I wouldn't trust my life to a Hi-Point. There's a reason it's a $150 gun. Your money would be better spent on a quality used pistol than a new Hi-Point! The Ruger .380 and Kel-Tec .380 (virtually identical) are good little pocket pistols. I had a Kel-Tec and I kick myself for letting it go...hard to beat in summertime attire! Another good option is an S&W J-frame .38. I have a model 442 that I carry a lot, with an extra speed strip of ammo...fits nicely in my front pocket, albeit a little bulkier than the .380. S&W recently dropped the price on the J-frame. You can find these new in the $350 range, give or take, if you shop.

Eric

I agree wouldn't trust a hi point. I carry my Kel Tec p11 factory stacked 10 + 1 9mm mag or 15 + 1 aftermarket lots of fire power easy to carry.

While I have owned a HP carbine and it was a very functional weapon, I would not carry a HP pistol. Not only are they heavy but they are of a "blow back" design if I remember correctly. Good news is that if you send it back they will repair and pay for shipping all free.


I carry a commander sized 1911 (Kimber), a XD 40, and recently a Ruger SR40c ($400 or so new, less used). With the right holster none of them are uncomfortable, as matter of fact I completely forget that I have the SR40c on. I often forget when carrying the others as well (not near as much though). Get a "Crossbreed" Supertuck, it's an IWB hybrid holster and it makes a world of difference. It does take a day or so to get used to it but then it kinda disappears.

I have Hi-Point 9 and .45 handguns and tuned them up a bit (as you described) and they perform fine. I think that even the Hi-Point 9mm is too bulky for a concealed carry gun. The .45 Hi-Point is ridiculously big and bulky, and I have it just for the knockdown power around the house. I have an old Taurus small-frame .38 spl. that I carry as my concealed carry gun most of the time, and occasionally I also carry A North American Arms .22 Magnum mini-revolver in stainless when space is an issue. The Taurus gets a bit rusty in the summer time on long bike trips because of sweat, and I just take some fine steel wool and oil and polish it up.... I don't have to worry about ruining the finish on an expensive gun... and as was noted previously, a revolver will typically always function. Having 15 or 16 shots is appealing, but the reality is that in almost all self-defense situations, statistics show the danger is within less than 10-15' and over within a couple of shots. That means either the bad guy has run off, or one of you is likely dead. Recent events in Florida (Zimmerman-Martin case) should make anyone who has a CCW realize that your life will dramatically change the second you pull out your weapon no matter who is right or wrong.... it's a huge responsibility.
John Scribner

Well stated.

Wewalaw wrote: Congradulations on your conceal carry permit!
I haven't received the permit yet. I applied a few days ago. Won't know for about 6 weeks.
jd750ace wrote:Is Cali a "permit" state or Licence state?

California is a "shall" issue state, which means after receiving the required training, a person can apply thru the local sheriff,if their reason is good enough for carrying concealed, and the applicant passes the background check, the sheriff shall issue a permit. Fortunately I live in a county that issues more permits than any county in California. I don't think I will have a problem obtaining the permit.
I can afford any gun out there, but I liked the feel of the Hi Point at the gun shop, and I guess I made a impulse purchase before checking out any problems with the gun. I will work with this one a little more, and if it gets to the point that I just don't feel comfortable with it I will get a different gun. Live and learn I guess. Thanks for all the input from everyone.

I find it kind of humorous when talking about what is a good gun vs bad. It is kind of like talking to a group of HD riders and almost having to defend your R*. I am sure if a person was to investigate you would find issues with even the best guns.
Just like with our R* you always have someone who knows someone who had a R* and had nothing but problems.

^ Exactly. I own several firearms, Glock, Ruger, KelTec, Smith and Wesson, Mossberg, and Hi Point. The local gun shop told me to stay away from the Hi point rifle, until I was ready to pay. After I bought one, at another shop, I installed a scope, bipod, and brass catcher. Now it shoots tighter groups up to 85 yds than my buddy's AR.

Lee

I would somewhat agree if we were talking about a gun just to go plinking with. I've considered the HP carbine for a fun gun myself, but we're talking about a CCW that may be called upon to save your life or a loved one's life. That is not the place I'd be willing to take a shortcut and then HOPE that it works when it's needed! Yes, any firearm can malfunction, but some are more known for problems than others...hence the original poster's malfunctions and questions on how to make it run reliably. Common to the HP! I did a lot of research before buying my R* and if it breaks down I'm not going to be happy. If my CCW breaks down when I need it most, I'm in a world of sh!t!!! There ARE better options for CCW.

Eric

I live in Northeast Pa. Although I am well trained in Lethal Weapons, all you have to do here is fill out an application, have a reference sign for you, finger prints, background check, and an interview. Thenyou get the license to carry for 5 years. You have to re-apply each time. Most surrounding states honor it except for New York and New Jersey.