Kel-Tec P-3AT

[Delija]

Originally Posted by XD-45

I appreciate all the input. I've been looking but none of the shops locally have a P3AT only a 32. So I'm just waiting for now and carrying the XD-45 service.

I wouldn't dismiss the .32 so quickly...I'd suggest reading some other opinions if you have the time. (kind of surprising you can only find P32s...from what I have been reading they seem harder to get lately).

- I had gone in with every intention of buying the .380 (P3AT)...I had waited a while for the shop to get any Kel Tecs into stock. Finally they had a selection of both P3ATs and P32s.

The guy I trust most who works at the local shop/range convinced me to go with the P32. He had some very logical arguments, and I ended up just taking his word for it...he had no motive at all to prefer to sell me the P32 other than what he told me (that he believed it to be a better choice), and he had always given me good advice over the past few years (I have bought 4 or 5 different handguns from the same guy since he steered me toward the XD over the Glock).

Looking at "ktog.com"..one of the Kel Tec owners forums, it seems that while the P3AT is a better seller (more caliber, same price), the people who own both generally seem to feel that they are equally effective guns and that the p32 seems to get the nod in respect to reliability and overall value...it has a slide lock after the last shot (the .380 does not), the .32 caliber cartridge and the .380 are fairly similar as far as being effective; particularly at very short range (what the gun is designed for). The .32 is a more pleasant caliber to shoot in a 6 ounce gun, the magazine holds an extra round (compared to the .380), etc.

Compared to a 9mm, the .380 and the .32 are both significant drop-offs in power. but going from a .380 down to a .32 is not all that significant. Neither is adequate for a primary weapon for a SWAT team member. Neither is an effective round (particularly in such a small gun) at any distance greater than "close up and personal". But for concealed carry and realistic self defense distances, the main thing is to have a gun. As they say, a .22 in the hand is more effective than a .44 you left at home.

Looking back, I am glad I took the advice and got the .32 - I have another pistol in .380 and for several reasons I prefer the .32.

If I KNEW with absolute certainty that I was going to need to use a gun for self-defense on any particular day, I would carry my .45. But I don't know, and hopefully I never will need to use any gun. So I chose to carry a gun I can have with me 100% of the time, just in case. I'd prefer to be comfortable and always armed than uncomfortable and needing to dress around something that I hope never to need.

Peace,
D.

[XD-45]

I picked it up yesterday. Ran some American Eagles through it. Quite accurate 7-10 long paces. The recoil is harsh, so I won't be using it as a fun gun, just occasional target and carry. Thanks for all the input.

[pjmaxm]

I bought a P3AT for $175, with almost all the blueing worn off the slide. Immediately sent it off to CCR refinishing to get their Select Series coating in OD Green (the finish is like Duracoat, only better), they had a sale at the time for the slide it was only $28. After that, it has rode in a Desantis Nemisis pocket holster all the time. It has been a great pocket carry gun.
Altough thinking about a iwb holster because I prefer that carry method to the pocket. Maybe something like a Galco USA holster, those seem nice.

[Kobra]

I carry a P3AT daily and love it. I have never had a problem with it. Also, from what I hear, Kel-Tec's CS is top notch. Fortunately, I've never had to use it.

[mr0w1]

While we're talking about the subject of small caliber guns, here's a Box o' Truth that Old Painless just recently did on the matter.

I was surprised.

http://ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=1&f=5&t=471142

[beardman2]

just picked up my p3at today. That is surprising that 380 HP could go through 4 jugs. I guess I feel better now.

Man is this trigger loooong.

I'll try to get some photos up tonight.