Polymer Subcompact Conundrum

[capturedlive]

It's time for me to add a subcompact semi-auto to my collection, but choosing one's proving to be a real bear. I was originally leaning toward the Glock 26, mostly because I've been reading "Glock: The Rise of America's Gun," and it's gotten me all jazzed for Glock.

But then, seeing the new SA XD-S just about made me cry. Yes, I know I can't have the XD-S in CA, but just seeing it got me to thinking... I love my full-size XD and there are SA subcompacts I CAN have. For that matter, there are SO MANY subs out there now!

It makes no sense to ask "what's the best sub," so instead let me throw out, what made you decide to get the one you did? Maybe that'll help me with my decision.

Thanks.

[theneko]

G26 is good but still thick. My main criteria after reliability is thinness but it depends on your intended use for a subcompact. Is it a carry gun? Check out the Kahr.

[capturedlive]

Yes, my primary use would be carry.

[madd556]

I went with the G26 mainly because I had the G17 already. I like and shoot better with the 26.

[tacgunner530]

i was in the same boat as you not too long ago. after all kinds of research i ended up buying the kahr pm9. to me a carry gun has to be comfortable, lightweight, accurate and reliable and so far the kahr has not let me down. it's so small and light that it can be pocket carried, however with an iwb holster it simply disappears. the trigger may take some time to get used to, it's long and very smooth, but once you get the hang of it, you will find it to be very accurate. the pm9 is pretty much the smallest 9mm out there and that was big for me. i almost went the ruger lcp route, but the 9mm, to me, is superior to the .380. so i guess the biggest reason i went with the kahr pm9 was it's size and weight. a big clunky gun does no good when it's too uncomfortable to carry.

[Sebass]

Take a look at the M&P 9c (Compact) as well. Great grip angle and FANTASTIC ergos. Accurate to boot as well. I mine!

[RoundEye]

I have a Kahr PM40 and I was really surprised at how small it really was. Kahr had to make the smallest, thinnest, and highest caliber pistols around.

[Turo]

I'll have to say that I love the subcompact Glocks. Even if the full size and compact don't fit your hands, the subs may. They're so different from the others that I feel a lot of people don't give them the time of day since the larger pistols don't fit them.

Mine is the 27, and I carry it all the time. Even in holsters that aren't the most comfortable, it fits and conceals very nicely.

[SA227driver]

Glock 36. Single stacked .45. Glock came up with the idea way before Springfield did. Great ergonomics, conceals really nicely, soft shooter, and of course...it's a Glock!

[tacticalcity]

Ok, I'll be your huckleberry! (Nice avatar)

I'm likely to end up getting a Glock 26 next. Why? I like Glocks. I need a Summer CCW gun. I already have a full size Glock. And I have a Glock Shooting Sports Foundation Discount Card burning a hole in my wallet.

[Oceanbob]

Glock 27. Same size as the 26. But for serious carry, more serious ammo.

I also have a .357 SIG barrel for it, if I get bored with .40

[MyGlock17]

G27 or G26 gets my vote...But i have the XD subcompact not to far from it...

[Exile Machine]

Great thread OP. I used to carry the Kahr PM9 but sold it when I realized I could easily conceal/carry my full sized Glock 21. Well that was last year before I lost 30lbs. Now I'm wearing smaller clothes and just don't have so much belly and love handles to hide the big Glock. I'm in the same boat as you. I have been considering the Ruger LCP, but am going to watch this thread develop with great interest, as I try to decide which subcompact to buy.

-Mark

[bigcalidave]

The kahr pm9 is by no means the smallest 9... It's also far more expensive than the other choices, personally I hated it and I don't understand the loyalty those kahrs get from some people. The 26, and other double stack guns will always be a compromise on concealing. If you really want something you won't worry about when you first start carrying, get a single stack thin 9 like the lc9 or pf9. Small cheap and light. As you get used to carrying everyday, you'll feel less concerned about it, and find that you can carry a thicker gun without a real issue. I'll use my fat ol USP when it's cold out, but I do find that I just stick with the lc9 now because the weight is so little. I was carrying a p11 all the time, but that thing loaded is kinda stout.

[Sebass]

Or wait for the new M&P 9mm Single Stack coming out on the 12th of this month

http://youtu.be/0XgaqZ1g1o8