DA_TriggR4Ruger":3k3s7za6 said:
... Still deciding on a pocket piece. The LCP seems to be one of the more affordable ones right now. ...
I've been looking into this world recently too, and saw two others you might check into, if you haven't:
The Diamondback .380:
http://www.gunblast.com/Diamondback380.htm
Just saw one today. $410 compared to the LCP at $310 at the same place (though they didn't have one in stock; They did have a two-tone LCP at $350). The Diamondback is like a little Glock, but without the little "safety" on the trigger. I have no experience with them, but they looked interesting.
Also got a chance to handle the Magnum Research Micro Eagle .380 yesterday. $449, and currently on sale at Davidsons. Nice feeling gun that could double as brass knuckles when you run out of ammo. 2.2" barrel compared to the LCP's 2.75", and almost 4oz heavier. Still, one of the more nice, solid feeling pocket pistols I've held.
A friend has the P3-A/T, and I have a Sig P232 which is a .380 but too big for pocket carry. None of these guns are "fun" to shoot, and are not what you would consider range toys. I'd probably shoot mine enough to be proficient, and often enough to ensure function, and that's about it.
In fact, with the LCP still experiencing guide rod peening issues, I'm not sure I'd want to shoot mine much at all. Once I've "proved" it I'd probably keep it in reserve for its intended purpose. As a friend pointed out, this would be the most "tool-like" of guns; It's not going to be an heirloom in 50 years.
-- Sam