I used to be tempted to buy small, concealable handguns, and certainly there are quite a few quality ones on the market in respectable calibers. The LC9s, the PPS, the XDs, the Shield, the GLOCK 43, and many others. They are compact, easily carried, unobtrusive, lightweight, and convenient.
However, the reason I will no longer even consider buying one is simple: because I might be tempted to carry it rather than a full-size, high capacity handgun. After all, the reason I carry a handgun is because I believe I might actually NEED it to defend my life or the lives of my family or friends. And I don't carry a particular weapon primarily because it is lightweight or concealable or convenient. I primarily carry a particular handgun because it can contribute significant firepower in my efforts to survive a hostile encounter. Small, single stack handguns and revolvers just don't offer the same amount of firepower as full-size, double stack handguns.
Me? I carry a Smith & Wesson M&P in 9mm with an APEX Flat Faced trigger and Trijicon HD night sights. It gives me 18 shots before I need to reload and 35 shots with one extra mag on my person. It is (relatively) lightweight, has a fantastic trigger pull, has wonderful contrasting night sights, and feels great in the hand. It is made to contribute significantly to my survival in a bad situation, and I cannot imagine ever finding a better pistol than the one I currently carry.
No more small guns for me. Just too many disadvantages.
Vanguard.45
However, the reason I will no longer even consider buying one is simple: because I might be tempted to carry it rather than a full-size, high capacity handgun. After all, the reason I carry a handgun is because I believe I might actually NEED it to defend my life or the lives of my family or friends. And I don't carry a particular weapon primarily because it is lightweight or concealable or convenient. I primarily carry a particular handgun because it can contribute significant firepower in my efforts to survive a hostile encounter. Small, single stack handguns and revolvers just don't offer the same amount of firepower as full-size, double stack handguns.
Me? I carry a Smith & Wesson M&P in 9mm with an APEX Flat Faced trigger and Trijicon HD night sights. It gives me 18 shots before I need to reload and 35 shots with one extra mag on my person. It is (relatively) lightweight, has a fantastic trigger pull, has wonderful contrasting night sights, and feels great in the hand. It is made to contribute significantly to my survival in a bad situation, and I cannot imagine ever finding a better pistol than the one I currently carry.
No more small guns for me. Just too many disadvantages.
Vanguard.45