[ironmarshmallow]

Hello,

I'm not vastly experienced in handguns, but I have had military training and can use one. I recently got my concealed carrying permit and am still getting used to carrying it. I've got a regular size Springfield 9mm that is a little bulky and uncomfortable, but I'm getting used to it. I need to find a smaller, more convenient handgun to carry. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I get a little nervous carrying in public because I worry that my shirt is going to get hung over the handle and everybody will see my weapon. I'm getting more at ease with carrying it though. I know it's not for fun and games that we all carry, but it's kind of fun. I also feel very secure knowing I am armed. Hopefully I'll never have to use my handgun, but if a genuine need ever arises to protect myself or another person, I hope I can react and defend as needed.

I look forward to practicing and getting very skilled with my handgun and maybe even a rifle of some sort. I would love to get an AR-15. Would a basic concealed carrying permit allow me to carry an AR-15 concealed in my vehicle? I'm sure somebody here knows.

I look forward to hearing from everybody and learning more about the concealed weapons community. Thanks!!

Ironmarshmallow

 

[GeneticsDave]

Your CFP allows you to conceal a firearm, be it pistol, revolver or rifle. It also exempts you from the "dangerous weapon" clause (swords, etc) - but you might have a harder time defending yourself in court if you chopped off someones head with a Samurai sword in self-defense. :lol:

Don't worry too much about your weapon showing - unless you really want to maintain the element of surprise. In Utah you are allowed to openly carry a firearm (legally unloaded without a permit, and fully loaded with a permit). The amount of concealment that you want to maintain is up to you.

There are many good compact weapons out there, baby Glocks, Springfield XD compacts/sub-compacts, 1911 style compacts, small Kahrs, and if you want to go tiny, North American Arms is a local company with some very well made minis.

I am glad you are dedicated to defending yourself and obtaining the training to do so. There are many instructors on this forum who make training their life, they will be able to point you in the right direction.

Have a look around, ask as many questions as you would like, we are happy to help.

 

[tapehoser]

Glad to have you around, iron.

Sounds like Dave had some good answers for you already. Welcome!

 

[Hunter]

Welcome to the Forum. As you can tell there are a lot of good people here.

 

[Paul]

Great first post. Welcome aboard. Don't sweat carrying your gun in public and I guarentee you most people are so unobservant that they will never see your gun, and if they do so what! Now jump in and post often!

 

[Jeff Johnson]

Welcome to our forum, ironmarshmallow.
We're glad you could join us!
Thanks for introducing yourself.

This is a good place with lots of knowledgeable people. Stick around and participate.