol, so I'm really tempted...I mean, at $200, there's not a lot at stake.
It's not like dropping $750 and then finding out you don't like it for one reason or another.
Im sure a few people own one, but i cant imagine somebody actually using it for EDC. I test fired one a few weeks ago. The worst thing about it was having to fully reset the trigger after each shot. Set it down after the magazine was empty. Pulled the trigger a few extra times. The slide doesnt catch when the magazine is empty.
From what I have read the 1st generation had some quality problems. The 2nd generation that came out this year from many of the reviews is much better. Buy what you like and what works for you !!! God Bless :smile:
I also did a lot of research as I wanted a backup for my G39, or as a primary when clothing dictated something small. Unlike most, I respect the .380 round and feel that if with 6 shots you can't get yourself out of a pickle, you're truly S.O.L. I had planned on the Ruger LCP because I am a HUGE Ruger fan, but the Hellcat really intrigues me. After seeing what is out there I went ahead and purchased a Hellcat Gen2 that I pick up Tues. I will try to post my thoughts after I get back from the range.
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