Okay, I considering selling my Wilson CQB and buying three GLOCK 19s. I had been carrying my CQB as my primary CCW, but even I tire of carrying 40+ oz on my hip daily. Also, the price of 45 ACP is twice that of 9mm and training on a 1911 is expensive. Then there is the ease of concealing a G19 as well as the higher capacity magazines.
I’m considering three because I have two boys and figure I could give them each one when they come of age. Until then, I have a back-up G19 if my primary one goes down for maintenance (not very likely ) or is involved in a self-defense shooting.
Well, is this a crazy idea to get out of my CQB and go over to combat tupperware? Is buying extra G19s for my boys foolishness?
I’ve thought about just adding the G19 as a summer carry and keeping my CQB for the range and occassional winter carry. I tell you what, I took LAV’s pistol class and I was constantly changing magazines and paid twice as much for ammo as everyone else with their 9mm’s.
I went through the same crisis of faith you did…love my high dollar 1911s…its a PITA to carry a huge 1911 though…and the cost comparison isnt even close…so I went to a G36 which I really liked…but my wife didnt…so now im at a G26…its about as perfect as you can get…small, controllable, accurate…simple…cheap to shoot…
I’ve had G19s and G17s and will be getting another (probably the 17)…
you should get a G34, G19 and G26…one for all occassions and you may still have money left over
NoBody – What is your experience with the G19? Have you been happy with it? Shot it well?
Deep down inside, would you feel confident carrying one every day instead of a Wilson .45?
Do you shoot enough in a year that the ammunition savings is going to make a difference in your practice or personal finances?
If you do decide to drop the Wilson in favor of something lighter in 9mm, have you considered other options (M&P, HK, etc)?
Do you need to buy 3? One (or two) plus some ammo, new holster(s), and/or a class would probably leave you farther ahead of the curve.
Personally, I would choose a lightweight compact high-capacity 9mm any day over a 1911, but I’m not a 1911 guy. Some 1911 guys are happy to change and adapt, while others are never truly satisfied with anything else. Neither of your options is the wrong one, and only you can figure out which is the best one.
I knew a guy that swapped two Les Baer Thunder Ranches for two Glock 19s and two S&W 642s. Sounded like a good battery to me to have for self defense. He liked having two of each for “back ups” like was mentioned above.
Just me being riased on old military weapons I would never get rid of a 1911. But I also dont carry daily. I would say pick up a glock and try it out for a few months, the value of the Wilson will never go down so there’s no rush.
I have gone down this road a few times. A few years back I went on a 1911 bender. I spent about 12-15k on 1911’s in one year. Crazy. I love those guns. However, if I could do it all over again I might go a different route. Though I believe it is good to be familiar with all types of firearms and their operation, when building skills it is good to stick with one platform and have that remain a constant while training. This will allow you to evaluate the progression in your skills a bit more closely. Once you feel you are comfortable and relatively proficient with one platform then branch out and try others.
I see guys who show up to the range with a different gun every week and they never really get any better. Regarding selling your Wilson, it is always good to decide upon a firearm you wish to train with and buy an identical backup just in case. If you can afford it why not just add two Glock 19’s to your safe and keep the Wilson? A wise man once told me “never sell, only add.” I should’ve listened…
I have three G17s because I always worried they would wear out. I don’t think having more than two of the same pistol is the best answer for most people.
Me personnally, I would do what you plan. Sell it, buy the 19’s . It also makes it easier to maintain with extra mags, parts, holsters and commonality with training when the two boys start. You can also add the Advantage Arms .22 kit, one at first and get them started on the system sooner.
I would first see if you prefer a G19 or M&P 9.
Then buy one, and all the other gear you need (holster, mag pouches, extra mags, new sights, etc.)
Attend a shooting course and/or compete with your setup.
Use that to determine if you want to buy more of the same platform, or expand your collection with full size or compact models.
But that’s just me, and I am selfish.
I’d keep the Wilson unless you need the funds for the other purchases, and test fire the M&P and G19 (with maybe the wife/sig. other there to shoot as well) at one of those combo gun shop/ranges, then decide. I like both, but the M&P fits better in my hand. The S&W rebate is good incentive, but I am STILL waiting fo mine to come in since the beginning of Feb.