I bought the 9mm Ruger LC9s simply because out of all the guns in the case before me, it was the only one that was slender enough to drop in my pocket without "pocket printing"
and, at the same time, big enough to fit my hand comfortably.
So far, I have only shot ball nose target rounds through it, and it stays fairly level.
( But, I have not observed that action with a video camera to measure the barrel rise, I am comparing this with how my .45ACP Highpoint (1911 style) auto rises when I shoot it ) and it is twice as heavy as the LC9s or more. )
I bought a very slender little pocket holster to keep the LC9s trigger from being activated by accident.
But, personally, I keep the slide locked all the time.....
I figure if I am going to ever pull it, my thumb fits the slide lock very comfortably and it can be unlocked instantly.... I will never be in a position to try a "Quick Draw McDraw" feat anyway.
If it ever comes out, I will hopefully be in a position where I am not observed...
Having never been a LEO, nor Active Military in Action, I've never been faced with " WTH do I do now " thoughts.
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I have allowed my U.S. Lawshield insurance to expire, and quit carrying, because after attending several of the seminars they presented, it became obvious that we are the one going straight to jail and need a lawyer, instead of the felon in most cases.
It also became obvious "in my mind", that the only time I will be able to use it in a defensive action is in my home, and if an intruder has come into my home, and I am able to use the "Castle Doctrine" to remove the problem of "who is the offender" in the eyes of the law.
My daughter and I have been of the opinion, that we will try to be observant, and not put ourselves into a situation where we would need to use a weapon....
( yeah, a lot of victims in Quick Stop stores have proven they wish they had a weapon )
but, would they have been of a mind to use it, or even seen the perp in the first place?
I walk the isles of stores, with my Rear View visor in action all the time...
Being aware of my environment, is my best protection IMO.
With my upcoming trip to Florida to the Southeast Meet 'n Greet in March, I am debating on even taking my LC9s on that trip.... I would have to renew my U.S. Lawshield insurance if I do... and as we intend to swing through Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina... and potentially more north on the way home......... I have not read the rule book on reciprocity to see which states I can do that legally in anyway.
Guess I am just not paranoid enough to think I need it with me all the time.
I am 75, and never once, been in a situation to even think I could use a CCW with me.