I agree with your idea about the hammer. The problem was when I ordered my 38+P, that was the only one I could get. I bought one of the first ones that S&W made. As far as the 44 is concerned, I do not try to conceal it. I actually hunt with it, and carry it in the open in the field. I have shot several ground hog's with this pistol. I always carry it when I am ground hog hunting. I use it for the close shots(up to 50 yards). The only Semi -auto I have that will shoot with it is my Kimber 45 auto. Tom.

I carry a Glock 27(40 S&W)as my back up/off duty weapon. It is very easy to conceal. Almost any handgun can be effectively concealed if you are willing to do your part. Thisusually means a quality IWB style holster and a quality belt.

I wouldn't go any smaller than the .38 cal. for a concealed carry self defence gun. JMO but I think the .380 is on the light side for a concealed carry weapon.

I agree with a 380 being on the light side. I have a buddy that has a PPK/S and it is one sweet shooting lil gun. Its not hard to make a ragged hole at the range with it. THe only problem with them is if there is a bright light above the gun its impossible to see the front sight. The finish is too bright on 'em. I'd more than likely get a blued version if they still make them if I did ever go that route.

What do you guys think of the ultra compact 1911s you can get from Kimber for concealed carry? Or any other 1911s for that matter?

I might just stick with a Sub Compact XD, but would like to hear opinions on the 1911s first.

I am also going to check out some of the 38/357 revolvers as well.

You can't go wrong with a Kimber 1911. It's one of the best guns I've ever shot.

Hi-Point C9 9mm...

For small and discrete, Walther PPK in380.
Use European 380 ammo, they load it hotter.... or load your own.

The 380 ain't nothing to brag about, but with the overall size criteriaat play, it becomes a trade off.
They are a nice, slick handling little unit. Fits in the palm of your hand.

I wouldn't want to try to take one away from someone.

When it is legal for me to do so...a Glock 26.

Kahr P45 , .45 because it will get the job done. Kahr because they are flatter and better feeling than the baby glocks. I also had a Kimber ultra carry in .45 and while heavier than my KahrI loved that gun. I wishI never sold it. If you can't handle the recoil of a .45 then go with the P9 or PM9 from Kahr.