Trying to decide which pistol for my CCW

[CSHawkeye]

It's mainly going to come down to either my USP Compact 9mm or looking at the XDS 45acp. The advantage of the XDS is I have plenty of 45 acp around that I use for my 1911 so it would be easier for purchasing. Just wanted to get everyone's onions/thoughts.


Thanks in advance!

[gunderwood]

Once you are looking at quality pistols (both are IMHO), choose the one that fits you best...which usually means you shoot it best, it points naturally, etc. With the best HPs, both 9mm and .45 are on par with each other. You get more ammo and sometimes a thinner gun with 9mm, but if the HP fails to expand .45 is a bigger "FMJ" bullet. That being said there is some data that suggests the larger HP and slow velocity of .45 may cause it to not expand with a higher probability when encountering heavy clothing (e.g. leather jacket, winter clothing). However, we're splitting hairs even if more testing validates that theory.

Ammo availability of either isn't usually a problem. However, finding either in decent quantities is a problem right now. If you have .45, but no 9mm I'd lean that direction unless you want to wait. It could take months or even the rest of the year to rectify the current shortage though.

As for the pistols, I'm not a fan of either because I feel they both have a high bore axis. At least higher than I prefer. However, both are of excellent quality and will serve you well.

[bryanrheem]

Which do you prefer? Have you shot both? I wouldn't call either of those 'small' guns so not sure what your plan is for the summer time when clothing gets a little less bulky.

You can also get the USPc 45 if you want to stay all in the same caliber.

[CSHawkeye]

Went to SEG this morning and I am going to keep the 9mm USP compact.

[cwfunrider]

I carry the XDS everyday. It is super accurate for such a small pistol. It also virtually disappears too. Every once and a while I'll strap up my G19.

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[CSHawkeye]

I also picked up from Nova firearms the m&p 9mm shield. Does anyone else have that??

[Moist]

I also picked up from Nova firearms the m&p 9mm shield. Does anyone else have that??

I've got the Shield in .40SW and it's a tack driver. Also have the XD-S and a Ruger LC9. Any of these three firearms make excellent, highly concealable carry guns.

[Mindflayer]

I also picked up from Nova firearms the m&p 9mm shield. Does anyone else have that??

I've got the Shield in .40SW and it's a tack driver. Also have the XD-S and a Ruger LC9. Any of these three firearms make excellent, highly concealable carry guns.

Hear, hear. I have the Shield (as does my wife, so we have the same deep conceal weapon) and love it. The XDS is a nice gun as well, but the Shield just felt better to me.

[MNMGoneShooting]

I understand the dilemma. I feel like the bachelor with several women when it comes to carrying my guns. Walther PPS or XDM 45 compact? They are both so awesome and reliable for me!

[joebobz]

I have a shield and it is a really nice carry gun

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[vashooter]

Can't beat a S&W 442 IMO, small, light, most of all reliable.

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[TJB63]

I just sold my USP .45C and bought the XDS in .45 -- The HK was nice, But I wanted something I'd actually carry and the XDS does that very well, I was always a Glock fan, But I got to say the XDS has won me over for a compact carry gun. Personally I think the .45 has a pretty good proven history with just Hardball, But the XDs will do just fine digesting HP's.

TJB

[minininjer]

Your CCW should be whatever is most comfortable for you... in your hands and in your holster/waistband or however you carry it. My friend loves his XDS. I am tiny but love both my Shield 9 and Sig P238. I can conceal both well and they're comfortable.