TexasCHLforum.com

I would never discourage anyone from carrying any gun/caliber combination they choose to carry. As many have said, it's a personal choice. I also strongly agree that shot placement is and always will be key to stopping a deadly threat. My only concern is that some people may make a decision to carry a small gun/caliber based upon erroneous information.

Carrying a self-defense sidearm is a trade-off in many ways. Every step we take toward greater concealment, is a step away from comfort and accessibility, and the converse is true. When we choose to carry a smaller gun instead of a larger one of the same caliber, we sacrifice power and possibly reliability. When we choose to carry a less powerful caliber we sacrifice power and stopping potential. When we choose to carry one extra magazine instead of two, we sacrifice firepower. But sometimes sacrifices are necessary and/or desirable. It's a personal decision, but make an educated decision.

Here is a test scenario:
You were at home sitting in front of the TV with a 45 ACP, a 9mm and a .380 ACP on the coffee table. You are thoroughly familiar with each of the three pistols, they are equally reliable in terms of function, and you shoot well with each one.

• Question 1: If a kick burglar comes through your front door, which pistol would you choose to fight with and why?
  Question 2: Absent compelling circumstances, why would your daily carry gun be different?

My wife is short (5') with short arms, but she carries a 45ACP every day. However, she absolutely will not carry a 5" Government Model or even a 4 1/4" Commander. She likes the 3" Kimber Ultra Carry with aluminum frame and the loss of muzzle velocity and potential reliability (no problems in 6 years and thousands of rounds) hasn't changed her mind. Also, she won't carry a second magazine, and the lack of firepower hasn't changed her mind either. It's her decision, she's made it and she'll live or die based upon that decision, if that terrible day comes (again).

Carry what you will, but make an informed decision. And don't think a small guy can't carry and conceal a big gun. I'm 5'9", 170 lbs. and I carry a 5" Government Model every day. It's just as easy with an IWB and an untucked shirt as it is when I'm wearing a suit and a belt holster.

We're going to have a Texas Firearms Coalition "CHL Fashion Show" when the Texas Legislative Session is over. I think folks will find it interesting and informative.

Chas.