concealed carry handguns 2014-09-10
TRANSCRIPT
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FROM THE EDITORS OF GUN WORLD | GUNWORLD.COM
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 • $8.99 U.S.DISPLAY UNTIL: 10/28/14
E n g a g e d M e d i a B
y B e c k e t t
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The Mustang® has been a favorite of customers for years. Updated with
21st century technology, the Mustang XSP is sure to become a popularoption for concealed carry. But the most important stories belong to themen and women who have owned and relied on Colt through the decades.Make your story include a Colt.
BUILT ONE AT A TIME.PROVEN EVERY ROUND.
COLT.COM 800.962.COLT FACEBOOK.COM/COLTFIREARMS @COLTFIREARMS
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22 BODYGUARD VS. SHIELD A law enforcement trainer and an armorer offer side-by-side
comparison of two popular Smith & Wesson handguns: the
M&P Bodyguard in .38 and the M&P Shield in 9mm.
By Jim Weiss and Mickey Davis,
Photos by P. J. Ryan and Jim Weiss
48 HARD WORK, EASY CARRY
A combination of classic design and good ergonomics
make the Ruger SP101 an appealing pistol for experienced
concealed carry practitioners and first-time shooters alike.
Story & Photos by Brad Fitzpatrick
82 SITUATIONAL MINDSET
An award-winning handgun trainer helps us get back to
the essentials of how to win the fight; by being able to
see what is transpiring and quickly adapt to the rapidly
changing situation.
Story & Photos by Dave Spaulding
Departments6 EDITOR’S LETTER
8 GEAR GUIDE
130 LAST PAGE
4 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
Features
48
Table of Contents September/October 2014
130
30
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Buyer’s Guides
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUN S 5
10 Holsters
16 Micro Handguns
30 Pocket Semi-Autos
36 Subcompact Semi-Autos
56 Compact Semi-Autos
70 Full Semi-Autos
90 1911 Handguns
106 Compact Revolvers
116 Medium Revolvers
122 Full-Frame Revolvers
8
82
The Cover:Designed by John Cabral
Photos by Smith & Wesson
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The VirtuousHandgun
T
his past year has seen another substantial increase in
the concealed carry market, and for good reason.
People have begun to realize their safety and thesafety of their loved ones and friends is too important to leave
to chance or circumstance. Enrollment at self and home
defense courses are up, as are the number of available hand-
gun training courses. And even though short-barrel shotguns
remain popular, when people consider their choices for self or
home defense, their first thought is almost always of a hand-
gun.
Unlike long guns, the handgun enjoys the dual virtue of
extreme accessibility and, away from home, concealability. An
armed citizen can keep one close at hand at all times and inthe vast majority of situations. And, because it is often worn
close to the body for long periods of time, it can easily be
thought of as an extension of you.
And yet, despite the obvious similarities among handguns,
there are a wide variety of types and sizes available, from
micro pistols to the largest full-sized revolvers, and each of
these may be had multiple calibers.
So many applications, so many choices.
Each issue of Concealed Carry Handguns seeks to offer
informative and useful articles, but we also keep readers up to
date with handy and convenient buyer’s guides for dozens of
popular handguns in all sizes and calibers.
Whether you are new to the market or are adding a new
model to your collection, we hope you find something that fits
your needs.
—The Editors
A LETTER FROM THE
EDITOREDITORIALEditorial Director: Jennifer DegtjarewskyExecutive Editor: Craig HodgkinsManaging Editor: Breanna Armstrong Art Director: John BernikowSports & Outdoor Interns: Hannah Spangenberg, Casey Sandoval
CONTRIBUTORSChuck Taylor, Brad Fitzpatrick, Mike Dickerson, Zack Carlson
ADVERTISING
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Concealed Carry Handguns © 2014 by Beckett Media, LLC. All rightsreserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or inpart is strictly prohibited.
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This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding thatinformation presented is from various sources from which there can beno warranty or responsibility by Beckett Media, LLC as to the legality,completeness or technical accuracy.
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www.barnesbullets.com
1-800-574-9200
The TAC-XPD™ Defense Ammunition–the
optimized solution for carry or home defense.
Available in 380 Auto, 9mm Luger, 40 S&W and 45 Auto.
New for 2014 - 357 Magnum
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NEW GEAR
8 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
FOR CONCEALED CARRY B Y C R A IG H O D G K IN S • P H O T O S B Y
ENHANCED PROTECTION Crimson Trace Offers a Variety of Laser Options and Styles Suitable for Concealed Carry
Although sales of sporting rifles have leveled out
from their recent record numbers, the purchase
of handguns for personal protection and home
defense continues to rise. According to an industrystudy, enrollment in concealed carry weapon
(CCW) and self-defense courses has increased in
the past twelve months as both experienced and
first-time gun owners take the safety of their
families and friends into their own trained and
licensed hands.
It should come as no surprise then that the market
for one of the most useful and effective accessories
for any firearm—a laser sight—is experiencing strong
growth as well. Crimson Trace, a pioneer in laser sight
technology and still an industry leader, develops their
products by continually choosing “to enhance peo-
ple’s ability to protect family, home and country.”
That’s a mission statement we can all live by.
Because the need to protect yourself or your loved
ones can arise at any time, including in low or no
light situations, a laser sight is much more than a“nice to have” add-on; with the proper training and
practice, it can literally be a lifesaver. Lane
Tobiassen, president and CEO of Crimson Trace, may
have said it best in a recent interview. “The laser
sight simply leverages the same reason the person
bought the firearm in the first place,” he reasoned.
“It is an enhancement to the core purpose that that
person went into the store and bought that gun, or
carries that gun or has that gun.”
Here are a few recent Crimson Trace product
releases designed to help you in your mission to
protect who and what you love.
…The laser sight simply leveragesthe same reason the person boughtthe firearm in the first place.
“ “
Contact
Crimson Trace
CrimsonTrace.com
(800) 442-2406
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Crimson Trace LG-639 (red) and LG-639G (green) For Glock Semi-Automatics
Both feature instinctive activation on the rear ofthe grip and include a master on/off switch to give
shooters the option to use their pistols with—or
without—engaging the laser.
Each unit is also easily adjusted for windage
and elevation and can be installed without the
use of special gunsmithing tools. These products
are specifically designed to fit securely onto Glock
Third Generation pistol models 19, 23, 25, 32 and
38. These compact Glock handguns are favored
for concealed carry.
MSRP: $329 (LG-639G)
$249 (LG-639)
Crimson Trace LG-494 For the Remington R51
After a shaky launch, Remington’s new R51
pistol has returned to gun store shelves. In some
retailers, buyers have the choice of purchasing an
R51 with a Crimson Trace Laserguard laser sight
pre-installed.
The innovative LG-494—with a red laser
diode—is the result of Crimson Trace and
Remington working together during the
handgun’s development stage.
MSRP: See local dealer
The LG-639 mounted on a Glock.
The new LG-494 and
the Remington R51
The CMR-204 mounted on a
Springfield Armory XD(m)
Crimson Trace CMR-205 (red) and CMR-204 (green)
Nearly a year after introduction, Crimson
Trace’s Rail Master Pro laser sighting sys-tems and tactical lights continue to enjoy
a huge consumer demand. The red or
green laser sight is paired with a bright
100-lumen LED white light to provide the
dual advantage of helping identify
threats in the darkness while helping any
gun owner quickly take aim—if necessary.
These popular light/laser combos
mount easily on a wide variety of
Picatinny or Weaver rail systems.
MSRP: $379 (CMR-204)
$279 (CMR-205)
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IF IT FITS, CARRY IT
e know how important it is to have a
trusty, dependable and durable holster
to carry your firearm.
Whether it’s leather, Kydex, carbon fiber, or a
combination of these materials, and whether you
house it inside your waistband, under your shoul-
der, or in your purse, choosing a holster is almost
as important as the prized piece you carry.In order to make the best selection, you need to
ask yourself some important questions: First, is the
holster comfortable? Is it discreet enough? Does
the placement of your firearm fit your preference?
There are many different styles, so to get you
started, we sourced the best models from the top
holster manufactures to bring you this product
guide. Now, the choice of style, material, size and
shape is up to you.— The Editors
PHOTO BY TERRILL HOFFMAN
What Holster Is Right For You?
W
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DesantisModel:Mini Scabbard
MSRP: $59.99 (prices vary
based on gun model)
Website:
DeSantisHolster.comDescription:This unique
holster has been reduced to
the barest of essentials, yet
offers a secure grip on the
handgun thanks to exact
molding and adjustable
tension device.
DesantisModel: Thumb Break Mini Slide
MSRP: $69.99 (prices vary based on gun model)
Website: DeSantisHolster.com
Description:Premium saddle leather, double seams and
a highly detailed molded fit make this exposed muzzle,
tight fitting, two-slot holster a great choice for your
favorite pistol. It features an adjustable-tension device.
DesantisModel:Thumb Break Scabbard
MSRP: $88.99 (prices vary based on gun model)
Website: DeSantisHolster.com
Description:The firearm rides high and is
presented at an optimum draw angle. Its
thumb break and exact molding, together with
a tension device, allow for a secure and highly
concealable carry.
Blade-TechModel: OWB Eclipse Straight Drop Ambidextrous Holster
MSRP: $79.99
Website: Blade-Tech.com
Description:This Blade-Tech holster was designed with
comfort and concealing in mind.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONC EALED CARRY HANDGUNS 11
Pocket Points
• The MiniScabbard willaccommodatebelts up to 1½inches wide.
• Available inblack or tanunlined leather.
Pocket Points
• Available in black or tan leather.• Belt slots are 1¾ inches wide.
Pocket Points
• Belt slots are 1¾ inches wide.
• Available in black or tan leather, with or without suede lining, plain or basket-weave finish.
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GalcoModel: Combat Master Belt Holster
MSRP: $85.95
Website: GalcoGunLeather.com
Description:The open-top design offers a swift
draw and presentation, while detailed moldingprovides secure retention. The butt-forward cant
allows effective concealment of even a large
defensive handgun. The Combat Master has an
open muzzle and fits belts up to 1¾ inches.
Model: SSS Side Snap Scabbard (Gen 2)
MSRP: $124.95
Website: GalcoGunLeather.com
Description:Constructed of premium steerhide, the Side
Snap Scabbard retains the quick on-off snap loops that fit
belts up to 1½ inches. The open-top design remains the
same, with the addition of a reinforced mouth for smooth
and easy one-handed return to the holster. New to the SSS
is a slight butt-forward cant, in contrast to the steeper
angle of the earlier version.
Model:TacSlide Belt Holster
MSRP: $45.95
Website: GalcoGunLeather.com
Description:Galco’s new TacSlide combines
steerhide and Kydex for a belt holster that’s fast
and concealable. The steerhide back plate is
smooth where it rides against the wearer’s body,
greatly increasing comfort.
GalcoModel: Triton Kydex IWB Holster
MSRP: $54.95
Website: GalcoGunLeather.com
Pocket Points
• Made for semi-automatic pistols anddouble-action revolvers.
• The Combat Master is available in right orleft hand designs in tan or black finish.
Pocket Points
• The Side Snap Scabbard is offered for right or lefthand draw in black color.
Pocket Points
• The TacSlide is currently offered for popularsemi-autos and double-action revolvers.
2 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
HOLSTERS
Description:Constructed of durable, virtually maintenance-ree Kydex, the Triton is fast, thin and easy to conceal. The
belt clip offers quick on and off capability, while the sweat
guard protects both gun and gun carrier. The firm holster body
allows a smooth and easy return to the holster after the draw,
while the raised sweat guard protects the pistol from corro-
sive perspiration—and also protects your skin from hard steel.
Galco Galco
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Model: SERPA CQC w/Carbon Fiber Finish
MSRP: $59.99
Website: Blackhawk.com
Description: Featuring a unique speed-cut
design, the CQC Carbon-Fiber Holster
allows for smooth draw and easy re-holsterwithout slowing you down. The patented
SERPA Auto Lock release delivers unparal-
leled weapon security and is automatically
positioned to facilitate a correct drawing
motion, making it the perfect Level 2
retention holster for concealed carry.
Blackpoint TacticalModel: Leather Wing RHC
MSRP: $85
Website: BlackpointTactical.com
Description:This is Blackpoint Tactical’s best sell-
ing holster, and for good reason. The Kydex center
provides excellent adjustable retention while
leather wings provide the flexibility to bend to the
wearer’s hip dimensions.
Model: Standard Outside-the-waistband (OWB) RHC
MSRP: $75
Website: BlackpointTactical.com
Description: Designed with U.S. Special Forces input, this hol-
ster is made for comfort as well as concealment. A slightly
higher ride (this is adjustable by the end user with different
belt clips), a more complete bend (the holster all together has
a curve to it as opposed to the
ends just being bent in), and anopen bottom are just a few of the
differentiating details.
Pocket Points
• Kydex.• Completely customizable through their
website with 30 different color options.
Blackpoint
Tactical
HOLSTERS
Pocket Points
• Reinforces full master grip andsuperior draw technique as wellas having immediate retention
and audible click upon re-holsterfor security.• The speed-cut design allows
rapid draw, target acquisition,and re-holster while keepingeyes on target.
• Includes belt loop and paddleplatform.
14 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
Pocket Points
• Belt mounted holster.• Available in 30 colors.
Blackhawk!
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GalcoPRODUCT:KingTukMSRP: $69.95
Website: GalcoGunLeather.com
Description:The KingTuk has a comfortable backing plate
made of lined saddle leather, and the Napa leather front
combines with a rigid Kydex holster pocket for a fast draw
and easy holstering. Worn inside the waistband, the
KingTuk’s removable metal belt clips can be moved up or
down in the corresponding holes in the leather, enabling
he user to set the carry height and angle
o suit their unique preferences. Available
n black with standard metal clips that fit
belts up to 1¾ inches.
GalcoPRODUCT: Holster Care Kit
MSRP: $19.95Website: GalcoGunLeather.com
Description:This kit has everything you need
to give your holster the proper care, including: a
bottle of Galco Leather Lotion, a bottle of Galco
Draw-EZ, an application dauber, a synthetic
wool buffing pad, and a combination applica-
tion synthetic wool and foam scrub pad
(Holster not included).
CC
DesantisPRODUCT:Hot-Jox
MSRP: $49.99
Website: DeSantisHolster.com
Description: For more than 20 years, this
holster system has been dependable, and
its medium semi-automatic and large
automatic firearms. Made to be carriedbelow the waistline in the center, it’s
perfect to wear under casual clothing.
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MIGHTY MICROS:
hese revolvers pack five rounds of .22
ammunition into an incredibly conceal-
able package, so don’t write them off as
a mere novelty. They are single action revolvers,
meaning that you need to manually cock the
hammer for each shot. An index position
between chambers exists on most models, so
that the hammer may rest on the cylinder itself
rather than on the rim of one of the rimfire
cartridges, a clever step that promotes safety
for concealed carry.They generally reload by removing the cylinder
completely from the frame, and by removing the
cylinder pin and using it to press out the spent
cartridges (some versions have star extractors
like larger revolvers). While this hampers reload
time and makes the carrying of spare ammunition
relatively moot, the fact that they carry three
more shots than a standard double barrel
derringer is a large selling point.
Whether as a primary defensive pistol when
circumstances dictate the exact characteristics
of a micro revolver, or as a backup arm, these fineexamples are ready for your consideration.
PHOTO BY L.W. SEECAMP
Big Pop in a Small Package
T
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PRICE RANGE
$200-$400
MODEL: MAG 1.1
WEBSITE: NorthAmericanArms.com
MSRP: $219
Action: SA
Caliber: .22 WMR
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 1.1 inches
Length: 4.75 inches
Width: 0.9 inches
Height: 2.9 inches
Weight: 5.9 ounces
Features: Extremely short for caliber, reloads
by removing the cylinder, exceedingly compact
MODEL: .22 MAG HOLSTER / GRIP COMBO
WEBSITE: NorthAmericanArms.com
MSRP: $244Action: SA
Caliber: .22 WMR
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 1.1 inches
Length: 5.25 in or 5.75 inches
Width: 0.9 inches
Height: 2.9 inches
Weight: 6.2 ounces
Features: Grip folds under pistol, accepts
.22 LR cartridges, doesn’t “print” as a gun
North American Arms
North American Arms
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MICRO HANDGUNS
Bond ArmsMODEL: BOND MINI
WEBSITE: BondArms.com
MSRP: $389
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 Colt
Capacity: 2
Barrel Length: 2.5 inches
Length: 4.5 inches
Height: 3.75 inches
Weight: 19 ounces
Features: crossbolt safety, retracting
firing pins, extremely powerful
MODEL: GUARDIAN 25 NAA
WEBSITE:NorthAmericanArms.com
MSRP: $402
Action: DAO
Caliber: .25 NAA
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 2.2 inches
Length: 4.4 inchesWidth: 0.9 inches
Height: 3.3 inches
Weight: 13.6 ounces
Features: proprietary bottle-necked
cartridge, stippled grip for ease of
control, improved reliability
Bond ArmsMODEL: COWBOY DEFENDER
WEBSITE: BondArms.com
MSRP: $405
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 COLT / .410 Shotshell
Capacity: 2
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 5 inches
Height: 3.75 inches
Weight: 19 ounces
Features: Interchangeable barrels, spring-loadedcammed locking lever, extremely powerful
PRICE RANGE
$400-$600
North American Arms
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BerettaMODEL: PICOWEBSITE: Beretta.com
MSRP: $405
Action: DA
Caliber: 9 short (380 auto)
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 2.7 inches
Length: 5.1 inches
Width: .725 inches
Height: 4 inches
Weight: 11.5 ounces
Features: 3-dot sight system,
snag-free design, ambidextrous
magazine release
MODEL:
TEXAS DEFENDER
WEBSITE:BondArms.com
MSRP: $415
Action: SACaliber: .45 COLT / .410
Shotshell
Capacity: 2
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 5 inches
Height: 3.75 inches
Weight: 20 ounces
Features: Interchangeable
barrels, spring-loadedcammed locking lever,
extremely powerful, available
in a wide variety of calibers
Bond Arms
MSRP
Style 127
$ 34 99
www.desantisholster.com
• Built fromblack-saddleleather
• Precise moldedcontours provideweapon retention
• Available formost popularhandguns
800-GUNHIDE631-841-6300 Dept #CW94431 Bayview Ave.Amityville, NY 11701
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20 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
MICRO HANDGUNS
MODEL:MINI MASTER VENOM
WEBSITE:NorthAmericanArms.com
MSRP: $473
Action: SA
Caliber: .22 WMR
Capacity: 5Barrel Length: 4 inches
Length: 7.9 inches
Width: 1 inch
Height: 3.7 inches
Weight: 10.8 ounces
Features: Adjustable target
sights, Laserlyte under
barrel laser, vented top rib,
surprisingly long barrel
MODEL:
DOUBLE TAPWEBSITE:HeizerFirearms.com
MSRP: $499
Action: DA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 2
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 5.5 inches
Width: 0.7 inches
Height: 3.9 inches
Weight: 12 ounces
Features: Unique double-action design, carries two spare
rounds on an included speed strip in the grip panel
MODEL: SNAKE SLAYER
WEBSITE: BondArms.com
MSRP: $505
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 COLT / .410 Shotshell
Capacity: 2
Barrell Length: 4.25 inches
Length: 6.25 inches
Height: 4.3 inches
Weight: 23.5 ounces
Features: Interchangeable barrels,
fixed sights, automatic extractor
North American Arms
Heizer Defense Bond Arms
MODEL:BLACK WIDOW VENOM
WEBSITE:
NorthAmericanArms.com
MSRP: $423
Action: SA
Caliber: .22 WMRCapacity: 5
Barrel Length: 2 inches
Length: 7.9 inches
Width: 1 inch
Height: 3.7 inches
Weight: 10.8 ounces
Features: Fixed sights, Laserlyte
under barrel laser, vented top rib,
ergonomic two-finger grip
North American
Arms
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AmericanDerringer MODEL: DA38
WEBSITE: AmDerringer.com
MSRP: $690
Action: DA
Caliber: .38 SPL
Capacity: 2
Barrel Length: 3.3 inches
Length: 4.7 inches
Width: 1.1 inches
Height: 3.3 inches
Weight: 14.5 ounces
Features: Rather unique
double-action derringer, very
concealable, fixed sights
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MODEL: M7
WEBSITE: AmDerringer.com
MSRP: $775Action: SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 2
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 4.8 inches
Width: 1.1 inches
Height: 3.3 inches
Weight: 7.5 ounces
Features: Aluminum
construction for lightweight,
automatic barrel selection,
very light weight
PRICE RANGE
$600 and Up AmericanDerringer
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Smith & Wesson’s M&P Bodyguard .38 and M&P Shield 9mm
The recoil from Smith & Wesson’s
Bodyguard felt very manageable, even
with +P rounds.
BODYGUARD VS. SHIELD
By Jim Weiss and Mickey Davis, Photos by P. J. Ryan and Jim Weiss
he S&W Bodyguard has an Insight laser
with a pushbutton on and off switch located
t the top rear of sight housing.
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For our gun reviews and field evaluations, we
generally review the weapons and then bring ourquestions to experts in the field of firearms. We
find this interplay is a great opportunity to pick
their minds as well as glean information we may
have overlooked. For this review, our field evalua-
tor was Sgt. John Connor and our armorer was
P.J. Ryan, and both took an expert look at each
Smith & Wesson handgun.
THE M&P BODYGUARD
Field Evaluation (John Connor):
I own two small (J-frame) Smith & Wesson (S&W)
revolvers: a 642 Airweight 38 and a 340PD .357
magnum. When I was handed this revolver to
review, I wondered what was going to be cutting
edge and distinctive about it. I mean, S&W revolvers
have been on this planet since 1857, with the 642
Airweight introduced in 2006. I was skeptical whenI first pulled the weapon out of the box.
The first thing I noticed is that it was all black,
similar to the S&W M&P semi-autos, and made
of steel, aluminum and polymer with a corrosion
resistant finish. I imagine the polymer parts con-
tribute to the disappearance of an ounce of weight
compared to the 642, but nothing I could feel. The
second feature was the top mounted, ambidextrous
cylinder release. It took about five seconds to adjust
to, but I found it quite simple to operate. I feel this
would be a great feature for left-handed shooters
who desire a revolver. I also preferred it to the
side-mounted latch, as I didn’t have to adjust my
grip to manipulate it.
The S&W Bodyguard 38 comes with an Insight
omparing these two innovative Smith & Wesson handguns
was difficult, since one is a pistol and the other a revolver,
but that was the assignment, so that’s what we did.C
A left side view of
the Bodyguard and
two speed loaders,
ready for action.
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laser mounted on the right side
of the gun just above the cylin-
der. I have an S&W 642 with a
Crimson Trace (CT) grip laser,so at first I hated the laser
sighting on the Bodyguard 38.
Once I played with it, however,
I came to prefer it, and I’ll tell
you why.
First, my CT laser has an
on/off master switch on the bot-
tom that allows the shooter to
squeeze another grip pressure
switch to activate the laser. I’ve
found that if I leave the master
switch continuously on, lifefinds ways to touch the pres-
sure switch and run my laser
when I don’t need it. The Insight
switch is activated by a button
on the top of the backstrap,
which, with some practice, wassimple to manipulate with the
thumb of my gun hand.
The second and more appeal-
ing feature of the Insight laser is
that if you depress the buttontwice, the laser pulsates. This is
far easier to pick up than a
steady beam. I was told that the
laser is calibrated from the fac-
tory, but mine was about eight
inches high left. However, thiswas an easy enough fix.
The range was where I found
out why I liked the Bodyguard
38 more than my S&W 642 and
S&W 340PD … the trigger.
Contrary to the stiff and heavy
triggers on my other revolvers,
this felt smooth and light. Even
my wife, who traditionally
prefers semi-autos, enjoyed
shooting this revolver. I would
say the pull was at least a cou-ple of pounds lighter than the
S&W 642, but still heavy
enough for a “pocket” gun.
The all-black iron sights will
be challenging to pick up unless
it is bright outside, but unlikemy S&W 642, the front sight is
removable, which allows for an
aftermarket improvement. The
ejector rod is longer than my
642, which all but guaranteesthe empty casings will be dis-
pensed with one push.
Field EvaluatorSgt. John Connor
Police Sergeant John Connor is a trainer
from Emerald Shield Tactical Concepts.
The company prepares law enforcement
officers to prevail in any on- or off-duty
encounter through courses and tactics
using non-lethal training ammunition and
live-fire scenarios. It focuses its training in
high liability areas, and its instructors are
current law enforcement officers who are
Florida-based LE trainers, and whose back-
grounds include control tactics/martial
arts, SWAT, use of force, and firearms certi-fication.
Sergeant Connor is a long-time member
of his police department’s SWAT team, and
has participated in various competitions,
most notably seven times at SWAT Round-
Up International as a member of his
department’s SWAT competition team.
The Round-Up requires physical fitness,
know-how, teamwork, and excellent
shooting abilities.
For more infomration, visit
EmeraldShieldConcepts.com.
The Bodyguard lends
itself easily to the crossed
thumbs technique, used
to reduce recoil.
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Contrary to the stiff and heavy triggers on my other revolvers,this felt smooth and light.
“ “
The S&M M&P Shield in 9mm.
This single-stack, semi-auto
had the same fit, feel, and
performance of any M&P
product with the adaptation
to concealed carry.
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The Shield’s frame is black polymer, and the slide and barrel are
stainless steel coated with a black, corrosion-resistant finish. It has
standard three dot sights, and to the rear of the slide it carries the
M&P scalloped grip serrations to assist in charging the pistol.
According to evaluator John Connor, the performance
of the M&P Shield 9mm was excellent at the range,
handling every round fed to it.
The recoil felt very manageable,even with +P rounds. When Icrossed my thumbs, it was com-fortable to shoot. This is unlike myS&W 340PD, with which I compare
the experience to hitting my handwith a hammer. I also noticed thatthe cylinder spun opposite to myother J frames, however I didn’tknow why nor cared as long asit worked.
The grip was comfortable andhad a slightly different angle thanmy 642. It felt natural in my handas I shot, even though the grip wasnot as meaty. I shot Winchester
150-grain lead round nose, SpeerLawman 124-grain TMJ, andGold Dot +P rounds, had no
issues, and held 2-3 inch groups atseven yards.
Overall, this was a pleasurableexperience for me. The unique fea-tures of the S&W Bodyguard 38
(cylinder latch, trigger, and grip) willsell themselves to even diehard J-frame purists. And the MSRP priceof $509 is extremely competitivewhen an S&W 642CT is $699.
Armorer’s Evaluation (P. J. Ryan):
According to Smith and Wesson,the Bodyguard 38 (SKU #103038)weighs in at a mere 14.3 ounces.The revolver is considered a small
frame, but not necessarily a J-frame. This is because it has assynthetic grip, an aluminum alloy
Armorer P.J. RyanP. J. Ryan is a retired law enforce-
ment officer from the Southeast.
During his career, he was a lawenforcement firearms instructor, a law
enforcement armorer, a member of
his agency’s Emergency Response
Team, a Certified Edged Weapon
Awareness and Spontaneous Knife
Defense Instructor, and a Certified
Israeli Instinctive Shooting Instructor.
He is currently involved in firearms
development, training, and tactics.
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upper frame material, and steel-reinforced polymer
ower frame. It has a steel barrel insert and the
cylinder is stainless steel with a PVD coating.
On the top and rear of the frame, just behind the
ixed rear sight, is the thumb piece (plastic), which is
pushed forward to open the cylinder for
oading/reloading purposes. The Bodyguard 38’s
extractor rod is long enough to push empties almost
completely out of the cylinder, which aids in aaster reload. The model fires in double action (DA)
mode only.
For additional sighting purposes, it comes
equipped with an Insight Laser (LSW-000-A2
ntegrated Laser). The laser is on the right rear side
of the revolver, next to the thumb piece. It has a gray,
push-button activation switch on top that turns the
aser to its constant “on” position. When the button
s pushed again, it is in laser pulse mode, and a third
push turns it off.
I found the location of the activation switch in an
awkward place, and in daylight, the laser dot was
very difficult to see or find and sometimes completely
washed out.
This device could also be used for positive visual
sighting on a target or a bad guy if needed. That
could alter events in a life-threatening situation by
either completely de-escalating it (sometimes having
a red dot on a person’s chest does amazing things to
heir thought process), or engaging and ending a
credible threat.
THE M&P SHIELDField Evaluation (John Connor):
Before I begin, I must admit that my duty gun is
an S&W M&P 40, and my agency was the first in the
state of Florida to carry it. I still remember our Test
& Evaluate (T&E) of the weapon that, among other
hings, consisted of firing 10,000 rounds through it
n one day without cleaning it. It shined, and even
hough I had carried a Glock as a duty weapon
before, I was sold. I have carried an M&P 40C as
my off-duty weapon ever since, which also has
performed flawlessly. However, when it is hot and
clothing minimal, even the compact was too large.Enter the S&M M&P Shield 9mm. This single-stack,
semi-auto had the same fit, feel, and performance of
any M&P product with the adaptation to concealed
carry. Out of the box, the Shield 9mm reminded me
of my Kahr PM9 concealed carry pistol. It was obvi-
ously smaller than my S&W M&P 40 compact (.95-nches vs. 1.2-inches), but still gave a solid grip.
For S&W M&P owners, the controls are the same
slide stop/release, trigger, magazine release), with a
new one present: a safety. Just to the rear of the
slide stop/release lever was a safety switch; up wassafe and down was ready to fire. I like weapons that
don’t require too much thinking under stress, so I
Overall, this slim line design of the
Shield has a lot going for it, and should
prove to be a success with those who
demand a compact, reliable, and easy-
to-maintain pistol.
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never use a safety on my hand-guns, but it is a nice feature for
shooters who desire one.
The Shield 9mm is approximate-
ly three ounces lighter than its
S&W M&P compact counterpart. I
also noticed that with the excep-
tion of round capacity, the Shield
9mm and S&M M&P40 Shield had
the same dimensions, including
weight.
Shield 9mm’s trigger pull is 6.5
pounds, with a crisp break for adouble action, striker-fired
weapon. The Shield holds four to
five rounds less than an S&W
M&P compact, depending on cal-
iber. The 9mm I shot had a seven-
round magazine and an eight-round magazine with an extended
grip.
At the range, the performance of
the M&P Shield 9mm was excel-
lent. It fed anything I threw at it,including Speer Gold Dot, Federal
115-grain FMJ, Lawman 124-grain
TMJ, and some old Hydra-Shoks Idug up. It even fed a magazine of
lead, flat nose reloads without one
malfunction.
The grip was slimmer, and even
though it didn’t have adjustable
grip inserts, felt meaty enough to
handle combat shooting. Unlike
my Ruger LCP, the Shield didn’t
want to wiggle up out of my hand.
Just like my M&P Compact, I
would still add some skateboard
tape, even though the gun haspebbling on the front and rear of
the grip. And if the shooter uses
the eight-round magazine, even
large fingered people should be
able to maintain a full hand grip.
The only two negatives aresomewhat self-correcting: the
slide stop lever, and the maga-
zines. I remember on our police
department’s S&W M&P 40 Gen1
T&E gun, the slide stop/releaselever was smooth and almost
flush, which made it almost
The Shield 9mm boasts a 3.1-inch barrel and a 5.3-inch sight radius. At 19 ounces empty, and a maximum thickness of just 1.1-inches, this is a small
package perfect for a law enforcement officer’s backup handgun or a CCW pistol that, when properly carried, can disappear on a person’s body.
Specifications: S&WM&P SHIELD 9mm
Model: M&P9 SHIELDSKU: 180021Caliber: 9mmCapacity: Seven round and eight round Action: Striker fireBarrel Length: 3.1 inches (7.874 cm)Front Sight: White dotRear Sight: White 2-dot
Overall Length: 6.1 inches (15.5 cm)Frame Width: .95 inches (2.413 cm)Overall Height: 4.6 inches (11.684 cm)Weight: 19 ouncesFrame Material: PolymerBarrel/Slide Finish: Black 68 HRc Trigger Pull: 6.5 pounds +/-Sight Radius: 5.3 inches (13.3 cm)MSRP: $449
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CC
mpossible to drop the slide using it. Smith & Wesson
stened, and changed it to a knurled pad that stuck
out ever so slightly. Problem solved.
But even with this upgrade, it still will be challenging
o drop the slide on the Shield 9mm, at least at first. I
had no issues, but have used one for eight years. A quick fix for this is to use the Israeli technique and pull
he slide back and release it with your support hand.
The magazines are quite stiff, and my wife found the
eight-round magazine almost impossible to fully load.
The good news for both of these issues is that they
will decrease the more you shoot the gun.
I was able to hold groups on a roofing nail (1 inch) at
seven yards with the sights on the Shield. It held a
nice group at 25 yards as well, unlike my Ruger LCP
pistol, which is suitable for the limits of concealed
carry. It printed (was visible) minimally when carried
nside the waistband holster.
Overall, I am quite pleased with this weapon. In my
opinion, Smith & Wesson has provided a concealed
carry option for S&W M&P lovers.
Armorer’s Evaluation (P. J. Ryan):
Our T&E model was a S&W M&P Shield 9mm with a
SKU 180021, denoting the 9mm pistol with thumb
safety. The striker-fired pistol is available in .40 S&W,
oo, and there are no major differences between the
pistols except for the caliber, round count, and recoil.
Our 9mm test model was sup-plied with two S&W OEM maga-
zines (OEM means magazines
made by the same maker as the
handgun); one held seven rounds
and fit flush, the other was an
eight-round magazine with a finger
est incorporated into the maga-
zine bottom that provided addition-
al support for a good firm grip.
The magazines are not a typical
single-stack design, but more of a
1.5 stack) semi-staggered design,and they taper up at the top to a
single stack style to feed the
ounds properly.
The Shield 9mm boasts a 3.1-
nch barrel length and a 5.3-inch
sight radius. A chamber load indi-cator is ingeniously incorporated
within the top part of the barrel
and slide. The trigger pull is firm,
and as specified by S&W, approxi-
mately 6.5 pounds +/-. At 19ounces empty, and a maximum
hickness of just 1.1-inches, this is
a small package perfect for a law enforcement offi-
cer’s backup handgun or a CCW pistol that, when
properly carried, can disappear on a person’s body.
The Shield’s frame is black polymer and the slide and
barrel are stainless steel coated with a black, corrosion
resistant finish. It has standard three dot sights; to therear of the slide it has the typical S&W M&P scalloped
grip serrations to assist in charging the pistol.
The palm swell stippling on the grip is consistent
with the larger S&W M&P models, but lacks the
exchangeable back straps. Even so, I found that it
points naturally, the grip was good, and there is
enough purchase to maintain a comfortable—but
solid—shooting platform.
Starting from front to back on the left side of the pis-
tol, it has a take down notch cut into the slide, a rotating
take down lever, and a slide stop. Our specific model
had a manual thumb safety lever. When either incorpo-
rating the safety in the on or off position, its clear to the
user that the force used is deliberate, and since the
safety’s profile is so unobtrusive, it should not get hung
up on clothing or be manipulated unintentionally.
Some might not like the thumb safety, but others
will purchase the Shield for that reason alone. I per-
sonally don’t mind it, and would practice regularly to
make engagement and disengagement second nature.
S&W currently offers the same pistol with no thumb
safety (SKU#’s 10034 and 10035). Overall, this slim
line design from S&W has a lotgoing for it, and should prove to
be a success with those who
demand a compact, reliable, and
easy-to-maintain pistol.
Overall Conclusion and
Comparison (Sgt. John Connor)
I was asked to compare these
two weapons, but in my opinion
it’s apples and oranges. While
the M&P Shield 9mm performed
as well as I expected, theBodyguard 38 actually surprised
me with some of its features and
range performance. With that
said, both of these weapons
demonstrate that Smith &
Wesson is continuing to listen toits customers by manufacturing
quality weapons with innovative
features.
Regardless, if you’re a revolver
or semi-auto person, either oneof these weapons would make a
fine backup or off-duty gun.
Specifications: S&WBODYGUARD 38
Model: BODYGUARD 38
SKU: 103038
Caliber: .38 S&W Special +P
Capacity: Five rounds
Barrel Length: 1.9 inches (4.8 cm)
Action: Double Action OnlyFront Sight: Black rampRear Sight: IntegralFrame Size: Small, Internal hammerGrip: SyntheticOverall Length: 6.6 inches (16.8 cm)Weight: 14.3 ouncesUpper Frame Material: Aluminum alloyLower Frame Material:
Steel-reinforced polymerCylinder Material: Stainless steel
with PVD coatingFinish: Matte black Purpose: Personal protection,
Professional/DutyMSRP: $509
The Shield 9mm boasts a 3.1-inch barrellength and a 5.3-inch sight radius.“
“
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HIDDEN PROTECTION
here are times when the only space
you have available for a concealed
handgun is that which will accommo-
date a pocket pistol—the kind of semi-auto
that will slip easily into the front pocket of
your pants, the breast pocket of a jacket,
inside a light vest, or tucked down inside an
elastic-banded ankle holster.
They aren’t often the first choice for a
defensive handgun, but they carry more
ammunition than derringers and can be
hidden where even subcompacts can’t fit.
They are not very accurate beyond seven
yards, but these pistols were not made for
shooting matches. They’re made for shooting
your way out of a situation you otherwise
wouldn’t survive, and in that moment, they
will be the best guns you’ve ever used.
PHOTO BY JIM WEISS
Pistols Fit for Jackets & Pants
T
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PRICE RANGE
$300-$400
MODEL: P32WEBSITE: KeltecWeapons.com
MSRP: $318
Action: DAO
Caliber: .32 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 2.7 inches
Length: 5.1 inches
Width: 0.75 inches
Weight: 3.5 inches
Weight: 6.6 ounces
Features: Locked breech,
light trigger, lightweight
MODEL: PF9
WEBSITE: KeltecWeapons.com
MSRP: $333Action: DAO
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
Length: 5.9 inches
Width: 0.9 inches
Height: 4.3 inches
Weight: 13 ounces
Features: Accessory rail, magazine
includes finger rest, extremely light,
various color choices
Kel-Tec
Kel-Tec
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POCKET PISTOLS
BerettaMODEL: TOMCAT
WEBSITE: BerettaUSA.com
MSRP: $390Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .32 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 2.4 inches
Length: 4.9 inches
Width: 1.1 inches
Height: 3.7 inches
Weight: 14.5 ounces
Features: Tip-up barrel, crisp trigger in single
action, surprisingly manageable recoil
MODEL: BODYGUARD 380
WEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.com
MSRP: $419
Action: DAO
Caliber: .380 ACP
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 2.75 inches
Length: 5.25 inches
Weight: 12 ouncesFeatures: Polymer frame,
stainless steel slide, sights
similar to M&P sights, molded
grip for ergonomic fit
MODEL: GUARDIAN 380 ACP
WEBSITE: NorthAmericanArms.com
MSRP: $449
Action: DAO
Caliber: .380 ACP
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 2.5 inches
Length: 4.8 inches
Width: 0.9 inches
Height: 3.5 inches
Weight: 19 ounces
Features: Stippled grip for control, very shortheight, 2.5-inch barrel for improved velocity
PRICE RANGE
$400-$500
Smith & Wesson
North American Arms
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BerettaMODEL: BU9 NANO
WEBSITE: www.BerettaUSA.com
MSRP: $475
Action: STR
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 5.6 inches
Width: 0.9 inches
Height: 4.2 inches
Weight: 20 ounces
Features: Adjustable sights,
striker-fired, tiny for a 9mm
Double TapMODEL: TACTICAL PISTOL
WEBSITE: DoubleTapDefense.com
MSRP: $569
Action: DA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 2
Barrel Length: 3.0 inchesLength: 5.5 inches
Width: .665 inches
Height: 3.9 inches
Weight: 13 ounces
Features: available in multiple
calibers, storage compartment in grip
BerettaMODEL: PX4 STORM COMPACT
WEBSITE: BerettaUSA.com
MSRP: $582
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .40 S&W
Capacity: 12
Barrel Length: 3.27
Length: 6.1 inches
Width: 1.42 inches
Height: 5 inches
Weight: 27.4 ouncesFeatures: 3-dot sight system, picatinny rail
for accessories, automatic firing pin block
PRICE RANGE
$500 and Up
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MODEL: LM 4 Semmerling
WEBSITE: AmDerringer.com
MSRP: $3,800
Action: DAO
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 4+1
Barrel Length: 2 inches
Length: 5.2 inches
Width: 1 inch
Height: 3.7 inchesWeight: 24 ounces
Features: Beautifully engraved grips,
unique manual-repeater action,
unique style, extremely powerful
cartridge in small package
Cylinder & SlideMODEL: 2008
WEBSITE: Cylinder-Slide.com
MSRP: $ POR
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Length: 6.75 inches
Width: 1 inch
Weight: 24 ounces
Features: 1911-style grip safety, rounded
snag-free edges and design, extremelylow profile sights, distinctive hardwood
Cylinder & Slide grips
American Derringer
34 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
POCKET PISTOLS
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Subcompact Pistols ProvideThe Best Of Both Worlds
SMALL PUNCH, BIG PACKAGE
Subcompacts represent a step
up both in terms of caliber and
capacity from pocket pistols,
while generally being shorter in height
and length, and narrower in width, than
compact handguns, which can make
all the difference for those whose body
types or clothing styles prohibit them
from carrying larger firearms. The lat-
est technology in melding polymer
frames with metal parts, and precision
CNC machining of metal lowerreceivers, has enabled this clever cate-
gory to really take off.
Subcompact handguns are almost
always chambered in 9mm or .40 SW
cartridges, with some rare stars cham-
bered in .45 ACP. These firearms also
make good hideout guns for stashing
in secure, yet really surprising places—
the kinds of places that larger firearms
simply don’t fit.
They might be harder to hang onto
during rapid fire, but with practice,
most shooters can keep follow up
shots near the vital areas at the center
of a standard silhouette target at
seven yards. Don’t expect match grade
accuracy, but if you can squeeze it
from these tiny frames, pat yourself on
the back.PHOTO BY KIMBER
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BersaMODEL: THUNDER 380 CC
WEBSITE: Bersa.com
MSRP: $323
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .380 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 3.5 inches
Length: 6 inches
Width: 1 inchHeight: 4.5 inches
Weight: 16.4 ounces
Features: Drift-adjustable rear sight,
sculpted grip, bobbed low-profile hammer
TaurusMODEL: 709 SLIM
WEBSITE: TaurusUSA.com
MSRP: $349
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 6 inches
Weight: 19 ounces
Features: Low profile fixed
sights, ergonomic design,
and snag-free controls
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SUBCOMPACT SEMIS
PRICE RANGE
$300-$600
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BersaMODEL: BP9CC
WEBSITE: Bersa.com
MSRP: $429
Action: STR
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 8+1
Barrel Length: 3.3 inches
Length: 6.35 inches
Width: 0.94 inchesHeight: 4.8 inches
Weight: 21.5 ounces
Features: white-outlined rear sight, polymer
frame, rear sight interchanges with Glock
BerettaMODEL: BU9 NANO
WEBSITE: BerettaUSA.com
MSRP: $475
Action: STR
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 5.6 inches
Width: 0.9 inches
Height: 4.2 inches
Weight: 20 ounces
Features: adjustable sights, striker-fired, extremely small 9mm size
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ChiappaMODEL: 23
WEBSITE: ChiappaFirearms.com
MSRP: $479
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mmCapacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 4.2 inches
Length: 7.8 inches
Weight: 32 ounces
Features: ambidextrous safety, ambidextrous
mag release, oversized “combat” trigger guard
Kahr ArmsMODEL: CM9WEBSITE: Kahr.com
MSRP: $517
Action: DAO
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 6.5 inches
Width: 1.2 inches
Height: 4.2 inches
Weight: 19 ounces
Features: Polymer frame for weight reduction,very narrow, stippled grips for control
40 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
SUBCOMPACT SEMIS
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MODEL: SR40C
WEBSITE: Ruger.com
MSRP: $529
Action: STR
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 9+1
Barrel Length: 3.5 inches
Length: 6.9 inchesWidth: 1.3 inches
Height: 4.6 inches
Weight: 23.4 ounces
Features: Interchangeable
backstrap, polymer frame to
save weight, ambidextrous mag
release, and optional 15+1
extended magazine
BerettaMODEL: PX4 STORM SUBCOMPACT
WEBSITE: BerettaUSA.comMSRP: $575
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 13+1
Barrel Length: 3.0 inches
Length: 6.2 inches
Width: 1.4 inches
Height: 4.8 inches
Weight: 26 ounces
Features: Accessory rail,
ambidextrous safety/decocker,
smallest Storm
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SUBCOMPACT SEMIS
Ruger
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GlockMODEL: G27
WEBSITE: Glock.com
MSRP: $599
Action: STR
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 9+1
Barrel Length: 3.43 inches
Length: 6.5 inches
Width: 1.2 inchesHeight: 4.2 inches
Weight: 20 ounces
Features: White outline rear sight, polymer
frame for lightweight, combat trigger guard,
double stack magazine
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONC EALED CARRY HANDGUNS 43
GlockMODEL: G39
WEBSITE: Glock.com
MSRP: $614
Action: STR
Caliber: .45 GAP
Capacity: 6+1Barrel Length: 3.5 inches
Length: 6.5 inches
Width: 1.2 inches
Height: 4.2 inches
Weight: 20 ounces
Features: White outline
rear sight, polymer frame
for light weight, combat
trigger guard, double
stack magazine
PRICE RANGE
$600-$800
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SUBCOMPACT SEMIS
Kahr ArmsMODEL: P380
WEBSITE: Kahr.com
MSRP: $649
Action: DAO
Caliber: .380 ACP
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 2.5 inchesLength: 4.9 inchesWidth: 0.75 inches
Height: 3.9 inchesWeight: 11 ouncesFeatures: Textured polymer grip, verycompact design, optional CrimsonTrace laser, optional night sights
Walther MODEL: PPKWEBSITE: WaltherAmerica.com
MSRP: $626
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .380 ACP
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 3.4 inches
Length: 6.1 inches
Width: 1.0 inches
Height: 3.9 inches
Weight: 22.4 ouncesFeatures: James Bond’s original
defensive pistol, sleek profile,snag-free design, decocking lever
PRICE RANGE
$500 and Up
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Sig Sauer MODEL: P238
WEBSITE: SigSauer.com
MSRP: $693
Action: SA
Caliber: .380 ACP
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 2.7 inches
Length: 5.5 inchesWidth: 1.1 inches
Height: 3.9 inches
Weight: 15 ounces
Features: Cocked-and-locked single action carry, 1911-style
in a subcompact, many finishes/colors available
Sprinfield MODEL: XD(M) 3.8 9MMWEBSITE: Springfield-Armory.com
MSRP: $697
Action: STR
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 19+1
Barrel Length: 3.8 inches
Length: 7 inchesHeight: 5.6 inchesWeight: 28 ouncesFeatures: Grip safety, trigger safety,fiber optic front sight, outstandingcapacity, snag-free rear combat sight
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SUBCOMPACT SEMIS
Kimber MODEL: SOLO CARRY
WEBSITE: KimberAmerica.com
MSRP: $747
Action: STR
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 2.7 inches
Length: 5.5 inches
Width: 1 inch
Weight: 17 ounces
Features: Low profile white dot
sights, 1911-inspired design in
striker-fired configuration, three-dot
combat sights, aluminum frame
ColtMODEL: NEW AGENT
WEBSITE: Coltsmfg.com
MSRP: $885Action: DAO
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 6.75 inches
Weight: 22.5 ounces
Features: Slim-fit double diamond grips,
trench-style no-snag sight milled into
frame, extremely streamlined design
PRICE RANGE
$800 and Up
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CC
Boberg ArmsMODEL: XR9-S
WEBSITE: BobergArms.com
MSRP: $995
Action: DAO
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 3.35 inches
Length: 5.1 inches
Width: 0.96 inches
Height: 4.2 inches
Weight: 17.5 ounces
Features: Truly unique operation,
very compact for barrel-length,
rotating locking barrel
A in the hand is worth......a LOT more than ANYTHING that’s not at hand when you need it. Your large, powerful,heavy, difficult to carry (fill in the blank) is of absolutely no use when you’ve left it at home,in the car, etc...
Regardless of your location, your dress or the season, NO gun is easier to carry or concealthan a North American Arms mini-revolver. Is it an effective deterrent? Would you want to beshot with one?
Join the millions who “don’t leave home without one”!
Remember Rule #1: Have a gun! North American Arms Inc.• 2150 S. 950 E.• Provo, UT 84606-6285
www.NorthAmericanArms.com
®
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A Winning Combination of Classic Design andGood Ergonomics Make The Ruger SP101 An Appealing
Pistol for Concealed Carry and First-Time Shooters
Though it isn’t the lightest carry revolver on the market, the SP101 is easy to carry and conceal. Chambered
in .357 Magnum, it also provides plenty of stopping power. The trigger is heavy, but with a little practice it is
easy to learn to pull it back far enough to rotate the cylinder, pause, and then deliver an accurate shot.
n 1949, Bill Ruger started production
on a .22 semi-automatic pistol with
not much more than an idea, some
space in his garage, and a silent partner
named Alexander Sturm. The lion’s
share of the hard work—including the
design, development and assembly of
the pistol—fell directly upon Ruger’s
shoulders, and had the product been
less than outstanding, the fledgling
company would have lost its meager
start-up finances.
I
HARD WORK,EASY CARRY
Story & Photos by Brad Fitzpatrick
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Fortunately, Ruger’s semi-auto design wasn’t just
good, it was great, and the current iterations of that
original gun, the Ruger Mark III and 22/45, remain
some of the most popular .22 semi-autos on the
market today. But Bill Ruger’s vision wasn’t limited
to production of a single semi-auto pistol. He also
produced a line of revolvers that became the most
widely accepted single-action wheelgun since the
Colt 1873, the Single-Six.
He was also the father of the 10/22 rifle, currently
celebrating the 50th anniversary of its initial release.
With its rotary magazine and unflinching semi-auto
action, the rifle went on to become one of the best-
selling semi-auto .22s of all time, with dozens of
variations and more available aftermarket add-ons
than a Chevy Silverado.
Even the falling block, single-shot Ruger Number
1—which many expected to be a low-production
novelty at best and at worst Bill Ruger’s first disas-
trous flop—became a cult classic. Bill’s bolt-action
rifles, over/under shotguns, double-action revolvers
and centerfire semi-auto handguns and rifles all
seemed to have been blessed with their designer’s
Midas touch.
My point is this: Bill Ruger probably understood
firearms design and development better than
The large rubber grips
with textured hard plastic
inserts make the SP101
comfortable and easy to
shoot. One of the unex-
pected problems that
many new shooters have
is buying a compact, light-weight revolver that does-
n’t have enough grip to be
comfortable. That is not
the case with the SP101.
The SP101’s smooth profile means it won’t get
hung up when drawing it from a holster. Like all
DAO revolvers, it is simple to operate … simply
aim and press the trigger.
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anyone in this nation’s past withthe possible exceptions of John
Moses Browning and Samuel
Colt, so when he spoke about
about gun design, it was worth
paying attention.
RUGER’S PETS
One of Ruger’s pet projects was
the double-action Security Six
revolver, which came to market in
1972. This robust revolver was
made with investment cast partsand a beefy frame that helped
reduce recoil. Soon after the
Security Six was introduced came
the Service Six and the Speed
Six. The Security model was
designed with adjustable sights,while the Service Six was
designed as a law enforcement
sidearm. The short-barreled,
compact Speed Six was smaller
and was a popular backup orankle gun. The Security Six
lineup was Ruger’s first attempt
at double–action revolver, and itwas a hit.
Unlike many other Ruger guns,
however, the Security Six had a
rather short production life. In
1988, it was replaced by the
GP100, which also had a heavy
frame capable of withstanding the
pressure and recoil of hot .357
Magnums. A smaller version pre-
miered shortly thereafter, which
became known as the SP101.
The SP101 was built with a pow-erful frame, a hallmark of Ruger’s
revolvers, and it was chambered
for the powerful .357 as well.
There were plenty of small
revolvers to chose among in
1988, and many of them couldhandle the powerful .357. The
only question that remained was
whether or not the shooter could
handle the pistol itself. Ruger’s
SP101 set itself apart by beingcomfortable to shoot, and since
comfort translates to accuracy,
SpecificationsRuger SP101 (Spurless)
CALIBER: .357 Magnum
ACTION: Double-action-only revolver
FINISH: Stainless
CAPACITY:5
WEIGHT: 25 ounces
BARREL LENGTH: 2.25 inches
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.20 inches
MSRP: $659
The spurless hammer is exposed
during firing, but the rest of the
time it remains hidden within the
dimensions of the frame.
…The SP101 has merit as a home defense gun, a carry gun, and a sidearm for the trail…
“ “Like all Ruger revolvers, the SP101 has a
cylinder that rotates counterclockwise. The
cylinder release button is visible in this photo,
and it is built into the SP101’s beefy frame.
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Ruger’s SP101 set itself apart by beingcomfortable to shoot…“
“
The durable stainless finish of the SP101
means that even with daily carry the metal
won’t corrode, an important consideration for
a carry gun. Even with a short barrel the recoil
from the SP101 isn’t unbearable thanks to an
excellent grip and moderate weight.
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The SP101 .357 (center) is shown with the Ruger SP101
.22 (left) and the GP100 .357 Magnum (right). Ruger’s
revolvers are robust and reliable, and the SP101 spurless
is an ideal carry revolver or camp gun.
the SP101 became known as a
highly accurate revolver.
A GRIPPING STORY
It’s rare that a pistol review
begins with a discussion about
the grip, but that is where we’llbegin by looking at the current
version of the Ruger SP101 .357
Magnum. Bill Ruger was quoted
as saying “Those damned cush-
ioned grips make it the easiest
small-frame .357 to shoot.”
Without question, the SP101’s
distinctive grips have become a
defining feature of these guns.
Unlike the larger GP100’s,
which originally came wearing
rubber grips with woodeninserts, the smaller SP101
revolvers came with molded
plastic inserts with vertical
indents for a better gripping sur-
face. The bulk of the grip is soft
rubber, which cushion the blowwhile the grip panels keep the
gun in place. It’s like-it-or-hate-it
styling, but it is highly effective
and makes recoil manageable.
The current trend of gun com-panies producing the absolute
lightest .357 revolvers possible
has left a lot of gun buyers,
particularly novices, with buyer’s
remorse after firing the first full-
power .357 load through their
new pocket pistol and feeling
the lightning flash of recoil as
they try to hang onto to theirultra-light backup gun.
Having a backup gun that
you’re afraid of is like jumping
out of a plane wearing a para-
chute with no cord—it appears
like you know how to protect
yourself, but you’re still going to
get killed. For that reason, I
think that the SP101 has merit
as a home defense gun, a carry
gun, and a sidearm for the trail
because it is convenient, reliableand doesn’t shock the shooter
with tremendous recoil.
The model I tested had a
2.25-inch barrel and weighed 25
ounces, which isn’t particularly
light for a .357 revolver. Heck,it’s not even the lightest revolver
that Ruger makes since the
introduction of the popular
LCR, which weighs eight
ounces less and is about ¾ ofan inch shorter.
So, why the SP101?
The gun won’t hang up when you need it most,which is of critical
concern when selecting a sidearm that you’ll be carryingconcealed.
“
“
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Contact
Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.
www.Ruger.com
(603) 865-2442
IN ACTION
For starters, the additional heft
and length of the SP101 is only a
minor hindrance, but the extra
weight and the large grip make the
SP101 a comfortable gun to shoot.
From 25 feet it fires as good a
groups as any double-action only
compact revolver I’ve fired, evenwith the gutter-type sights that
come standard with the model
I tested.
The version I had came with a
spurless hammer, and it was easyto draw and shoot and never hung
up on my clothes. The rudimentary
but effective sights help with this,
too. The gun won’t hang up when
you need it most, which is of critical
concern when selecting a sidearmthat you’ll be carrying concealed.
All current SP101 versions have
stainless finishes that protect them
from the elements and the corrosive
effects of perspiration if the gun is
regularly carried close to the body.
Over the past few years the SP101
lineup has been expanded and now
includes a .22 LR version and a
larger .357 magnum version with afull-length underlug that looks like
a slightly shrunken version of the
larger GP100.
There are other SP101 versions
that have hammer spurs, but Ichose the spurless version because
it made it more appealing as a
concealed carry gun. The version
I tested has a 5-shot cylinder that
rotated counterclockwise. The
cylinder has traditional flutes andthe cylinder release button located
One of the SP101’s drawbacks is limited
capacity, but it makes up for this with
concealability and accuracy. The SP101
is also an ideal ankle gun.
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CC
on the left side of the frame behind the cylinder that
must be pressed into the frame to release. If you’re
familiar with Ruger guns finding and pressing the
button will be second nature.
Despite the fact that the SP101 is double-action-
only, it’s relatively easy to pull the trigger back far
enough that the cylinder begins to turn and hold
the trigger in place, allowing for more precise
shooting with lightened trigger pull. At 25 feet itwas possible to produce fist-sized groups offhand
without hand fatigue.
The sights were well regulated, and the large grip
accommodated my hand without any problem. If
you don’t like the grips, there are plenty of aftermar-
ket options available, and the standard Ruger grips
are easy to remove.
As might be expected, everyone who shot theSP101 found it comfortable. My wife did particularly
well, and with .38 Special loads she found the gun
particularly pleasant to shoot. With the modest.38’s, this gun was a pussycat, and even the most
recoil-sensitive shooter would find it suitable.
This fact alone makes the SP101 an appealing
gun for first-time shooters. It isn’t so large that it
can’t be concealed, and it offers the versatility of
shooting more powerful .38+Ps and .357 Magnum
loads. It makes an excellent trail gun, and I carried
it along on several hikes, and it did just what a
good carry and trail goes does, which is to
seemingly disappear.Wearing the gun in a belly band holster under
the bottom of my shirt, I carried it comfortably for
miles. Knowing that I had five rounds of federal
.38+P Hydra Shoks loaded in the SP101 was a
comfort, even if the odds were low that I’d ever
need the gun.
Bill Ruger had good reason to be proud of the
SP101, and the pistol deserves consideration byanyone looking for a defensive revolver. It isn’t the
lightest, the newest or even the cheapest, but the
SP101 certainly has the credentials that make thisa revolver to remember.
The SP101 is plenty accurate
enough for defensive work. This
group was produced offhand at
twenty feet.
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SEMI-AUTOMATIC
COMPACTSThe Best Choice For Concealed Carry
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T
he compact semiautomatic pistol is the preferred firearm for
concealed carry. Generally measuring less than seven and a half
inches long and around
five inches tall, most often found in 9mm or (almost as frequently) .40
SW, they are the go-to defensive pistols for many who carry concealed.
9mm and .40 SW handguns are often built on the exact same frame,
with the only critical differences being the bolt face, bore
diameter, and gap between the lips of the magazine, meaning that
manufacturers can easily produce models in each caliber once they
arrive at a cost efficient design.
With ammunition capacities at or over ten rounds per magazine
for many models (where legal), it’s rare for citizens to carry a spare
magazine for a compact handgun...unlike for a pocket pistol or many
subcompact models where you might only have six rounds of 9mmor a smaller caliber.
PHOTO BY WILSON COMBAT
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SCCY MODEL: CPX-1
WEBSITE: SCCY.com
MSRP: $299
ACTION: DAO
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
Length: 5.7 inches
Width: 1 inch
Weight: 15 ounces
Features: Snag-free design, lever-style
slide release, all-internal hammer
8 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
COMPACT SEMIS
PRICE RANGE
$299-$399
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PRICE RANGE
$400-$500
BersaMODEL: THUNDER PRO
WEBSITE: Bersa.com
MSRP: $495
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 13+1
Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
Length: 8 inchesWidth: 1.5 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 31 ounces
Features: Cocked-and-locked-capable,
large-capacity of serious defensive caliber
CaracalMODEL: CARACAL CWEBSITE: Caracal-USA.com
MSRP: $499
Action: STR
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 3.66 inches
Length: 6.57 inches
Width: 1.1 inches
Height: 4.8 inches
Weight: 25 ounces
Features: Ambidextrous magazine release,
extremely low-bore axis, unique sighting options
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MODEL: PX4 STORM COMPACT
WEBSITE: BerettaUSA.com
MSRP: $550
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 12+1
Barrel Length: 3.2 inchesLength: 7.6 inches
Width: 1.4 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 27.7 ounces
Features: Interchangeable back-
straps, accessory rail, full-finger
grip, concealable dimensions
ArmaliteMODEL: AR-24 COMPACT
WEBSITE: Armalite.com
MSRP: $550
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 13+1
Barrel Length: 3.89 inches
Length: 7.5 inches
Weight: 25.6 ounces
Features: External frame-mounted safety,all-steel construction, illuminated sights
Beretta
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EAAMODEL: WITNESS COMPACT
WEBSITE: EAACorp.com
MSRP: $557
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 12+1
Barrel Length: 3.6 inches
Length: 7.3 inches
Width: 1.4 inches
Height: 4.5 inches
Weight: 30 ounces
Features: steel frame for long service
life, compact version of full-size
Witness, chambered in 9mm
Smith & WessonMODEL: M&P 40C
WEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.com
MSRP: $569
Action: STR
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 3.5
Length: 6.7 inches
Width: 1.2 inches
Height: 4.3 inches
Weight: 22 ounces
Features: Steel Novak Lo-Mount sights, smallest.40 SW in the M&P line, snag-free design
62 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
COMPACT SEMIS
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GlockMODEL: G23
WEBSITE: Glock.comMSRP: $599
Action: STR
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 13+1
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Length: 7.4 inches
Width: 1.2 inches
Height: 5 inches
Weight: 21 ounces
Features: White outline rear sight,
polymer frame for lightweight,
combat trigger guard, double
stack magazine
Magnum
ResearchMODEL: BABY DESERT EAGLE II
WEBSITE: MagnumResearch.com
MSRP: $630
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 4.52 inches
Length: 8.25 inches
Weight: 38.6 ounces
Features: Three dot sights, integral
accessory rail, firing pin block safety,
carbon steel slide
PRICE RANGE
$600-$900
COMPACT SEMIS
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GlockMODEL: G30SF
WEBSITE: Glock.com
MSRP: $687
Action: STR
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 3.8 inches
Length: 6.9 inches
Width: 1.3 inchesHeight: 4.9 inches
Weight: 20 ounces
Features: White outline rear sight,
polymer frame for lightweight, combat
trigger guard, double stack magazine
BerettaMODEL: CHEETAH 85FSWEBSITE: BerettaUSA.com
MSRP: $770
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .380 ACP
Capacity: 8+1
Barrel Length: 3.8 inches
Length: 6.8 inches
Width: 1.4 inches
Height: 4.8 inches
Weight: 23.3 ounces
Features: Cocked-and-locked
capable, safety/decocker, scaled-down cousin of the 92FS/M9
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COMPACT SEMIS
Sig Sauer MODEL: P239 DAK
WEBSITE: SigSauer.com
MSRP: $835
Action: DAO
Caliber: .40 SWCapacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 3.6 inches
Length: 6.6 inches
Width: 1.2 inches
Height: 5.1 inches
Weight: 30 ounces
Features: Double-strike capable for hard primers, Nitron finish
on slide for durability, DAO trigger is law-enforcement friendly
Kahr ArmsMODEL: K40
WEBSITE: Kahr.com
MSRP: $855
Action: DAO
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 6+1
Barrel Length: 3.5 inches
Length: 6.1 inches
Width: 0.94 inches
Height: 4.55 inches
Weight: 26 ouncesFeatures: White bar-dot sights, full-finger grip for many
hands, very narrow, tight tolerances for accuracy
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MODEL: P2000SK
WEBSITE: HK-USA.com
MSRP: $992
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 3.26 inches
Length: 6.4 inches
Weight: 24 ounces
Features: Three-dot sights,
interchangeable backstraps,
integral accessory rail, multiple
trigger/control types
Sig Sauer MODEL: M11A1WEBSITE: SigSauer.com
MSRP: $1,125
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 3.9 inches
Length: 7.1 inches
Width: 1.5 inches
Height: 5.4 inches
Weight: 32 ounces
Features: SigLite night sights,
decocker, civilian version of Navy
issue sidearm, steel construction
PRICE RANGE
$900 and Up
Heckler & Koch
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COMPACT SEMIS
MODEL: HK 45 COMPACT
WEBSITE: HK-USA.com
MSRP: $1187
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 8+1
Barrel Length: 3.9 inches
Length: 7.2 inchesWidth: 1.4 inches
Height: 5.6 inches
Weight: 28.5 ounces
Features: extended slide
release, accessory rail
Heckler & Koch
CC
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Duty-Issue For Daily Use
FULL-SEMI AUTOS
Police and many mili-
tary personnel carry
handguns daily for
personal protection, but
these duty-issued guns sel-
dom make concessions for
concealment. Officers wear
their handguns openly, in
easily accessible holsters
(that often have restraints
so only the officer can draw
the gun), and soldiers wear
them openly in thigh rigs
and on their tactical vests.
There isn’t much need for
armed professionals to be
discreet about their hand-
guns as there is for armedcivilians.
Not so with private citi-
zens. Because of a myriad of
differences in laws state by
state, it’s prudent to have a
concealed carry license for
both concealed and open
carry, especially in cooler
temperatures where putting
on a jacket or sweatshirt
could obscure your handgun
enough to count as a verydifferently regulated “con-
cealed” handgun.
There are also body
types, clothing styles, and
particular needs that favor
carrying a full-size, duty-
type handgun concealed.
You’ll notice that a lot of
them are police or military
issue, or fall in a product line
closely associated with a
brand’s LEO/MIL models.
P H O T O B
Y
O T
I S
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Hi-PointMODEL: JCP 40
WEBSITE: Hi-PointFirearms.com
MSRP: $199
Action: SACaliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 4.5 inches
Length: 7.75 inches
Weight: 35 ounces
Features: Three-dot adjustable sights,
thumb safety, rear aperture sight option
Grand Power MODEL: P1 MK7
WEBSITE: GrandPower.com
MSRP: $449
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 3.7 inches
Length: 7.4 inches
Width: 1.4 inches
Height: 5.3 inches
Weight: 24 ounces
Features: Four interchangeable
backstraps, completely ambidextrouscontrols, integral accessory rail
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONC EALED CARRY HANDGUNS 71
PRICE RANGE
$199-$499
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Stoeger MODEL: COUGAR
WEBSITE: StoegerIndustries.com
MSRP: $469
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 11+1
Barrel Length: 3.5 inches
Length: 7 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Weight: 32 ounces
Features: Ambidextrous
safety/decocking lever, rotating barrel,
available as well in 9mm and .45 ACP
CZ MODEL: P-07 DUTY
WEBSITE: CZ-USA.com
MSRP: $487
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 16+1
Barrel Length: 3.8 inches
Length: 7.3 inches
Width: 1.5 inches
Height: 5.1 inches
Weight: 27 ounces
Features: Safety/decocker interchangeable
with standard safety, high capacity, designed
to meet police defensive requirements
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FULL SEMIS
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MODEL: SR40C
WEBSITE: Ruger.com
MSRP: $529
Action: STR
Caliber: .40 SWCapacity: 9+1
Barrel Length: 3.5 inches
Length: 6.9 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Height: 4.6 inches
Weight: 23.4 ounces
Features: Interchangeable
backstrap, polymer frame to save
weight, ambidextrous mag release,
optional 15+1 extended magazine
MODEL: MR9
WEBSITE: MagnumResearch.com
MSRP: $559
Action: STR
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Length: 7.1 inchesWidth: 1.3 inches
Height: 5.3 inches
Weight: 28 ounces
Features: Decocking button, interchangeable back-
straps, fully adjustable rear sight, replaceable front sight
Steyr MODEL: C9-A1
WEBSITE: SteyrArms.com
MSRP: $560
Action: DAO
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 17+1
Barrel Length: 3.6 inches
Length: 6.7 inches
Weight: 25.6 ounces
Features: Adjustable 3-dot sights, low barrel
axis, integral accessory rail, trigger safety
PRICE RANGE
$499-$599
Magnum Research
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Ruger
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Springfield MODEL: XD TACTICAL 5” .45ACP
WEBSITE: Springfield-Armory.com
MSRP: $562 (street)
Action: STR
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 13+1
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Length: 8.3 inches
Height: 5.8 inches
Weight: 32 ounces
Features: Grip safety, trigger safety,
outstanding capacity, snag-free rear sight
BerettaMODEL: PX4 STORMWEBSITE: BerettaUSA.com
MSRP: $575
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 14+1
Barrel Length: 4.0 inches
Length: 7.6 ounces
Width: 1.4 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 28 ounces
Features: Rotating barrel, interchangeable
backstraps, designed for defensive work
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FULL SEMIS
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CZ MODEL: SP-01 PHANTOM
WEBSITE: CZ-USA.com
MSRP: $595
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 18+1Barrel Length: 4.7 inches
Length: 8.2 inches
Width: 1.5 inches
Height: 5.8 inches
Weight: 29 ounces
Features: polymer frame, accessory rail
Smith & WessonMODEL: M&P45
WEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.comMSRP: $599
Action: STR
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 4.5 inches
Length: 7.5 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 28 ounces
Features: Interchangeable backstraps,
white dot low-profile tactical sights,
designed for duty and defensive carry
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ArmaliteMODEL: AR-24 TACTICAL CUSTOMWEBSITE: Armalite.com
MSRP: $631
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 13+1
Barrel Length: 3.9 inches
Length: 7.5 inches
Weight: 32 ounces
Features: Adjustable sights, extensive
grip checkering, hammer spur
CZ MODEL: 85 COMBAT DUAL TONE
WEBSITE: CZ-USA.com
MSRP: $641
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 16+1
Barrel Length: 4.72 inches
Length: 8.11 inch
Weight: 35.36 ounces
Features: Ambidextrous version of
CZ75, reversible magazine release,
improved trigger pull
GlockMODEL: G22WEBSITE: Glock.com
MSRP: $641
Action: STR
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 4.5 inches
Length: 8.0 inches
Width: 1.2 inches
Height: 5.4 inches
Weight: 23 ounces
Features: White outline rear sight, polymer
frame for light weight, combat trigger guard,
double stack magazine
PRICE RANGE
$599-$799
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FULL SEMIS
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TaurusMODEL: M92
WEBSITE: TaurusUSA.com
MSRP: $641
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 17+1
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Length: 8.5 inchesWidth: 1.6 inches
Weight: 34 ounces
Features: Improved capacity (17+1), combat-style trigger
guard, multi-position frame-mounted safety/decocker
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONC EALED CARRY HANDGUNS 77
Grand Power MODEL: K100 MK7
WEBSITE: GrandPower.com
MSRP: $665
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
Length: 7.97 inches
Weight: 28.8 ounces
Features: interchangeablebackstraps, ambidextrous con-
trols, integral accessory rail
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FULL SEMIS
Walther MODEL: P99
WEBSITE: WaltherArms.com
MSRP: $679
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .40 SW
Capacity: 12+1
Barrel Length: 4.1 inches
Length: 7.2 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Height: 5.3 inches
Weight: 26 ounces
Features: Safety/decocker button,
ambidextrous mag release built into trigger
guard, three-dot adjustable combat sights
GlockMODEL: G17
WEBSITE: Glock.comMSRP: $690
Action: STR
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 17+1
Barrel Length: 4.5 inches
Length: 8 inches
Width: 1.2 inches
Height: 5.4 inches
Weight: 22 ounces
Features: White outline rear sight, polymer frame for light
weight, combat trigger guard, double stack magazine
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MODEL: TP45
WEBSITE: Kahr.com
MSRP: $697Action: DAO
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Length: 6.6 inches
Width: 1 inch
Height: 5.3 inches
Weight: 23 ounces
Features: Bar-dot-style combat sights, single stack
design for easy concealability, beneficial sight radius
BerettaMODEL: M9A1
WEBSITE: BerettaUSA.com
MSRP: $745
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 4.9 inches
Length: 8.5 inchesWidth: 1.5 inches
Height: 5.4 inches
Weight: 34 ounces
Features: Accessory rail, safety/decocker,
internal recoil buffer, military specification duty
handgun, distinctive relieved “open top” slide
FN HerstalMODEL: FNP 45
WEBSITE: FNHerstal.com
MSRP: $795
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 4.5 in
Length: 7.9 in
Weight: 32 oz
Special Features: Deep-notch rear sight,accessory rail, interchangeable backstraps
Kahr Arms
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MODEL: HI-POWER MK III
WEBSITE: Browning.com
MSRP: $1,059
Action: SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 13+1
Barrel Length: 4.625 inches
Features: Ambidextrous safety,
integral thumb rests, John
Browning’s last 1911-style design
Sig Sauer MODEL: P226 MK25
WEBSITE: Sig-Sauer.com
MSRP: $1,142
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 4.4 inches
Length: 7.7 inches
Width: 1.5 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 34 ounces
Features: Decocking lever, anti-corrosion coatings
on controls, anchor engraving, SIGLITE night sights
Sig Sauer MODEL: P229 EXTREME
WEBSITE: Sig-Sauer.com
MSRP: $1,213
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 15+1
Barrel Length: 3.9 inches
Length: 7.6 inches
Weight: 32 ounces
Features: Siglite night sights, Hogue G-10
grips, short-reset trigger, accessory rail
PRICE RANGE
$799 and Up
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FULL SEMIS
Browning
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MODEL: FIVE-SEVEN
WEBSITE: FNHerstal.com
MSRP: $1,250
Action: SA
Caliber: 5.7 x 28mm
Capacity: 20+1
Barrel Length: 4.8 inches
Length: 8.2 inchesWeight: 20.8 ounces
Special Features: Unique high-velocity
caliber, accessory rail, adjustable
sights, interchangeable backstraps
STIMODEL: TACTICAL
WEBSITE: STIGuns.comMSRP: $2,045
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 11+1
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Length: 8.5 inches
Width: 1.5 inches
Weight: 34 ounces
Features: front and rear slide
serrations, custom sights, double
stack mag for high capacity
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONC EALED CARRY HANDGUNS 81
CC
FN Herstal
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An Award-Winning Handgun Trainer
Get Us Back to the Essentials
Using the seated draw stroke
n a real world event such as
hooting a rear seat attacker
hrough the seat itself is an
xcellent example of adapting
o a rapidly changing situation.
uch is made of how fast one can
draw and fire from the holster,
how tight a group one can shoot
or how fast a shot-to-shot reload can be
performed. While these are certainly
worthwhile skills to possess, they seldom
win fights. Yes, having such skill does offer
confidence that helps overcome fear in
conflict, and fear is the single biggest fac-
tor in whether a person freezes or fights
when a threatened, but it is not the biggest
factor in achieving victory.
M
SITUATIONALMINDSET
Story & Photos by Dave Spaulding
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What wins the fight is the ability to see what is
ranspiring and quickly adapt to the rapidly changing
situation. The combatant that can adapt the quickest
s the one that can bring their skill(s) to the forefront
and use it to prevail.
A proper combative pistol program must cover three
different aspects of training in order to properly address
he problem. I call the first level the “essentials.” They
are commonly referred to as “the basics” or “fundamen-
als” but I prefer to call them essentials as they are more
han just forming a foundation. They are absolutely
necessary in order to win the fight. Without them there
are no skills to utilize in order to adapt.
The fundamentals are normally defined as grip,
stance, trigger control, sight alignment, sight picture
and more, but I prefer to define them more simply. I do
not list a particular skill, I define an essential skill as
anything that keeps the gun running in a fight such as
drawing from the holster, reloading the gun or clearing
a malfunction. You need to know all of these things.
Trigger control is more important than clearing a
malfunction, you say? Maybe, unless you are hunkereddown behind low cover with rounds whizzing by your
head and your pistol has suffered a stoppage. This
might be the perfect example of considering the
undamentals of shooting versus the essentials of
ighting. They are not really the same.
THE ESSENTIALS
If there is a “most essential of essentials,” it would
be mindset. Shooting can certainly be successful with-
out mindset, but fighting cannot. The word combative
s defined as “ready and willing to fight” which does
not mean you are looking for one, it means that if youcannot avoid or evade it, you are willing to engage and
inish it. Thus, a combative mind is one that has made
a previous decision to be ready and willing to fight.
Without a combative mindset every skill that is yet to
come is a waste of effort.
The essentials should be learned from a certified
nstructor in a hands-on environment. There is a trend
o try and achieve these by watching videos tapesbut this seldom works. While it is possible to see a
skill performed, there is no one on site to correct
mproper applications. I see this regularly in mycourses, students show up for a combat skill-based
I define an essential skill as anything that keeps the gun running in a fight…“ “
Shooting from an unconventional position
should be accompanied by “real world of
work” imagery. Here, the author is knocked
to the ground by an attacker (Photo A) and
responds accordingly (Photo B).
Shooting from
unconventional
positions, such
as this grounded
seated position,
is a good way to
create options for
raid response.
A
B
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course thinking they have therequired essential skills locked
down, but do not understand why
a technique is taught/used so they
have no frame of reference as to
how to apply it to the combative
application of the handgun.
Understanding the importance
of a technique is just as critical as
knowing how to perform it. The
best way to show the path to skill
development comes from a skill
building pyramid pioneered byNaval Special Warfare and it begins
with a base of fundamental skills
followed by concentration, consis-
tency, accuracy and speed … one
built upon the next.
The basics must be mastered byconcentrating on doing them con-
sistently. Via consistency, accuracy
is achieved (at least the level of
accuracy needed to end a threat)
with speed that is achieved viapractice. It is a well-established
process that cannot be bypassed.
COMBATIVE ASPECTSOnce the students know how to
shoot the gun, they must be able to
fight with it, and that requires spe-
cific skills that are also best
achieved by attending training with
a qualified instructor and then
practicing the skills while perform-
ing tactical imagery. Imagery is
more than just visualization, which
is fine for daydreaming. Imagery
requires the shooter to not only
“see” an event that is likely for thestudent’s “real world of work,” it
also requires the student to incor-
porate sounds, smells, light condi-
tions and other related environmen-
tal factors that would be present
during a confrontation.Naturally, this will be easier for
someone who had actually experi-
enced a life threatening event, but
understanding what occurs in con-
flict is easier due to the Internet andall of the available videos. When
watching one of these films, try to
A good example of consistency is training to draw from a standing position and then applying the same motion to seated (Photo C) and
kneeling (Photo D) positions. Nothing really changes
C D
PurposefulMovement
Movement should be done
for one of the following:
1Moving aggressively until
you are prepared to deliv-
er accurate outgoing fire of the
quality that will incapacitate
the person trying to kill you,
i.e. cover by out bound fire.
2Move to a location where
you cannot be seen. While
true cover would be the best
option, being hidden from your
attacker’s field of view is
certainly useful and in a time
when ammo has greater
penetration power by design,
fewer objects are true cover.
3
Remove ourselves from
the kill zone completely,i.e. withdrawal.
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place yourself in the situation and not
ust “hoot and holler” about what you
are watching.
Combative skills would include such
opics as contact shooting; combining
open hand skills with the handgun,assume alternate shooting positions
quickly, cover and concealment, one
hand manipulation, shooting from less
han advantageous positions, reduced
ght application, learning one’s point
shooting threshold and when to use
he sights, shooting in and around
non-hostiles and a host of other
hings that are not addressed at the
essential level.
This will be a period of training
where you will not look your best and
you will miss a lot until you can anchor
he skills required, but don’t be dis-
couraged … hang in there. Many
shooters shy away from such training
as they just do not want to look bad in
ront of their peers (Who cares? Being
embarrassed is better than being
dead!). This is unfortunate as it is the
Square range training is where the essential skills are taught and drilled. While some will tell you this step is not necessary, don’t believe it.
While this is not as fun as shooting guns, it is certainly “real world of work.” It is far more likely
you will be attacked at a level that will not require deadly force. Here the author takes a shot to
the side of his face during a hand-to-hand combat training session … it’s all about adapting.
All of the major training institutions incorporate interactive training in their programs…“
“
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combative skills level where the shooter will learn the
hings they need to adapt to the rapidly unfolding situa-
ion. Truth be told, you will not have the time to observe,orient, decide and act when a situation breaks out within
0 feet. You will see and do based on how well you
have anchored skills that will give you the options need-
ed to win. If you have to think “gee, he is doing this so I
might try that, or maybe this would be a better option”
you will likely be dead or seriously injured.
The aforementioned imaging is a huge asset when try-
ng to be adaptive. Merely kneeling, going prone, shoot-ng with the off-hand, performing an injured hand drill or
drawing/moving and thinking of it as a drill and not an
attempt to save one’s life, severely limits the drill’smpact on the anchoring process. Movement is a critical
combative skill, but many instructors teach it incorrectly.
A single lateral side step while drawing or moving
back and forth while reloading is a great way to intro-
duce separating the hands from the feet, but it is not thelevel of motion needed to keep from getting shot. After
decades of studying armed conflict (especially pistol
fights) I have decided movement must be undertaken
with purpose and there will be times that movement is
impossible or should not be undertaken … like so many
things in conflict, it is situationally dependent.
Moving in a gunfight is not new and has been done
since people started shooting at each other, provideddoctrine would allow it. Consider infantry tactics of the
Revolutionary and Civil Wars when soldiers were taught
to stand in rows and fire a volley, only to stand andreload in the open.
Fortunately, free thinking combatants of the era real-
A solid EDC carry set up should include
a handgun, holster, spare magazine,
flashlight and a folding knife.
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Gear selection should come after a solid understanding of the
needed skills is achieved, not before. Make sure medical gear is
part of that selection process.
Bullet performance is only part of the equation when selecting a
gun or ammo…how well can you control your chosen gun/load inrapid fire? With todays’ penetrative ammunition, there is less
cover than ever before.
Aggressive lateral movement until the shooter can unleash “cover by outbound fire” is what will keep you alive in a firefight.
zed this was not a good way to make it through the war
alive and created “guerilla tactics” such as running, hiding
behind a tree, kneeling or some other technique to keep
rom getting shot. Wyatt Earp discussed it during a newspa-
per interview late in his life. “I was a Deputy U.S. Marshal at
he O.K. Corral fight,” he said, “so I was coming forward and
hey (the Cowboys) was usually going back. You shootstraighter coming forward.”
Earp was right, and those who have been trained in
shooting while moving realize it works best when moving
straight ahead versus trying to move laterally or rearward
while controlling the trigger. The truth is, the vast majority
of shooters are more accurate when they move rapidly and
stop to shoot.
Former Delta Force operator Paul Howe addressed it quite
succinctly when he wrote, “Reference shooting on the move.
t is a skill many shooters aspire to learn and spend a great
deal of time and effort trying to master. I have never had to
use it in combat. When moving at a careful hurry, I stopped,planted and made my shots. When bullets were flying, I was
sprinting from cover to cover moving too fast to shoot. I did
not find an in between.”
Knowing when to move, shoot on the move or plant and
ight is just one aspect of adapting to the rapidly unfolding
situation before you and it is not as easy as some wouldhave you believe.
NTERACTIVE ASPECTS
What is commonly called “force on force” training I prefer
o think of as interactive, as it is more verbally/visuallydescriptive. It is training during which students interact with
either another human being, an electronic simulator (such as
Movement must be undertaken with purpose…“
“
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Revolver, pistol, large, small or in
between … the personal carry gun
should be carefully considered and
carried as often as possible
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CC
a F.A.T.S. machine) or work in a 360-degree environment
such as a shoot house.
While many believe the goal of interactive training is
o place the shooter in a gunfight, that is only part ofhe reason. The real goal is “stress inoculation,” which
makes the student function in a stress filled environ-
ment, making decisions rapidly in pan-
demonium along with
he mistakes associated with such an
environment, which is a huge part of
he learning cycle.
But more importantly, interactive
raining shows the student the skills
earned at the Essentials/Combative
evels will work in threatening environ-
ments increasing confidence in skills,which is the single biggest factor in
overcoming fear in conflict.
All of the major training institutions incorporate inter-
active training in their programs with the fixed facilities
ke Gunsite and Thunder Ranch having a big advantage
over traveling instructors due to their shoot houseacilities, jungle lanes or dry washes that serve as multi-
direction threat simulators. A five-day program, such as
he famed 250 course at Gunsite, can cover all three
evels in one program, something difficult to do in a
shorter time frame. For those who wish to train on theweekend, a multi-course “journey” will be required in
order to cover all levels needed for a complete
combative pistol program. However, once all levels are
covered, it will require a hard commitment on the part
of the student to engage in meaningful practice in order
to anchor the skills. I remain amazed at the numberof people who pay good money seeking out quality
training, work hard in class and then do nothing to
maintain the skills for months afterward.
While the student might remember the
lessons learned, being able to execute
the skill(s) needed is a whole different
thing.
In the end, it’s all about options;
having a battery of skill sets to draw
upon when a crisis situation unfolds
rapidly before you. At the same time,
you don’t want to have too manyoptions as trying to decide which skill
to use can actually slow the combatant
down as they try to process the rapidly changing threat
and how to address it. Knowing which skills to anchor
and which to discard is an individual thing, but what is
known to work is to keep the skills simple, consistentwith a commonality that will allow the shooter to move
from one to the next with minimal thought, movement
and effort. Rapid adaptation to the situation unfolding
before you is the key to winning, but it is also one of
the hardest things you will ever undertake. Train hardand choose wisely.
Vehicle Combat is another phase of combative skills … do you know how to shoot through cars windows? Do you know what doing so will do
o the patch of your bullet?
W ithout acombative
mindset ever y skill that is yet tocome is a wasteof effort.
“
“
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The Once and Future King of Semi-Auto Pistols Still Reigns
THE MIGHTY 1911
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I
t’s been called the least-changed and most-copied handgun design
of all time. It has ridden on the hip of hundreds of thousands offighters in multiple wars and armed conflicts. It has been scaled
down and lengthened, re-chambered for cartridges large and small,
and has been engraved, dipped and gripped with a variety of materials.
It is John Browning’s 1911, currently available in all its variants from
dozens of manufacturers at a wide array of price points. In fact, it may
still be the best-selling design on the market, which is not bad for a
handgun design enjoying it’s second century after celebrating its 100th
birthday in—you guessed it—2011.
From subcompact and commander length versions to full size
versions, we highlight just a few of the more recent models available
today on the following pages.PHOTO BY LEROY THOMPSON
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1911 PISTOLS
PRICE RANGE
$450-$1,000
CitadelMODEL: M-1911 A1 COMPACT
WEBSITE: LegacySports.com
MSRP: $639
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 3.5 inches
Length: 7.5 inches
v34 ounces
Features: Hogue grips,
skeletonized trigger and hammer,
ambidextrous safety
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American ClassicMODEL: OFFICER’S MODEL
WEBSITE: AmericanClassic1911.com
MSRP: $684
Action: SACaliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 3.5 inches
Length: 7.25 inches
Weight: 32.45 ounces
Features: Novak-style rear combat sight,
super-compact officer-size design, lowered
and flared ejection port
RemingtonMODEL: 1911 R1
WEBSITE: Remington.com
MSRP: $729
Caliber: 45
Capacity: 7 + 1
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Length: 8.5 inches
Weight: 38.5 ounces
Features: Satin black oxide, double
diamond walnut, 3-dot sights:
dovetailed front and rear sights
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94 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
1911 PISTOLS
ColtMODEL: 38 SUPER AUTO
WEBSITE: ColtsMfg.com
MSRP: $837
Action: SA
Caliber: .38 Super
Capacity: 9+1
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Length: 8.5 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 38 ounces
Features: Adjustable target
sights, classic styling, .38 Super
caliber for competition and use
in countries that ban military
calibers for civilian use
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Sig Sauer MODEL: 1911 TRADITIONAL RTSS
WEBSITE: SigSauer.com
MSRP: $949
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 8+1Barrel Length: 5 inches
Length: 8.7 inches
Width: 1.4 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 42 ounces
Features: Trijicon adjustable night sights,
extended ergonomic controls, attractive style
MODEL: WARTHOG
WEBSITE: Para-USA.com
MSRP: $999Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 6.5 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Height: 4.5 inches
Weight: 24 ounces
Features: Fiber optic front sight, extended
beavertail grip safety, 10-round magazine
capable, flush-fitting lower-round-count
magazines for discrete carry
ParaUSA
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1911 PISTOLS
PRICE RANGE
$1,000-$2,000
ColtMODEL: DEFENDER 7002D
WEBSITE: ColtsMfg.com
MSRP: $1,015
Action: SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity:8+1Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 6.75 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Weight: 25 ounces
Features:Novak low-mount
carry sights, large capacity
for size, 9mm caliber in a
1911-type frame
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ColtMODEL: GOVERNMENT DOUBLE ACTION
WEBSITE: ColtsMfg.com
MSRP: $1,017
Action: DAO
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 7+1Barrel Length: 5 inches
Length: 8.5 inches
Weight: 27 ounces
Features: Aluminum frame, steel slide,
lowered/flared ejection port, unique
(to 1911s) DAO action
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Kimber MODEL: ULTRA CRIMSON CARRY IIWEBSITE: KimberAmerica.com
MSRP: $1,206
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 6.8 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Height: 4.75 inches
Weight: 25 ounces
Features: Match-grade barrel, snag-free
sights, Crimson Trace Lasergrips standard
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1911 PISTOLS
STIMODEL: OFF DUTY
WEBSITE: STIGuns.com
MSRP: $1,243
Action: SACaliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 8+1
Barrel Length: 3.24 inches
Length: 7 inches
Weight: 30.4 ounces
Features: 3-dot adjustable
combat sights, checkered
cocobolo grip panels, ramped
bull barrel
Sig Sauer MODEL: 1911 CARRY SCORPION
WEBSITE: SigSauer.com
MSRP: $1,213Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 8+1
Barrel Length: 4.2 inches
Length: 7.7 inches
Width: 1.4 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 35 ounces
Features: Low-profile night sights,
Hogue grips, Hogue G-10 grips,
ambidextrous safety, accessory rail
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Springfield MODEL: EMP
WEBSITE: Springfield-Armory.com
MSRP: $1,345
Action: SA
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 9+1
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 6.6 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Height: 4.8 inchesWeight: 28 ounces
Features: Diamond-pattern cocobolo
grips, large capacity for type, tritium
night sights
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Smith & WessonMODEL: SW1911 SC E-SERIES
WEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.comMSRP: $1,369
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
Length: 8 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 30 ounces
Features: Scandium alloy frame, round
butt, S&W Custom Shop fit and finish
00 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
1911 PISTOLS
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ColtMODEL: 21st Century Commander
WEBSITE: Colt.com
MSRP: $1,379
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACPCapacity: 7 + 1
Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
Weight: 35 ounces
Features: Lightweight aluminum alloy,
Colt beavertail grip safety, secure grip,
Wiley Clapp Edition
Smith & WessonMODEL: SW1911 BOBTAIL CARRYWEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.com
MSRP: $1,539
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 8+1
Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
Length: 8 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 30 ounces
Features: Relieved slide, fish scale serrations,bobbed tail for increased concealability
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS 101
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1911 PISTOLS
Kimber MODEL: MASTER CARRY PRO
WEBSITE: KimberAmerica.com
MSRP: $1,568
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 8+1
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Length: 7.7 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Height: 5.25 inches
Weight: 28 ouncesFeatures: Crimson Trace Master
Series Lasergrips, bobbed grip
frame for concealment, aluminum
match-grade trigger
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Dan WessonMODEL: VALOR
WEBSITE: CZ-USA.com
MSRP: $2,012
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 8+1
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Length: 8.8 inches
Width: 1.5 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 38 ouncesFeatures: Heinie straight eight
adjustable night sights, match-
grade barrel, undercut trigger
guard for comfort
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS 103
PRICE RANGE
$2,000 and Up
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Guncrafter
IndustriesMODEL: 50GI M3
WEBSITE: GuncrafterIndustries.com
MSRP: $3,185
Action: SA
Caliber: .50 GI
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
Weight: 35 ounces
Features: Heine Slant Pro tritium night
sights, super-custom textured grips,
round-butt forged frame
MODEL: CCO
WEBSITE: GuncrafterIndustries.com
MSRP: $2,795
Action: SA
Caliber: .45 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel Length: 4.75 inches
Length: 8 inchesWidth: 1.3 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 33 ounces
Features: Tritium snag-free night
sights, enlarged beavertail grip
safety, custom fit & finish
CC
Guncrafter Industries
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C
ompact revolvers provide nearly all the benefits of a larger
revolver—such as straightforward operation and ease of use—while adding benefits of their own, such as the excellent conceal-
ability provided by deep cover. And like their longer brethren, they don’t
inspire many of the concerns raised by semi-autos, such as “slide-bite”
As with all revolvers, a cylinder swings out for easy loading at the
slide of a button. And in terms of firepower, they hold their own against
many semi-autos and larger revolvers. The drawbacks? Generally, com-
pact revolvers have reduced capacities and slower or bulkier reloading.
Still, compact revolvers serve their chosen roles well, and they have
since the days when they were standard issue for detectives and police
officials. You’ll find several examples of some of the more recent mod-
els on the following pages.PHOTO BY P. J. RYAN/JIM WEISS
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Charter ArmsMODEL: 13820
WEBSITE: CharterFirearms.com
MSRP: $342
Action: DA
Caliber: .38 SPL +P
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 2 inches
Weight: 16 ouncesFeatures: Threaded barrel, 3-point cylin-
der lock-up, full hammer block safety
system, recoil friendly rubber grips
EAAMODEL: WINDICATOR 2 INCH
WEBSITE: EAACorp.comMSRP: $343
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 2 inches
Length: 7 inches
Weight: 30 ounces
Features: Sculpted and cushioned
grips, prominent hammer spur, made
in Germany
08 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
COMPACT REVOLVER
PRICE RANGE
$300-$400
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PRICE RANGE
$400-$500
Charter ArmsMODEL: MAG PUG STANDARD
WEBSITE: CharterFirearms.com
MSRP: $400
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 5Barrel Length: 2.2 inches
Weight: 23 ounces
Features: Rubber grips, easily concealable
design, smooth trigger
Charter ArmsMODEL: BULLDOG PUG
WEBSITE: CharterFirearms.com
MSRP: $414
Action: DAO
Caliber: .44 SPL
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 2.5 inches
Weight: 21 ounces
Features: Bobbed hammer design,
snag-free receiver design, serious
defensive caliber
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TaurusMODEL: 85SS2FS
WEBSITE: TaurusUSA.com
MSRP: $429
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .38 SPL +P RATED
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 2 inches
Length: 6.5 inchesWeight: 22.2 ounces
Features: Transfer bar, Taurus
security system
RossiMODEL: 46202
WEBSITE: RossiUSA.com
MSRP: $454
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 2 inches
Weight: 26 ounces
Features: Low profile fixed sights,
scalloped grips, and solid firepower
110 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
COMPACT REVOLVER
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RossiMODEL: 35202
WEBSITE: RossiUSA.com
MSRP: $465
Action: DA/SACaliber: .38 SPL
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 2 inches
Weight: 24 ounces
Features: Low profile fixed sights,
sweat-resistant stainless steel, hammer
spur for single-action shooting
TaurusMODEL: 850B2ULWEBSITE: TaurusUSA.com
MSRP: $474
Action: DAO
Caliber: .38 SPL +P
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 2 inches
Length: 6.5 inches
Height: 4.3 inches
Weight: 18 ounces
Features: Concealed no-snag
hammer, rubber grips, very light
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TaurusMODEL: 731 ULTRA LITE
WEBSITE: TaurusUSA.com
MSRP: $514
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .32 H&R MAG
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 2 inchesLength: 6.5 inches
Height: 4.3 inches
Weight: 17 ounces
Features: Lightweight design, powerful
specialty caliber, compact overall package
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS 113
ChiappaFirearmsMODEL: 200DSWEBSITE: ChiappaFirearms.com
MSRP: $749
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 2 inches
Length: 6.5 inches
Weight: 40 ounces
Features: Extremely low-bore axis,
fiber optic front sight, powerful
defensive cartridge
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COMPACT REVOLVER
Ruger MODEL: LCR
WEBSITE: Ruger.com
MSRP: $879 (w/ crimson trace
lasergrip)
Action: DAO
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 1.9 inches
Length: 6.5 inches
Width: 1.3 inches
Height: 4.5 inches
Weight: 16.6 ounces
Features: Hammerless design,
some polymer components,custom Crimson Trace LaserGrips
Smith & WessonMODEL: 686WEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.com
MSRP: $1,089
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .357 MAG / .38 S&W Special
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 2.5 inches
Weight: 36.6 ounces
Length: 7.5 inches
Features: Uncluted cylinder, chrome
teadrop hammer & trigger with stop,
precision crowned barrel, cylinder cut
for moonclips, PC tuned action CC
PRICE RANGE
$500 and Up
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HAPPY MEDIUM
ccupying that middle ground between full sized and compact
revolvers, these mid-sized but useful firearms are ready for
everything from outside-the-waistband carry to special interest
shooting and frequently sport target-style sights. Far from being a
cookie-cutter size, these revolvers differ as much from each other as
from guns of a different size.Medium revolvers generally deliver six rounds of .357 Magnum power,
although some are chambered for .38 Special. If you choose one ofthese models, don’t forget to pick up a couple good speed loaders,
which will help make up for the diminished number of available roundswhen compared to a semi-auto pistol.
PHOTO BY SMITH & WESSON
A Great Balance of Power and Size
O
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Concealed and CarryConcealed and Carry is now
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on more than 200 handguns from a variety of manufacturers. We
also cover stories on holster positions, popular calibers, ammunition,
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120 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
MEDIUM-FRAME REVOLVERS
TaurusMODEL: 65B4
WEBSITE: TaurusUSA.com
MSRP: $488.46Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Length: 10.5 inches
Weight: 38 ounces
Features: comfortable
rubber grips, fixed sights,
custom SA/DA trigger
MODEL: GP100
WEBSITE: Ruger.com
MSRP: $759
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .327 MAG
Capacity: 7
Barrel Length: 4.2 inches
Length: 9.5 inches
Weight: 40 ounces
Features: Adjustable sights,
palm swell grip, extra shot by
virtue of unique chambering
MODEL: 586
WEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.com
MSRP: $809
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Length: 9.25 inches
Weight: 41 ounces
Features: Red ramp front sight,comfortable grip, fantastic
accuracy potential
RossiMODEL: 98104
WEBSITE:RossiUSA.com
MSRP: $408
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .22 LRCapacity: 8
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Length: 8.5 inches
Weight: 29 ounces
Features: Ventilated rib atop
barrel, adjustable sights,
supremely comfortable grips
Ruger Smith & Wesson
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Smith & WessonMODEL: GOVERNOR
WEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.com
MSRP: $769
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .45 COLT /.410 Shotshell
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 2.75 inches
Length: 8.5 inches
Width: 1.75 inches
Height: 5.5 inches
Weight: 30 ounces
Features: Accepts .410 shotshells, .45 Colt, and
45 ACP, features integral sights, rifled barrel
MODEL: 617
WEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.com
MSRP: $829
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .22 LR
Capacity: 10
Barrel Length: 6 inches
Length: 11 inches
Weight: 44 ounces
Features: stainless steel frame
and cylinder, satin stainless finish
TaurusMODEL: 4510WEBSITE: TaurusUSA.com
MSRP: $587
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .45 COLT / .410 Shotshell
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 9.5 inches
Weight: 37 ounces
Features: 3-inch chambers,
integral sights, shoots both .45
Colt cartridges and .410 shotshells
interchangeably
Unique Size: The Governor is the .45COLT / .410 Shotshell version of a snubnosed revolver with a full-frame widthand the range and accuracy (with solidprojectiles) of a medium-frame gun.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS 121
Smith & Wesson
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OK BEYOND THE CORRAL
Although the full-size revolver will always
remind us of the Old West, and memorable
shoot-outs such as the Gunfight at the OK
Corral, today’s revolvers have undergone repeated
innovation and redevelopment, been chambered
for increasingly impressive cartridges, and become
the staples of law enforcement professionals,
hunters, and armed citizens alike. Revolvers of all
sizes continue to serve as specialized tools as well
as defensive arms.
While they’ve also shrunk to minimalist pocket
pistol designs, and morphed into medium-sized
defensive arms, the full-size revolver continues
to put full power .357 MAG loads, .44 MAG loads,
.410 bore shotshell loads, and other innovative
cartridges in your hand.
Although they’re not exactly concealable, open
carry is legal in many states, as is car carry, and
your concealed carry permit likely entitles you to
carry concealed in a backpack or other on-body
solution, enabling you to carry whatever size
revolver best fits your needs.PHOTO BY JIM WEISS & MICKEY DAVIS
Full-Size Revolvers AreMemorable & Concealable
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PRICE RANGE
$200-$700
ComancheMODEL: COMANCHE II-A
WEBSITE: ComanchePistols.com
MSRP: $205
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .38 SPL
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 3
Length: 8 inches
Weight: 33 ounces
Features: Extremely inexpensive, adjustable
rear sight, contoured rubber grip
RossiMODEL: R98106
WEBSITE: RossiUSA.com
MSRP: $407.57
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .22 LRCapacity: 8
Barrel Length: 6 inches
Weight: 29.5 ounces
Features: adjustable rear
sight, steel construction
RossiMODEL: R971
WEBSITE: RossiUSA.com
MSRP: $465
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Weight: 32 ounces
Features: Adjustable sights, molded
grips, great sight radius
FULL-FRAME REVOLVERS
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Smith & WessonMODEL: 686
WEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.com
MSRP: $829
Action: DA
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 6 + 1
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Length: 9.56 inches
Weight: 49.7 ounces
Features: stainless steel frame,
available in 6 and 7 shot cylinders
Ruger MODEL: SP101
WEBSITE: Ruger.com
MSRP: $699
Action: DA/SACaliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 5
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Length: 9.12 inches
Weight: 29.5 ounces
Features: Fiber optic front sight,
adjustable rear sight, 3-inch barrel
for improved velocity
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS 125
PRICE RANGE
$700 and Up
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ChiappaMODEL: RHINO 60DS
WEBSITE: ChiappaFireArms.com
MSRP: $1,095Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .357 MAG
Capacity: 6
Barrel Length: 6 inches
Length: 10.5 inches
Weight: 41.6 ounces
Features: Also available in .40 SW and 9mm,
wooden grips, fires from bottom cylinder for
low bore axis
MODEL: S&W500™
WEBSITE: Smith-Wesson.com
MSRP: $1,599.00
Action: DA/SA
Caliber: .500 S&W Magnum
Capacity: 5 Rounds
Barrel Length: 10.5”/26.7cm
Length: 18”/45.7cm
Weight: 79.3 ounces
Features: Orange Ramp front sight
with adjustable rear, synthetic grips,
multi-port compensator
28 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
FULL-FRAME REVOLVERS
CC
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LASTPAGE
30 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS
ADVERTISER PAGE
Barnes Bullets.....................................................7
CampCo.......................................................35, 51
Colt's Manufacturing Company.....................2
CROSSBREED HOLSTERS ............................13
DeSantis Gunhide............................................19
DoubleTap Ammunition................................131
Glock Store......................................................132
Kel-Tec CNC Industries, Inc. .........................25
Major Surplus & Survival................................41
North American Arms, Inc.............................47
Old Faithful Holsters.........................................3
Secure Medical .................................................15
Springfield Armory .........................................69
World Skin Institute.........................................21
PHOTO BY HECKLER & KOCH
THE ADVERTISER INDEX IS PROVIDED AS A SERVICE TO OUR READERS. CONCEALED CARRY IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR OMISSIONS OR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS.
The new 9mm VP9 from Heckler &Koch has been making headlines sincethe striker-fired pistol was introduced last
month to the U.S. commercial and law
enforcement markets. The VP9 has been in development for more than four years and its debut marks the return of HK to striker-fired models.
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