Compact vs Full Size/Service Size

[Gunfighter33A]

So, here's what I've been debating. Is it worth getting a compact...say and XDs, LC9, Nano, Shield, PPS, etc....or should you just carry a full/service sized pistol???? Thoughts?

[Zeke2A]

I like my Px4 Subcompact vs the full size I get 10 shots of .40 and a small size that is easy to carry IWB or OWB whichever your choice is .

FWIW I have a full size S&W .40 and a 4" .44 revolver that I occasionally carry OWB but my compact is my EDC by far. Good balance between firepower and size.

[mpan72]

If you are comfortable with oc and would not be bothered by a large gun I do not see why you would want a smaller pistol.

If you do not like oc and can not carry a full sized gun I do not see why you would want a smaller gun.

If you feel fine with oc and cc and can carry a big gun sometimes and may be tired some other times I can not see why you would not buy one of each.

[mpan72]

BTW. My carry guns are a S&W MODEL 10-8 and a Ruger
p-89. They are both on the big side.

[johnydavid]

I think you should go with compact. A full size is a bit impractical to take everywhere. A lot of places wont let you into there establishment with an o/c weapon. A compact or sub compact you can take everywhere and nobody will know. I carry a Ruger LCP all the time. I'd love to tote my S&W 659 everywhere but I just can and don't want to do it. Buy what you can carry with you all the time. A 380 on you is better than a 45 in the car 300 ft away.

[mpan72]

I think you should go with compact. A full size is a bit impractical to take everywhere. A lot of places wont let you into there establishment with an o/c weapon. A compact or sub compact you can take everywhere and nobody will know. I carry a Ruger LCP all the time. I'd love to tote my S&W 659 everywhere but I just can and don't want to do it. Buy what you can carry with you all the time. A 380 on you is better than a 45 in the car 300 ft away.

Many people will try to avoid places that don't allow guns. I only go to one place where I carry concealed. (work is another matter) Where one stands on method of carry plays a big part in the decision on big or little. Hmmm, I guess that is what you just typed.

[Thomas Paine]

It's a catch 22.

full sizes are best to shoot and practice with; hence, the ones you get good with.

subcompacts are pain in the butt to shoot, but conceal really well.

the holy grail is the gun you can conceal, but is fun to shoot at the range, and you can practice with and get good at.

then you have to figure caliber, and capacity, hell, then it all goes to shit.

[harold63]

You got a couple sub compacts listed, BTW.

My advice is to carry as much gun as you feel comfortable with, make sure it functions reliably, and get good with it. If you can draw a butter knife, quickly; throw it and hit your mark every time, you already have an advantage in a fight.

[John A Brown]

Use the one that fits your hand best.

We aren't splitting atoms here.

[87hurricane]

As others have said, a compact will conceal better, but a full size is easier/more pleasant to shoot. If you plan on concealing, buy a little guy, if not buy a full size. Either way, practice, practice, practice.