Latest handgun offerings

Question
Hello Kyle, I recently obtained my CCP in CO and want a smaller (and lighter) semi-auto than my S&W Model 410 for carry and hunting backup.  What is your opinion of Taurus 24/7, Springfield HD Subcompact, Glock 23?, or others of that type?  And for the really subjective question, what is your all-time favorite pistol?

Answer
Bob,

Yeah, full-size S&W autos can be a handful to carry, I've tried carrying my 5903 in a variety of rigs and have yet to find a way to wear it comfortably all day.

I've heard nothing but good things about the Springfield XD pistols and know from experience Glock pistols are tough and reliable. I must admit I don't know too much about the Taurus 24/7, but the quality of Taurus' workmanship has improved steadily over the last several years.

You might consider looking at a Glock 27 for an even more compact pistol that's easy to conceal. With aftermarket magazine floorplates that add a finger rest, the Glock 27 is certainly one of my all time favorite concealed carry guns. Its big, bright sights are easy to spot and its simple, light trigger makes accurate shooting quite easy from such a small pistol.

As with all compact autos, the sight radius is smaller than on full-size guns, making aiming a bit more difficult. Furthermore, you'll lose some muzzle velocity from the shorter pipe and recoil can be more pronounced as there's less gun to soak it up.

As for what my favorite all time pistol is, man, what a question. For all around fun at the range, it's hard to beat my S&W K-22 Masterpiece, but it's not much of a defensive handgun and is certainly no carry piece. I'm kinda stumped. I've always liked the old classic 1911, but I've an affinity for wheelguns, particularly the S&W 66 and 686 in .357 Magnum. In all honesty, to put my finger on one single handgun that's my all-time favorite, well, the above is about as close as I think I can get.

Hopefully I've answered your questions, if you have any more, please feel free to ask.

Kyle