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I have a number of guns, depending on the situation They range from a Thunder 380 to a Lady Smith (my wife's actually, but I believe in equal rights so why should she be the only one to use it!) to a CZ40P to a Kimber custom 1911. However, from my own experience, the best value for the dollar and the guns I carry more than all the others combined would be a Bersa Ultra Compact in 9mm or 45 ACP.

I know there are more than a few folks who'll say "Bersa, what's that and why not use one of the REAL guns you mentioned". Well, they are real guns, though most people that know of them are more familiar with the 380 models. The Compacts were introduced around 2000 and are based on a different design than the 380's (a PPK clone). They are not appreciably larger than the Walther PPK or the Bersa 380, but they give you a much bigger "bang". They are also cheaper - as in less expensive, not poorer in quality - than almost all the equivalent models available of the same quality and size. They are essentially a modified Sig-Sauer P228/229 but at 1/3 the price. An ultra compact can be had for $290-$330 at most places, depending on caliber and the retailer. My two compacts in 9mm & 45 ACP have been very reliable. My only problem with either gun after more than a year and shooting 600+ rounds with each gun was a feeding problem with the 45 that was corrected by replacing the recoil springs ($2.50 each). I've found them to be accurate, reliable and affordable. In fact I have four Bersa's, a 380, compact and full size 9mm's and the compact 45 ACP (it even has a laser). A link is below for anyone interested in taking a look at them


If I had to pick only one caliber, it would be the 40 S&W. While I don't own a Bersa in .40 S&W, at least not yet, I do have a compact CZ in that caliber. It is more powerful than the 9 but more controlable than the 45. If the Bersa 40 is as reliable as the other two calibers, it will be my choice as the perfect carry gun.

http://bersatalk.com/forums/988/PostAttachment.aspx