pocket pistol/ subcompact for an ankle holster

[Texasbirdhunter]

I have a Springfield XD(m) 9mm 3.8”, but it is a bit bulky in my work clothes (dress slacks and button up shirt) so I am now considering some sort of pocket pistol or subcompact. I am looking for either a 9mm or .40 caliber that will conceal well with an ankle holster. I have been researching several models online and in local gun shops but I'm looking for some feedback. (I have not shot any of these pistols and I'm not sure if I will have the opportunity to try any before I buy)

Springfield XD and Glock subcompacts are too bulky. Sig P938 is nice, but a little pricey. Kahr CM9 feels like it really needs to be broken in and didn't feel right. Kel-Tec PF9 seems to have a lot of problems from what I have heard.

My finalists are the M&P Shield .40 caliber or the Ruger LC9....I'd also like to take a look at a Baretta Nano if I can find one.

Comments, criticisms, etc??

 

[Timothy Bryant]

I personally carry a Ruger SR40c on the ankle and have never had a problem with it's "bulkiness". Given from the choices you present, however, I think I'd go with the M&P Shield 9mm. In a gun so small recoil may be heavier from the 40S&W round and IMHO you don't gain enough in damage potential to justify the lower magazine count and heightened recoil.

 

[Numenor]

Do NOT get the Shield in .40. While it isn't universal, there are some relatively major design issues with it dropping the mag quite often. S&W is aware of that issue and does have a fix for it, however they are backlogged with customers demanding repair. The Shield in 9mm apparently does not have this problem, so consider that one.

 

[Texasbirdhunter]

I have been leaning towards the Shield, but I'm nervous about purchasing a newer, unproven models because of the issue just mentioned. However, it seems like all the pistols in this category are newer and not really proven yet....a catch 22 if you ask me. Does anyone own a 9mm Shield? If so, what are your thoughts on it?