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popgoestheweasel
10-16-2011, 01:04 PM
i've got an itch for a new pm9 BUT thinking about a pm45 instead. give it your best shot (pun intended), talk me into a pm45 for cc.

anybody pocket carry a pm45? would i notice much of a difference between the pm9 and the pm45 when carried in a silent thunder? what about taking either to to the range for practice? how about the grip difference (2 vs. 3 fingers)? concealability? etc. try not turning this into a caliber thing, please.

FHBrumb
10-16-2011, 01:11 PM
The PM 45 is closer in size to a P 9, not even close to a PM 9. For me, pocket carry of a PM 45 was a no-go. Others will not agree. The 45 is actually plenty comfortable to shoot all day, for me. The smaller grip of the 9 might not be as comfortable.

For deep cc, the 9. For holster cc, the 45. My opinion...

OldLincoln
10-16-2011, 01:36 PM
I got my PM9 for pocket carry and do often when working in the yard. But even it shows a large lump in my pocket, so I got a Silent Thunder for IWB carry whci conceals it very well. The ST would conceal the PM45 as well and be a preferred choice of carry.

Now for my druthers, had i realized the PM9 was a bit large for my pocket carry I would have opted for the PM45. I prefer the heavier round and believe it significantly increases stopping power, not that wither will simply put a bad guy down if gut shot. Others here will argue their position that a PM9 is all you need and pocket carry is wonderful. I respect their position and do have confidence in my PM, I'd just prefer the PM45.

joe d
10-16-2011, 01:39 PM
I currently own a CM9,(same size as pm9),and Am waiting on delivery of my CW45...Slightly bigger than the PM45...But a 45 none the less is what I've been itching for for CC again...

O'Dell
10-16-2011, 02:13 PM
I had a PM45 until it was stolen and like it very much. Generally, pants pocket carry is a no-go due to the size and weight of the loaded pistol, but I often carried it in the inside pocket of a jacket. leather jacket are best due to the stiffness, and I have a lot of them. This was specially helpful on a motorcycle where I always wore a leather jacket. The only downside I found was the limited capacity, which sometimes necessitated a spare mag. The only reason I haven't yet replaced the PM45 is that I hope Kahr will release a CM45.

jocko
10-16-2011, 03:46 PM
i've got an itch for a new pm9 BUT thinking about a pm45 instead. give it your best shot (pun intended), talk me into a pm45 for cc.

anybody pocket carry a pm45? would i notice much of a difference between the pm9 and the pm45 when carried in a silent thunder? what about taking either to to the range for practice? how about the grip difference (2 vs. 3 fingers)? concealability? etc. try not turning this into a caliber thing, please.

U INSIST. THERE WILL BE A 10k CHECK INB THE MAIL TO YOU IF YOU BUY A pm45. Do we need to discuss this further??or what??

JFootin
10-16-2011, 04:04 PM
U INSIST. THERE WILL BE A 10k CHECK INB THE MAIL TO YOU IF YOU BUY A pm45. Do we need to discuss this further??or what??

Hey Moneybags, can I get in on that if I buy a PM45? :wof:

jocko
10-16-2011, 04:12 PM
did I say the 10K was coming from me???? I may be old, I am certainly stupid but not totally dumb!!

Popeye
10-16-2011, 04:38 PM
Nope, Wouldn't even try. Got to make that choice for yourself.:cool:

bonjorno2
10-16-2011, 04:42 PM
get a cw45 or wait and cross your fingers for a cm45.... I woudn't pocket carry a 45 unless it was the same size as a pm series.... That to me is as big as i can pocket carry, but for you it might be different.

JFootin
10-16-2011, 05:36 PM
get a cw45 or wait and cross your fingers for a cm45.... I woudn't pocket carry a 45 unless it was the same size as a pm series.... That to me is as big as i can pocket carry, but for you it might be different.

+1 on that. the CW45 is $371 with free shipping at Bud's: http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/products_id/52707

CJB
10-16-2011, 05:55 PM
I got a black PM45, it shot well right from the box, but developed a problem that Kahr fixed very quickly. Based on that... I bit the bullet on a used (and fine shape) PM45 silver.

Zero issues. I mean they just run and run. I did "melt" the slide stop a bit on the silver one and smooth some corner edges on the slide too. All the magazines have had their floorplates "melted" too (they're plastic, easy to do with sandpaper). Other than that... everything great.

They fit in MY front right hand pocket of Wrangler jeans. Your miles may vary....

Just spent the last few days at Biketoberfest in Daytona. Rode 750 miles, and walked what feels like half that (or double that...). Lot of walking, lot of riding. The PM45 (silver this time out) was there the whole time.

Bawanna
10-16-2011, 06:32 PM
You no doubt already know where I stand on this, ouch that hurt. You no doubt know where I sit on this one.

The PM45 is noticeably larger than the PM9. In a Silent Thunder the size and weight would go unnoticed. I don't pocket carry so I'm not the slightest bit concerned with that.
As already mentioned I can shoot it all day at the range without discomfort, this I know cause I just did. My boys are hauling the stuff in from the van as we speak. I only shot it maybe 50 rounds since I had a pile of other 45's to unlimber too. Incidently first trip for my CTC Laser and it needed zero adjustment right out of the box. Kind of dissapointing since I even remembered to bring the tiny little allen wrenches to adjust it but didn't even need to take em out of the box.
It as usual shot like a champ and didn't balk in the slightest.
No question in my mind I'd get the PM45, the CW would be fine too, slightly larger, again unnoticed in a proper holster.
If you sign me up for the 10k check I'll buy another one lickety split.

bonjorno2
10-16-2011, 08:38 PM
I got a black PM45, it shot well right from the box, but developed a problem that Kahr fixed very quickly. Based on that... I bit the bullet on a used (and fine shape) PM45 silver. .

that is a crime you must give me a pm45 asap!

J4Cub
10-16-2011, 09:54 PM
A while ago, I asked CJB to place his PM9 side by side with his PM45 so I could see the size difference. He did this for me (Thanks Again CJB!) and posted them here:

http://kahrtalk.com/showthread.php?t=8324&page=3

It made my mind up so my next pistol is going to be the PM45. Good Luck!

Bob L


i've got an itch for a new pm9 BUT thinking about a pm45 instead. give it your best shot (pun intended), talk me into a pm45 for cc.

anybody pocket carry a pm45? would i notice much of a difference between the pm9 and the pm45 when carried in a silent thunder? what about taking either to to the range for practice? how about the grip difference (2 vs. 3 fingers)? concealability? etc. try not turning this into a caliber thing, please.

popgoestheweasel
10-16-2011, 09:56 PM
so, for my big, old, 'mitts' <--- 'hand' for you young fellers-- that does NOT work well with my mk9 elite (i 'almost' hate the 2 finger grip), i would be happier with the pm45???

by the way, who am i kidding that i'm going to stick a pistol in my front pocket??? i can see a silent thunder iwb in my future....maybe even a remora and a cross breed mini. sounds like a 45 is the smart move<?>

btw, keep up the input, i'm starting to lean 45 but not there just yet. thanks!

allglock
10-16-2011, 10:35 PM
I would talk you into a PM40.... Absolutely flawless shooting in an arguably better self defense caliber, than a PM9. And it fits in the pocket just fine.

Bawanna
10-16-2011, 10:56 PM
If your finding the grip size on the PM9 on the small and unmaneageable side the PM40 will be very very similar except the muzzle flip will be about X3.
I have the all steel K40 Magna Ported and while I can shoot it all day it has too much muzzle flip for my liking on a defense gun.

I find the PM45 much faster for follow up shots and I'm completely confident in the 45. I like the 40 without question but not in a small package such as a PM.

OldLincoln
10-16-2011, 11:24 PM
Pop, you're gonna love your new PM45. You will find it to be the sweetest shooting small pistol with a big bark out there. I know you haven't decided yet, but I have confidence you'll make that choice.

JFootin
10-17-2011, 10:10 AM
Hey fellas, I haven't ever seen or handled a PM45, so I want to know about the grip. I know the PM45 is longer and taller than the PM9, so I want to know if it is still a two finger grip? With my CM9, my little finger curls up perfectly and comfortably underneath the mag. But would it have to reach a bit to clear the front edge on the PM45? (I actually prefer the two finger grip, so don't talk to me about Pearce grip extensions.)

Bill K
10-17-2011, 10:27 AM
Just from fondling... uh, I mean handling a CW45 at a LGS I would choose the PM45 over the CW45 for appendix carry. Height (grip height) makes a big difference for me in how well a gun will conceal carrying AIWB. Suspect grip height makes less of a difference in other belt positions.

popgoestheweasel
10-17-2011, 12:23 PM
i hate that my big-ole hand doesn't fit a pm9 but i'm afraid i'll buy it. grrr, i hate compromise/sacrifice. why isn't there ONE be-all, end-all 'perfect ccw' available for someone with a big hand? this two-finger grip thing really stinks.

Bawanna
10-17-2011, 12:40 PM
i hate that my big-ole hand doesn't fit a pm9 but i'm afraid i'll buy it. grrr, i hate compromise/sacrifice. why isn't there ONE be-all, end-all 'perfect ccw' available for someone with a big hand? this two-finger grip thing really stinks.

Step up to the P9. That is still very very thin and gives you a little more real estate in the grip area. You were talking 45, give the CW 45 a look too. Same plan in the grip area. Both easily conceal with the right holster.

Now that's an area where I wish there was an end all perfect set up for all occasions. I've got a small wardrobe that I'm finally happy with but like many I have a drawer or two and a couple boxes of holster to mark my journey getting there.

JFootin
10-17-2011, 12:54 PM
i hate that my big-ole hand doesn't fit a pm9 but i'm afraid i'll buy it. grrr, i hate compromise/sacrifice. why isn't there ONE be-all, end-all 'perfect ccw' available for someone with a big hand? this two-finger grip thing really stinks.

Pop, I figure you've probably held a PM in a LGS, but have you ever shot one? The reason I'm saying is because, as awkward as it might seem not having tried it, the two finger grip is quite secure and comfortable. Those two fingers are the ones that really do the gripping anyway. Now, for you I would recommend the PM45 because it is a little taller and thicker. If the grip is still a little too small, put a Hogue Handall Jr. on it. And if you still would rather have someplace to put your little finger, get a Pearce grip extention. Join the ranks of Bawanna and others who love their PM45s, big hands or not!

Thunder71
10-17-2011, 01:01 PM
Yeah, I don't even notice I only have 2 finger grip on mine... I have the Pearce grip extension as well, but don't use it or find it necessary.

popgoestheweasel
10-17-2011, 01:18 PM
bawanna, don't you just love the way that hi-power of yours feels in you hand? i can only think of one thing on earth that feels better in the hand.

Thunder71
10-17-2011, 01:19 PM
Bacon?

Bawanna
10-17-2011, 01:26 PM
Bacon? Hmm I was thinking cantalope but you could be right.

I do love the feel of the Hi Power in the hand and a 1911 as well which reminds me I have to take that puppy out from under glass and shoot it, I'm sure it's very unhappy with me.

I have to play with it anyhow it was playing jamomatic on me last trip and I need to figure out why.

JFootin
10-17-2011, 01:49 PM
bawanna, don't you just love the way that hi-power of yours feels in you hand? i can only think of one thing on earth that feels better in the hand.

Actually, that's two things (they usually come in pairs)! :D ;)

Bawanna
10-17-2011, 02:28 PM
My bad. Guess Thunder was right, it must be bacon.

jocko
10-17-2011, 03:21 PM
Actually, that's two things (they usually come in pairs)! :D ;)

another pervert onb this fourm. but but I DO LIKE UR STYLE..:der:

JACQUESFAUST
10-17-2011, 05:31 PM
I have a PM 9 since July 2011. I live in hot, humid, Houston, TX. Been carrying it in the right front pants pocket almost everyday. It is easy to carry in the pocket. I am 6 foot tall, and 160 pounds...it does not print too much (similar to my mobile phone).

PM 45 I could not speak to.

There is no better concealment than in the pocket, so PM 9 is the winner.
In the waistband or otherwise is not as well concealed, although I have not tried to carry anywhere other than my pants pocket.

popgoestheweasel
10-18-2011, 06:44 AM
Well, I want to thank all you 45 lovers who put up good arguements for buying the PM45. The clarity you have provided has me certain to get a PM9. I just can't get past the notion that the smaller/lighter PM9 will encourage and result in more carrying time. How can one argue it incereases my options for carry methods and thereby allows for greater comfort and concealability? To me, that's what this is all about!!! I'll just have to get comfortable and proficient with a 'mouse-sized' gun. In fact, it seems a PM9 is something every ccw guy should own. I do, however, see a P45 in my future as a possible candidate for personal protection in the home.

Just curious, what do y'all have ready and waiting 'under the mattress' strictly for the home??? Please-- no discussion about adult sex tapes/toys or bacon, I'm talking Kahr. Geez....some minds just look for the gutter.

Bawanna
10-18-2011, 10:16 AM
Wow, I better go back for a refresher course in sales 101. I thought I had you hooked and at the counter for a 45.

With the holsters available today and the times we live in there's no reason I can think of to settle for a mouse gun.

BUT, if it works for you then by golly it's just absolutely perfect for me.

popgoestheweasel
10-18-2011, 10:48 AM
bawanna.....set aside the issue of "which is the better defense caliber", if a person had a PM9 and a PM45 both available for carry 365/yr...(given a variety of clothing/weather/seasons/in-out of car/seated/standing/activities/etc./etc.)... which pistol would be carried more often IWB if comfort and concealability was the primary factor?

i'm assuming a pm9 and pm45 would require roughly the same sized holster? for simplicity purposes, let's assume using a silent thunder? perhaps a cross breed mini tuck?

AHHH, same scenario....what if a person was occasionally inclined (*choke/puke*) to pocket carry (maybe cargo shorts, gym shorts, jacket pocket).....which pistol NOW? assume the pocket holster of your choice!

again, i think i'll put more carry miles on a pm9.......but i must say, i do love the idea of a 45. grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. can you say "corn fused" ?

JFootin
10-18-2011, 10:51 AM
I have the perfect solution: BUY BOTH OF THEM!

Bawanna
10-18-2011, 11:08 AM
bawanna.....set aside the issue of "which is the better defense caliber", if a person had a PM9 and a PM45 both available for carry 365/yr...(given a variety of clothing/weather/seasons/in-out of car/seated/standing/activities/etc./etc.)... which pistol would be carried more often IWB if comfort and concealability was the primary factor?

i'm assuming a pm9 and pm45 would require roughly the same sized holster? for simplicity purposes, let's assume using a silent thunder? perhaps a cross breed mini tuck?

AHHH, same scenario....what if a person was occasionally inclined (*choke/puke*) to pocket carry (maybe cargo shorts, gym shorts, jacket pocket).....which pistol NOW? assume the pocket holster of your choice!

again, i think i'll put more carry miles on a pm9.......but i must say, i do love the idea of a 45. grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. can you say "corn fused" ?

Trust me I wrote the book (actually it was a small pamphlet on Cornfusion). I carry 2 45's nearly everyday and the PM45 always. It can be done. I have no 9's in my carry line up. I have a little NAA 22 I've often thought of pocket carrying so I could fit in with the pocket crowd but so far just haven't been able to do it. I think I'm skeered.
This doesn't make it right, your logic is sound, especially if *choke/puke* you need to pocket carry. Go with the 9, take care of it and it'll take care of you.

josp
10-18-2011, 11:14 AM
Pop, I have the PM9 and carry it everywhere and always. I also have a P45, that I carry with, or sometimes in place of the PM9. The 9 is far easier to conceal in all attire but the 45 is nices to hold when the bad men come a calling.
I have no issues with the caliber if the proper bullet is used in either caliber.
Start with the PM9 and graduate to the 45, either in P or PM styles.

OldLincoln
10-18-2011, 11:27 AM
Welcome to the PM9 club, Pop. You're in good company and it is easy to carry and can inflict some hurt if needed. Since it is not a .45 you will likely want to get the most out of it you can. I recommend Federal +P 147gn HST ammo for carry. It has great penetration through clothing and expands to .75" consistently. I haven't checked but it has to be around the size of a 12g slug when expanded - just not the umph behind it.

Then to carry the little tiger, consider the Garrett Silent Thunder IWB for those occasions you don't want to pocket carry. Just more to consider, and again welcome.

popgoestheweasel
10-18-2011, 12:11 PM
Gosh Bawanna, do you feel the PM9 LOVE in here??? Wait, is this the PM/CM9 sub-forum or is it ANY PM/CM series/caliber? Hmmmmm. Don't worry, one day when I grow up and put on the 'big boy pants', I'll be able to own/fire a 45. It definitely is on the radar...but rest assured, it WILL fit my hand like a glove and feel better than bacon.

Bawanna
10-18-2011, 12:17 PM
Gosh Bawanna, do you feel the PM9 LOVE in here??? Wait, is this the PM/CM9 sub-forum or is it ANY PM/CM series/caliber? Hmmmmm. Don't worry, one day when I grow up and put on the 'big boy pants', I'll be able to own/fire a 45. It definitely is on the radar...but rest assured, it WILL fit my hand like a glove and feel better than bacon.

Yes, it makes me want to go out and buy one myself. Maybe that's why I'm not fitting in around here and don't fit in any of the cliques. Kind of like High School.
I need to get a 9 and then maybe a 380 and I'll be popular. Ya think?

Seriously, well I keep trying but I don't do serious, the PM9 is a great gun and you'll no doubt get bit as many of us have and it will multiply and pretty soon you'll have a full wardrobe of carry options.

jlottmc
10-18-2011, 12:48 PM
I'm with Bawanna, shooting a chump more than once is silly. Then again I don't even own a 9, and have an affinity for 45, and 40, if you judge by the numbers in my collection. If I think I might want to shoot them twice, I'll carry one of my double stack 40's. No worries there.

popgoestheweasel
10-18-2011, 01:13 PM
ahhh, the old my hole is bigger than yours arguement. actually, i hadn't thought of the savings in ammunition by going to the 45. looking down the business end of 45 barrel would surely cause anybody to soil themselves to death.....even before the first shot is fired. how much are them big ole bores costin these days????? where's all my pm9 fanboys when i need em?

Thunder71
10-18-2011, 01:18 PM
Right here. We've learned to let the big hole guys puff their chest, we know we are better off and don't have to resort to such antics.

Posted from my Thunderbolt using Tapatalk.

popgoestheweasel
10-18-2011, 01:37 PM
thanks for having my back, thunder. so, what you're sayin is the 45 boys just like to huff and puff alot? do you wonder if they're even packin that big ole heavy thing or instead, leaving it home in the safe?

Thunder71
10-18-2011, 01:43 PM
LCP is in their pocket, .45 is in the safe in the glass case that it came in. :) In fact it's the only thing in the house that they dust.

:86:

Bawanna
10-18-2011, 01:49 PM
Wow, I feel like my pride and my rep were made into a door mat and left by the front door. I'm all covered with mud and animal excrement.

I gotta get me a 9, I want to fit in and be loved. (Not in any mano mano way of course.)

I can only speak for myself but while I have several spare big bores in the safe there's always at least one on me at all times. I don't say this to brag, I do so hate bragging and it may be paranoid, which I am most assuredly paranoid and that's not a bad thing I don't think.

Wait! I have a Hi Power AND a Beretta 92, those are 9's.

I can be a 9 fanboy too!

Yours in 9mm

bawanna

Thunder71
10-18-2011, 01:51 PM
I knew you had it in you... it's ok, now that you're out of the closet it will be so much easier to handle life and just, well, be yourself.

Bawanna
10-18-2011, 01:52 PM
LCP is in their pocket, .45 is in the safe in the glass case that it came in. :) In fact it's the only thing in the house that they dust.

:86:

:eek::eek::eek: but, but, my oh my! :eek::eek:

LCP? Next it will be Kel Tec, where does it all end?

Bawanna
10-18-2011, 01:55 PM
I knew you had it in you... it's ok, now that you're out of the closet it will be so much easier to handle life and just, well, be yourself.

I'm never allowed to be myself. Just too much for the general public.

Thunder71
10-18-2011, 01:55 PM
Baby steps... you'll get there.

getsome
10-18-2011, 03:46 PM
Ok I'm ending this once and for all...Go with a PM40...Just ever so slightly larger than 9mm but spits a bigger pill but not as large as a PM45...I carry my PM40 in a pocket holster all the time and it works fine for me...I'm 5'11" 170 lbs and the PM40 disappears in Wrangler jeans front pockets and draws quick and smooth...You get the best of both worlds...

Now lets settle this 9mm vs .40 vs .45 deal...The issue with 9mm being a problem was mostly due to the famous FBI shoot out back in the 80's where the 9mm failed to penetrate auto windshield glass and glanced off and generally failed to perform and 2 agents were killed...The FBI doing what they normally do went totally overboard and decided to go with the 10mm which was way too much gun so the .40 S&W was born and remains the standard FBI issue weapon along with most Police Departments....

Now this was many years ago and the ammunition issued then was mostly Federal 1st generation Hydra-Shoks and they didn't always penetrate, expand and perform optimally if shot through clothing, plaster board or auto glass...Since that time the ammo companies have improved bullet design 10 fold and most any flavor modern high performance HP ammo will get the job done if the shooter does his or her part...There is no such thing as a magic one stop wonder caliber or bullet and shot placement along with the BG will to live and escape perhaps due to being high on meth or crack makes follow up shots sometimes necessary with anything less than a 12 gauge to the chest...

Now as to so called mouse guns...I have a .380 LCP and did some back yard redneck ballistic testing with several brands such as Hornady Critical Defence, Winchester PDX, Gold Dot, and Remington Golden Saber and boy was I surprised...All penetrated 10-12 inchs of wet newspaper and expanded to the size of a dime or larger...There is no way I would want to get hit with one of those and most people say that .380 is not nearly enough gun...Yes a 9mm .40 or even Sgt. Yorks 1911 .45 might be better but don't discount even the little .380 with good HP ammo...

Bottom line is if you decide to carry, always carry and get the pistol you want regardless of caliber and practice with it enough to feel comfortable and proficient with the weapon...It is better to have a weapon that fits your hand and that you shoot well with than trying to make a gun fit you because some guy at the range says you're a wuss if you don't shoot a 500 magnum just like he does...Just MHO...

Thunder71
10-18-2011, 04:04 PM
Hey hey hey!

Just you wait a minute... that's sense you're talking, there will be none of that.

:D

(Kidding aside, I agree - good post.)

Bawanna
10-18-2011, 05:06 PM
What just happened?

jocko
10-18-2011, 05:41 PM
what the hell bawanna, some of these guys are now starting to make some sense. can this be allowed on this forum??? How can one argue with a person who is making sense, it is just not right, let alone any fun. personaly I do not like it. I have to agree with Thunder 71 on this, it makes no fokking sense.. and I went back and read Thunder 71 last 10 posts and damn they all made sense, so I am done reading his stuff:popcorn:

Thunder71
10-18-2011, 05:44 PM
At first I was like :) and then I was like :(

Bawanna
10-18-2011, 05:50 PM
I'm still :confused:

jocko
10-18-2011, 05:53 PM
get over it!! Thunder knows he's the man. just all this "sense" stuff kinda drags me down. I just like Forrest gumps motto: STUPID IS AS STUPID DOES. always worked well for me.

Bawanna
10-18-2011, 05:58 PM
You guys are just too wicked quick for me, I'm still back working on the baby steps! This could take awhile. I encountered a logistics issue I'm trying to iron out. Carry on, don't wait for me. I'll be along directly.

popgoestheweasel
10-18-2011, 08:02 PM
what the heck, i step away from the computer with bawanna being forced 'out of the closet' with his LCP and a few hours later, he's down for the count? i didn't know i had such firepower from the 9mm boys who apparently have my back. likely the last i'll read in here about the one shot and done approach to buying a handgun? so much for trying to convince me to purchase a pm45. looks like the pm9 is the only choice.

JFootin
10-18-2011, 08:04 PM
All you guys are a whole lot of fun! :) I am (usually) a happier person after reading posts on this forum. And sometimes it makes sense and I learn something, too. :yo: Tip of the hat to you all!

jlottmc
10-19-2011, 08:00 AM
Ok I'm ending this once and for all...Go with a PM40...Just ever so slightly larger than 9mm but spits a bigger pill but not as large as a PM45...I carry my PM40 in a pocket holster all the time and it works fine for me...I'm 5'11" 170 lbs and the PM40 disappears in Wrangler jeans front pockets and draws qwick and smooth...You get the best of both worlds...

Now lets settle this 9mm vs .40 vs .45 deal...The issue with 9mm being a problem was mostly due to the famous FBI shoot out back in the 80's where the 9mm failed to penetrate auto windshield glass and glanced off and generally failed to perform and 2 agent were killed...The FBI doing what they normally do went totally overboard and decided to go with the 10mm which was way too much gun so the .40 S&W was born and remains the standard FBI issue weapon along with most Police Departments....

Now this was many years ago and the ammunition issued then was mostly Federal 1st generation Hydra-Shoks and they didn't always penetrate, expand and perform optimally if shot through clothing, plaster board or auto glass...Since that time the ammo companies have improved bullet design 10 fold and most any flavor modern high performance HP ammo will get the job done if the shooter does his or her part...There is no such thing as a magic one stop wonder caliber or bullet and shot placement along with the BG will to live and escape perhaps due to being high on meth or crack makes follow up shots sometimes necessary with anything less than a 12 gauge to the chest...

Now as to so called mouse guns...I have a .380 LCP and did some back yard redneck ballistic testing with several brands such as Hornady Critical Defence, Winchester PDX, Gold Dot, and Remington Golden Sabor and boy was I surprised...All penetrated 10-12 inchs of wet newspaper and expanded to the size of a dime or larger...There is no way I would want to get hit with one of those and most people say that .380 is not nearly enough gun...Yes a 9mm .40 or even Sgt. Yorks 1911 .45 might be better but don't discount even the little .380 with good HP ammo...

Bottom line is if you decide to carry, always carry and get the pistol you want regardless of caliber and practice with it enough to feel comfortable and proficient with the weapon...It is better to have a weapon that fits your hand and that you shoot well with than trying to make a gun fit you because some guy at the range says you're a wuss if you don't shoot a 500 magnum just like he does...Just MHO...

My problem with 9mm is that I have used it, in combat (thankfully very rarely, and after I ran out of lead for the other fire breathers I had). Not impressed. I understand hollow points and hot loads make it effective, but when that cavity clogs and the round doesn't expand, then I want a bigger hole to start with. Then if I take that same HP technology and put it in a 45 or a 40 then I have an even bigger hole. Big holes are good, lots of little holes will do the job too, I just don't like having to take the time to put a lot of little holes in. FYI, yes it really is about shot placement, but then again I have to work harder to miss with a bigger round. Just my thoughts.

PS I own not one 380 not a one, bore wise the smallest that I have aside from my 22's is my 7.62x25 CZ52, followed by my .357 magnums, I carry and shoot at every opportunity my howitzers. Thank you drive through.

rjt123
10-20-2011, 11:49 AM
Hey fellas, I haven't ever seen or handled a PM45, so I want to know about the grip. I know the PM45 is longer and taller than the PM9, so I want to know if it is still a two finger grip? With my CM9, my little finger curls up perfectly and comfortably underneath the mag. But would it have to reach a bit to clear the front edge on the PM45? (I actually prefer the two finger grip, so don't talk to me about Pearce grip extensions.)


I have small/medium hands, but my PM9 is still a two finger grip. However, I do get all three fingers on the 5-round ("flush") mag with the PM45. My grip feels much more solid and secure with the PM45, but it's still such a small little wonder! I never feel undergunned when I'm carrying 5+1 of .45, although I do carry a 6 round mag for reload.

I agree with others that it's comfortable and easy to shoot the PM45. It cycles so smoothly, and I've never found a round it wouldn't eat. And I have to go along with Bawanna on the fat bullets thing.

Also, I do pocket carry my PM45, but only in cargo shorts with capacious front pockets. Now that fall is finally arriving in South Texas, I'll be carrying in a jacket pocket, for the most part. My PM9 gets carried in a jeans/khakis pocket when I can't wear shorts.

My advice? Get the PM45. You will absolutely LOVE it!

Bawanna
10-20-2011, 12:02 PM
:cheer2::cheer2::cheer2:

Must have similar size hands. I get all fingers on the grip of the PM45 as well.

popgoestheweasel
10-20-2011, 01:37 PM
i've gotta 'hand' it to you bawanna....you've been boning up on your salesmanship. good try!

Bawanna
10-20-2011, 01:47 PM
I think I'd be a very hungry car salesman, or any kind of salesman far as that goes. I did very well at my little month long on the job training even though I can't hear. I sold alot of guns and made alot of friends, almost always on their second visit.

The seasoned shark salesman couldn't believe it. Sometimes no pressure and information sharing sells itself.

popgoestheweasel
10-20-2011, 08:42 PM
i just hate you tube. watched a couple of pm45 videos and i'm starting to think the pm45 is still a possibility. from a reliability standpoint, doesn't seem as though there's much problem with the pm45 feeding ammunition of any sort. seems really smooth. on the other hand....those pm9 mags seem to be taking a verbal beating. size wise, not much difference between pm9 and 45. hmmmm.

guess i'll go to the gun show this weekend (indy500) and see if i can stumble upon a pm45. i'll give it a try and see how it feels in my hand as compared to my mk9 (or a pm9). i really do need both the pm9 and the pm45.

Bawanna
10-20-2011, 08:45 PM
You'll get no argument from me.

JFootin
10-20-2011, 09:14 PM
I really do need both the pm9 and the pm45.

Just what I told you! ;):)

deanp1964
11-06-2011, 10:08 PM
Don't look at me!

I have a PM9 that has functioned flawlessly and a PM45 that hasn't functioned at all. One problem after the other. Currently, both magazines are on a fedex truck to the factory so Kahr can see that they're cracked right down the side (both of them) and send me replacements (I expect anyways)

I hope to be able to say kind things about my PM45 some day soon. Real soon.
But we're not there yet.

Nope.