Compact pistols are the rage today but having carried concealed for many years I came to a conclusion and food for thought..My pistol for undercover work and surveillance was always a Browning Hi Power 9mm or a colt 1911 38 super. why not a compact? In two instances my compact PPKS slipped out of my pants in wrestling match with suspect because the barrel was too short and another event with other agents with compact holsters. Its a good idea to keep in mind the number of officers that are killed with their own pistol, the villian being short barrels in a high number instances..I decided my Hipower and my 1911 having 4 inch and 5 inch barrels carried in my belt deep to the grip in my hip butt forward in the "Mexican carry" as did most of our Agents on the border as did the Mexican federales, also if the purp grabbed at your gun you could drop your elbow tight and protect your gun to one degree or another. The Hipower and 1911 concealed as well as the compacts btw especially shirt tail out. On a lesser account when the bad guys were bar hoping in Mexico you had to ge out of the car and follow them, no time to take off a belt and holster, just slip your pistol under the seat and follow, and yes on number of times the bad guys would "accidently" bump you and frisk you for a gun, especially if you are your partner are in a back alley Mexican bar.

Add to that the 9mm and the 38 super are mre shootable with most folks, "compared" to a 380 or 38 Special.

A book could be written on the subject but just something to consider that might serve a purpose and save someone grief..

What say you I know some would take issue on the subject and it could make for interesting conversation.

Compact pistols fit in pocket holsters, and are much better for concealment with most clothing.

You are right that with the right outfit (shirt untucked) it becomes easier to conceal a full size gun.

Also, tucking your gun in your waistband went out long ago. its not very secure... its relatively easy to do, but if your gun falls out in physical activity, its not secure...

I can't say that I find the 9mm all that more shootable than a .45 or a 10mm, but it is in the details. A subcompact 9mm like the Sig 365 is less shootable than a full size .45. A blowback .380 is worse that the SiG.

The .38 super is no different than any of a number of other rounds as far as shooting it...

Ray is right as to under cover work, especially in Mexico.
I have owned 3 Browning HPs but still come back to the 1911 45 Colts like the Series 70 with solid
barrel bushing in a Milt Sparks IWB holster.
An easy IWB holster also slips off when not needed.

But in Mexico, a 38 Super is "legal" because it is not a military caliber- The Super works against illegales...

The smallest I carry theses days is a Glock 23.

In the belt carry has not gone out, its almost 100% with DEA and US Customs Agency most Narcotic services, and 110% with the Mexican cartel, and never used by FBI,Secret service,,most City and county detectives, and because of the difference in enforcement that just makes since. in a UC case a holster will blow your cover as will certain pistols..

Appreciate the response agree are not, Im curious as to the response...

Ive been looking at the compact Glocks, the 19 and 23, I think the 4" barrel and thin frame ? shots?? So many to pick from!! whew!! or perhaps the latest 47, decisions, decisions and I need another pistol like a hole in my head, old habits are hard to break. Im eating a lot crow if I get a Glock, but I have to admit its a pretty good Matel Toy

quote:

Im eating a lot crow if I get a Glock, but I have to admit its a pretty good Matel Toy

I shot my first Glock around 87 I didn't carry one on the job till around 2005.

Glocks are just one of the very good defensive handguns out there.

I tell clients to learn to shoot then buy the one they like the best.

I got my G-43 Glock last week, tried to jam it shooting fast and slow fire, 25 yard target was more than acceptable, no jams at 150 Jacketed HPs//Im really liking this gun, conceals well in my waist band..and thanks P-dog..Im still fond of my 1911 38 Super other than its a bit heavy for an old worn out retired federal cop..