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4 pocket pistols...pros and cons

FFChen
I've narrowed my search down for an EDC pocket pistol...this is NOT in order of preference:

1. Smith and Wesson Bodyguard 380
2. Kahr P380
3. Kahr PM40
4. Sig Sauer P238

I haven't been able to hold the Bodyguard, but the other 3 have felt great in my hand. While the PM40 is slightly larger, it has the plus of having more bang. Because I am not, and will never be, the best expert on firearms, I want to hear what some people who have had some time with any of these guns to give their input. Pro's Con's list would be great.

Thanks to anyone who replies!
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Comments

12 comments

Date Votes
  • bambihunter
    I found the PM40 to be a tad too big for pocket use unless you wear cargo pants or something similar. However, it does have the added punch which is always nice.

    Of that list, I would go for the P380.

    A few more to consider if you haven't, a Ruger LCP or Kel-tec P3AT. I carry the latter in a true pocket holster. I have a slim holster that I wear with my Khaki's and another holster that has an extra mag holder that I wear with blue jeans. I even carry this pistol when I also carry my Glock 29 (10mm auto).
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  • FFChen
    I totally agee about the pm40. Even though its just slightly larger, its pushing front pocket carry, lucky for me I wear cargo style pants 98% of the time. Regarding the LCP and P3AT, the price if the LCP is what I wish the kahr's could be, but they were not as comfortable in my hand. Being comfortable is one of my top qualities I'm looking for, which put the LCP out. I've never held the P3AT, I'll be sure to get out there in the next couple days to feel one.

    Thanks for the reply
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  • bambihunter
    You sure have to consider comfort, both while shooting and while carrying. For my all-the-time CCW gun, carry comfort (and especially concealability) is more important than shooting comfort. The Kel-tec is a small light .380 and I shoot the powerful DoubleTap ammo through it and it is a handful to shoot but not so much so that I avoid shooting it. Your CCW gun obviously needs to be shot enough so you are positively comfortable with its every feature and are sure it to be utter reliable.
    The P3AT and the Ruger LCP are very similar so you may not like it but for sure hold it and maybe even shoot it if you can to make your educated decision. I am not trying to promote it just because I like it, just offering other ideas which you may or may not have considered. [;)]
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  • dcs shooters
    From your list, I would go with the Kahr P380.
    I was at a gun show last weekend and got to handle the Sig, and am sticking with my P3AT.
    For serious carry, I have my Kahr P-9 in a IWB holster.
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  • FFChen
    Thanks you guys for the input. Sounds like the P380 is winning. I made my own point sheet for each and the P380 wins there too. I hope I can find a good deal for one, being a poor college student (went back and got my Paramedic). My heavier hitter is a Jericho 941 .40 that I carry in a shoulder harness. The PM40 is appealing because I am stocked up on .40's. P380 is looking like the winner. I will leave this post up for the next couple weeks before I make my final decision....is there any way to put up a poll/vote?
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  • Riomouse911
    All are good choices, but I'd say never make your choice as the result of a poll/vote or the recommendations of any intenet forums..no matter how qualified the participants. IMHO you should always hold the guns for comfort and ergonomics,etc.. but more importantly fire them and see what you like and can hit with. It's your gun bought with your cash, but more importantly your rear end on the line when the chips are down and you need to rely on it. I think if you're confident with your personal choice, the odds are more in your favor of a succesful resolution...
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  • William81
    I have a Kahr P380. Very accurate, good sights, easy to shoot and reliable. Will be my carry gun when I move out of this crap hole state of Illinois.
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  • we_dig_it
    Did you consider the Desert Eagle 380? Just wondering.
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  • grandman
    I see that you like the .380 cal. but have you looked at the .22 mag as an alternate? The .22 mag has more engery than a .380, I know it is hard to beleave but I looked it up and it is true. Just something to think about.
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  • txlawdog
    I like your reasoning, if its not completely comfortable to carry, so won't! I like that 380 Kahr as well. I do not have one, I carry an LCP. The Kahr is high as giraffes lips!

    As important I believe the carry piece is, I think just as important is the holster and things you carry with it. I feel that would be worth researching as well, which I'll bet you have. Welcome to the forums!
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  • gunnut505
    Since you admittedly love the Jericho; why not try out the Witness Compact series. Look at the 38 Super variant.
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  • FFChen
    Hey everyone,

    The micro desert eagle was also not as comfortable as the kahrs or sig, they were quite a but heavier too from what I can remember. Next time I'm at the shop I'll hold one again, see if they have one I can put a few rounds through.

    Witness .38 I never looked into, I'll take a look when I have a chance, but I'm pretty sure on one of those four from above for personal use and handling.

    Never thought about .22 mag, I'll look into that as well.

    I carry an Olight M20 warrior flashlight, trying to save up for the benchmade infidel for defense and rescue situations (that i've found myself with one hand a majority of the time)
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