I'd like recommedations on a 9 mm or higher semi auto that can easily be carried in a pocket holster. I was looking at J frame revolvers, but I'm not comfortable with just 5 rounds and having to carry a speedloader instead of an a extra magazine. Price is a consideration , however what's most important is reliability. I carry a Glock 23 in an IWB holster and was thinking of a Glock 27, but I want a semi auto for pocket carry that has a safety. Any help would be appreciated.
Backup pocket semiauto - recommedations
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I have a PF 9 Kel Tec that can be carried in cargo pockets without printing at all or jeans with some printing. I have two holsters for pocket carry, one an Uncle Mikes for jeans (only the grip prints slightly) and a "Pocket Holster convertible" which shields the outline with thick leather, like a wallet.
No 9mm or higher I know of is as concealable as guns like the 380 Kel tec or some other mini guns.
Be aware, a really small 9MM is a defensive weapon ONLY. Effective with some practice but NOT fun to shoot like larger guns can be. Very small, light pistols with relatively high power for their size pack a pretty significant "kick" all the macho stuff aside. Still, I am comfortable with mine for hot summer carry and even when a larger gun would be concelable but not as comfortable.
A glock 26 is also an option but thicker and more like a revolver in width.
Oh, the kel tec relies on a trigger block against shock and a relatively long trigger pull as a safety but NO manual safety. The Glock you would be familiar with. Kahr makes a nice one too. The Kel Tec has a seven round mag and one in the chamber for eight total, ready to go.
No 9mm or higher I know of is as concealable as guns like the 380 Kel tec or some other mini guns.
Be aware, a really small 9MM is a defensive weapon ONLY. Effective with some practice but NOT fun to shoot like larger guns can be. Very small, light pistols with relatively high power for their size pack a pretty significant "kick" all the macho stuff aside. Still, I am comfortable with mine for hot summer carry and even when a larger gun would be concelable but not as comfortable.
A glock 26 is also an option but thicker and more like a revolver in width.
Oh, the kel tec relies on a trigger block against shock and a relatively long trigger pull as a safety but NO manual safety. The Glock you would be familiar with. Kahr makes a nice one too. The Kel Tec has a seven round mag and one in the chamber for eight total, ready to go.
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111 Posts
Kel Tec PF9 and $ right 
istols
istols
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Most of the time I have 1 of my 1911’s at my 3:00, but a fast run to store or for a backup to the 1911 that little 9 works nice. I had the kel tec 32 which was great mouse weapon but wife took it from me , both shot great , I will say shooting at the range with that pf9 for to long will hurt the wrist, it does have a little kick because it so light
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do you like your glock? is so try out a 30sf.... 10 rounds of 45 in a small accurate gun.... wife wont let me buy it for us cause money is tight.... but she definitely loved the gun
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I can't think of any pistols off the top of my head that satisfy all of your criteria...most true pocket pistols, as well as most subcompact service pistol variants, are going to be DA/SA or DAO (which, IMO, negates the need for a manual safety). And I don't think that a cocked-and-locked compact 1911 is suitable for pocket carry.
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I agree, not many pocket pistol to choose from with a manual safety. I can think of one that does meet his requirements but don't recommend it nor would the OP be likely to find it, and that's the Colt Mustang made years ago.
DA or DAO would suit the requirement. I have no problem keeping my finger off the trigger on my Glock 23 when drawing but for some reason the idea of having a firearm in a pocket holster in my pocket with a round in the chamber makes me nervous. I guess I am concerned about the trigger some how getting engaged. A long trigger pull would certainly allay those fears however long trigger pulls don't make for great accuracy even up close. I know it is a skill that can be learned but I still like crisp trigger pulls. Looks like I'm stuck with a revolver like the Ruger LCR. I guess part of the fear is that the pocket gun would be in my left pocket/weak hand side.
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I know this is not a 9mm, but I just bought a Bersa Thunder CC 380. It seems to be a great little gun. Flip the safty off and start firing as long as one is chambered.
Bersa Thunder and newer Ruger LCPs are great guns. I just am not comfortable carrying a 380. I understand that you can kill someone with a 22, 25, 32 or 380 but they are under powered and not proven man stoppers. A 380 might be ok if it was only used as a BUG, but there are times when it is just easier to pocket carry a firearm. For me 38 + P is the minimum caliber that I want to trust my life to, just my opinion. Like everything in this world its what works for you. I do thank you for your input.
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I carry a Kahr P9 in a DeSantis Nemesis pocket holster for my EDC and I never concern myself about inadvertently activating the trigger; as long as the holster covers the trigger guard, you should be good to go. :thumsup
But I'm a bit confused about why you seemingly have no problem carrying a DAO revolver but are reluctant to carry a DAO semi-auto; the DAO trigger pulls on modern pistols are vastly improved over the gritty, creepy 'crunchenticker' triggers of old P-38 fame.
If you are looking to carry the G22 and another gun at the same time, I suggest you think "light" like the Ruger LCP. I can't imagine trying to carry the weight of a G22 and a G27 at the same time. However if you are looking to add another carry weapon to your arsenal, go with what you know! G27 or even G26.
I carry my G26 in my pocket occasionally. It does take some shopping skills to find pants/shorts with big enough pockets. But they are out there.
I carry my G26 in my pocket occasionally. It does take some shopping skills to find pants/shorts with big enough pockets. But they are out there.
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Have you seen one of these in person yet Doug? We're still waiting on them to filter into the shop from the distribs. A lot of people have asked at the shop looking for one.
Looked it up on the web. Looks like a nice piece...My question is, would you buy a new weapon when it first hits the streets or wait until it's proven?
I'm sorry, I don't see the love affair with 380 caliber firearms. If I am going to carry a fierarm for self defense I'm not relying on a 380, no matter what configuration it's in. I like the Colt Mustang idea in some caliber more powerful than 380. Even if you are a 380 fan the ammo is very expensive compared to more effective calibers.
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Not sure I'd agree. Try a DAO first. I have a new Kel-Tec P3AT. I took it to the range this week for it's maiden voyage and if I were anymore average; if I stood by a wall you wouldn't see me. At seven yards point shooting multi taps, most of my shots were in the box (SWAT target) with the occasional oops shoot still in the body. Target practice at that distance was good too.
Try it! I put mine in my front pocket and forget it's there.
Good luck finding your gun!
Best regards
Franklin
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I've done both, been burned for doing it [ the junk ] and been happy with being on the leading edge of something new to play with. It can work both ways, but I think erring on the side of caution, particularly with Ruger and their last two entries of the LCP and SR9 being recalled would be prudent.
SwampRat,
You recommending 9's now :rolf
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