when i took my ccw course years ago, my instructor told me to watch this guy for a great example of how to handle firearms and his wealth of information, i’ve been thankful for that recommendation ever since ✌️
Right! As someone who learned to shoot from ignorant people, it's nice to have this guy available. Little sprinkles of knowledge throughout all the videos. And I just love the dude. Super funny and clearly a great man. Reminds me of my grandfather
This was my story - glass broke on other side of my house in a suburb where police response times are 20 minutes. Fortunately it was just an animal, but it changed my perspective in an instant. My wife and I both went out and got lessons and then our conceal licenses and now each have a gun on us at all times and one hidden in just about every room.
I've owned basically everything in this category, didn't find hardly anything to dislike about most brands. I absolutely won't be getting rid of my Sig P365, love that little gun.
I carried a P365 for a while, then I got a 43X, and haven't put the P365 back on in a while. The poly frame is more comfy for carry, and I think it's a little easier to grip/shoot due to longer grip and slightly heavier weight. These are the top two subcompacts on the market right now, so really you're a winner with either one. P365 is excellent.
Everything about hickok reminds me of my grandfather - the passion, the sharpshooting, the knowledgebase, the gun collection, the demeanor, and even the physical stature. They're so similar that I do believe the universe would implode if hickok45 and my grampa were brought together
I went to a gun show intending to buy a .357 snub nose revolver. While shopping a gun dealer had me compare the weight of a stainless snub nose .357 with a S&W 637 air weight .38 +P revolver. The dealer pointed out that you're going to quickly grow tired of the weight of the .357 and the .38 +P loaded with hollow point bullets can stop most threats short of a bear. That was about 10 years ago. I own 11 hand guns and three of them are S&W .38 +P air weights. 99% of the time, I carry an air weight. And now my girl friend has taken to carrying one of my air weights. It hard to beat the simplicity, light weight, easy concealability, and adequate stopping power. And they are surprisingly accurate for such a short sight radius. The S&W air weight is a great choice for a pocket pistol.
Check the weight of the 340PD. Expensive but full airweight with a 357. I agree about the weight, I used to carry a Taurus 5 shot snub nose 357. I just liked the option to load 357 if needed.
Everyone would probably come down to a different final choice on this, but it was fun to watch you agonize and get your brief insights on each of these. Thanks, Hickok!
Love these “Last one I would sell” videos. Not much of a pocket carry guy but when I do it is the 642. Thanks for all of your work sharing these videos with us.
100%. Falling on to harder times because we're building back better Brandon Style, last week I sold my 642 to a family member. My pocket carry now is the P365 XL, which I would go back and forth with the 642 depending on attire and rock paper scissors. Hate to see it go but it's still in the family. Definitely can't go wrong with either of the two. I guess my other consolation is I still have my M351 Airlite, basically the twin of a 442, but a seven shot .22 magnum.
@@notunauthorized $440 with a box of ammo. It is the 642 Performance Center. Being in law enforcement, he has more use for it than it sitting in my safe most of the time.
I own my S&W 642 because of you. Many many videos back you convinced me to buy one. I still love that little revolver! Glad to see you still do as well.
Hickok45 is absolutely the BEST "gun person" on UA-cam, IMHO. I may not always agree with him, but I know without a doubt he knows his stuff! What I really like is that most of his videos are aimed at normal people, not the ones who think you need expensive guns and expensive aftermarket thingies to enjoy shooting, and shooting quite well.
I bought my first gun at a gun show over this past weekend. I had narrowed it down to 4 different options that were present at the show and did some research on fair prices, problems each one has, etc. These were: Accutek AT380 Diamondback DB380 Ruger LCP Max Glock 42 The AT380 fails to feed 2 out of every 3 rounds The DB380 has an overwhelming tendency to blow up The LCP Max and G42 were solid options without any major problems. At this point, it was personal preference. The LCP Max was just a little too short of a grip and just too darn light. I was not confident in my ability to hold and shoot it in a self defense situation (hands shaking, things like that) without it jamming up, so I went with the Glock 42 and I'm really happy with it.
nice. i just got the 642. it fits in all my pockets, even my light shorts, and does not weight the pants down, not worried about it going off in my pocket, not jamming, etc... i am definitely more confident with it than any other gun i have put in my pocket.
As a familiar saying goes, "the best pistol is the one you have with you." The NAA .22-mag 5-shot revolver for example, provides near maximum concealability, comfort, and reliability. Derringer size rim-fire handguns may not be ideal for "primary carry", but one thing is certain: there is no excuse not to have it with you! I have a 642, but usually carry a Ruger LCR-X (3") in the front pocket most of the time. It is actually a few ounces less than the 642 and has a single action exposed hammer option if more precise accuracy is needed.
I’m a certified Sig 365 Armor. They are great guns, I’ve carried Sig’s on duty as a law enforcement officer for almost three decades. But the pocket gun I carry on my days off is a 5 shot revolver for the exact reasons you mentioned. Some great guns on the table but I absolutely agree. It will function, and a pocket gun is absolutely a defensive tool.
@@demapples6580to be fair he meant offensive as the opposite of defensive. The answer to that question of why you would be on the attack rather than the defense would be in maybe a mass shooting situation. You would be defending life but you might be seeking and finding the attacker which someone might say you are on the offensive rather than a defensive shooting situation.
I won't give up my Ruger LCP .380 Perfect little carry piece. Yes the trigger pull is long especially on the first shot but that is what makes it safer to carry with a round in the chamber in a pocket holster in my pocket. No racking the slide to chamber a round when drawing it and no safety to fiddle with simply pull it out and it's ready to fire. Exactly like a double action revolver.
My neighbor introduced me to this little treasure. You're absolutely correct about how great it is for carrying in your pocket. I have accidentally dropped it on a hard floor with one in the chamber and it didn't go off. The trigger-pull situation is a weird one, and I'm a weirdo for playing with it while it's in my pocket. I pull the trigger all the way until it resists, over and over sometimes. wtf is wrong with me. But anyway, it's a great little gun. Be sure to clean it every month, because if you carry it in your pocket, lint will gather in the tiniest places all over the gun.
My wife's car gun is a TCP, which I prefer to the LCP. I'm definitely more a fan of ruger and she got me a beretta pico for my birthday, but that short pull on the taurus is great. Picked up a stainless p232 as a glovebox item, but I can't bear leave it in there, so I'm back to nothing until either said pico firing pin spring comes in or I get that 5.5 lb kit for the kel tec p11.
@@yeeeehaaawbuddy I purchased some .380 ACP 'snap caps' (dummy rounds) to practice getting used to the trigger pull on my LCP. They are Tipton brand with an actual brass cartridge head and spring loaded 'primer' that absorbs the impact of the firing pin. Of course since they don't fire thus won't cycle the action: have to rack the slide manually for each shot but they are quite useful for safely practicing the trigger pull and hold.
I thought because you being old school you were going to choose the wheel gun but tactical tactically you would have chosen the Sig P365 due to the 12+1 round capacity as well as the option to carry many more magazines and 15 or 17 round magazines as well but you went the direction I thought you might go! All that being said, I’m a retired Special Forces weapons Sergeant and I have a lot of respect for your opinion and perspective!
The P365 X and XL are my two favorite EDC tools. I added the MagGuts + 2 conversion kit to my factory magazines to achieve a 14+1 capacity in the same small form factor. Lots of capacity in an accurate and reliable 9mm.
I've been watching this channel for years, and your marksmanship never ceases to absolutely amaze me. Thank you for all of the effort you've put into publishing all of this and sharing your range with all of us.
I wasn't surprised with Hickok's final choice. Bought a 642 a couple of years ago for hot weather carry and fell in love with it. It fits my hand perfectly and contrary to everything I had heard, has a good double action trigger and very controllable recoil. I also found the 642 surprisingly easy to shoot accurately out to 10 yards.
My go-to pocket tool is a S&W 638. It is small, super light, and handy. I also shoot it well. I installed a Hip-Clip so that it will sit inside my waistband but also fits well in a pocket.
@@shootermcgavin4090 For all of the chest thumpers, please argue with my petite wife who carries a snubbie in her purse, you Neanderthals. You’re the kind who give gun owners a bad name. Go back to your caves.
This would be such a difficult choice for me. I know what my late father would have chosen, his S&W .32-20 revolver, & 1893 Winchester .32-20! I would only be able to narrow it down to 1 revolver, 1 semi-auto, and 1 bolt-action, and even that would be nearly impossible for me, lol!
This guy just has fun gotta love it. There's so many different channels these days reviewing guns and air guns alike but hickok45 was doing it before all of them, so pay homage.
That was a serious problem. Very difficult choice to make but I feel you made the right choice. +P is a game changer although having 12 vs. 5 rounds made the final choice very hard to make. Love the 642.
@@pewpewTN i dont shoot myself but i noticed that on some police footage magazines fall out (under stress) then theres cases of failure to feed or eject (altough on a proper gun with the ammo it`s happy with that is going to be extremely rare). On the other hand for a revolver to malfunction i can not think of much more than a bad primer failing to fire where you, albeit less then ideal, just rack it trough. Again i don`t shoot myself just what i hear and see.
@@biggusdickus5986 bro, he missed the first shot with the revolver. I'd hate to face even two perps with just five rounds, heck it might take 5 rounds to bring even one guy down hitting center of mass. I'd argue the other direction. The certainty of 12 over the maybe of 5. But to each their own. The revolver is definitely sexier
I like the LCP max for pocket carry. I carry with the 12rd mag and a 12rd backup mag. 25rds of underwood is nothing to scoff at. I'd love if kahr made a double stack it would be on my list cause I love how their guns shoot and feel
I would LOVE to own that gun. But it seems like half of them have major problems when bought brand new. I just can't trust them because Ruger's QC is so bad nowadays. Even if it runs initially, I just don't know if it's going to break a firing pin, mag release or extractor at the wrong time. The forums are filled with bad stories. It sucks because it has the perfect features.
@@JohnB-dr8sk Agreed. I was gonna buy one too because my Glock 43x mos is sometimes just too much for me. But I think I'm gonna have to go with a small revolver.. it's gonna go boom.
@@originalterrorsquad You probably have a good, which is awesome. They seem to be hit or miss. I had a Gen 2 LCP that went back to Ruger 3x because it wouldn't feed ANY ball ammunition. Ruger admitted that the gun was "out of tolerance" and sent me a different gun. The gun they sent was a Ruger 10/22 Takedown. It would have a different zero every time I put the barrel back on regardless of tightening it exactly to Ruger's specs and instructions. It went back 2x to Ruger and yes, that one was ruled "out of spec" as well. I am old enough to remember that unless you bought the cheapest Saturday Night Special out there, it was unheard of for so many major guns from major companies to have QC issues like this. People would have flipped out back then. I'm to the point where I look for used guns from original owners from 10-15 years ago and older. Glock has largely escaped this I think because of being made in Austria, but even they have had more problems than they used to. I think too many young workers are smoking too much weed, partying and drinking too much and not getting enough sleep and it's directly affecting the QC of modern guns.
@@lilwhitey6530 Smart choice Lil. The only pocket guns (outside of revolvers) that were ever reliable for me were the Kel Tec P-32 and the Beretta Jetfire 25ACP. I think that's because their lower powered cartridges are less stressful on guns that size and cause less malfunctions. I wish Charter Arms revolvers had better QC because they make some really cool lightweight 32's that would be perfect for this role. Smith does make a 7 round 22 Mag snubnose which is awesome but still too under-powered. Ruger has a 6 shot 327 but it's like 18 ounces. Not much to choose from if you want good power and more than 5 rounds capacity unfortunately. But a good Smith or Ruger revolver in 38 Special will always go bang and that alone makes them a great choice.
After carrying a M60 every day for 40 years I have certainly grown to love it. That said, 4 years ago I took the P365 (standard version) plunge and never looked back. 10+1 (or 12+1 - and now 17 round mag's available) smaller, lighter, flatter, better sights, less recoil, night sights, faster reloads, and more than twice the ammo on board. As much as I would not sell my M60, I would not carry it anymore as long as my P365 is available to carry. Yes.... the M60 was a faithful companion but is now totally outclassed by the Sig P365. Gotta change with the times!
My P365 and 2 others took shits at a 16 hour class a few weeks ago. Myself and one of those people ended up at another 16 hour class last weekend and we both had Glock 19’s.
@@JonCampo91 How is that relevant to a personal defense pocket pistol that will *at most* fire a dozen or so rounds in a real fight? It's not relevant. This video is not "best high round count in a short timeframe pistol"
@@Valorius My wife and I each have a P365 - hers has 1,200+rds through it, mine about 800. Neither have had any failures of any kind whatsoever, great firearms. Mine fits in my pocket with a pocket holster and the 12rd mag totally concealed, and I'm a thin guy. Hope you enjoy yours as much as we enjoy ours!
My 43X has easily become my favorite and most loved “pocket pistol” and out of all that I’ve traded and sold over the years, it’s remained in my collection and my EDC Rotation.
I like my 43x but I do not see it as a pocket pistol. I carry it on my belt. Replaced a Glock 23 40 cal with it for every day belt carry. Just as several others he mentions as pocket pistols. For me to pocket carry for a while it was a Kel-tek 40 cal or an AMT 380 DAO. I just switched to the Ruger LCP 380 max. Very light weight and a 10 or 12 round magazine.
What holster do you use with your 43x? My Hawg holster hurts and too frugal to get a T1C for it. I'm carrying my G19 with a T1C because it's comfortable.
My first pistol in 1980 was a Browning Hi-Power back when all my gun nut friends recommended .45 ACP or .357 magnum revolver. I figured I’d be more accurate with the Hi-Power and being able to carry 13 shots would make up for any supposed lack of “stopping power”. I understood physics and realized the lighter, faster 9mm bullet actually had more 1/2(Mass*Velocity^2) striking force than .45 ACP and the Hi-Power was the last gun Browning designed so I figured maybe he had made some improvements over his 1911 design. A year later I spotted a lightweight .25 ACP Baby Browning which has and aluminum alloy frame, nickel plated slide, 24kt gold plated trigger and faux pearl grips. Being a Browning fanboy and known it had been banned from import in 1968 purchased it for $125 as a collectible. In 2016 when I moved to VA, a state where I could conceal carry, selected a Walther PPS (mk1) because of the paddle mag release and adjustable backstrap, ideal because I have hands with long palms and short fingers and thumb. When completing in IPSC with my Hi-Power I needed to flip the gun in my hand to reach the release button. Something I thought as I examined one in person for the first time was, “Hmm, this is probably the pistol Browning would had designed next had he lived longer.” A few years ago I came across Browning’s 1927 patent for what became the Hi-Power and discovered it had actually been designed by him as a single-stack striker fire 9mm with the new locking barrel design both my Hi-Power and PPS have - as do most 9mm pistols today. The gun in the patent is much closer to the design of the Walther PPS than my FN Hi-Power. I never saw the need for more than those three guns which makes it easy to decide which would be the last to sell - none of them!
My elderly uncle was rushed to the hospital where a nurse said she was taking his pistol and he said you might want this one to as he pulled it from a different pocket
Depends on the person. Hickok is like 6’6 so probably for him. I’ve tried to pocket carry mine and it’s doable but definitely not comfortable or fast to draw but I’m only 5’7
A pocket pistol is for one thing, emergency situations, which will likely be less than 10 feet. So the most important factors in choosing a pocket gun is ease of access, familiar with its handling, to be able to quickly pull it and use it, and HIT with it. I use a CZ 2075 d Rami. My wife uses a ruger lcr. I like the cz 2075d auto as i am a lifelong experienced shooter. A decocker with no safety. Pull it, point it, pull the trigger. Excellent pocket pistol for me. My wife, a relative newb. She can fit the ruger lcr in a pocket, or purse. Its pull it, point it, pull the trigger. No brainer. Easy to maintain handle & clean. I added a truglo sight. She is also very comfortable & accurate shooting it. Perfect for her. She loves it. So the perfect pocket pistol is very subjective to the users experience. I dont need a table full of pocket pistols. I just need ONE really good one.😊
The gen 2, LCP-1, with the updated trigger (distinguished by the dash in the serial number) is STILL an awesome carry gun... esp here in the deep south, when summer time concealment requires comfort as a necessity. You can't beat it. If you need a gun, you can wear it with any attire, guaranteed. Love that little LCP. It's saved my butt once alone, along with myself and my son another time. Both times I thank God I left the house with it. That little thing easily proved it's worth when other larger, more cumbersome guns, were left at home bc of the extra weight and hassle. I pray I never have to draw it again though, talk about nerve racking... 😬
I also live in the south and carry the LCP 2, with laser sight. The heat and humidity in the summer is brutal! I have had to pull the pistol out, once, as a “deterrent” to protect my family, but glad I didn’t need to do anymore.
I am familiar with most other guns on the table and I agree that 642 is the best one made. However I carry the glock 43x and the original LCP but I want upgrade to the LCP max that comes with a 10 & 12 round magazine and get the sig that holds 17 magazines.
Great presentation again with folksy wit and a great sense of humor. Also when I saw that 642 in the line up, and being a long time fan ... I knew that was it.
Knowing how you feel about revolvers and especially s&w revolvers, coupled with the fact that you were handling the 642 at the beginning, I just knew you were going to choose the 642.
Great choice! I have the 642 equal - the black 442 engraved with rosewood grips. But, also the Kimber DCR polished stainless 357 mag. - nice winter gun to penetrate heavy clothing. But again the Sig X macro if the pants allow. But still again, my LCR Max fits really anywhere. Too many choices for sure and too much fun!
Who else was at the edge of their seat for the last two choice? Last two are my exact combo. One will keep you going in war while the other will definitely be closeup and personal with no thinking required….just point and shot.
@@burnthompson286 yes, they’ve carried them in certain circumstances, when was the last time handguns were used extensively to eliminate the enemy in war? I’d say 5000-1 rifle-handgun? You disagree?
@@AK-ky3ou Well you can quote the statistics, but the question is whether or not youd bring a certain handgun into battle, not that youd replace a rifle with it
how on earth can a hammerless revolver be double action? that would make it a single action only. (edit -> for all y’all that are confused, just like I was, there are some great explanations on why I am wrong below. thanks for the help guys, seriously✊🏼)
Hickok, you just put a smile on my face. I own and really like your choice #4, the Ruger LCP Max. This is a great little pocket pistol that sells for a very reasonable price. Very dependable and with the addition of a laser, I shoot if very accurately.
I daily carry my Ruger LCP (Gen 1) - it makes sense to carry something small and lightweight in my climate, where one wears T-shirt and shorts regularly. Love it!
I still carry an LCP. It's a pajama gun no matter what I''m armed. Second choice is the revolver (not necessarily in the pocket). Both took some practice to shoot but great reliability.. Thanks for the videos over the years. Still got a drawer full plus of bad holsters lol. Take care and God bless.
The moment I saw the lineup I knew which one you would choose and I wasn’t wrong! Long time fan of Hickok45 and I believe I’m beginning to know you Sir.
For me, the *Ruger LCP max* has rendered all other pocket pistols obsolescent. 13 shots, 15 oz fully loaded, with night sights....It's not even close. I have a whole playlist uploaded on the pistol.
Agreed, if the perfect balance exists (well it doesnt but roll with it lol) Ruger absolutely nailed it this time. Its everything I want in a small carry gun. 13 rounds of Underwood +P in a pistol that small and light is something that was only theoretical like 15 years ago.
@@nomorerainbows Underwood 380 +P 90 Grain Lehigh Xtreme. These little bastards are dope. They penetrate as well as FMJ (which is a problem some people have with 380 hollow points) yet it creates a larger wound channel because of the flutes creating hydrostatic pressure waves in soft tissue. At like 280 ft lbs it approaches 38 special which no one has a problem with as a defense round. Its expensive but so is my life lol
I'm close to your age. Retired police officer, and I've been carrying concealable firearms all my adult life. I agree with your choice. I routinely carry a S&W Model 638 in my pocket. I also agree with your thoughts about choosing your weapon depending on where you're going and your attire. Most of my life now is "low risk", and the Model 638 is enough for me, although I carry a reload for it in my cargo pocket just in case. But if I'm going somewhere a little more "higher risk", I switch to a Glock 26 which is also a great gun, and I'll take along a spare magazine. I have a Glock magazine extension that provides for a better grip and also creates room for two more rounds in the magazine. With one in the chamber, it holds 13. It is very accurate and very reliable. If I could only have one of them, it would be a very hard choice for sure. Cheers!
Mr Hickok, your collection of pocket handguns is very nice. I only have three four contenders since my ruger security 380 is most likely too large for pocket carry (love that gun). I primarily rotated pocket carry between my cz 2075 rami and sw m&p 45 shield. Once in a while I carried my magnum research 45 desert eagle 1911 Undercover, which is pretty comfortable in a larger pocket. All were comfortable pocket carry’s until I purchased my lcp max. The ruger is so much smaller and lighter I carry it more and do not worry about printing. Maybe 380 is not as power-full as 9mm or 45 acp but I would not want to get shot with it. On the verge of 68 and still feel young during target practice.
I was shocked when you settled on the S&W 642 because my favorite carry gun is the S&W 442 and a few speed loaders. A lot of people told my that I am stupid for carrying my five shot revolver, but it is so light that I won't leave it at home. However, if I maybe going in areas that may require more ammo, my S&W Shield, Glock 19, or Sig P365 are in my vehicle to strap on if need be (but not all at once). I carry for the occasion, but I love my 442 the most. Another great video as usual. Thank you again!
Yeah, a lot of people envision that major shoot-out / engagement they're possibly going to experience. I understand that anything is possible in this world, but for an armed citizen in the real world, we just want to get out of a situation with our lives. We're not going to be going on the offensive. The only exception to that would be the even more unlikely event where we happen to be in position to save a lot of innocent kids or others by taking major action in a mall or something. Again, probably a better chance of getting struck by lightening. But, all that said, everybody has to make their own choices and do what feels right. I sometimes pack a 10 - 15 shot 9mm when I'm going certain places, and when I'm in the mountains, I usually go with a 10mm.
The 642 would be my choice too. A snubby is so handy and entirely adequate in most circumstances. Pocket guns are either a backup or an interim choice.
5 rounds are a terrible idea... ask any cop that has been in a shooting. This idea that if you need a bunch of shots then you are a bad shot is a terrible idea. Stop it with the fuddery.
A .380 will blow through a piece of 2-inch-thick pressure-treated lumber at 10 paces. (That's outside powder-burn distance.) You will not be under gunned.
@@noneshere with the advances in ammo, just like how 9mm got better, some .380 ammo performs exactly like standard pressure 9mm. There is a reason they call it 9mm short in some other countries.
@Steven I carry Liberty ammunition in all my firearms. They have some of the best results for expansion. They also travel much faster with a very large wound channel.
@@ko4otv43 Im just going to point some facts to you real fast. You can do your own research as I don't expect you to take my word. #1. Temporary wound cavity is not the same as permanent. A temporary wound cavity usually only becomes permanent at over 2,100 fps. This is NOT 2,100 fps at the barrel, or even 20 ft away. This means the bullet must CONTINUE traveling over 2,100 fps while traveling at least multiple inches through the subject. A bullet that records 2,100 fps at the barrel is not going to do this after initial impact as it will dramatically start slowing down. #2. The FBI established a minimum of 12 inches of penetration for a bullet to meet their standards for being classified as an effective "stopper". This is because the bullet usually has to travel through bone, often firearms, as well as ribs, to reach vital organs. Liberty's ammo from all the tests I watched usually hits 11 inches at the most. It's close, but not quite there. #3. As I stated above in #2, these rounds very commonly come in contact with bones, which is never demonstrated in ballistic gel tests. However, what any professional hunter will tell you we have learned over the last hundred years, is lighter weight (grains) far more often are thrown off course by impacting hard objects, such as bone, or in some cases, completely stopped after hitting a second bone (remember the forearm and rib above?). #4. A round with such a high velocity, especially coming out of a pistol, used in house, where more than likely you won't have hearing protection on as you were most likely caught off guard in a self defense situation, and with most homes having tile or hard wood floors, at those velocities, from that short of a barrel, that pistol is likely to be the last thing you ever hear go off for the rest of your life, especially if you fire it multiple times. Now compare that to say a 90 grain .380 Hornady XTP round that is moving only 1,000 fps (naturally subsonic), and it will be significantly more quiet. These are just things you might want to consider.
I've said it before and I'll say it again: Hickock with 5 rounds of .38 in a 642 is WAY more lethal than I am with 15 rounds of 9MM in a G19. I have a LOT to learn.
Im assuming that I am an average size guy at 5 11” 170lbs. How many of you out there comfortably carry and not print in pockets 43x/ p365 XL gun sizes(except Sasquatch size 6’6” and bigger wearing xxl tshirts) ? The best true pocket pistol for the most should be the LCP MAX with some underwood XP AND FEDERAL HST.
I'd pick the Ruger lcp max with a 12 round mag. The extra grip length you get from the 12 round mag makes a huge difference for me. This is The gun to take into places where concealment is top priority, and theres no metal detectors. This weapon is comfortable enough to wear around the house 24/7, and that alone makes it more beneficial than the ar-15 in your safe.
Great breakdown!! The one gun I was shocked you didnt address is the Sig P238. Easily my fave pocket carry. The p365 is my fave appendix but even at a .380 6 rnd capacity that little p238 is an excellent weapon!
A SAO is generally a poor DGU choice for all but the most experienced shooters. It's absolutely gorgeous in the hands of a person brought up with SA guns. It's a dead man's gun to the younger crowd. I can't tell you how many times in my classes that I've yelled gun, gun, gun only to have the younger SA fans bring up a pistol with the safety on trying like hell to get a shot off. The 60-year-old crowd gets it right every time. I've also kicked a ton of folks off the range for attempts to reholster with the safety off - over and over again.
@@matthewf532Well U don't think he even knows what he's writing lol or talking about for that matter. Kicking somone off the range for holstering their gun with the safety off" I guess he kicks a shit load of people off the range. Lol
Is the P365 noticeably bigger and heavier than the p238? I am looking for a smaller cc and my mom has a p238 and I looked up the dimensions on the p365 to compare and they are within fractions of an inch.
Absolutely love the p365x with 17rd backup mag 30 rounds easy carry and can always throw on my p365 grip if ever need a shorter grip Also love it has a thumb safety that can be engaged while loading a round and unloading the chamber.
I have the LCP Max and love its concealability. But I've done a lot to it. Rear tritium night sights, a short stroke trigger and a 13 Lbs. recoil spring.
I would've chosen the Kimber K6S over the 642. 6 shots of .357 or .38+p versus just 5 shots of .38+p. The latter is 9 ounces lighter, but I don't mind the weight.
I would choose the same exact one. Out of all of the weapons I have and carry on a daily basis my Smith & Wesson hammerless air weight is my go-to pocket gun. It's so small lightweight and compact I often forget I have it in my pocket
642 is a great choice for any type of carry. I love the light weight as a backup ankle carry when needed. I’m a die hard P365 fan as my main carry. The 365 has won me over since SIG fixed the initial issues.
@@calii007 I would go look at both and hold them. Pick the one that’s the best fit for you. I have small hands. The XL was to big for my hand. I shot better with the regular P365 so I chose it. It’s been a good choice for me.
I’ve been team Ruger lcp since the beginning. Had the original model till late 2020. But recently bought a used LCP Custom ( with the red trigger) for $90 used. Happy to have an LCP again for pocket carry
@@hickok45And in Russia it’s just an unrealizable dream today to have a legally personal weapon, because Russia, as it was an empire of not freedom, evil, corruption, and slavery, has remained, I myself am from the North Caucasus, from the Republic of Ingushetia !!!
You won't be disappointed with the LCP custom (red trigger) I've been carrying it everyday since 2016, but last year I got my wife the 642 and liked it so much I go one too. Now I carry it the most and LCP custom a close 2nd. Take your Ruger to the range and a person can get real accurate with it. I like to practice at 15 yards on a 10 inch steel plate all day making it ring.
I don't always agree with your point of view but damn I love your practical disposition because everybody else in this nation has their head up their ass as they lie to themselves
I've carried a couple of 642's, a model 66, model 640, RIA M206, two different SP101's, and an early model Shield 9mm in the pocket. Many of them are 23-26 ounces. While I haven't owned the Kimber K6S, I don't think I would have eliminated it. 6 shots of .357 is hard to beat. Also, I'd still have the option of .38+p. That said, your final choice was a good one. Of what I have for pocket options, the S&W model 640 with 5 shots of .357 is my choice.
@@CuarentaZ40 The 642 is far superior to the M206. I was just mentioning various guns i had pocket carried in the past or present. Out of those listed, I'm pleased with the S&W model 640. It may be 9 ounces heavier than the 642, but I have the option of .357 Magnum loads. It's also stainless versus aluminum.
Anything in 9mm is a little big for me to pocket carry. I go between a S&W 637 and a Beretta Pico. I can’t bring myself to carry a striker fired pistol in my pocket, I just like something double action.
I’m surprised the Hellcat didn’t hang longer in the battle! I’ve owed a lot of pocket pistols and prefer them for EDC! I haven’t left the house without my hellcat since I got it 2 years ago amazing gun fun to shoot and extremely reliable!
I never thought much of revolvers until buying my wife a 8 shot Taurus 942. It not only became her favorite but I also love it. Never thought I’d love a revolver.
I bet you would like the Smith and Wesson bodyguard 2.0 which I just bought it because it was cheap but boy does it feel good in the hands it’s a very small gun
I have the Shield like you and the Shield+. I love the extra rounds with the plus but the Shield just fits me better and feels better? My favorite Shield is the .45! Give that one a look?
Thanks for that video! That's the pocket pistol I bought due to it's compact hammerless design and cheaper ammo. I knew a US Martial that kept one in his front pocket everywhere he went. You couldn't even see anything. I have short arms so my jacket sleeves are always too long. Sucked growing up. On the bright side, that makes it easy to hold this snubby gun with your finger off the trigger inside my sleeve. Or, I can let go of it into a convenient pocket if I need to use my hand. So I don't even have to draw if needed; just aim and shoot if attacked (I only do this in sketchy gas stations late at night). I just wish it were as accurate as you can shoot it in your video. Mine is quite "snappy". Hard to hollow out the center of a target! But will definitely hit center mass if close and needed.
Yeah, I've been following H45 since around 2010 when I received my carry permit in TN. Had a feeling he'd go with the 642. Learned a shtton from him. He's the reason I got a Mosin-Nagant 91/30. I'm a bicycle commuter and my route took me through a couple sketchy neighborhoods. Got into a dicey situation I was fortunate to escape, so that pushed me over the edge. I refused to be a victim. My EDC combo was a P32 and P11 for warm and cold weather. Wore the 9 in a Galco Classic knock off. Then after watching a H45 video I dropped the 9 for EDC and got a LCR 38. Modified the holster to fit and picked up a revolver reloader I kept in the inner pocket of my cycling jacket. I feel the same way. My LCR would go last for sure.
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
when i took my ccw course years ago, my instructor told me to watch this guy for a great example of how to handle firearms and his wealth of information, i’ve been thankful for that recommendation ever since ✌️
Me too
Great homework assignment 👍
That's a good instructor
Right! As someone who learned to shoot from ignorant people, it's nice to have this guy available. Little sprinkles of knowledge throughout all the videos. And I just love the dude. Super funny and clearly a great man. Reminds me of my grandfather
He told you to watch UA-cam videos haha he should be fired
I have never owned a gun in my life. Walked in on a home invasion.I Did my research and I picked that little 38 you picked. I love it.
This was my story - glass broke on other side of my house in a suburb where police response times are 20 minutes. Fortunately it was just an animal, but it changed my perspective in an instant. My wife and I both went out and got lessons and then our conceal licenses and now each have a gun on us at all times and one hidden in just about every room.
Am 67 yrs old. Never shot a gun in my life. Watching this guy explain and shoot makes me want to get one.
Go buy one, you wont regret it. be an American!
You're missing out on an amazing culture & a fantastic hobby. It's never too late.
One of the most thrilling and enjoyable hobbies in America. Also to mention protection
You should! It is a lot of fun and the community is supportive. Just be safe
You would really enjoy it.
Yay! You chose my edc. I like the simplicity and reliability. Aim and shoot. No chambering a round, no safety, no jamming.
ONLY FIVE SHOT DOUBLE ACTION ONLY ISTOTAL BULLSHIT
@GIJ-z2k No it's not. An old timer told me long ago, the best gun in a bad situation, is the one you have on you.
You can also shoot a hammer less revolver through a jacket pocket … if need be .
@@GIJ-z2kLook up how many shoots are fired in self defence situations. It’s between 1 and 3.
5/6 shoots are plenty
That’s how I feel about my glock43x and I get to carry with 11 or even 16 rounds
I've owned basically everything in this category, didn't find hardly anything to dislike about most brands. I absolutely won't be getting rid of my Sig P365, love that little gun.
I carried a P365 for a while, then I got a 43X, and haven't put the P365 back on in a while. The poly frame is more comfy for carry, and I think it's a little easier to grip/shoot due to longer grip and slightly heavier weight. These are the top two subcompacts on the market right now, so really you're a winner with either one. P365 is excellent.
You'll get rid of it when it starts to rust
@@PrussianPushma what are you going on about, even if qc isn't great they can just get it treated
Think I’m gonna get one
Hickok45 is my second most beloved old timer besides my 83 year old grandfather. God bless them both.
Everything about hickok reminds me of my grandfather - the passion, the sharpshooting, the knowledgebase, the gun collection, the demeanor, and even the physical stature.
They're so similar that I do believe the universe would implode if hickok45 and my grampa were brought together
Man, I've been watching this channel for over 10 years now.
Learned a lot in the time.
I went to a gun show intending to buy a .357 snub nose revolver. While shopping a gun dealer had me compare the weight of a stainless snub nose .357 with a S&W 637 air weight .38 +P revolver. The dealer pointed out that you're going to quickly grow tired of the weight of the .357 and the .38 +P loaded with hollow point bullets can stop most threats short of a bear. That was about 10 years ago. I own 11 hand guns and three of them are S&W .38 +P air weights. 99% of the time, I carry an air weight. And now my girl friend has taken to carrying one of my air weights. It hard to beat the simplicity, light weight, easy concealability, and adequate stopping power. And they are surprisingly accurate for such a short sight radius. The S&W air weight is a great choice for a pocket pistol.
Check the weight of the 340PD. Expensive but full airweight with a 357. I agree about the weight, I used to carry a Taurus 5 shot snub nose 357. I just liked the option to load 357 if needed.
But do you have that 340PD?
@@jeffshealy1148What moron wants a $1200 snubby that ways 4 ounces and shoots .357?
I passed up a s&w airweight for a keltec p11. Seems like it would be decent, but I'm a snob for SAA clones and don't like revolvers that aren't 45lc.
351PD is a goody.
I bought my S&W 442-1 in the 90's as my regular off-duty carry. Now retired from the P.D., it's still my regular carry. The perfect handgun for me.
Everyone would probably come down to a different final choice on this, but it was fun to watch you agonize and get your brief insights on each of these. Thanks, Hickok!
Love these “Last one I would sell” videos. Not much of a pocket carry guy but when I do it is the 642. Thanks for all of your work sharing these videos with us.
100%. Falling on to harder times because we're building back better Brandon Style, last week I sold my 642 to a family member. My pocket carry now is the P365 XL, which I would go back and forth with the 642 depending on attire and rock paper scissors.
Hate to see it go but it's still in the family. Definitely can't go wrong with either of the two.
I guess my other consolation is I still have my M351 Airlite, basically the twin of a 442, but a seven shot .22 magnum.
@77Infidel how much did uou sell your 642 for
@@notunauthorized $440 with a box of ammo. It is the 642 Performance Center. Being in law enforcement, he has more use for it than it sitting in my safe most of the time.
I've watched many gun reviews on UA-cam, and after all that you still have the best gun range setup I've seen. Thanks for what you do.
The Cowboy was threatening us!
@@andrewpeyton5167 It was Curly Bill Brocius!!!! “Well…bye.”
@@andrewpeyton5167o
22 plinkster has a range pretty similar to Hickock 45
I own my S&W 642 because of you. Many many videos back you convinced me to buy one. I still love that little revolver! Glad to see you still do as well.
There was never any doubt that he would choose a revolver.
14:22 Jon notices his dad grabs the wrong mag, pans in on the correct mag, then lets his dad go thru the process of figuring it out 😂
LOL
@ThatsPety glad you appreciate that as much as I did 😂🤣
"Is that a pistol in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?"
"Oh, that's a pocket pistol"
"Oh..."
Both! It IS a pocket pistol, but I'm still happy to see you! :-)
@@hickok45 The good ending, haha!
"Is that a gun in your pocket or are you happy to see me"
"Both, get in the van"
@@byronhenry6518 That's the bad ending :D
Is that a Glock G40 in your pocket… 😁
Hickok45 is absolutely the BEST "gun person" on UA-cam, IMHO. I may not always agree with him, but I know without a doubt he knows his stuff!
What I really like is that most of his videos are aimed at normal people, not the ones who think you need expensive guns and expensive aftermarket thingies to enjoy shooting, and shooting quite well.
I am blown away (pun) by how good of shot Hickok is with these pocket pistols. The amount of skill needed to hit these targets is insane.
the casual gong hit lol.. also the fact that all of these look like toys in his giant hands.
You can be too! just practice, practice, practice!
revolver is always reliable
Its not "insane"... anyone can do it if you have...
1. Proper Grip
2. Proper trigger PRESS
3. Front sight, front sight, front sight.
Practice.
Really easy to shoot. Really difficult to shoot well.
I bought my first gun at a gun show over this past weekend. I had narrowed it down to 4 different options that were present at the show and did some research on fair prices, problems each one has, etc. These were:
Accutek AT380
Diamondback DB380
Ruger LCP Max
Glock 42
The AT380 fails to feed 2 out of every 3 rounds
The DB380 has an overwhelming tendency to blow up
The LCP Max and G42 were solid options without any major problems. At this point, it was personal preference. The LCP Max was just a little too short of a grip and just too darn light. I was not confident in my ability to hold and shoot it in a self defense situation (hands shaking, things like that) without it jamming up, so I went with the Glock 42 and I'm really happy with it.
I could listen to you talk about anything. Calming, fun and insightful.
nice. i just got the 642. it fits in all my pockets, even my light shorts, and does not weight the pants down, not worried about it going off in my pocket, not jamming, etc... i am definitely more confident with it than any other gun i have put in my pocket.
Where did you purchase this gun?
As a familiar saying goes, "the best pistol is the one you have with you."
The NAA .22-mag 5-shot revolver for example, provides near maximum concealability, comfort, and reliability. Derringer size rim-fire handguns may not be ideal for "primary carry", but one thing is certain: there is no excuse not to have it with you!
I have a 642, but usually carry a Ruger LCR-X (3") in the front pocket most of the time. It is actually a few ounces less than the 642 and has a single action exposed hammer option if more precise accuracy is needed.
I’m a certified Sig 365 Armor. They are great guns, I’ve carried Sig’s on duty as a law enforcement officer for almost three decades. But the pocket gun I carry on my days off is a 5 shot revolver for the exact reasons you mentioned. Some great guns on the table but I absolutely agree. It will function, and a pocket gun is absolutely a defensive tool.
why would you carry offensive pistol as a citizen?
@@paulbunyun3663"offensive" whats so offensive? Its a gun lol
defense and offense it went over your head.@@demapples6580
@@demapples6580to be fair he meant offensive as the opposite of defensive. The answer to that question of why you would be on the attack rather than the defense would be in maybe a mass shooting situation. You would be defending life but you might be seeking and finding the attacker which someone might say you are on the offensive rather than a defensive shooting situation.
Wow the fudd is flowing in this comment section.
I won't give up my Ruger LCP .380 Perfect little carry piece. Yes the trigger pull is long especially on the first shot but that is what makes it safer to carry with a round in the chamber in a pocket holster in my pocket. No racking the slide to chamber a round when drawing it and no safety to fiddle with simply pull it out and it's ready to fire. Exactly like a double action revolver.
My neighbor introduced me to this little treasure. You're absolutely correct about how great it is for carrying in your pocket. I have accidentally dropped it on a hard floor with one in the chamber and it didn't go off. The trigger-pull situation is a weird one, and I'm a weirdo for playing with it while it's in my pocket. I pull the trigger all the way until it resists, over and over sometimes. wtf is wrong with me. But anyway, it's a great little gun. Be sure to clean it every month, because if you carry it in your pocket, lint will gather in the tiniest places all over the gun.
That's called Ukranian roulette
My wife's car gun is a TCP, which I prefer to the LCP. I'm definitely more a fan of ruger and she got me a beretta pico for my birthday, but that short pull on the taurus is great. Picked up a stainless p232 as a glovebox item, but I can't bear leave it in there, so I'm back to nothing until either said pico firing pin spring comes in or I get that 5.5 lb kit for the kel tec p11.
@@ThePulaskiPumper lol
@@yeeeehaaawbuddy I purchased some .380 ACP 'snap caps' (dummy rounds) to practice getting used to the trigger pull on my LCP. They are Tipton brand with an actual brass cartridge head and spring loaded 'primer' that absorbs the impact of the firing pin. Of course since they don't fire thus won't cycle the action: have to rack the slide manually for each shot but they are quite useful for safely practicing the trigger pull and hold.
hickok45, on 2006 I bought the Smith % Wesson 2006 lightweight 637 snub nose / laser beam / 5 shot. I loved it. Thank you and God bless!
I thought because you being old school you were going to choose the wheel gun but tactical tactically you would have chosen the Sig P365 due to the 12+1 round capacity as well as the option to carry many more magazines and 15 or 17 round magazines as well but you went the direction I thought you might go! All that being said, I’m a retired Special Forces weapons Sergeant and I have a lot of respect for your opinion and perspective!
The P365 X and XL are my two favorite EDC tools. I added the MagGuts + 2 conversion kit to my factory magazines to achieve a 14+1 capacity in the same small form factor. Lots of capacity in an accurate and reliable 9mm.
Yes!👍 Wheel guns are comforting and dependable. Especially if you grew up with them.
thank you hickoc. just went through a huge break up and your content never ceases to make me smile. love your videos man.
You still hangin' in there, juders? Keep your chin up.
If I had to choose one UA-camr to watch the rest of my life, it be Hickok45.
I've been watching this channel for years, and your marksmanship never ceases to absolutely amaze me. Thank you for all of the effort you've put into publishing all of this and sharing your range with all of us.
I wasn't surprised with Hickok's final choice. Bought a 642 a couple of years ago for hot weather carry and fell in love with it. It fits my hand perfectly and contrary to everything I had heard, has a good double action trigger and very controllable recoil. I also found the 642 surprisingly easy to shoot accurately out to 10 yards.
My go-to pocket tool is a S&W 638. It is small, super light, and handy. I also shoot it well. I installed a Hip-Clip so that it will sit inside my waistband but also fits well in a pocket.
Snub nose .38. Best “get off me” gun ever.
Spelled .327 wrong.
Spelled 357 wrong.
Spelled .50 AE wrong
@@shootermcgavin4090 For all of the chest thumpers, please argue with my petite wife who carries a snubbie in her purse, you Neanderthals. You’re the kind who give gun owners a bad name. Go back to your caves.
@@MIRROREDRECOLLECTION See my comment to one of your fellow defective imagination trolls.
This would be such a difficult choice for me. I know what my late father would have chosen, his S&W .32-20 revolver, & 1893 Winchester .32-20! I would only be able to narrow it down to 1 revolver, 1 semi-auto, and 1 bolt-action, and even that would be nearly impossible for me, lol!
This guy just has fun gotta love it. There's so many different channels these days reviewing guns and air guns alike but hickok45 was doing it before all of them, so pay homage.
That was a serious problem. Very difficult choice to make but I feel you made the right choice. +P is a game changer although having 12 vs. 5 rounds made the final choice very hard to make. Love the 642.
The certainty of 5 over the maybe of 12 😂
@BiggusDickus How is the 12 a maybe?
I have Semi-Autos that I would be willing to bet a million dollars on them firing the full mag with no issues.
P365 is rated for +P ammo anyways. Not that I think I'd run it out of it, but it can do it.
@@pewpewTN i dont shoot myself but i noticed that on some police footage magazines fall out (under stress) then theres cases of failure to feed or eject (altough on a proper gun with the ammo it`s happy with that is going to be extremely rare). On the other hand for a revolver to malfunction i can not think of much more than a bad primer failing to fire where you, albeit less then ideal, just rack it trough. Again i don`t shoot myself just what i hear and see.
@@biggusdickus5986 bro, he missed the first shot with the revolver.
I'd hate to face even two perps with just five rounds, heck it might take 5 rounds to bring even one guy down hitting center of mass. I'd argue the other direction. The certainty of 12 over the maybe of 5. But to each their own. The revolver is definitely sexier
I like the LCP max for pocket carry. I carry with the 12rd mag and a 12rd backup mag. 25rds of underwood is nothing to scoff at. I'd love if kahr made a double stack it would be on my list cause I love how their guns shoot and feel
I would LOVE to own that gun. But it seems like half of them have major problems when bought brand new. I just can't trust them because Ruger's QC is so bad nowadays. Even if it runs initially, I just don't know if it's going to break a firing pin, mag release or extractor at the wrong time. The forums are filled with bad stories. It sucks because it has the perfect features.
@John B that sucks I've got 900rds through mine I've never had an issue.
@@JohnB-dr8sk Agreed. I was gonna buy one too because my Glock 43x mos is sometimes just too much for me. But I think I'm gonna have to go with a small revolver.. it's gonna go boom.
@@originalterrorsquad You probably have a good, which is awesome. They seem to be hit or miss. I had a Gen 2 LCP that went back to Ruger 3x because it wouldn't feed ANY ball ammunition. Ruger admitted that the gun was "out of tolerance" and sent me a different gun. The gun they sent was a Ruger 10/22 Takedown. It would have a different zero every time I put the barrel back on regardless of tightening it exactly to Ruger's specs and instructions. It went back 2x to Ruger and yes, that one was ruled "out of spec" as well. I am old enough to remember that unless you bought the cheapest Saturday Night Special out there, it was unheard of for so many major guns from major companies to have QC issues like this. People would have flipped out back then. I'm to the point where I look for used guns from original owners from 10-15 years ago and older. Glock has largely escaped this I think because of being made in Austria, but even they have had more problems than they used to. I think too many young workers are smoking too much weed, partying and drinking too much and not getting enough sleep and it's directly affecting the QC of modern guns.
@@lilwhitey6530 Smart choice Lil. The only pocket guns (outside of revolvers) that were ever reliable for me were the Kel Tec P-32 and the Beretta Jetfire 25ACP. I think that's because their lower powered cartridges are less stressful on guns that size and cause less malfunctions. I wish Charter Arms revolvers had better QC because they make some really cool lightweight 32's that would be perfect for this role. Smith does make a 7 round 22 Mag snubnose which is awesome but still too under-powered. Ruger has a 6 shot 327 but it's like 18 ounces. Not much to choose from if you want good power and more than 5 rounds capacity unfortunately. But a good Smith or Ruger revolver in 38 Special will always go bang and that alone makes them a great choice.
After carrying a M60 every day for 40 years I have certainly grown to love it. That said, 4 years ago I took the P365 (standard version) plunge and never looked back. 10+1 (or 12+1 - and now 17 round mag's available) smaller, lighter, flatter, better sights, less recoil, night sights, faster reloads, and more than twice the ammo on board. As much as I would not sell my M60, I would not carry it anymore as long as my P365 is available to carry. Yes.... the M60 was a faithful companion but is now totally outclassed by the Sig P365. Gotta change with the times!
The P365 is not a pocket pistol unless you're a *very* large person.
@@ChrisPBacon741 no they're not. lmao
My P365 and 2 others took shits at a 16 hour class a few weeks ago. Myself and one of those people ended up at another 16 hour class last weekend and we both had Glock 19’s.
@@JonCampo91 How is that relevant to a personal defense pocket pistol that will *at most* fire a dozen or so rounds in a real fight?
It's not relevant. This video is not "best high round count in a short timeframe pistol"
@@Valorius My wife and I each have a P365 - hers has 1,200+rds through it, mine about 800.
Neither have had any failures of any kind whatsoever, great firearms. Mine fits in my pocket with a pocket holster and the 12rd mag totally concealed, and I'm a thin guy. Hope you enjoy yours as much as we enjoy ours!
The LCP Max with the factory 12 round magazine adds a lot of shootability.
Great firearm
The “smoke some pot” line always gets me off guard 😂😂
Your videos are like ASMR. Great voice, the ammo in the metal bowls, the spent brass in the gravel on the ground, the gunshots, all of it
It’s an audio experience for sure, in a good way.
My 43X has easily become my favorite and most loved “pocket pistol” and out of all that I’ve traded and sold over the years, it’s remained in my collection and my EDC Rotation.
I like my 43x but I do not see it as a pocket pistol. I carry it on my belt. Replaced a Glock 23 40 cal with it for every day belt carry. Just as several others he mentions as pocket pistols. For me to pocket carry for a while it was a Kel-tek 40 cal or an AMT 380 DAO. I just switched to the Ruger LCP 380 max. Very light weight and a 10 or 12 round magazine.
43x as pocket? U must be a big guy with ass pants and pockets. U have no sense of fashion. Im sure.
What holster do you use with your 43x?
My Hawg holster hurts and too frugal to get a T1C for it.
I'm carrying my G19 with a T1C because it's comfortable.
My first pistol in 1980 was a Browning Hi-Power back when all my gun nut friends recommended .45 ACP or .357 magnum revolver. I figured I’d be more accurate with the Hi-Power and being able to carry 13 shots would make up for any supposed lack of “stopping power”. I understood physics and realized the lighter, faster 9mm bullet actually had more 1/2(Mass*Velocity^2) striking force than .45 ACP and the Hi-Power was the last gun Browning designed so I figured maybe he had made some improvements over his 1911 design.
A year later I spotted a lightweight .25 ACP Baby Browning which has and aluminum alloy frame, nickel plated slide, 24kt gold plated trigger and faux pearl grips. Being a Browning fanboy and known it had been banned from import in 1968 purchased it for $125 as a collectible.
In 2016 when I moved to VA, a state where I could conceal carry, selected a Walther PPS (mk1) because of the paddle mag release and adjustable backstrap, ideal because I have hands with long palms and short fingers and thumb. When completing in IPSC with my Hi-Power I needed to flip the gun in my hand to reach the release button. Something I thought as I examined one in person for the first time was, “Hmm, this is probably the pistol Browning would had designed next had he lived longer.”
A few years ago I came across Browning’s 1927 patent for what became the Hi-Power and discovered it had actually been designed by him as a single-stack striker fire 9mm with the new locking barrel design both my Hi-Power and PPS have - as do most 9mm pistols today. The gun in the patent is much closer to the design of the Walther PPS than my FN Hi-Power.
I never saw the need for more than those three guns which makes it easy to decide which would be the last to sell - none of them!
My elderly uncle was rushed to the hospital where a nurse said she was taking his pistol and he said you might want this one to as he pulled it from a different pocket
I was very worried that he was going to choose the P365XL, which is too large to be considered a pocket pistol, IMO. I'm glad he settled on the 642.
if it fits in your pocket its a pocket pistol
It's absolutely a pocket pistol, one of the best!
Depends on the person. Hickok is like 6’6 so probably for him. I’ve tried to pocket carry mine and it’s doable but definitely not comfortable or fast to draw but I’m only 5’7
The weight and height are the main restrictions. Don’t really notice the length
I pocket carry a Glock 45. It prints real nice.
I love how we all can appreciate each other's favorite and the fact that our favorites change. For me it's LCR .357
I too carry the LCR the most. I have the 357 but load +p ammo
As soon as I saw that on the table I knew that was the one you’d pick. So easy to carry, it’s an “always gun.”
A pocket pistol is for one thing, emergency situations, which will likely be less than 10 feet.
So the most important factors in choosing a pocket gun is ease of access, familiar with its handling, to be able to quickly pull it and use it, and HIT with it.
I use a CZ 2075 d Rami.
My wife uses a ruger lcr.
I like the cz 2075d auto as i am a lifelong experienced shooter.
A decocker with no safety.
Pull it, point it, pull the trigger. Excellent pocket pistol for me.
My wife, a relative newb. She can fit the ruger lcr in a pocket, or purse.
Its pull it, point it, pull the trigger. No brainer. Easy to maintain handle & clean. I added a truglo sight. She is also very comfortable & accurate shooting it. Perfect for her. She loves it.
So the perfect pocket pistol is very subjective to the users experience.
I dont need a table full of pocket pistols.
I just need ONE really good one.😊
The gen 2, LCP-1, with the updated trigger (distinguished by the dash in the serial number) is STILL an awesome carry gun... esp here in the deep south, when summer time concealment requires comfort as a necessity. You can't beat it. If you need a gun, you can wear it with any attire, guaranteed.
Love that little LCP. It's saved my butt once alone, along with myself and my son another time. Both times I thank God I left the house with it. That little thing easily proved it's worth when other larger, more cumbersome guns, were left at home bc of the extra weight and hassle. I pray I never have to draw it again though, talk about nerve racking... 😬
I also live in the south and carry the LCP 2, with laser sight. The heat and humidity in the summer is brutal! I have had to pull the pistol out, once, as a “deterrent” to protect my family, but glad I didn’t need to do anymore.
I can beat it and did. P3AT
I am familiar with most other guns on the table and I agree that 642 is the best one made. However I carry the glock 43x and the original LCP but I want upgrade to the LCP max that comes with a 10 & 12 round magazine and get the sig that holds 17 magazines.
Great presentation again with folksy wit and a great sense of humor. Also when I saw that 642 in the line up, and being a long time fan ... I knew that was it.
Knowing how you feel about revolvers and especially s&w revolvers, coupled with the fact that you were handling the 642 at the beginning, I just knew you were going to choose the 642.
Me too. I love mine but for a home cushion gun where I sit. Not for a pocket gun definitely. I will carry on hip occasionally.
For some reason so did I
Great choice! I have the 642 equal - the black 442 engraved with rosewood grips. But, also the Kimber DCR polished stainless 357 mag. - nice winter gun to penetrate heavy clothing. But again the Sig X macro if the pants allow. But still again, my LCR Max fits really anywhere. Too many choices for sure and too much fun!
Best choice is to choose both pistols. One for each front pocket. There ya go. Now you have 17 shots.
Who else was at the edge of their seat for the last two choice?
Last two are my exact combo. One will keep you going in war while the other will definitely be closeup and personal with no thinking required….just point and shot.
Who fights wars with handguns?
Walmart wars, the new modern battlefield. Also public restroom wars.
@@AK-ky3ouMilitaries have carried handguns into battle for over 100 years
@@burnthompson286 yes, they’ve carried them in certain circumstances, when was the last time handguns were used extensively to eliminate the enemy in war? I’d say 5000-1 rifle-handgun? You disagree?
@@AK-ky3ou Well you can quote the statistics, but the question is whether or not youd bring a certain handgun into battle, not that youd replace a rifle with it
I'm gonna guess it's going to be a revolver, probably a hammerless double action. That would be my choice for pocket carry.
I knew it. You just can't beat it.
how on earth can a hammerless revolver be double action? that would make it a single action only.
(edit -> for all y’all that are confused, just like I was, there are some great explanations on why I am wrong below. thanks for the help guys, seriously✊🏼)
@@GarciaOnThaBeat Think about what you just said.
@@GarciaOnThaBeat other way around.
@@GarciaOnThaBeat How on earth can you be so stupid?
I'm a big fan of the S.W 642 38 special. It's just the right size and nothing to hangup on. Thanks
That's my favorite carry too. Got Hogue grips and a Wilson spring kit on it. Absolutely love it.
Hickok, you just put a smile on my face.
I own and really like your choice #4, the Ruger LCP Max.
This is a great little pocket pistol that sells for a very reasonable price.
Very dependable and with the addition of a laser, I shoot if very accurately.
i own countless guns, and just picked up a LCP Max for summer carry, outstanding weapon, simple design. And easy to pocket a second mag.
Great review, the 642 is my #1 as well. You should consider doing another video on the subject but keeping the revolvers and semi-autos sepwrate.
Great video! You are one hell of a shooter!! I pocket carry an LCP MAX daily ….I like the smaller footprint in my pocket and the lightweight…
Me and my lcp are inseparable
I daily carry my Ruger LCP (Gen 1) - it makes sense to carry something small and lightweight in my climate, where one wears T-shirt and shorts regularly. Love it!
I still carry an LCP. It's a pajama gun no matter what I''m armed. Second choice is the revolver (not necessarily in the pocket). Both took some practice to shoot but great reliability..
Thanks for the videos over the years. Still got a drawer full plus of bad holsters lol. Take care and God bless.
Convenience will out. Great choice. Surprised he took that off the table first.
Great video as always. Hickok45 is the man.
The moment I saw the lineup I knew which one you would choose and I wasn’t wrong! Long time fan of Hickok45 and I believe I’m beginning to know you Sir.
The S&W 637 Airweight is truly a pocket pistol. No holster needed. Thanks!
Totally one handed- no racking the slide needed
While walking towards the targets, the sound of brass under foot gets me every time. Absolute Beast
For me, the *Ruger LCP max* has rendered all other pocket pistols obsolescent. 13 shots, 15 oz fully loaded, with night sights....It's not even close. I have a whole playlist uploaded on the pistol.
I agree. Not even close.
Agreed, if the perfect balance exists (well it doesnt but roll with it lol) Ruger absolutely nailed it this time. Its everything I want in a small carry gun. 13 rounds of Underwood +P in a pistol that small and light is something that was only theoretical like 15 years ago.
@@sergeantbigmac Which underwood +P do you use?
@@nomorerainbows Underwood 380 +P 90 Grain Lehigh Xtreme. These little bastards are dope. They penetrate as well as FMJ (which is a problem some people have with 380 hollow points) yet it creates a larger wound channel because of the flutes creating hydrostatic pressure waves in soft tissue. At like 280 ft lbs it approaches 38 special which no one has a problem with as a defense round.
Its expensive but so is my life lol
@@sergeantbigmac I'm an Underwood XTP+P guy, Freedom is too, I believe.
I'm close to your age. Retired police officer, and I've been carrying concealable firearms all my adult life. I agree with your choice. I routinely carry a S&W Model 638 in my pocket. I also agree with your thoughts about choosing your weapon depending on where you're going and your attire. Most of my life now is "low risk", and the Model 638 is enough for me, although I carry a reload for it in my cargo pocket just in case. But if I'm going somewhere a little more "higher risk", I switch to a Glock 26 which is also a great gun, and I'll take along a spare magazine. I have a Glock magazine extension that provides for a better grip and also creates room for two more rounds in the magazine. With one in the chamber, it holds 13. It is very accurate and very reliable. If I could only have one of them, it would be a very hard choice for sure. Cheers!
Know how to tell a cop from a citizen.. the cop tells you he's a cop even when nobody asks
Mr Hickok, your collection of pocket handguns is very nice. I only have three four contenders since my ruger security 380 is most likely too large for pocket carry (love that gun). I primarily rotated pocket carry between my cz 2075 rami and sw m&p 45 shield. Once in a while I carried my magnum research 45 desert eagle 1911 Undercover, which is pretty comfortable in a larger pocket. All were comfortable pocket carry’s until I purchased my lcp max. The ruger is so much smaller and lighter I carry it more and do not worry about printing. Maybe 380 is not as power-full as 9mm or 45 acp but I would not want to get shot with it. On the verge of 68 and still feel young during target practice.
I was shocked when you settled on the S&W 642 because my favorite carry gun is the S&W 442 and a few speed loaders. A lot of people told my that I am stupid for carrying my five shot revolver, but it is so light that I won't leave it at home. However, if I maybe going in areas that may require more ammo, my S&W Shield, Glock 19, or Sig P365 are in my vehicle to strap on if need be (but not all at once). I carry for the occasion, but I love my 442 the most. Another great video as usual. Thank you again!
Yeah, a lot of people envision that major shoot-out / engagement they're possibly going to experience. I understand that anything is possible in this world, but for an armed citizen in the real world, we just want to get out of a situation with our lives. We're not going to be going on the offensive.
The only exception to that would be the even more unlikely event where we happen to be in position to save a lot of innocent kids or others by taking major action in a mall or something. Again, probably a better chance of getting struck by lightening.
But, all that said, everybody has to make their own choices and do what feels right. I sometimes pack a 10 - 15 shot 9mm when I'm going certain places, and when I'm in the mountains, I usually go with a 10mm.
I agree as to the last three. I’ve been favoring the Glock 43 xl lately. It also doubles as an appendix CCL.
I'm still amazed at that 2 litter bottle, only the legend Hickok 45 could do that 🤠
The 642 would be my choice too. A snubby is so handy and entirely adequate in most circumstances. Pocket guns are either a backup or an interim choice.
Pocket guns are the one you will most likely have on you.
5 rounds are a terrible idea... ask any cop that has been in a shooting. This idea that if you need a bunch of shots then you are a bad shot is a terrible idea. Stop it with the fuddery.
I just picked up the Ruger LCP Max and it feels and performs flawless. I never thought I'd carry a .380 but with 13 rounds I don't feel under gunned.
A .380 will blow through a piece of 2-inch-thick pressure-treated lumber at 10 paces. (That's outside powder-burn distance.) You will not be under gunned.
@@noneshere with the advances in ammo, just like how 9mm got better, some .380 ammo performs exactly like standard pressure 9mm. There is a reason they call it 9mm short in some other countries.
@KO4OTV just make sure you load it with Hornady XTP hollow points. Go watch "shooting the bull XTP .380 gel test". You're welcome.
@Steven I carry Liberty ammunition in all my firearms. They have some of the best results for expansion. They also travel much faster with a very large wound channel.
@@ko4otv43 Im just going to point some facts to you real fast. You can do your own research as I don't expect you to take my word.
#1. Temporary wound cavity is not the same as permanent. A temporary wound cavity usually only becomes permanent at over 2,100 fps. This is NOT 2,100 fps at the barrel, or even 20 ft away. This means the bullet must CONTINUE traveling over 2,100 fps while traveling at least multiple inches through the subject. A bullet that records 2,100 fps at the barrel is not going to do this after initial impact as it will dramatically start slowing down.
#2. The FBI established a minimum of 12 inches of penetration for a bullet to meet their standards for being classified as an effective "stopper". This is because the bullet usually has to travel through bone, often firearms, as well as ribs, to reach vital organs. Liberty's ammo from all the tests I watched usually hits 11 inches at the most. It's close, but not quite there.
#3. As I stated above in #2, these rounds very commonly come in contact with bones, which is never demonstrated in ballistic gel tests. However, what any professional hunter will tell you we have learned over the last hundred years, is lighter weight (grains) far more often are thrown off course by impacting hard objects, such as bone, or in some cases, completely stopped after hitting a second bone (remember the forearm and rib above?).
#4. A round with such a high velocity, especially coming out of a pistol, used in house, where more than likely you won't have hearing protection on as you were most likely caught off guard in a self defense situation, and with most homes having tile or hard wood floors, at those velocities, from that short of a barrel, that pistol is likely to be the last thing you ever hear go off for the rest of your life, especially if you fire it multiple times. Now compare that to say a 90 grain .380 Hornady XTP round that is moving only 1,000 fps (naturally subsonic), and it will be significantly more quiet.
These are just things you might want to consider.
I've said it before and I'll say it again: Hickock with 5 rounds of .38 in a 642 is WAY more lethal than I am with 15 rounds of 9MM in a G19. I have a LOT to learn.
Im assuming that I am an average size guy at 5 11” 170lbs. How many of you out there comfortably carry and not print in pockets 43x/ p365 XL gun sizes(except Sasquatch size 6’6” and bigger wearing xxl tshirts) ? The best true pocket pistol for the most should be the LCP MAX with some underwood XP AND FEDERAL HST.
Same. Im 5'11 200lbs and I've had a g43x for a while now. It fits comfortable no prints when in my gym shorts and most types of my pants.
First pocket pistol we ever bought and still a go-to
I'd pick the Ruger lcp max with a 12 round mag.
The extra grip length you get from the 12 round mag makes a huge difference for me. This is The gun to take into places where concealment is top priority, and theres no metal detectors. This weapon is comfortable enough to wear around the house 24/7, and that alone makes it more beneficial than the ar-15 in your safe.
I'd pick a Glock G22, full size 40s&w, if accuracy was top priority, while still being mindful of budget, size and weight.
@@kevinclause4p55p5
This is still about pocket-class guns, right?
Great breakdown!! The one gun I was shocked you didnt address is the Sig P238. Easily my fave pocket carry. The p365 is my fave appendix but even at a .380 6 rnd capacity that little p238 is an excellent weapon!
A SAO is generally a poor DGU choice for all but the most experienced shooters. It's absolutely gorgeous in the hands of a person brought up with SA guns. It's a dead man's gun to the younger crowd. I can't tell you how many times in my classes that I've yelled gun, gun, gun only to have the younger SA fans bring up a pistol with the safety on trying like hell to get a shot off. The 60-year-old crowd gets it right every time. I've also kicked a ton of folks off the range for attempts to reholster with the safety off - over and over again.
@@mfuchs2004 Mike, can you please explain your acronyms for “SAO” and “DGU”. I like your feedback but don’t know what those stand for.
Love mine! Best .380 I’ve ever owned
@@matthewf532Well U don't think he even knows what he's writing lol or talking about for that matter. Kicking somone off the range for holstering their gun with the safety off" I guess he kicks a shit load of people off the range. Lol
Is the P365 noticeably bigger and heavier than the p238? I am looking for a smaller cc and my mom has a p238 and I looked up the dimensions on the p365 to compare and they are within fractions of an inch.
Absolutely love the p365x with 17rd backup mag
30 rounds easy carry and can always throw on my p365 grip if ever need a shorter grip
Also love it has a thumb safety that can be engaged while loading a round and unloading the chamber.
Yes 17 rounds is hard to beat
My pocket rocket is either my .380 or my .44 special - all depends on the pockets I'm wearing at the time 😊
I will stick with my 365 as my pocket carry. I am not as great shooter as Hickok so few extra round’s might save my sorry behind in a bad situation 😊
Agreed.....as much as I love my 938 Legion...the 365XL just hunts.
What pants are you wearing for a P365XL to comfortably fit in your actual pocket?
It's definitely got to be the LCP Max. I own the CP365 and the LCP, and you just can't fit the 3365 in most regular size people's pockets.
I have the LCP Max and love its concealability. But I've done a lot to it. Rear tritium night sights, a short stroke trigger and a 13 Lbs. recoil spring.
Hooray for the #1! What a great choice, Hickok! 8D
this released 18 seconds ago
How the hell you posted it 5 hours ago?
I often post videos early on our Patreon channel. Check out the link in the description.
@@randomhobby3729 time traveler
I would've chosen the Kimber K6S over the 642. 6 shots of .357 or .38+p versus just 5 shots of .38+p. The latter is 9 ounces lighter, but I don't mind the weight.
I would choose the same exact one. Out of all of the weapons I have and carry on a daily basis my Smith & Wesson hammerless air weight is my go-to pocket gun. It's so small lightweight and compact I often forget I have it in my pocket
That man can shoot, i rarely see him miss.
Im getting ready ro buy my first pocket carry, thanks for the help.
Hickok45 you are University in every video we learn something interesting ❤thank you for everything you do ❤
The 642 was a great choice. It is the only gun I saw you review that could not be taken away from you. There is nothing for the bad guy to grab.
If you're THAT close, you're TO close!
642 is a great choice for any type of carry. I love the light weight as a backup ankle carry when needed. I’m a die hard P365 fan as my main carry. The 365 has won me over since SIG fixed the initial issues.
P365 or P365XL for my First SIG?
@@calii007 I would go look at both and hold them. Pick the one that’s the best fit for you. I have small hands. The XL was to big for my hand. I shot better with the regular P365 so I chose it. It’s been a good choice for me.
I’ve been team Ruger lcp since the beginning. Had the original model till late 2020. But recently bought a used LCP Custom ( with the red trigger) for $90 used. Happy to have an LCP again for pocket carry
I have one of them with the red trigger, too. It's definitely a good one.
@@hickok45And in Russia it’s just an unrealizable dream today to have a legally personal weapon, because Russia, as it was an empire of not freedom, evil, corruption, and slavery, has remained, I myself am from the North Caucasus, from the Republic of Ingushetia !!!
@@hickok45 would love to see an LCP video showcasing the original LCP, LCP custom, LCPII, and LCP max. How they’ve evolved
You won't be disappointed with the LCP custom (red trigger) I've been carrying it everyday since 2016, but last year I got my wife the 642 and liked it so much I go one too. Now I carry it the most and LCP custom a close 2nd. Take your Ruger to the range and a person can get real accurate with it. I like to practice at 15 yards on a 10 inch steel plate all day making it ring.
I don't always agree with your point of view but damn I love your practical disposition because everybody else in this nation has their head up their ass as they lie to themselves
Just ordered some items to support Alabama holsters. Love the content. Thanks for the invaluable info and expertise
I've carried a couple of 642's, a model 66, model 640, RIA M206, two different SP101's, and an early model Shield 9mm in the pocket. Many of them are 23-26 ounces. While I haven't owned the Kimber K6S, I don't think I would have eliminated it. 6 shots of .357 is hard to beat. Also, I'd still have the option of .38+p. That said, your final choice was a good one. Of what I have for pocket options, the S&W model 640 with 5 shots of .357 is my choice.
642 or the RIA M206?
I like the silver color of the 642 but the m206 is the cheapest u can buy plus has a hammer
@@CuarentaZ40 The 642 is far superior to the M206. I was just mentioning various guns i had pocket carried in the past or present. Out of those listed, I'm pleased with the S&W model 640. It may be 9 ounces heavier than the 642, but I have the option of .357 Magnum loads. It's also stainless versus aluminum.
Anything in 9mm is a little big for me to pocket carry. I go between a S&W 637 and a Beretta Pico. I can’t bring myself to carry a striker fired pistol in my pocket, I just like something double action.
I’m surprised the Hellcat didn’t hang longer in the battle! I’ve owed a lot of pocket pistols and prefer them for EDC! I haven’t left the house without my hellcat since I got it 2 years ago amazing gun fun to shoot and extremely reliable!
Hellcat is good, he just pointed out he was always carrying others over it.
I never thought much of revolvers until buying my wife a 8 shot Taurus 942. It not only became her favorite but I also love it. Never thought I’d love a revolver.
I bet you would like the Smith and Wesson bodyguard 2.0 which I just bought it because it was cheap but boy does it feel good in the hands it’s a very small gun
I'm surprised the M&P 9 Shield is not in the lineup. I have the 1.0, and am thinking about the Shield plus.
same
I have the Shield like you and the Shield+.
I love the extra rounds with the plus but the Shield just fits me better and feels better?
My favorite Shield is the .45!
Give that one a look?
Great choice!! The 642 is in my pocket more often than not. A trigger kit from TK custom smoothed out the action.
Hope you are doing well Hickok! Thanks for all you do!
Thanks for that video! That's the pocket pistol I bought due to it's compact hammerless design and cheaper ammo. I knew a US Martial that kept one in his front pocket everywhere he went. You couldn't even see anything. I have short arms so my jacket sleeves are always too long. Sucked growing up. On the bright side, that makes it easy to hold this snubby gun with your finger off the trigger inside my sleeve. Or, I can let go of it into a convenient pocket if I need to use my hand. So I don't even have to draw if needed; just aim and shoot if attacked (I only do this in sketchy gas stations late at night). I just wish it were as accurate as you can shoot it in your video. Mine is quite "snappy". Hard to hollow out the center of a target! But will definitely hit center mass if close and needed.
Yeah, I've been following H45 since around 2010 when I received my carry permit in TN. Had a feeling he'd go with the 642. Learned a shtton from him. He's the reason I got a Mosin-Nagant 91/30.
I'm a bicycle commuter and my route took me through a couple sketchy neighborhoods. Got into a dicey situation I was fortunate to escape, so that pushed me over the edge. I refused to be a victim.
My EDC combo was a P32 and P11 for warm and cold weather. Wore the 9 in a Galco Classic knock off. Then after watching a H45 video I dropped the 9 for EDC and got a LCR 38. Modified the holster to fit and picked up a revolver reloader I kept in the inner pocket of my cycling jacket. I feel the same way. My LCR would go last for sure.