re: what are the best concealed carry handguns...

Hey Chunk
I'll bite.
I break them down into different categories depending on how they're going to be carried. Just my personal preference, but I think most are best served by a DAO gun.

Pocket guns: Like KR, lotsa folks carry these guns only as a backup. OTOH, there are times one may have to use a pocket gun as the primary weapon. Good ones in this category would include 380's in the Ruger LCP, Kahr CW380 (if it lives up to the other CW standards…..when it eventually becomes available), S&W Bodyguard and Kahr P380. For the revolver fan, sub nose 38 Spec such as the S&W J frame and Ruger LCR are good choices. My pocket gun is a Kel-Tec P3-AT and I've had good results w/it, but that hasn't been everyone's experience.

Inside Waistband Carry: I like 9mm single stack mag guns in this category. Kahr CW9/PM9/P9, Ruger LC9, Springfield XDS, S&W M&P Shield, Sig Sauer 250 and Beretta Nano. For those who want a 45 ACP, the XDS and CCW 45 would be good choices. For those willing to adequately learn the SAO platform, I'd throw in the Sig 938 as well as a reliable 1911 (either Officer or Commander size).

Outside Waistband Carry: To me this is where the double stack mag guns shine. In this category I'd include the various compact and mid-size Glocks, M&P's, XD's and DAO Sig Sauers.

I'm sure I've left off some good ones, but these are the first that come to my mind.

I am not a big 380 fan. The new generation of 9mm closed the gap quite a bit. Unless you are looking for a pocket gun a would go 9mm.

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side note - I always have gone back and forth b/w ruger lcp 380 or J frame s&w 357.

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I carry the lcp 380 with the crimson trace laser sights everywhere I go because the best CC gun IMO is the one you have on you, and I can throw that in my pocket no matter what I am wearing.

Sig p238 or 938

Not a big fan of the .380, so I like the 938.
Either way both are excellent ccw and very reliable.
Want more punch, get a .40 shield

The largest caliber with the highest magazine capacity that you can tolerate whilke still maintaining comfort so that you will wear it everyday. If you can comfortably carry an M60 concealed I would say go for it.

I carry a Kimber Ultra CDP II. I've also carried a Sig P239 SAS and a Glock 30SF. Hated carrying the latter two, but the Kimber is pleasant to carry.

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I revolver for concealed carry is stupid IMO, and a .380 is a back up gun only for me.

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Either is better than nothing. I often carry a S&W revolver on my ankle and when I am off duty it is often the only weapon on me. I also carry two speed strips and I assure you I can reload and fire at a blistering pace.