[Don Puffer]

The names of some of these guns make want to puke.

Sorry…not a good way to start.

Hi. I just joined. This is my first post. I just took my shooting test and have qualified for my CCP in New Mexico. I should have the CCP in January or February and I'm looking for a 1911 carry gun. Thought I’d see what help I could get from everyone here.

I’m a little hesitant to carry a 5”, thinking it is too big. I’m thinking of something with a 4” barrel. Maybe the Kimber PE II? Perhaps I could start my inquiry by asking whether the 4” barrel is a significant benefit compared to the 5” for a carry gun? Does anyone feel strongly about either length barrel for a carry gun?

- Don Puffer



<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Don Puffer on 2001-10-28 21:40 ]</font>

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Don Puffer on 2001-10-28 22:53 ]</font>

 

[Robe]

I was hoping to see a pic of the Tac Elite CQB Spec Op if you have one.(Just kidding).

 

[Tim Williams]

I think most of those more experienced will say the grip length is more of a problem than the barrel length when worried about concealment. I say that and you will find several people on this forum that carry concealed a full size 1911. The only 1911 I own is a compact Kimber. Of course, down the road I plan to get a full size.

The 1911 has some weight to it, so a good quality holster and belt are a given
Tim

 

[Corey]

I too have wondered why people like commander length slides (EDITED to add on full size frames).

I have always thought (*if* I were allowed to even *think* about concealing a handgun, mind you, because I'm *not*) that the grip was the hardest part to conceal.

So what's the advantage gained in about 1" shorter barrel, when even a lean guy like myself can conceal a 5" barrel. (When I go to Vermont, that is. :smile: ) It's the grip that gives me the most problem, as it prints when bending.

I'd prefer to have a full 5" sight plane.

Lemme know what I'm missing, but *when* WI finally gets on board with shall issue CCW, I'm getting a compact (officers size frame with commander slide).

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: JacRyan on 2001-10-28 22:52 ]</font>

 

[SF]

A 4" barrel is a little more concealable for IWB and OWB, and more comfortable (YMMV here - body type, clothing, and method of carry make a huge difference).

From what I've seen with handgun rounds, the 1" difference doesn't seem to make much difference in velocity or terminal ballistics. Yes, most modern HP ammo is designed to work within a given velocity range.

There is a slight disadvantage for the 4" gun due to the shorter sight radius and increased muzzle flip, but I don't find it to be a huge problem for a carry gun. A bull barrell can help (ProCarry).

Tacoma WA PD is now issuing Glock 21/22/23 and Kimber ProCarrys to their officers (officer's choice). They have had very good things to say about the ProCarry. A friend also has one and with 1k+ through it, also has good things to say. I've shot it and liked it.

Remember, though, that much of the concealabily/comfort of carrying a gun concealed comes from chopping the grip. Again, YMMV. I didn't think I would like my Glock 27 much as first, but since I've added a Pearce grip (my pinky isn't left hanging anymore - big difference) I like this gun more and more. However, I will be carrying my Lighweight Commander when I get it back from the 'smith. The Glock trigger will NEVER be as good as the 1911 can be.

SF

 

[VoceNoctum]

On 2001-10-28 22:50, JacRyan wrote:
So what's the advantage gained in about 1" shorter barrel, when even a lean guy like myself can conceal a 5" barrel.

If you're carrying outside with a button down shirt to cover it, the barrel length makes as much difference. I have a Defender, which I also occasionally drop in my pocket or in a waist bag.

 

[Monty Grubbs]

Hey Don,

Who did you take your class with?

I am teaching the classes down here in Artesia.

By the way, I have a good friend in the NM DPS. Don't expect to get your permit right in January. He is in the actual approval process, and says they won't be getting in any hurry to get the permits out to the citizens. They are still trying to figure out exactly how to do it!

 

[Don Puffer]

Hey Monty,

Figures they won't have the permits out when they are suppose to. I guess we have to wait for the State Supreme Court to rule also.

The instructors for the class were Gary Collatz & Ralph Costain.

 

[Blackjack]

Check out Dane`s site and the story of his development of the first DBC Lightweight Steel gun. Weight, not size, is the issue if you carry all day, everyday IMHO.

Perhaps DB will input on this topic also.

 

[JiminCA]

I've been carrying since the beginning of the year. The bulk of my carry has been with a LB Stinger (4" slide over an officer's frame). In a Versa Max II from Sparks.

In my experience the butt is the thing that prints. The slimness of the 1911 is great compared to other guns (such as my G23).

For the future I'm considering a Wilson compact CQB, continuing with the Baer (and hard chroming it) or going for a full length gun with the Brown bobtail conversion. Sweat is an issue here, so you need HC or armor tuff or something else that will hold up to moisture.

I have a LW commander XS that I'm considering also, but the grip length could be a problem. But that light weight would be a welcome relief.

 

[A Johnston]

My personal preference for a carry 1911 is a full size 5" all steel gun. Hiding a full size 1911 is not hard, I wear one everyday with no problems and I'm a pretty small guy. Having said that, my recommendation for a CCW would be a base Kimber. I wouldn't waste money on any of the "Custom Shop" offerings from Kimber, that is unless you're going to uses all of the other do-dads your paying for. In the great scheme on 1911's I don't think they are worth the $1000+ price of admission. YMMV

 

[Monty Grubbs]

Don,

Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst regarding your permit.

Here's my two cents for concealed carry: Here in NM, it is hot, all the time. I go with some type of covering garment and a strong side belt holster. Either IWB or On the Belt. My daily carry gun is a Kimber Compact. Could not be happier with this pistol!

When doing an IWB carry, I use a Royal Robbins Go Everywhere Vest. It is extremely lightweight, and does the job well for me. For on the belt carry, an untucked shirt or a bit longer vest from Old Navy. For shorts in July, Glock 27, in my pocket.

In NM, you have to make some concessions as far as carry option because of the weather. Sometimes the heat is un-explainable. (Is that a word?)

I have first hand knowledge that even Arizona is not really as hot as southeastern NM. I have seen days when the thermometer stayed over 110 degrees all day long! So, us New Mexicans have to work a bit harder.

Godd Luck carrying Don.

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Monty Grubbs on 2001-10-29 21:58 ]</font>

 

[Don Puffer]

“Inexplicable” is the word you’re looking for. :smile:

Thanks Monty, and everyone else, for your input.

- Don

 

[GTO]

For me I found a Kimber compact (4") in all steel or SS to be the best of all worlds. GTO

Your not puking are you? hahaha

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: GTO on 2001-10-30 00:50 ]</font>

 

[Don Puffer]

GTO,

No, no puking yet…just nausea.

I’m waiting for the “Enduring Freedom Tactical Elite Commando” model to hit the streets before I start heaving in earnest. :smile:

- Don


<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: don Puffer on 2001-10-30 11:49 ]</font>

 

[Jim Hanson]

Ok, here I go.

I am 225-240 pounds 6'1" and I am carrying a Stainless steel Colt series 80 Commander, modified with my carry preferences.

I chose the commander for several reasons.

Fullsize grip. I have big hands, and a large body to conceal it.
The reason for the shorter barrel- For me it is clearing the holster just a tad faster and my arm isn't quite at such an acute angle to get it all the way out of the holster.

Any gun can be well concealed for the most part through the quality of "leather" that is being used to carry the gun ie: sparks, alessi, kramer (my choice for carry), or if you like Kydex, Cen-Dex Corp.

The slightly smaller sight radius has not hindered my shooting-even out to 125 yards if you go to some of the sundog matches in prescott. But all of the choices were for personal reasons.

And that is where the big decision should lay. What will work best for the individual shooter is what the person should carry!

Sorry for being so long winded.

Jim

 

[38 Super Combat Commander]

Well my LW Commander is 27oz.Thats 11oz lighter than my fullsize 1911.If I`m going to carry for more than 9hours I always pick up the Commander.

 

[Dane Burns]

I use a 1911, carry it in a IWB and call it a pistol :grin: A 5" pistol if you must know :roll:

Comfort is very dependant upon the leather or kydex you use no matter if it is 26 or 38 oz. you carry. I use an GWH built by Alessi and 38 oz plus 9 rounds of 230 HPs aren't a problem even if you need to go 24/7.

BTW..I hate the word tactical. It is soooo over used. Grey Ghost, FED, 1*, Ultimate, HP, WAVE, LT and SLT are pretty good marketing tools and easy for everyone to remember. Makes my life simplier. I can REALLY use the help!

GWH is a joke on an old partner. I like the dbl edge cut. Like that style of knife too :grin:



<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Dane Burns on 2001-11-03 22:15 ]</font>

 

[1911Freak]

While I own one of the hated names, CQB, I'm partial to Grey Ghost and think I'm going to have to break down and get Dane to build me one.