i can speak from experience here. ive shot glocks, fnh, walther, and sigs. after spending lots of money and trading and buying pistols, i finally purchased a Smith and Wesson MP 2.0 compact. Affordable, fits my hand, and i cant miss with it. i would tell new shooters to look at this pistol.
The M&P 2.0 compact 4.25” is a tack driver. I have that version and made me want to try the 3”. I haven’t gotten it yet, but will change that statement very soon. It is the hardest one to find. Especially in the wild. I hope it is as sweet as my version.
@@HanzBlitz-i8t normally I would wholeheartedly agree with that statement but here lately the QC at Smith has been less than stellar to say the least. I’ve had my 2.0 compact for well over a year and have had zero issues with it. Here lately tons of people have had trouble especially with smith wheel guns. I’ve had zero issues with any Canik in my arsenal. You can’t find one better for the price point and what you get from it.
@DanielJohnson-ot8wj It's really more about the overall size is what I was getting at. Something Glock 48 size is about perfect. Choose whichever quantity brand. It's why it usually isn't a great idea to recommend these duty sized guns even if they are slightly smaller like a Walther PDP and others. They probably aren't going to carry it consistently, if it's a chick, she definitely won't. The micro 9s are a better overall option just because of the convenience. Canik, Walther, Hellcat, whatever.
I have been teaching handgun classes for over a decade. Everything from beginner/CPL to intermediate handgun 1 and 2. I’ve seen hundreds of new shooters so I feel like a have a good amount of data to speak with authority. When I’m asked what “first pistol” someone should get, I don’t immediately offer brands or models. I say get 9mm from a reputable major manufacturer that holds 10+ rounds, striker fired, and you can get a full firing grip.
Bold to assume that a newbie knows who's reputable or not. I always figure out what their task and purpose is for owning the weapon and propose a make and model from there.
The first handguns that I owned, were Smith & Wesson model 915 9mm, made in about 1992. You can pull the slide back, release the slide, chamber a round, and the EXTERNAL hammer will be cocked, however the thumb activated Safety de-cocks the hammer safely. On 1911 style pistols, chambering a round leaves the hammer cocked, and many 1911 owners, especially Security & LE, leave it cocked, but for a new gun owner, I would never recommend a 1911 style pistol, or a pistol without an external visible hammer.
For seniors and people with lower hand strength the Smith & Wesson Shield EZ 9 is a decent choice. I picked up one due to a shoulder surgery because it was the easiest to clear a malfunction and rack the slide one handed. Most people don't like the grip safety but being an old 1911 shooter it had no bearing on my decision. Now my wife uses it as her EDC because it is much easier to operate the slide than her H&K VP9. To me it's not the best option for EDC because of the limited mag capacity, but she is deadly accurate with it. Thanks for thinking about the new shooters and great presentation. Cheers!
I carried a custom G17 for 14 years and have recently switched to a Hellcat Pro with a Cylee red dot. Same overall size of the G19, but lighter and slimmer. No issues at all with the Hellcat Pro...all stock.
Considered one and it’s currently a $moking deal with the red dot included but .. The wonky trigger that can lock you out. “No go bang” The lady size grip is a turn off. Both would have to be dealt with immediately and suddenly that smoking deal isn’t so $moking. My no dot g48 runs/prints so good there’s not a single valid reason to retire it.
@@h.r.puffnstuff8705 “wonky trigger that can lock you out”??? Are you referring to the Hellcat Pro? You’ll have to elaborate, that’s the first I’ve ever heard anyone say something like that. In fact, I’ve never heard of anyone having ANY issues with the Hellcat or Hellcat Pro, other than personal preferences.
@@woodystube1000 you’ll have to Google it. I wasn’t familiar with the problem till recently when my man child pointed it out when my local ffl was showing me a a nice deal on a pro with dot. I’d say judging by the amount of complaints on line it warrants addressing the issue. It appears a lil love with a dremel probably alleviates the condition but I’d feel better throwing an a.m. trigger at one.
I want a pro for sure I have the original hellcat and it’s a bit small but I got 15rd mags so it’s got the same capacity as the pro and the extension of the mag helps my hand fit much better than its standard 11 and 13
Chad, thanks for your service man! I was in the USAF Security Forces career field from 1991-2006 & also was a Combat arms Instructor (range instructor). I still instruct on the civilian side as a DNR Firearms Instructor for the Safety Classes here in MN! I grew up shooting the M-9 and currently rotate between the following for CCW/Daily Carry depending on the conditions (IWB/OWB); Canik Mete MC9 (9mm) CZ P-07 (9mm) Colt King Cobra 3" .357 CZ 7B Omega (9mm) Thanks for showing the range of options for new shooters! 🙏✝️🇺🇸🕊️
I went with an HKVP9 it’s costs about $200 more then your listed guns but it’s more reliable and a little better quality with probably the best factory trigger but what sold me was it comes with 27 different pistol grip configurations and I have large hands so I could create my own perfect fit and I purchased a red mag well guide which helps control the barrel up flip and makes it impossible for a threat to pull it out of your hand. I also went with a red Lazy Wolf Trigger and a Trijicon SRO. It’s a first shot bullseye set up with specific upgrades to fit my needs which is all that is really needed. Along with 8 - 17 round mags and one 30 rounder all fully loaded and placed in strategic locations according to the level of threat.
VP9 is the most accurate combat pistol I have ever shot and I've gotten to test most of them. You bought a great gun (possibly the best). I have thousands of rounds through my Glocks but I cannot match the accuracy the VP9 has even with less experience on it.
@@drewmorg. I agree HK is on a different level because Germans are on a much higher level of engineering. I believe most of the gun bias comes from the military guys with no experience other than what the military gives them because the military cannot and do not issue the best guns. Military guys are some of the most inexperienced with the best guns which sounds crazy but it’s 100% true. The VP9 translates in German to, “The People’s Pistol”. I put a Trijicon SRO on mine and honest to God I rarely miss the bullseye. Because of the position of the barrel it does have a slight up kick but when you can first shot bullseye every single time there is no need to shoot the other 16 rounds in the mag.
I originally bought the Sig P365 as my carry gun. After about two years, I upgraded to the XL frame but have kept the base slide (3.1"). This combo has worked PERFECTLY for me since I got the XL frame. Holds 17+1 in a 3.1" barrel. I'm 6' 155lbs soaking wet, so it's perfect for me concealability wise, and the slightly larger frame has helped me shoot much better, although that's more likely a mental thing than a physical one. Brother has the glock 19 and the glock 43x mos. Between the two, the 43x works better size wise for shooting and concealing, but either way, I love my sig. Pretty much the same size gun but able to carry 8 more rounds than his 43x.
I agree. 30 years ago I shot the 19 against the high power and 1911's and found that for the weight, capacity, accuracy and reliability that it could not be beat, I still love my single action pistols but for carry my mind was made up 30 years ago. I prefer a consistent trigger pull on a pistol thus my single action or striker fired preference. You can go smaller and I do with the Ruger LCP Max but that is a gun I always carry and often say it's the gun i'm carrying when i'm not. It's difficult to shoot but better than throwing rocks. That gun always is with me and often a G19 which gives me solace.
30 years ago I switched from 1911s to a P226 I bought near the police academy in Plainfield Indiana. It was a West German P226 beautiful bluing. I also carried a Colt Delta Elite 10mm in 1992 but follow shots were too slow for fast follow up shots. I switched back to the P226 . I didn't switch to Glock until 2020 and I'll say this , if you don't monkey w them they're the most reliable pistols I've carried.
I dislike my Kimber Micro chambered in 9mm, it really wants to jump out of my hand, I can only get three fingers around the grip. I wish that I would have gotten it in 380.
There are some awesome small but easy to shoot 380’s out today. I would agree with Chadd a few years ago, but not so much anymore. For example the newer S&W bodyguard 2.0 is an awesome small easy to carry gun. They ditched the silly built in laser, put on a great trigger, double stack mag and redesigned the frame to really fit the hand better. Not to mention S&W customer service and lifetime warranty is top notch. The biggest knock now on 380 is ammo cost. Sometimes a smaller, easy carry firearm is the best fit.
Love my Gen 5 Model 29. I'm 6'3" and 280, carry iwd appendix and It just works, I am confident and relaxed when out and about in large part because of it.
I carry the Ruger .380 max…and Max 9mm…both work well for me…I’ve been a shooter for 60 plus years and just can not recall having any of those long range days…an hour or two is about my length of time on the range regardless of what I’m shooting.
Sig P365 with a manual safety. Have to 10, 12, 15, 17, and 21 round magazines to fit multiple situations. One and done. The Wilson Combat grip module may help?
The WC grip module is a game changer for the P365. I ended up with an FCU out of an XL (for the flat trigger) and XL WC grip, with a standard 3.1” barrel & slide. Essentially a P365x. It’s possibly the best carry configuration I have ever used. Everyone has different needs, but the WC grip module is worth taking a chance on for the relatively low price.
This is truly the Greatest Advice ever. When I moved south, I finally got serious about self-protection for home and Concealed Carry. I bought cheap by starting out with a Sccy CPX-2. I truly wanted to like that gun, but it was an epic failure. Just too many failures to be a trusted EDC. Traded that in for a Glock 43, which I love and keep in rotation when it gets super-hot. Works well with a Fanny Pack with an extra mag (...which I saw in a previous 5 of 7 Project video.) I played around with mag extensions and found out some after-market brands will affect reliability. I settled on Pierce +1 Extensions. Once I felt proficient with it I decided on getting a Glock 19 Gen 5. It's just a perfect choice really. Even with advancements in ammo, 380 is NOT a good choice for self-defense. Thank You, Chadd & Blake, and the Crew at 5 of 7 Project
Never had an issue with psa micro dagger mags. Also have another 43x with the metal mag catch and shield arms mags. If you like Glock then 43x is still the best choice and 15+1 chambered
CZ P10F C and S are all sub $400 price, front and rear serrations, amazing coating, backstrap options, one of the best triggers out of the box and probably Europe's most carried striker fire pistol. The SAR 9 is also an amazing value with Black Friday deals seeing prices at and under $250 with 2 mags and THE most adjustable grip module I'm aware of with backstrap and both side S/M/L panels. Trigger is comparable to G1-4.
I carry my 43x w factory mag and 2 Shield 15rd mags extra backup mags. It has night sights and Ghost 4.5 striker spring w reduced plunger spring. Sweet 3.75lb trigger. I shoot 124hst in it. Somedays, I'll carry my 19x it's stock w polished trigger, it's the gun I'd take to SHTF w +P 124 I don't compete anymore. I used CZ pistols in those days. Remember to replace those trigger springs on the CZ.Every 4 thousand rds. That's about one month dry fire transition drilling for me. I've had them break on the Steel Challenge stage. CHAD is right on the G19
I typically carry an M&P Shield Plus with the 15 round magazine. Sometimes I carry an M&P Bodyguard 38 snub nose revolver. It’s only 5 shots and has a ten pound trigger but I still like it. It was my first carry gun. They are more difficult to shoot, but at up close and personal range, they are plenty accurate. I like that I can fire it through my pocket if I need to. A very reliable weapon for low threat environments. I put a Hogue grip on mine which made it way more comfortable to shoot. Enjoyed the video. Glock 19 is certainly a solid choice. I just ordered a holster for my 19X. I’m going to see what it’s like to carry that.
Yes, I’ve got 3 , an Xmacro for the wife, a tacops for my carry and now the Fuse with co-witness Sig enclosed emiter red dot as the possibly my one and done pistol. This this is compact and the big mags are like 21 or 22 rounds . Shot it so far and it is frigging accurate , like shooting a realistic 3” group easily within 25 yards unsupported
Agreed, I have been carrying every day for well over a decade. I have a a 43X a, P365 , M&P 2.0 compact, a full size M&P, a beretta 92, an LCP2 an LCP MAX...etc. Ease of carry will matter most to most people. A P365 is hard to beat. It disappears under most types of clothing and holds 10-15 rounds in the mag depending on what you decide to roll with. It's just the easiest to carry in most situations.
P365 is the adult Lego, you can customize it for you and when/ what/where you're going. Nothing wrong with the S&W S2 for " only one gun", only you're buying 3 versions to match the Sig.
@@keithgraham9547 There are some versions that are tiny but they make so many versions that you can just about pick your flavor. Accuracy is phenomenal for a short barreled weapon. I have tons of Glocks from models 41, 34, 45, 43x and 19x , H&K’s , Kimbers and I have a hard time not picking the XMacro Tacops or the Fuse over all of them. Glocks feel like sh*t , horrible trigger , yeah they go bang but just ehhhh on accuracy , feel and trigger and I own a bunch of them . I have a 34 with a nice red dot and I can still shoot better with the 365 and more accurate and a pleasure to shoot. I bought a couple Smith shield EZ’s for wife and daughter and while they maybe ez to rack , one has horrible accuracy , like 14” bottom left at 25 yards off a rest . H&K P30 is good, got one of those for another daughter and slide is easy to rack , accuracy is decent. VP9 match is super accurate, easy to rack , a little long for carry but still a good pistol.
I would have to agree with your ranking for what you have on your truck. There are lots of other pistols, of course that someone could buy. I carried an M&P 2.0, since getting out of the Marines, switched to the civilian Sig M18, but Just got a Stacatto which i love. I used to carry a Kimber micro .45acp which i love with the exception of the weight and mag capacity. So the Glock is everywhere, reliable and fairly cheap, i personally cant stand them because of the ergos but i own one for a shtf type deal because everyone has one. So it was a good list for what was there! God Bless
Tons of revolvers are being sold to people that can’t manipulate a slide. In the summer with tennis shorts I tuck a lcr 357 green dot grips, XS night sites, w/110 gr. Hp & never feel underarmed. Sometimes carry zombie 5 star speed loaders or strips.The trigger is perfect also.
I wouldn’t recommend any average dude with moderate experience carry a 2 lb trigger daily. I don’t even myself. I have too many grandchildren grabbing me in all kinds of weird areas from out of nowhere 😂. I just don’t take the chance when it comes to them. JMO. The G45 is my happy spot for carry.
@@Inkushu the extreme susceptibility to limp wristing is a uniquely glock firearm issue, thus why it is one of the worst choices for most people for self defense.
I share that opinion. You don't "accidentally" pull a double action trigger. With that being said, it also inherently reinforces the purpose of a self defense EDC/CCW. Referencing data - in regards to self defense instances where shots were fired - back up that you don't need a system that is light and precise up to (and over) 50 yards. You need something that is ready to go when you need it, and that might be with one arm framing an attacker, and the other arm operating the firearm from retention. Furthermore, in the case you have your self defense tool, encounter an active shooter, and you are willing to take on the responsibility of acting as a first responder, manually dropping the hammer for single action shots is manageable unless you are already behind the curve and on the defensive (likely because you are "on the x"). In that case, your choice of EDC/CCW doesn't make a difference. To bring home my main point in mentioning this scenario, Da/Sa triggers often function far better in single action than the majority of your stock striker-fired trigger options anyways. It is my belief that the reason Da/Sa options are all but forgotten at this point is because people don't want to put in the time and effort in practicing with their CCW, and Chad is well aware of this. You'll often hear "it's two different trigger pulls!" Carrying is almost treated like a litmus test these days for cliques. The likelihood you'll ever truly need it? Very low, but possible. It is about as big of a responsibility you can take on. In the case you need it, you better have put in the rounds. Lastly, it is my opinion that the exposed hammer was not a design flaw; it was essentially the first "manual safety." If you carry a pistol with an exposed hammer, you have the capability of "thumbing the hammer" both on your draw-stroke, and on your re-holster (the latter of which you should never have a reason to rush anyways). Apologies for long-windedness, but just a genuine "food for thought" follow up.
I've had a walther p99as for over a year now. Great double action trigger and fantastic single action. Over a 1,000 rounds and no malfunctions of any kind. Decocker works great.
I personally consider a snubnose revolver, especially in .357 magnum, to be an Expert's firearm. I'm personally VERY Good with them, but I've shot revolvers for 40 some odd years. I'm 57 years old and got my first firearm at the age of 9. I also shot a handgun for the first time that same age. It was a Smith&Wesson model 28 no dash my dad carried.
Key words here "a snubnose revolver, especially in .357 magnum, to be an Expert's firearm".. I am same age as you, and have been using revolvers for over 40 years. But I still train new shooters the fundamentals of handgun shooting with a 22 LR DA/SA revolver, this helps in getting the proper handling, sight alignment and trigger control basics covered easily. Automatics are too busy for a new shooter to learn on the first day IMO.
Super solid advice! It is hard to argue Glock dependability, for a long time the Glock 19 has been considered the gold standard for duty carry and concealed carry. It does so many things well, shoots soft, it’s reliable, it’s accurate, sufficient capacity, and it’s an easy size to conceal and carry. I carried one for a long time and my wife alternates between a 19 and 43 for carry currently. I have now switched to either a Staccato C2 or a Nighthawk CCO in 45 acp depending on whether I want capacity or power! Keep up the great content I enjoy what you do! God Bless
I've been carrying a Hellcat the most often in my carry rotation and I have been training a ton with it this past year and I have gotten I think pretty darn good for someone who's only been carrying for 3 years and training seriously just this past year and a half and I love this thing. I'm at the moment at 3465 rounds through my Hellcat and still have not had a single Jam no matter what kind of ammunition I put through it and damn is this thing accurate lol, of course I have a holosun 407k Green Dot and Apex Trigger on it which helped a lot. With enough training you can get good with just about anything.
Of all the seals that have a platform, this guy and Mr. Ballen seems to be the most likeable. Plus, them not ending up on anti hero podcasts for exaggerating valor is refreshing. Lol
Chadd, now that cooler weather is coming in to lower Bama, I carry my gen 5 Glock 19 with XS sights and upgraded match barrel. In hotter weather I carry my gen 4 G 26. Occasionally, I carry my Para USA GI Expert 1911 in .45acp.. Chadd for President!!!
I got a PSA Dagger compact, never had an issue, only thing I changed was trigger, added grips, got a comp, and a mag well. Served me well and was only 500 bucks fully modded out
Good advice. Based on my own experience as a new pistol owner/shooter, the first year to two years or more (depending on how intensely someone trains on their own or with instructors) are really spent learning fundamentals and attaining some level of adequacy in them. You benefit from a simple but easy to use gun in this period. I bought and sold a number of pistols during this period looking for something "better" but not really knowing how to judge that. My first pistol was a Masada - very much like a Glock. Later I added a VP9 and that has become my go-to carry since it does so much so well, from trigger to grip sizing. Funnily enough, the better I shoot the less interested I am in the really expensive Gucci guns out there. I don't feel like I need one. And buying used, I've never spent more than $400 on a pistol, so cost doesn't have to be a barrier.
100% agree. I rotate appendex carry 226 in .40 and Kahr T40. T40 is like an all steel G19 with a safer trigger. Don't like appendex glock style striker fire pointed at my junk.
I just got a sig p365xl spectre comp. Went to the range and ran 100 rounds for cpl class. Guns not bad for doing a little shooting. I wish I brought my m17 for the class.
Fullsize frame will ALWAYS be a lil more comfortable for the range imo (unless you have a small grip-span). I'm a fan of the 365 lineup tho, especially for carry, particularly the Macro, X, & XL personally. I know Chad likes to shit on Sig but kinda surprised the 365 wasn't on the list.
My wife’s first CCW pistol was a Glock 19. She still carries it. I carry according to the permissive environment. If it’s a non-permissive environment, I will carry a hellcat pro or I will carry another subcompact. If it is a permissive environment, I’ll carry either in the winter Kimber TLE2 or in the winter. I may also carry a Glock 17.
I carry the 365XL topped with a Viridian green dot and love it. I did buy two 17 round mags for it and now it fits my hand much better though it lost a little conceal ability with the longer grip.
Unfortunately 380s tend to be unreliable in almost every platform of gun. I don’t know if any 380 gun that hasn’t had fairly widespread poor reliability reports
Love the hat! Picked a 4" Walther PDP for the first gun after shooting several friends guns. Probably my problem as so many pro's love them but I shot Glocks the worst.
The new PSA Dagger Micro is a Glock 43X clone, but comes stock with 15 round magazines, for around $340. It weighs just a hair under 1 pound (without mag), compared to about 1.5 pounds for a Glock 19. Small, easy to conceal, 9mm, and a full 15 round magazine make it a pleasure to carry. I ran 300 rounds through it recently at the range, without a single issue, with 4 or 5 different brands and types of ammo including defensive rounds.
I'd listen to this guy way over me but from an average GenXer that's been around guns his whole life this is what I think. Just got that Shadow 2 for my wife, she's already really good at CrossFit and wants to start doing Tactical Games. I have the larger Shadow 2 and it's a great pistol but the platform is a teeny bit complex for someone who hasn't shot pistols much. Everyone who is new to guns always wants to shoot the shiny, pretty ones I have but just out of safety concerns I don't start people out on fancy pistols. Expensive guns are almost all more complex platforms. Anything like a 1911, 2011, double/single, high end pistols are all going to be more complex and even as bit a factor are harder to maintain and care for. Cleaning the Shadow 2 for example is a learning curve all on its own. Glock, Walther, Canik, Sig P365, M&P, Springfield Echelon/Hellcat lines, we've got those and a few others that are all really simple and great, when it comes down to it any of those to me just come down to personal preference.
Find a local range that has rental guns and try some out. Try the midsize vs micros. Try different calibers. And use that in making a choice. I personally would recommend in no particular order, glock 19, s&w mp shield versions, fn 509 midsize, walther pdp and cz p10 c. I personally carry a FN 509 midsize.
Chad, another great video with good information. I’m reading the comments, there are as many opinions about the “right” carry gun as there are people commenting. As always, people should gather as much information as possible and decide for themselves what is best for them, train often with it, and carry it.
Enjoyed the video and still sticking with my Glock and wheel gun. I love the jeans, but where did you get that hat ? That’s what i’m looking for before winter.
I took my Glock 43 and bought the palmetto state micro lower with 2mags and now have a 15+1 round flush fit compact that feels and shoots great ez to conceal and carry so I rotate this and my shield plus another great shooter for CC AND MY GLOCK 19 is never faraway with a 17 mag , love your sarcasm 👍
Glock is dependable and tuff. Years ago when I first started shooting I found out that I had to train a lot with a Glock. It has a different angle on the grip. Once I figured it out it was very accurate. The M&P fits the wrist better with less training.
I love my g43x it came with 2 mags and a speed loader the mags are a pain to load but super reliable and I picked up 3 extra mags keep em loaded at all times!!!
For me my first carry gun was a Glock 42 then it became a Glock 48. My reasoning was I wanted simple battery of arms from a respectable manufacturer. When I first started carrying I carried unchambered and once I used to the weight and got comfortable with having a gun on me at all times then I started carrying chambered. My wife on the other hand started with a Ruger 380 security live on safe and she seems to be happy with her choice and doesn't want to try carrying anything else.
The Hellcat is my summer carry , and the 43X is my winter ..... Both are great .... More confident in the Glock though...... Oh , and I'm in a 10 Rd max state so .......
In my view: Army veteran 1990s 🎗 , CCW license holder, armed G officer Florida. I say new guns, ccw can vary. Hand strength, dexterity, training, size all matter. In general a new Glock 19 9x19mm or 45 MOS, gen 5 version is a top choice. Night sights or HD trijicon +. The 26 or new 26X isn't bad but a 19 MOS has the basics. For revolvers, a 3" Ruger LCRx in .357magnum or .38spl +P might be a good. Easy to clean, safe, 5rd. .357magnum is potent but you can train with .38spl loads.
I would.also recomend the 43x...9mm slimer then all other glocks..short barrel but full size grip..single stack 10round.mags...i personally love mine!to me its a slighly.smaller 19..
New shooters should think about it in terms of getting into an ecosystem, because it’s not just the gun, it’s the magazines, the holsters, accessories, support, what their friends have, etc. So my 2¢ is they should pick an ecosystem - Glock, Sig, S&W, CZ, etc., and then pick a gun from that ecosystem to fit their needs. Hope that makes sense.
I really like a 1911, but with neck and spine probs. As a former army gunsmith. I had the local gun store hold a 1911 Ronnin for home defense and I though no my hand are worse than I thought obviously I need to try out several types of pistols before I make my descion
43X with Holosun MRS, reliability of a Glock, small enough to disappear when carrying and enough purchase to be accurate, most important no safety to fumble with.
Excellent choice! Have you tried the tlr sub light? If so does it help with recoil management? Are you using a plate for your eps or did you get rid of front posts? Thanks!
I have tried Glocks, the fit in the hand does not fell good to me. I have shot them and I just don't feel how its any better than some of the other brands. Also there have be a lot of complaints with Glock recently that can't be ignored. I can say I own a number of Springfield XDS pistols. All of them have shot flawless and for the in door range I can put the target to the end and hit center mass no issues.
CZ 83, 9x18. PERFECT first pistol for a new shooter. I'm a veteran and have pretty much shot everything there is and I gotta say this is by far the best monkey I've carried. It's highly concealable, highly accurate, NOT expensive at all, ammo is easy to get, and has enough power. Drawbacks- finding a good holster, and if you carry with 1 in the pipe, you gotta get used to carrying with the hammer back and on safe and probably under powered against heavy clothing. But I train knees, nuts, neck and head....
I'm a Smith & Wesson man myself but pistol was hard for me id never had one, but I'm well dressed now ,when I was in USMC boot camp lol 1974 I'd never even held a pistol but had rifle and shot gun from hunting ,while I fired in the top 10% with an m16 due to a great coach ,the first time I touched a pistol (.45) I went unc ,biggest issue I'm a lefty and couldn't make that transition to righty it was till I came home I got back into pistols I worked very hard to get skills, I carry a revolver .357 in my truck to not get in trouble in different states ,my etc my etc a s&w shield ,my favorite is a 5" 2.0 stainless in fdc
I would steer clear of polymer sig guns. They are rust buckets. Now if you bumped up to the p365 Fuse you got something of quality but it will put you back close to 2 grand by the time you’re ready to carry it if not more by the time you factor all the ammo it will take to break it in and all the nuances. I would recommend a Canik for your first gun imo. It will save you a ton of dough.
I shot a CZ after Glock and I bought a P10F, P10C and a P10s for the wife. Best bang for the buck, though the SAR 9X blackFriday deal was amazing and a great shooting gun. Both very modular grips.
i can speak from experience here. ive shot glocks, fnh, walther, and sigs. after spending lots of money and trading and buying pistols, i finally purchased a Smith and Wesson MP 2.0 compact. Affordable, fits my hand, and i cant miss with it. i would tell new shooters to look at this pistol.
The M&P 2.0 compact 4.25” is a tack driver. I have that version and made me want to try the 3”. I haven’t gotten it yet, but will change that statement very soon. It is the hardest one to find. Especially in the wild. I hope it is as sweet as my version.
They may like shooting it, newbies are less likely to carry that consistently. The Shield line would be a better overall recommendation.
@@HanzBlitz-i8t normally I would wholeheartedly agree with that statement but here lately the QC at Smith has been less than stellar to say the least. I’ve had my 2.0 compact for well over a year and have had zero issues with it. Here lately tons of people have had trouble especially with smith wheel guns. I’ve had zero issues with any Canik in my arsenal. You can’t find one better for the price point and what you get from it.
@DanielJohnson-ot8wj It's really more about the overall size is what I was getting at. Something Glock 48 size is about perfect. Choose whichever quantity brand.
It's why it usually isn't a great idea to recommend these duty sized guns even if they are slightly smaller like a Walther PDP and others. They probably aren't going to carry it consistently, if it's a chick, she definitely won't.
The micro 9s are a better overall option just because of the convenience. Canik, Walther, Hellcat, whatever.
@@HanzBlitz-i8t I have a Glock 48 and bought some shield arms S15 magazines. 15 rounds now instead of 10 and works fine.
I have been teaching handgun classes for over a decade. Everything from beginner/CPL to intermediate handgun 1 and 2. I’ve seen hundreds of new shooters so I feel like a have a good amount of data to speak with authority. When I’m asked what “first pistol” someone should get, I don’t immediately offer brands or models. I say get 9mm from a reputable major manufacturer that holds 10+ rounds, striker fired, and you can get a full firing grip.
Bold to assume that a newbie knows who's reputable or not. I always figure out what their task and purpose is for owning the weapon and propose a make and model from there.
The first handguns that I owned, were Smith & Wesson model 915 9mm, made in about 1992. You can pull the slide back, release the slide, chamber a round, and the EXTERNAL hammer will be cocked, however the thumb activated Safety de-cocks the hammer safely. On 1911 style pistols, chambering a round leaves the hammer cocked, and many 1911 owners, especially Security & LE, leave it cocked, but for a new gun owner, I would never recommend a 1911 style pistol, or a pistol without an external visible hammer.
For seniors and people with lower hand strength the Smith & Wesson Shield EZ 9 is a decent choice. I picked up one due to a shoulder surgery because it was the easiest to clear a malfunction and rack the slide one handed. Most people don't like the grip safety but being an old 1911 shooter it had no bearing on my decision. Now my wife uses it as her EDC because it is much easier to operate the slide than her H&K VP9. To me it's not the best option for EDC because of the limited mag capacity, but she is deadly accurate with it. Thanks for thinking about the new shooters and great presentation. Cheers!
We want more Chad & chili show episodes. The world is waiting. God bless!
I carried a custom G17 for 14 years and have recently switched to a Hellcat Pro with a Cylee red dot. Same overall size of the G19, but lighter and slimmer. No issues at all with the Hellcat Pro...all stock.
Fully agree about the HC Pro. Consider dropping $85 on an Apex trigger. It’s one of the best upgrades for the money you can do for that pistol.
Considered one and it’s currently a $moking deal with the red dot included but ..
The wonky trigger that can lock you out. “No go bang”
The lady size grip is a turn off.
Both would have to be dealt with immediately and suddenly that smoking deal isn’t so $moking.
My no dot g48 runs/prints so good there’s not a single valid reason to retire it.
@@h.r.puffnstuff8705 “wonky trigger that can lock you out”??? Are you referring to the Hellcat Pro? You’ll have to elaborate, that’s the first I’ve ever heard anyone say something like that. In fact, I’ve never heard of anyone having ANY issues with the Hellcat or Hellcat Pro, other than personal preferences.
@@woodystube1000 you’ll have to Google it. I wasn’t familiar with the problem till recently when my man child pointed it out when my local ffl was showing me a a nice deal on a pro with dot.
I’d say judging by the amount of complaints on line it warrants addressing the issue. It appears a lil love with a dremel probably alleviates the condition but I’d feel better throwing an a.m. trigger at one.
I want a pro for sure I have the original hellcat and it’s a bit small but I got 15rd mags so it’s got the same capacity as the pro and the extension of the mag helps my hand fit much better than its standard 11 and 13
Chad, thanks for your service man! I was in the USAF Security Forces career field from 1991-2006 & also was a Combat arms Instructor (range instructor). I still instruct on the civilian side as a DNR Firearms Instructor for the Safety Classes here in MN! I grew up shooting the M-9 and currently rotate between the following for CCW/Daily Carry depending on the conditions (IWB/OWB);
Canik Mete MC9 (9mm)
CZ P-07 (9mm)
Colt King Cobra 3" .357
CZ 7B Omega (9mm)
Thanks for showing the range of options for new shooters! 🙏✝️🇺🇸🕊️
Appreciate what the 3 of 7 Project does! God Speed!!
I went with an HKVP9 it’s costs about $200 more then your listed guns but it’s more reliable and a little better quality with probably the best factory trigger but what sold me was it comes with 27 different pistol grip configurations and I have large hands so I could create my own perfect fit and I purchased a red mag well guide which helps control the barrel up flip and makes it impossible for a threat to pull it out of your hand. I also went with a red Lazy Wolf Trigger and a Trijicon SRO. It’s a first shot bullseye set up with specific upgrades to fit my needs which is all that is really needed. Along with 8 - 17 round mags and one 30 rounder all fully loaded and placed in strategic locations according to the level of threat.
I like the factory iron's on the VP9 too. They worked Very well for me.
Wow, you remind me of show and tell in 3rd grade. No one cares.
VP9 is the most accurate combat pistol I have ever shot and I've gotten to test most of them. You bought a great gun (possibly the best). I have thousands of rounds through my Glocks but I cannot match the accuracy the VP9 has even with less experience on it.
@@drewmorg. I agree HK is on a different level because Germans are on a much higher level of engineering. I believe most of the gun bias comes from the military guys with no experience other than what the military gives them because the military cannot and do not issue the best guns. Military guys are some of the most inexperienced with the best guns which sounds crazy but it’s 100% true. The VP9 translates in German to, “The People’s Pistol”. I put a Trijicon SRO on mine and honest to God I rarely miss the bullseye. Because of the position of the barrel it does have a slight up kick but when you can first shot bullseye every single time there is no need to shoot the other 16 rounds in the mag.
I originally bought the Sig P365 as my carry gun. After about two years, I upgraded to the XL frame but have kept the base slide (3.1"). This combo has worked PERFECTLY for me since I got the XL frame. Holds 17+1 in a 3.1" barrel. I'm 6' 155lbs soaking wet, so it's perfect for me concealability wise, and the slightly larger frame has helped me shoot much better, although that's more likely a mental thing than a physical one.
Brother has the glock 19 and the glock 43x mos. Between the two, the 43x works better size wise for shooting and concealing, but either way, I love my sig. Pretty much the same size gun but able to carry 8 more rounds than his 43x.
Thanks!
New shooter here, love my PDP-F. Very reliable, haven’t had a malfunction yet.
I agree. 30 years ago I shot the 19 against the high power and 1911's and found that for the weight, capacity, accuracy and reliability that it could not be beat, I still love my single action pistols but for carry my mind was made up 30 years ago. I prefer a consistent trigger pull on a pistol thus my single action or striker fired preference. You can go smaller and I do with the Ruger LCP Max but that is a gun I always carry and often say it's the gun i'm carrying when i'm not. It's difficult to shoot but better than throwing rocks. That gun always is with me and often a G19 which gives me solace.
30 years ago I switched from 1911s to a P226 I bought near the police academy in Plainfield Indiana. It was a West German P226 beautiful bluing.
I also carried a Colt Delta Elite 10mm in 1992 but follow shots were too slow for fast follow up shots. I switched back to the P226 .
I didn't switch to Glock until 2020 and I'll say this , if you don't monkey w them they're the most reliable pistols I've carried.
@@jreynolds388 I have played with aftermarket parts but only carry stock Glocks other than an extended slide release.
It counter intuitive for new shooters to understand but tiny pistols with small grips are not the best choice to start with.
You are spot on!
Abysmal choice for a newbie and not the wisest choice for the salty.
I dislike my Kimber Micro chambered in 9mm, it really wants to jump out of my hand, I can only get three fingers around the grip. I wish that I would have gotten it in 380.
There are some awesome small but easy to shoot 380’s out today. I would agree with Chadd a few years ago, but not so much anymore. For example the newer S&W bodyguard 2.0 is an awesome small easy to carry gun. They ditched the silly built in laser, put on a great trigger, double stack mag and redesigned the frame to really fit the hand better. Not to mention S&W customer service and lifetime warranty is top notch. The biggest knock now on 380 is ammo cost. Sometimes a smaller, easy carry firearm is the best fit.
Glock 19 everyday, everywhere and every adventure. It’s my little buddy!
I prefer the 26 gen 5 but the new Glock 49 9mm looks cool 😎.
That's weird - that's what I call my dick!
Love my Gen 5 Model 29. I'm 6'3" and 280, carry iwd appendix and It just works, I am confident and relaxed when out and about in large part because of it.
I carry the Ruger .380 max…and Max 9mm…both work well for me…I’ve been a shooter for 60 plus years and just can not recall having any of those long range days…an hour or two is about my length of time on the range regardless of what I’m shooting.
Max 9 is a sweet little gun! I have 4 13 rd mags for it too
I bought one of the Beretta apx carries because they were so cheap on sale and I really like it even though it only has a single stack magazine
Sig P365 with a manual safety. Have to 10, 12, 15, 17, and 21 round magazines to fit multiple situations. One and done. The Wilson Combat grip module may help?
The WC grip module is a game changer for the P365. I ended up with an FCU out of an XL (for the flat trigger) and XL WC grip, with a standard 3.1” barrel & slide. Essentially a P365x. It’s possibly the best carry configuration I have ever used. Everyone has different needs, but the WC grip module is worth taking a chance on for the relatively low price.
Did he even mention the P365? 😂 I carry my 365 x EDC, it replaced my 320 x carry.
Hellcat Pro is my everyday carry. Light and slim with a 17 round mag. No issues at all with the Hellcat Pro after hundreds of rounds fired. Love it!
This is truly the Greatest Advice ever. When I moved south, I finally got serious about self-protection for home and Concealed Carry. I bought cheap by starting out with a Sccy CPX-2. I truly wanted to like that gun, but it was an epic failure. Just too many failures to be a trusted EDC. Traded that in for a Glock 43, which I love and keep in rotation when it gets super-hot. Works well with a Fanny Pack with an extra mag (...which I saw in a previous 5 of 7 Project video.) I played around with mag extensions and found out some after-market brands will affect reliability. I settled on Pierce +1 Extensions. Once I felt proficient with it I decided on getting a Glock 19 Gen 5. It's just a perfect choice really. Even with advancements in ammo, 380 is NOT a good choice for self-defense. Thank You, Chadd & Blake, and the Crew at 5 of 7 Project
I agree with you . 👍🙏✝️💕
Never had an issue with psa micro dagger mags. Also have another 43x with the metal mag catch and shield arms mags. If you like Glock then 43x is still the best choice and 15+1 chambered
CZ P10F C and S are all sub $400 price, front and rear serrations, amazing coating, backstrap options, one of the best triggers out of the box and probably Europe's most carried striker fire pistol. The SAR 9 is also an amazing value with Black Friday deals seeing prices at and under $250 with 2 mags and THE most adjustable grip module I'm aware of with backstrap and both side S/M/L panels. Trigger is comparable to G1-4.
I carry my 43x w factory mag and 2 Shield 15rd mags extra backup mags. It has night sights and Ghost 4.5 striker spring w reduced plunger spring. Sweet 3.75lb trigger. I shoot 124hst in it.
Somedays, I'll carry my 19x it's stock w polished trigger, it's the gun I'd take to SHTF w +P 124
I don't compete anymore. I used CZ pistols in those days.
Remember to replace those trigger springs on the CZ.Every 4 thousand rds. That's about one month dry fire transition drilling for me.
I've had them break on the Steel Challenge stage.
CHAD is right on the G19
Thnx for the heads up on the CZ spring R&R. What brand of spring do you recommend?
@h.r.puffnstuff8705 Cajun gun works. Buy a extra ejector spring also . If you start having fte, that's usually the issue.
I typically carry an M&P Shield Plus with the 15 round magazine.
Sometimes I carry an M&P Bodyguard 38 snub nose revolver. It’s only 5 shots and has a ten pound trigger but I still like it. It was my first carry gun. They are more difficult to shoot, but at up close and personal range, they are plenty accurate. I like that I can fire it through my pocket if I need to. A very reliable weapon for low threat environments. I put a Hogue grip on mine which made it way more comfortable to shoot.
Enjoyed the video. Glock 19 is certainly a solid choice.
I just ordered a holster for my 19X. I’m going to see what it’s like to carry that.
Sig p365 deserves a spot in this lineup
Yes, I’ve got 3 , an Xmacro for the wife, a tacops for my carry and now the Fuse with co-witness Sig enclosed emiter red dot as the possibly my one and done pistol.
This this is compact and the big mags are like 21 or 22 rounds .
Shot it so far and it is frigging accurate , like shooting a realistic 3” group easily within 25 yards unsupported
Agreed, I have been carrying every day for well over a decade. I have a a 43X a, P365 , M&P 2.0 compact, a full size M&P, a beretta 92, an LCP2 an LCP MAX...etc. Ease of carry will matter most to most people. A P365 is hard to beat. It disappears under most types of clothing and holds 10-15 rounds in the mag depending on what you decide to roll with. It's just the easiest to carry in most situations.
Lousy choice for a beginner. Tiny, hard to shoot well, heavy springs
P365 is the adult Lego, you can customize it for you and when/ what/where you're going. Nothing wrong with the S&W S2 for " only one gun", only you're buying 3 versions to match the Sig.
@@keithgraham9547
There are some versions that are tiny but they make so many versions that you can just about pick your flavor.
Accuracy is phenomenal for a short barreled weapon.
I have tons of Glocks from models 41, 34, 45, 43x and 19x , H&K’s , Kimbers and I have a hard time not picking the XMacro Tacops or the Fuse over all of them.
Glocks feel like sh*t , horrible trigger , yeah they go bang but just ehhhh on accuracy , feel and trigger and I own a bunch of them .
I have a 34 with a nice red dot and I can still shoot better with the 365 and more accurate and a pleasure to shoot.
I bought a couple Smith shield EZ’s for wife and daughter and while they maybe ez to rack , one has horrible accuracy , like 14” bottom left at 25 yards off a rest .
H&K P30 is good, got one of those for another daughter and slide is easy to rack , accuracy is decent.
VP9 match is super accurate, easy to rack , a little long for carry but still a good pistol.
I carry a S&W MP Shield 40 and its been a great pistol Very accurate,
I would have to agree with your ranking for what you have on your truck. There are lots of other pistols, of course that someone could buy. I carried an M&P 2.0, since getting out of the Marines, switched to the civilian Sig M18, but Just got a Stacatto which i love. I used to carry a Kimber micro .45acp which i love with the exception of the weight and mag capacity. So the Glock is everywhere, reliable and fairly cheap, i personally cant stand them because of the ergos but i own one for a shtf type deal because everyone has one. So it was a good list for what was there! God Bless
My every day carry is my Walther PDP PRO Compact with a red dot and Streamlight TLR-7A.
Tons of revolvers are being sold to people that can’t manipulate a slide. In the summer with tennis shorts I tuck a lcr 357 green dot grips, XS night sites, w/110 gr. Hp & never feel underarmed. Sometimes carry zombie 5 star speed loaders or strips.The trigger is perfect also.
I wouldn’t recommend any average dude with moderate experience carry a 2 lb trigger daily. I don’t even myself. I have too many grandchildren grabbing me in all kinds of weird areas from out of nowhere 😂. I just don’t take the chance when it comes to them. JMO. The G45 is my happy spot for carry.
Glock G45 works just fine for any use.
Use a kydex holster that way trigger is protected.
I normally carry a 2lb trigger but lately I've been enjoying 3.5lbs I don't like anything heavier than either of em.😅
Glock 43 is a good choice, reliable simple easy to clean etc
Glocks are too unreliable especially for new shooters. Too susceptible to limp wristing. Heck watch police videos, sometimes 2 jam at once.
@@xtreme4stringbasslimp wristing is a shooter issue, not a firearm issue.
@@Inkushu the extreme susceptibility to limp wristing is a uniquely glock firearm issue, thus why it is one of the worst choices for most people for self defense.
@@xtreme4stringbass it’s a consequence of bad technique. Your take on this is way off.
Good points and advice , I always recommend they buy what they can afford to shoot/ practice with consistently. Then worry about what gun to carry
I've always considered a DA/SA gun as the safest carry option, at least for me, because the long first trigger pull acts as a safety mechanism.
I share that opinion. You don't "accidentally" pull a double action trigger. With that being said, it also inherently reinforces the purpose of a self defense EDC/CCW.
Referencing data - in regards to self defense instances where shots were fired - back up that you don't need a system that is light and precise up to (and over) 50 yards. You need something that is ready to go when you need it, and that might be with one arm framing an attacker, and the other arm operating the firearm from retention.
Furthermore, in the case you have your self defense tool, encounter an active shooter, and you are willing to take on the responsibility of acting as a first responder, manually dropping the hammer for single action shots is manageable unless you are already behind the curve and on the defensive (likely because you are "on the x"). In that case, your choice of EDC/CCW doesn't make a difference. To bring home my main point in mentioning this scenario, Da/Sa triggers often function far better in single action than the majority of your stock striker-fired trigger options anyways.
It is my belief that the reason Da/Sa options are all but forgotten at this point is because people don't want to put in the time and effort in practicing with their CCW, and Chad is well aware of this. You'll often hear "it's two different trigger pulls!"
Carrying is almost treated like a litmus test these days for cliques. The likelihood you'll ever truly need it? Very low, but possible. It is about as big of a responsibility you can take on. In the case you need it, you better have put in the rounds.
Lastly, it is my opinion that the exposed hammer was not a design flaw; it was essentially the first "manual safety." If you carry a pistol with an exposed hammer, you have the capability of "thumbing the hammer" both on your draw-stroke, and on your re-holster (the latter of which you should never have a reason to rush anyways).
Apologies for long-windedness, but just a genuine "food for thought" follow up.
I've had a walther p99as for over a year now. Great double action trigger and fantastic single action. Over a 1,000 rounds and no malfunctions of any kind. Decocker works great.
I personally consider a snubnose revolver, especially in .357 magnum, to be an Expert's firearm. I'm personally VERY Good with them, but I've shot revolvers for 40 some odd years. I'm 57 years old and got my first firearm at the age of 9. I also shot a handgun for the first time that same age. It was a Smith&Wesson model 28 no dash my dad carried.
Key words here "a snubnose revolver, especially in .357 magnum, to be an Expert's firearm".. I am same age as you, and have been using revolvers for over 40 years. But I still train new shooters the fundamentals of handgun shooting with a 22 LR DA/SA revolver, this helps in getting the proper handling, sight alignment and trigger control basics covered easily. Automatics are too busy for a new shooter to learn on the first day IMO.
You and your Dad are 👍 awesome
Super solid advice! It is hard to argue Glock dependability, for a long time the Glock 19 has been considered the gold standard for duty carry and concealed carry. It does so many things well, shoots soft, it’s reliable, it’s accurate, sufficient capacity, and it’s an easy size to conceal and carry. I carried one for a long time and my wife alternates between a 19 and 43 for carry currently. I have now switched to either a Staccato C2 or a Nighthawk CCO in 45 acp depending on whether I want capacity or power! Keep up the great content I enjoy what you do!
God Bless
My EDC for the past couple years is the M&P Shield PC in 9mm 3.1” Bbl. Love it!
I've been carrying a Hellcat the most often in my carry rotation and I have been training a ton with it this past year and I have gotten I think pretty darn good for someone who's only been carrying for 3 years and training seriously just this past year and a half and I love this thing. I'm at the moment at 3465 rounds through my Hellcat and still have not had a single Jam no matter what kind of ammunition I put through it and damn is this thing accurate lol, of course I have a holosun 407k Green Dot and Apex Trigger on it which helped a lot. With enough training you can get good with just about anything.
Of all the seals that have a platform, this guy and Mr. Ballen seems to be the most likeable. Plus, them not ending up on anti hero podcasts for exaggerating valor is refreshing. Lol
Chadd, now that cooler weather is coming in to lower Bama, I carry my gen 5 Glock 19 with XS sights and upgraded match barrel. In hotter weather I carry my gen 4 G 26. Occasionally, I carry my Para USA GI Expert 1911 in .45acp..
Chadd for President!!!
Quick Links:
2:30 - CZ Shadow 2 ($1000)
8:26 - Glock 19x ($600)
11:19 - Subcompacts - Glock 19 ($550) + Wather F Series ($600)
*These 2 are the Rec from Chadd for a “one and done gun”
16:42 - Micro Compact - Glock 43x ($450)
20:46 - Micro Compact - Springfield Hellcat ($500)
22:06 - Micro compact 380s (Does not recommend)
25:00 - Revolver - S&W 38 special ($500) (Does not recommend)
Great content. I am a bit surprised you didn't select CZ P10-C. It has great ergonomics, less expensive than the 19 and totally reliable.
And has a fantastic trigger out of the box
Yes, definitely recommend p10c. Awesome gun.
Comfortability, reliability, and a gun that fits your hand. For me, a Glock 43. Great video Chadd!!!!
My first carry was the beretta 92fs, i just love double single action pistol. I carry a czp09 now.
nothing like a quilt made with love. my grandma used to make us quilts they have kept me and many friends warm through tough nights
I got a PSA Dagger compact, never had an issue, only thing I changed was trigger, added grips, got a comp, and a mag well. Served me well and was only 500 bucks fully modded out
Good advice. Based on my own experience as a new pistol owner/shooter, the first year to two years or more (depending on how intensely someone trains on their own or with instructors) are really spent learning fundamentals and attaining some level of adequacy in them. You benefit from a simple but easy to use gun in this period. I bought and sold a number of pistols during this period looking for something "better" but not really knowing how to judge that. My first pistol was a Masada - very much like a Glock. Later I added a VP9 and that has become my go-to carry since it does so much so well, from trigger to grip sizing. Funnily enough, the better I shoot the less interested I am in the really expensive Gucci guns out there. I don't feel like I need one. And buying used, I've never spent more than $400 on a pistol, so cost doesn't have to be a barrier.
Glock 19 is a compact, not sub compact. The 26 is a sub compact
G48 is slimmer.
@@obsever97 It's unfortunate that you cannot read. Nowhere in my comment did I mention the 48.
Dont hurt my feelings 😅😂 I like the term midsized
@@whatsup24_7 No but you should have.
100% agree. I rotate appendex carry 226 in .40 and Kahr T40. T40 is like an all steel G19 with a safer trigger. Don't like appendex glock style striker fire pointed at my junk.
P30/P30SK with LEM -- give them a look :D
@@joedewberry2282 P30 with Ernest Langdon’s fingerprints on it 😂. Mine does! Highly recommended!
Exactly
I just got a sig p365xl spectre comp. Went to the range and ran 100 rounds for cpl class. Guns not bad for doing a little shooting. I wish I brought my m17 for the class.
Fullsize frame will ALWAYS be a lil more comfortable for the range imo (unless you have a small grip-span). I'm a fan of the 365 lineup tho, especially for carry, particularly the Macro, X, & XL personally. I know Chad likes to shit on Sig but kinda surprised the 365 wasn't on the list.
My wife’s first CCW pistol was a Glock 19. She still carries it. I carry according to the permissive environment. If it’s a non-permissive environment, I will carry a hellcat pro or I will carry another subcompact. If it is a permissive environment, I’ll carry either in the winter Kimber TLE2 or in the winter. I may also carry a Glock 17.
Have all but 2 of these. None beat the P365 XMacro. I think it’ll be awhile before something comes out that’ll replace it as my EDC.
Have you tried the Fuse yet ? Traded my X-Macro for the Fuse. I find it to be the perfect EDC for myself.
I carry the 365XL topped with a Viridian green dot and love it. I did buy two 17 round mags for it and now it fits my hand much better though it lost a little conceal ability with the longer grip.
The 380 is great as a pocket pistol. I carry a 9mm most of the time, but on some occasions like at church etc, a small 380 is perfect.
Unfortunately 380s tend to be unreliable in almost every platform of gun. I don’t know if any 380 gun that hasn’t had fairly widespread poor reliability reports
@@waholoopesorry74 30 super carry are great
@@Wmikewtonytone I’ve heard good things about it, may have to give it a try
Love the hat! Picked a 4" Walther PDP for the first gun after shooting several friends guns. Probably my problem as so many pro's love them but I shot Glocks the worst.
Springfield xd subcompact 9mm is a very good pistol for beginners. A bit heavy so less felt recoil. Very reliable and not too bad to conceal.
The new PSA Dagger Micro is a Glock 43X clone, but comes stock with 15 round magazines, for around $340. It weighs just a hair under 1 pound (without mag), compared to about 1.5 pounds for a Glock 19. Small, easy to conceal, 9mm, and a full 15 round magazine make it a pleasure to carry. I ran 300 rounds through it recently at the range, without a single issue, with 4 or 5 different brands and types of ammo including defensive rounds.
I'd listen to this guy way over me but from an average GenXer that's been around guns his whole life this is what I think.
Just got that Shadow 2 for my wife, she's already really good at CrossFit and wants to start doing Tactical Games. I have the larger Shadow 2 and it's a great pistol but the platform is a teeny bit complex for someone who hasn't shot pistols much. Everyone who is new to guns always wants to shoot the shiny, pretty ones I have but just out of safety concerns I don't start people out on fancy pistols. Expensive guns are almost all more complex platforms. Anything like a 1911, 2011, double/single, high end pistols are all going to be more complex and even as bit a factor are harder to maintain and care for. Cleaning the Shadow 2 for example is a learning curve all on its own.
Glock, Walther, Canik, Sig P365, M&P, Springfield Echelon/Hellcat lines, we've got those and a few others that are all really simple and great, when it comes down to it any of those to me just come down to personal preference.
Find a local range that has rental guns and try some out. Try the midsize vs micros. Try different calibers. And use that in making a choice. I personally would recommend in no particular order, glock 19, s&w mp shield versions, fn 509 midsize, walther pdp and cz p10 c. I personally carry a FN 509 midsize.
Chad, another great video with good information. I’m reading the comments, there are as many opinions about the “right” carry gun as there are people commenting. As always, people should gather as much information as possible and decide for themselves what is best for them, train often with it, and carry it.
I’m Glock and M&P for striker, CZ and 1911 for hammer
Great video-you are the best-thank you for the information!!!!
Enjoyed the video and still sticking with my Glock and wheel gun. I love the jeans, but where did you get that hat ? That’s what i’m looking for before winter.
I took my Glock 43 and bought the palmetto state micro lower with 2mags and now have a 15+1 round flush fit compact that feels and shoots great ez to conceal and carry so I rotate this and my shield plus another great shooter for CC AND MY GLOCK 19 is never faraway with a 17 mag , love your sarcasm 👍
S&W Shield plus is just large enough to be shootable, good sights, good trigger and is 9mm. Some have a safety if you need it.
Yeah I was going to respond with either the Shield Plus or a M&P EZ 9mm if they have a difficult time working the slide as a newbie.
love these videos
thanks
Glock is dependable and tuff. Years ago when I first started shooting I found out that I had to train a lot with a Glock. It has a different angle on the grip. Once I figured it out it was very accurate. The M&P fits the wrist better with less training.
I love my g43x it came with 2 mags and a speed loader the mags are a pain to load but super reliable and I picked up 3 extra mags keep em loaded at all times!!!
got my first Glock in 02 a 33, which is a sub-compact 357 sig. I got the 19, a compact 9mm in 07. Good times.
For me my first carry gun was a Glock 42 then it became a Glock 48. My reasoning was I wanted simple battery of arms from a respectable manufacturer. When I first started carrying I carried unchambered and once I used to the weight and got comfortable with having a gun on me at all times then I started carrying chambered. My wife on the other hand started with a Ruger 380 security live on safe and she seems to be happy with her choice and doesn't want to try carrying anything else.
I like glocks, but a CZ P-10C would not be a bad choice either. cheaper and a better trigger and they will fit in "most" glock 19 holsters.
Your taste in suvs is excellent
Great video- appreciate you guys.
The Hellcat is my summer carry , and the 43X is my winter ..... Both are great .... More confident in the Glock though...... Oh , and I'm in a 10 Rd max state so .......
Hellcat Pro is awesome IMO. Smooth, reliable, very easy to run.
In my view: Army veteran 1990s 🎗 , CCW license holder, armed G officer Florida. I say new guns, ccw can vary. Hand strength, dexterity, training, size all matter. In general a new Glock 19 9x19mm or 45 MOS, gen 5 version is a top choice. Night sights or HD trijicon +. The 26 or new 26X isn't bad but a 19 MOS has the basics. For revolvers, a 3" Ruger LCRx in .357magnum or .38spl +P might be a good. Easy to clean, safe, 5rd. .357magnum is potent but you can train with .38spl loads.
Model 642
I would.also recomend the 43x...9mm slimer then all other glocks..short barrel but full size grip..single stack 10round.mags...i personally love mine!to me its a slighly.smaller 19..
New shooters should think about it in terms of getting into an ecosystem, because it’s not just the gun, it’s the magazines, the holsters, accessories, support, what their friends have, etc. So my 2¢ is they should pick an ecosystem - Glock, Sig, S&W, CZ, etc., and then pick a gun from that ecosystem to fit their needs. Hope that makes sense.
Another good video! I like my canik mete sf for concealing or my 19x on the hip with level two retention. God bless!
As soon as he said, the Glock 19 is a subcompact, I couldn’t watch anymore
Great review, thanks
Chad - on down the line in life, you're going to come to appreciate the revolver. Just give it some time 😉
I really like a 1911, but with neck and spine probs. As a former army gunsmith. I had the local gun store hold a 1911 Ronnin for home defense and I though no my hand are worse than I thought obviously I need to try out several types of pistols before I make my descion
"All these firearms are as they come from the factory." Mannnnnnnn, I know a Cajun Gun works hammer and trigger when I see one 😂😆
Probably sw shield.
Cheap, good, small but not too small. Tons of holsters etc
Thanks for the Info and Service Gentlemen
43X with Holosun MRS, reliability of a Glock, small enough to disappear when carrying and enough purchase to be accurate, most important no safety to fumble with.
Excellent choice! Have you tried the tlr sub light? If so does it help with recoil management? Are you using a plate for your eps or did you get rid of front posts? Thanks!
@@DirtyHarry-lo8fr I did not try the TLR yet, I did not remove the front posts, it fit perfect with the plate provided.
@@haroldcrapper7815 I just don’t want to buy new higher sights. Want to stick with factory since they are backup only.
I have tried Glocks, the fit in the hand does not fell good to me. I have shot them and I just don't feel how its any better than some of the other brands. Also there have be a lot of complaints with Glock recently that can't be ignored. I can say I own a number of Springfield XDS pistols. All of them have shot flawless and for the in door range I can put the target to the end and hit center mass no issues.
CZ 83, 9x18. PERFECT first pistol for a new shooter. I'm a veteran and have pretty much shot everything there is and I gotta say this is by far the best monkey I've carried. It's highly concealable, highly accurate, NOT expensive at all, ammo is easy to get, and has enough power.
Drawbacks- finding a good holster, and if you carry with 1 in the pipe, you gotta get used to carrying with the hammer back and on safe and probably under powered against heavy clothing.
But I train knees, nuts, neck and head....
What a bunch of great selections. DA/SA wouldn't be my first recommendation for a newbie.
I'm a Smith & Wesson man myself but pistol was hard for me id never had one, but I'm well dressed now ,when I was in USMC boot camp lol 1974 I'd never even held a pistol but had rifle and shot gun from hunting ,while I fired in the top 10% with an m16 due to a great coach ,the first time I touched a pistol (.45) I went unc ,biggest issue I'm a lefty and couldn't make that transition to righty it was till I came home I got back into pistols I worked very hard to get skills, I carry a revolver .357 in my truck to not get in trouble in different states ,my etc my etc a s&w shield ,my favorite is a 5" 2.0 stainless in fdc
Im in this situation i have a TX22 that im learning fundamentals with but looking into the p365 X macro Tacops as my first 9mm
I would steer clear of polymer sig guns. They are rust buckets. Now if you bumped up to the p365 Fuse you got something of quality but it will put you back close to 2 grand by the time you’re ready to carry it if not more by the time you factor all the ammo it will take to break it in and all the nuances. I would recommend a Canik for your first gun imo. It will save you a ton of dough.
@@DanielJohnson-ot8wjI agree!!
The TX22 might be the best feeling in the hand gun, I own! Love that gun!
My edc is a glock 31sf. Got the 13 rnd. mag in her. Love it.
Do you mean 21SF? If so that is my daily carry as well, or a Glock 30.
It is a 30. Me and my idiot buddies call it a 31 cause I use the 21 mags.😂😂😂😂
@@otisnye5599 Haha nice! Good choice. I love 45acp. So much more effective than 9mm
I carry a few different pistols mostly a SA Hellcat Pro. But I also carry an HK P30 or Gen 3 Glock 19 (exactly like yours).
You can swap the safety on any CZ pistol with a decocker, I'm sure you already know this though.
I love my Hellcat. It replaced the G19 as my daily. But if I were a new shooter/carrier, I too would go with the 19 first for a while.
Since when is the Glock 19 a sub compact ?
Right! Glock 19 is a compact.
I think he said it backwards. Should've been: "Going from compact to subcompact."
yeah, like when did the term "station wagon" vanish and just became "hatch back".?
Chad enjoyed the hell out of your video
Cz p10c
I had a g19. I now everyday carry a cz po7. I bought my son his first pistol, a cz p10c. Excellent pistol, much more comfortable than a glock.
@leadfarmer556 i have the 10, one son has a 10 and my other son has the 07. Both are great guns.
CZ has the finest product lineup out there. It’s the only company that could get me out of a Glock
I had to scroll a bit to find someone bringing up the p10c. Love mine and it has become my favorite over the glocks 👌
I shot a CZ after Glock and I bought a P10F, P10C and a P10s for the wife. Best bang for the buck, though the SAR 9X blackFriday deal was amazing and a great shooting gun. Both very modular grips.
My dream gun? Glock 34 slide and 19 grip.