Full-size or Compact?

[kt1589]

For the average build male, if you can conceal a full-size pistol for EDC, why and what would be the advantage of carrying a compact or sub-compact over full-size?

[SteveS]

The sub compact is smaller,lighter and effortless to carry. The larger pistol is a better shooter though.

[WillBrink]

For the average build male, if you can conceal a full-size pistol for EDC, why and what would be the advantage of carrying a compact or sub-compact over full-size?

The only major advantage the compact/sub compact has over the FS is concealment and comfort of carry. As I don't find concealing a FS gun much trouble, and am willing to tolerate the added weight of the FS for all it's other advantages, I choose FS. Others prefer the compact options. That's personal preference for the most part which generally comes with experience and finding that balance between size/weight/comfort/conceal/shoot well ratio that works for you. What have you tried?

[jedi391]

Personally I wouldn't carry anything smaller then a Glock 19.

[kt1589]

The only major advantage the compact/sub compact has over the FS is concealment and comfort of carry. As I don't find concealing a FS gun much trouble, and am willing to tolerate the added weight of the FS for all it's other advantages, I choose FS. Others prefer the compact options. That's personal preference for the most part which generally comes with experience and finding that balance between size/weight/comfort/conceal/shoot well ratio that works for you. What have you tried?

I've tried all sizes pistols. Glock 19, FS M&P9, and will throw on the Shield9 for a quick errand. But am considering just going with the FS M&P9 all the time.

[Trajan]

Define average adult male. Average American is obese.

If you AIWB and you're an average American, full size G17 or M&P should be no problem.

I can't anymore (only downside of loosing weight), so I carry a G19. Full size capabilities in a small package.

Not comfortable with anything that holds less than 15 rounds.

[Jesse H]

I'm 5' 9" and 160 and fit. Before I discovered compact pistols I daily carried a full sized XD45. When I was issued a G22 at work I decided to give the G27 a try and now it's on my hip the majority of the time I'm off-duty. Occasionally I still go to the XD45 and have no issues concealing it under a t-shirt but the G27 is much easier mostly because of the shorter grip; helpful for church when we go from sitting to standing to kneeling.

Both weapons are used with Milt Sparks holsters and Wilderness Instructor belts.

[EvgeniBG]

I carry my USP9F with no problems at all. Honestly, I don't see any advantages of compacts/subcompacts except the easier concealment in summertime. IMHO, the main reason for EDC a handgun is the self-defence. For this purpose the full-size guns just work better because of better accuracy and higher fire-power.