Paladin132

I am wondering what kind of 9mm and .380 type weapons are out there that should be considered forl a unltraconcealable back up weapon. Now I concean a 1911 very easily on my frame with a good galco holster and very rarely would think of carrying this as a primary, and not saying I would even pick one up, but I read another post and it got me to thinking I don't know anything about this style of handgun.

OPFOR

The Ruger LCP and Kel-Tec P3AT are about as small as they get, while still being functional (both in .380).

In 9mm, you have the Kahr PM-9, the Kel-Tec P-11 and PF-9, the Walther PPS, and (since you are comfortable/familiar with the 1911 style) the Springfield EMP. You also, of course, have the baby Glocks, and sub-compact pistols from several other manufacturers, but the first group I listed are the overall "smallest" 9mms that came immediately to mind. I'm sure the crew here will add in many more that I have overlooked.

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Paladin132

Thanks, I look forward to that, I'll go and look these up on the net now though. Appriciate it. It is a gap in my knowledge, and that simply isn't acceptable!

dukalmighty

I carry a Keltec P-11,tho not the smallest it holds 10+1 9mm rounds and with S&W mags can hold 12-15 +1,the trigger is stiff and takes some getting used to to find the "break" but out to 10 yards can put most rounds in the sweet spot COM

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David in FL

Don't forget the Seecamp. Smallest .380 out there and an absolute gem. They can be a little tough to find though and will set you back a little more than the LCP or P3AT.

Here's an overlay of the Seecamp and the Ruger LCP for comparison....




Here it is "real life"......

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alnitak

The smallest 9mm is the Rohrbaugh. In order (from smallest to largest) here's how the compact 9mm's roughly rank (some are basically the same size, and so are grouped together):

1. Rohrbaugh
2. Kahr PM9
3. Kel-Tec PF-9
4. Walther PPS & Kel-Tec P11
5. Glock G26, XDsc, S&W M&Pc, Kahr CW9, P9 and P9 Covert

Not sure if I would put the EMP (and other similar guns) in row 4 or 5. The beavertail makes it difficult for pocket carry, yet it is slim and concealable for IWB. IMO, only 1-4 are viable options for pants pocket carry (and even 4 is a stretch) since those in row 5 are thicker. However, there are those that carry them in cargo pockets with no issue. Any of the above ones generally work in overcoat pockets, ankle holsters and undershirt holsters.

Of the .380s, the LCP and P3T are the same size, yet the new Kahr .380 (yet to be shipped) is a little smaller. Seacamp and NAA have mouse guns that are even smaller, but there is a weight factor with them. Other .380's (like the Walther PPK) are considerations as well, but I think their weight makes them less appealing.

For everyday carry, I chose the PM9 as the best (for me) combination of caliber, weight, shootability (accuracy, recoil, fit, nightsights, etc.) and concealability. However, I am considering an LCP for summertime shorts (the PM9 works fine in cargo shorts, but not those flimsy nylon types).

SIGguy229

Kahr MK9....but it is a little on the heavy side

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paul45

Here is what I have personally settled on after trying most of the guns mentioned. I carry these - usually 1 from each group
-G26, G27, G30, G27, G19
- KT .380. KT .32, Walther pps
- S&W 342PD, 60, 36 all .38 spl

I have the PPK but it is a littke large and heavy but it is 100% reliable
I have the NAA .32 - small, heavy and it hurts my knuckle to shoot it.

You have to try the individual weapon to insure it works for you and that you trust it with your life. What someone else uses is only a baseline for you needs.

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ASSA9

+1 on the Kahr MK9 but I would add that a small gun like this
is better a little on the heavy side because it will reduce recoil.

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Carry guns (Glock G33)(Glock G36)
(Bersa .380CC)(Taurus 85-.38 ported)

OhShoot

Good summary and post.

- OS