LCP for concealed carry?

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whymhot

Bearcat
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Dec 30, 2017
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While the Ruger LCP isn't my 1st choice for CC work there are simply times when the choice is use it or go without. The 380 isn't a powerhouse but when conditions warrant its a tiny lightweight pistol that disappears with my DeSantis Nemesis holster in the pocket of my jeans, shorts or suit. And its by no means a tack driver at any distance over 15 ft., This tiny 380 only allows me only a 2 finger grip but its fine for up close work. I alternate between a Bersa BP-9cc or a Taurus PT111 G2 but there are just times when trying to CC a small 9mm is tough, that's when the LCP, for me makes more sense. So how many use the LCP in this way? Or do some here use it as their main carry?
 

diyj98

Single-Sixer
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I used an LCP for several years for times when a S&W j-frame was just a tad to large for my pockets.
 
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Well first I have to say that I haven't used an LCP since they were brought out at the SHOT show years ago. Having said that two of my favorite friends on this forum both carry one as both a back up and occasionally as the primary carry. I trust those guys enough that I'm considering possibly carrying one for a back up. My primary carry is a Taurus G3c and I carry it whenever I'm awake. But I'm old school and they had a saying called a New York Reload. That's a back up gun. Having a gun is important, and even an LCP is better than no gun. They are concealable. If you are my size even the Taurus is concealable.

There's another saying, if you want to be able to conceal a gun, you have to either carry for the way you dress, or dress to conceal what you carry. So whether or not the LCP is the gun for you, you have to decide.

The truth is nobody wants to get shot with anything, even a 380. Watch a few videos of Active Self Protection, and every time the good guy fires the first shot everyone is running.
 
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toysoldier

Hunter
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Hutchinson, KS USA
Ever since I received my LCP (had to order and wait 9 months), I have carried it in my hip pocket in a thin leather holster I made. No one has ever asked about it. If they did, I'd tell them it was my second wallet for all the %&@# plastic I have to carry. When buying pants, I make sure the pocket is big enough to get the gun out easily. The extra magazine fits nicely in a nylon Schrade knife sheath on my belt.
 
Joined
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BIG fan of the LCP, both the .380 and the 22 LR ( hollow point ). I am also one of the ointment flies that know small caliber CAN be a good defensive weapon. Mostly all I use ( I don't hunt). If you can't stop someone with 10 rounds in the mag you shouldn't be shooting. On the other hand, while I like .380 and all versions of .22s, I am no fan of .25s ( While I am sure they are out there, I have never seen a quality .25 handgun) or .32s. As a matter of fact, I have seen a .38 bounce / deflect off of a windshield.
 
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LCP22LR

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I need to pull my LCP out and try to do some more shooting with it. .380 was never my best caliber for accuracy, so I stick with what I am accurate with.
 
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I need to pull my LCP out and try to do some more shooting with it. .380 was never my best caliber for accuracy, so I stick with what I am accurate with.
Judging by your screen name we both have the same preference in both ammo and handgun. while I like the .380 version, the .22 is my go to. Instead of the .380, have you tried high velocity .22 LR hollow points? I see them with at least the stopping power of the .380.
 

LCP22LR

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I've shot a few hollow points, but need to find more of them, they were a bit harder to find there for a while.

I've been using 9mm, and .38's as of late for my practice calibers.
 

BearBiologist

Buckeye
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Dec 4, 2021
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I have had no problem concealing my Glock 48 in my pocket, whether cargo pants, jeans or slacks. It's 9mm (for those unfamiliar with it) and is reliable as heck. I looked at the LCP but there were some negative reviews about that time, so my wife and I decided on the Glock=I liked it so much, I got one for myself. My EDC is a G27 converted to 357 Sig.

One issue is "stove-piping". Masood told me to use heavier bullets=the lighter bullets in ++P and +P cycle the action too quickly.
 

Biggfoot44

Blackhawk
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I need to pull my LCP out and try to do some more shooting with it. .380 was never my best caliber for accuracy, so I stick with what I am accurate with.

You need to do the most training/ meaningful practice with the guns/ techniques that you do the least well .

PSA - Don't forget your weak hand only practicing.
 

NightSailor

Bearcat
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Jun 24, 2022
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I have had no problem concealing my Glock 48 in my pocket, whether cargo pants, jeans or slacks. It's 9mm (for those unfamiliar with it) and is reliable as heck. I looked at the LCP but there were some negative reviews about that time, so my wife and I decided on the Glock=I liked it so much, I got one for myself. My EDC is a G27 converted to 357 Sig.

One issue is "stove-piping". Masood told me to use heavier bullets=the lighter bullets in ++P and +P cycle the action too quickly.
I imagine the 357 sig will feed more reliably being a necked down cartridge.
 
Joined
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I carry mine a lot, mainly because it's light, flat and fits in my pocket. Any pocket. It shoots pretty good too (surprised me). I still kind of want to do a couple of upgrades (springs, guide rod) but I will get around to it eventually.
 

KIR

Sparks, NV
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Sep 2008. I was the first to buy a firearm, an LCP, at the new Scheels in Sparks, NV. I liked that it was small, easy to carry and use. Took it out to the desert/forest and fired a couple of magazines worth of ammo. Not impressed, but it was not exactly made for any distance shooting, except for mebbe across a poker table.
 
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I carried one in 9mm for about two years.... but became uncomfortable with striker fired.... I have a Sig P290 for the rare occasion I would be better pocket carrying ... but I've stepped pretty much away from the small plastic pistols...
 
Joined
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Sep 2008. I was the first to buy a firearm, an LCP, at the new Scheels in Sparks, NV. I liked that it was small, easy to carry and use. Took it out to the desert/forest and fired a couple of magazines worth of ammo. Not impressed, but it was not exactly made for any distance shooting, except for mebbe across a poker table.
I have found- especially with the LCP- that ammo makes a big difference in accuracy. This goes for both the .380 and the .22 LR in particular.
 
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