9mm

[ShakeyDad]

My personal choice is the Smith & Wesson, M&P 9c. Very comfortable and accurate. Just my opinion

[Scud]

A Glock Model 19, or Sig 239 would be my picks, (possibly an HK USP compact). The deciding factor would be what I would like to have for magazine capacity.

[theSaj]

I hear you on the fit of the Glock. While I find the 9mm Glock 17 to be fairly comfortable. When I tried a Glock in .45 ACP, I did not like it at all. The double-stack barrel was like a brick. I could not get a good grip. Then I tried a Ruger P-345....WOW...what a fit. Loved the feel.

Such is very important, that the gun fit your hand....

I did try the Ruger SR-9 but I did not like the feel as much as the P-345. I also liked the decocker/safety. I know a lot get hung up on the SR-9 recall. But from what I've heard, it was really a proactive thing. I've listened to a number of bloggers who tried to replicate the issue, taking mallets to it even and were unable to get a accidental fire. I think this was Ruger just being very pro-active. In fact there is so much on this recall, I wonder if they're trying to make a case for being so proactive as a defense for lawsuits.

*lol*

[xd9]

i carry and conceal and xd 9 conceals pretty good and shoots awesome

[OldSkaterDan]

If you're on a budget, take a look at the Taurus 24/7 pro compact. Feels good in my hands, shoots well, and costs around $360.00 in Stainless Steel. I've had it since March, no issues, about 2000 rounds through it.

Some people don't like the trigger, but as it was my first pistol, I had nothing to compare it to, and it feels fine.

[xd9]

i carry and conceal a springfield xd9 myself... great gun

[synergy]

Originally Posted by theSaj

Such is very important, that the gun fit your hand....

No it's not.

You should ask a race-car driver or a downhill skier where comfort fits on their criteria for selecting equipment.

There are far more relevant criteria than ergonomics. If you know what you're doing, you can shoot any gun well.

[Mtbkski]

Everyday carry is a XD9 Subcompact. With a 40 Caliber magazine that is tweaked for extra round capacity. Love it.

2nd choice would be a KAHR CW9 (Got it for the betterhalf and I like it a lot). It is much thinner. But doesn't carry nearly as many rounds.

[RONNIE77]

Pick up everything and try to shoot whatever, whenever you can.
See what feels comfortable and what suits you needs.
There are going to be pros and cons to every firearm.
We can only give choices, but you will have to make the final call.

Me personally, I have rotating lineup for carry.

HK USP45 Tactical Compact
Springfield XD45
S&W M&P 9

I love them all.
Also going to get a Beretta M9.

Good luck,

[TonyF]

Originally Posted by JMP

I am in the market to purchase a 9mm for concealed carry. I would like your opinions on which pistols to consider.
Thank you

Reliability is paramount in a pistol to be used for self defense. IMO the next most important consideration is a good (consistent) trigger.

In no particular order.

Glock 19 / 17.

S&W M&P (but only with a bowie or burwell trigger job).

SA XD (also with a trigger job).