9mm vs 40 for concealed carry
Question
Hello--
I recently got my CCW, and have been carrying a Kel-Tec P3-AT to get used to the idea of concealed carry. I feel comfortable carrying the .380, but I want to pick a normal carry handgun, and relegate the Kel-Tec to being a BUG. So that leaves the decision of what I should be carrying. I went to the range and tried out a 45, 40, and 9. The 45 was way too much recoil for me to reliably place second shots. I really liked the feel of the 9, but gun buffs keep telling me that all 9s have equivalents in 40 and that the 40s are much better for stopping power. However, others tell me that the stopping power difference isn't as important as shot placement. Since the 9s are easier to followup on and I can hold more ammunition, I am inclined to go with the 9. Some say that a less experienced shooter should use a 9 because it will be easier to control and place shots. Others say that since a less experienced shooter can't place perfect shots, they need the power of the 40. I was just curious about your opinion. In terms of what gun, I am currently deciding between the Polymer Baby Eagle, Glock, or Kahr P9/40.
Thanks
Answer
I don't want to reccommend a specific model of gun, but I'll tell you some of my thoughts on this subject.
I normally carry a .45ACP 1911 style gun. When my clothing won't cover a large gun, I carry a Walther PPK in .380ACP.
With a little practice, you shouldn't have any problem with controllability of a .45ACP, but there's nothing wrong with carrying a gun that fires a 9mm parabellum. It will have enough power to provide for your protection.
In any case, you should practice to gain proficiency, and then to follow up with some practice on a regular basis to maintain your skill.
Hope this helps!
Dave
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