Pistol carbine suggestions

[VAspeedgoat]

So I just won a $500 gift certificate to my local gun shop and I'm thinking of getting a pistol caliber carbine. I'd love to have a .45 acp for a little thump and the option to maybe upgrade to a .460 Rowland as well. I've been thinking of the Ruger LC carbine and the TNS aero survival pistol/rifle. Though a quick search has lead to some concerns on the aero. Do any of you guys have experience with either? Are there some in similar price range (6-800) I'm missing?

 

[Nuts]

Ruger LC in 10mm is a great camp gun. With the right loads a bear defense gun.

 

[Sheltowee]

Big fan of my CZ Scorpion but maybe a touch above your price range. The Ruger PC9 with the M-lok handguard looks vaguely like a PPSh-41, so added cool pointers there. Most of GunTube is hot and heavy over the new Springfield Kuna (check out HonestOutlaw's review, for instance) but I've not personally shot one.

 

[Forkyfinder]

Everytime i think about these - i lose interest because an ar15 pistol is basically the same size - and is available in rifle cartridges that have a lot more use. Seems like everything a pistol cartridge can do - 300 BO can do better for comparable price with a typ 30 cal suppressor. Probably not a popular opinion here, but with the right ammo id prefer a 300 bo (especially other big bore ar calibers) to any pistol cartridge for bear defense.

Otherwise - I would go with the cz scorpion if i wanted a pcc, but those arent in 45 acp... other option is a mechtech conversion if you already own a 1911 and want a 460.

MechTech Systems | 1911 Carbine Conversion Unit Installation

MechTech Systems carbine conversion unit (CCU) installation guide for 1911 handgun models. No FFL required. CALL: (866) 433-2122

mechtechsys.com

 

[SFC B]

I have an Extar that is a blast and uses Glock mags....it is right around the price but you have to order direct from them in Arizona. I am probably about 500 rounds in so far with zero issues.

EP45 6.5" .45 ACP

The Extar EP45 pistol is a lightweight, affordable .45 ACP PDW that takes Glock G21 magazines. This package include a 13 round Glock brand magazine.

extarusa.com

 

[Nuts]

Everytime i think about these - i lose interest because an ar15 pistol is basically the same size - and is available in rifle cartridges that have a lot more use. Seems like everything a pistol cartridge can do - 300 BO can do better for comparable price with a typ 30 cal suppressor. Probably not a popular opinion here, but with the right ammo id prefer a 300 bo (especially other big bore ar calibers) to any pistol cartridge for bear defense.

Otherwise - I would go with the cz scorpion if i wanted a pcc, but those arent in 45 acp... other option is a mechtech conversion if you already own a 1911 and want a 460.

MechTech Systems | 1911 Carbine Conversion Unit Installation

MechTech Systems carbine conversion unit (CCU) installation guide for 1911 handgun models. No FFL required. CALL: (866) 433-2122

mechtechsys.com

Completely understand. For me its about simplicity. I carry a 10mm Glock. So same ammo in the carbine. The carbine would sit at camp or cabin for all to grab if needed. Although of late a shotgun which is also used for ducks has been the camp gun.

 

[Greybeard]

I have S&W M&P FPC in 9mm and I really like it. The mags are interchangeable with my M&P 2.0. It folds even with a red dot mounted and fits in a nice case. If you want a little more punch, it is also made in a 10mm.

 

[Sheltowee]

Completely understand. For me its about simplicity. I carry a 10mm Glock. So same ammo in the carbine. The carbine would sit at camp or cabin for all to grab if needed. Although of late a shotgun which is also used for ducks has been the camp gun.

If you already carry a Glock 10mm, I'd go with the Ruger at your price point.

On many of the Glock fanboy forums, there is rumor of a Glock PCC (and has been for years). I wouldn't hold my breath but I'll be the first in line to buy one if they hit shelves.

 

[std7mag]

@VAspeedgoat,

I'd seriously reconsider the thought of changing a 45ACP carbine to 460 Rowland!!

Unless you're ok with shooting it with a long string and not holding it.

I bought a Keltek Sub2000.
Inexpensive, and parts of it show that.
Design doesn't lend itself to optics. The barrel actually folds up over the top, instead of off to the side.
Takes a variety of different available magazines. As in magazines for different manufacturers pistols.
I got a deal on 4 CZ75 magazines, so put the adapter in the gun for them.
It has been accurate, although adjusting the front sight is a PITA. But once set, it's set.
And almost like a Glock, it goes bang with every trigger pull.

Plus you have kind of a reverse H&K bolt slap that you can use that is oddly satisfying.

Brandon Herrera did a review on it.
But don't take it completely to heart.
And listen to the background noises when he's shooting. You can hear every shot connect in the background.

 

[std7mag]

Another option....

M1 Carbine.

I bought a new one manufactured by Thompson for $800.
Mine is the Paratrooper model with the folding stock.

Different magazines are available for being "state compliant". Or non state compliant if you're willing to go that route. And they are inexpensive.

Ammo can be found fairly cheap.
Reloading components are readily available.

I'm using Starline brass, Hodgden H110, and 115gr lead bullets with a 18 hardness.

And it's a hoot to shoot!!!

A friend of mine who is big into AR's shot my M1 Carbine.
Turned to me and said. "I didn't know that I needed one of these until now."
He still has 5 ARs but now has 2 M1's also.