There are several things to consider when purchasing a new handgun. How well does it fit your hand , is it easy to conceal (in this case) and the caliber. One other consideration is the cost of the handgun and ammo. You mentioned .380, it's hard to believe, but .380 ammo is more expensive than 9mm and with the technology of today 9mm is excellent ammo. The trend today for law enforcement is going back to the 9mm. It all comes down to personal choice,
Most of the time I carry a Glock 43 which is 9mm. On days when it's hard to conceal something I will either carry a L.W. Seecamp .32 cal or a Ruger SR22 which is .22cal and is better than nothing.
The Glock 43 is always my first choice, but sometimes you have to adjust to the weather or situation.
Smith & Wesson is offering a good deal on there M & P Shield series handguns (they come in 9mm, .40 cal and .45) with a $75 rebate which is good till the end of June.
I would suggest you go to your local gun store and check out some handguns for how they fit your hand. Currently I am working at an indoor shooting range and we have rental guns, and we encourage people to try one before they buy it.
Good Luck with your search.

 

I like this one. It tucks under my belt quite neatly and is comfortable.

Custom Order Kydex IWB Holster by Ted_Cori Order Now | eBay

 

Not judging, but surprised at how many folks carry. I get the law enforcement folks (retired or active) carrying a weapon, but I'm always surprised by "regular folks" who carry as well. I have a sister who caries. It's not like she's living, working, hanging out in bad neighborhoods. I know it's a crazy world out there, but in an unexpected situation, I hope anyone who is carrying and brings forth a weapon has LOTS of training and not just at the shooting range.

 

Well... the PPK first came out in Germany with the 7.65mm (0.32 ACP) round. I've shot both and IIRC, the original German ones had a bit more kick. Harder to hold on target.

For 9mm, prolly the SIG Sauer P250 is better.

 

Lainey, I agree, but it is a personal choice. We all know fear and hate seems to be coming out more and more. On the flip side, I have lots and lots of friends in Michigan and only one has a permit. He is retired State Police and 99.9% of the time he does not carry. His son-in-law always carries but he is in real estate and tends to sell in some rough areas.

 

^
I do get that is a choice. We had a situation not far from here which was diffused by an off duty corrections officer who had a weapon. Someone still died, but it could have been much worse. As mentioned my concern is that many of those who carry for protection may not have the proper training for a split second decision. I could be totally wrong of course.

Our choice is not to own a gun(s), we do respect the choice of others.

 

My normal holster is a Milt Sparks inside the waistband for the Colt Commander-style. Long waiting list for these so get in line or buy one lightly used. There are some very competent hybrid leather-Kydex holsters available now as well but they tend to collapse when the pistol is out and require two hands to holster. I have a couple of Ed Brown M1911s. Called BBQ pistols in Texas -- impress your friends (similar to wearing a Rolex).

Good equipment isn't cheap. Good training is viral. Most people would rather pretend.

-- Chuck

 

I'm probably just an arrogant arse but I've never felt the need to be armed.

I've also had the pleasure of looking down the business end of a .38 and a pair of pump shotguns.

 

Surprising number of people (and legislators) feel the same way. Until they're victims of an armed robbery. Surprised your experience was different.

-- Chuck

 

Lets keep this thread about hardware..... and not what you think about concealed carry....

Thanks!