First Handgun in MA - Skip Larger Sizes Due to 10rd Cap?

I carried a 365 for a while - then I got a G26 MOS and that ship sailed. The 26 is better in every way (to me), and is only a little wider.
That's been my thinking with this whole Ozempic doublestack magazine craze since the 365 released. For a fraction of an inch wider you get a subcompact that can use the same mags as the full size version and if size really does make that much of a difference single stacks were the most popular carry pistol for a decade before the 365 came out, they didn't just suddenly turn into huge pieces of crap, they're still fine pistols.
 
I tried the P365 to have a few extra rounds on my hip compared to the G43. It didn't fit right in my "girly" hands. The standard P365 grip didn't even fit my relatives hand comfortably and he has larger hands. So he jumped up to the XL frame and is never turning back. We are all the same but built differently, to each their own!
I know what you mean. I got the Wilson XL frame for the P365. Huge difference.
 
I went from a 43 to a p365. I much prefer the 365

Yep, just by me. That being said, I used to carry a P365 - prefer the G43.

I hated the pinky grips. I only use flat ones. I have decent sized paws, just fits better even with a floating pinky.

Stock p365 absolutely needs aftermarket pinky extender on the magazine to feel ok.
XL is a good frame too but kinda defeats small form factor benefits of stock 365.
 
That's been my thinking with this whole Ozempic doublestack magazine craze since the 365 released. For a fraction of an inch wider you get a subcompact that can use the same mags as the full size version and if size really does make that much of a difference single stacks were the most popular carry pistol for a decade before the 365 came out, they didn't just suddenly turn into huge pieces of crap, they're still fine pistols.
Yep! I will still carry the 365 on a rare occasion when It's too hot/difficult to conceal the 26 with a dot on it, but those instances are becoming fewer and farther between.
 
I can't remember the last time I carried my 365.
It lives in my truck console as a backup.
Even in a tenicor velo aiwb holster the slide is too short for stable retention.
I have no gut yet the grip always rolls forward.

My g19 with dot, light and g17mag w/ xgrip is more comfortable and poses no concealment issues.
 
I can't remember the last time I carried my 365.
It lives in my truck console as a backup.
Even in a tenicor velo aiwb holster the slide is too short for stable retention.
I have no gut yet the grip always rolls forward.

My g19 with dot, light and g17mag w/ xgrip is more comfortable and poses no concealment issues.

That is my problem with AIWB for G26 and the P365. I just can't get them to work. I even tried a P365XL phlster and it would roll forward and/or be super uncomfortable. Strong side is fine though. I find with the extra extended 12 round mags in both getting a solid grip when drawing is much easier than with just the 10 round and pinky extension.
 
That is my problem with AIWB for G26 and the P365. I just can't get them to work. I even tried a P365XL phlster and it would roll forward and/or be super uncomfortable. Strong side is fine though. I find with the extra extended 12 round mags in both getting a solid grip when drawing is much easier than with just the 10 round and pinky extension.
Yeah, the 365 is fine @ 3:00 for me.
I have a blackpoint iwb that's really comfortable, I just prefer aiwb.

I find the grip texture really clingy compared to the glocks too.
My shirts were always getting bunched up around the 365 grip.
 
That is my problem with AIWB for G26 and the P365. I just can't get them to work. I even tried a P365XL phlster and it would roll forward and/or be super uncomfortable. Strong side is fine though. I find with the extra extended 12 round mags in both getting a solid grip when drawing is much easier than with just the 10 round and pinky extension.
Bad belt?
 
Bad belt?
I have a nexbelt appendix (very stiff) and two different rigger's belts (an old 5.11 that is not stiff enough for AIWB but comfortable for strong-side, and this one which is actually a very nice belt). The nexbelt digs into my hips because it's so stiff and the guns still tip forward. Are there better ones out there? I have comp-tac, phlster, safariland etc. (i.e. nice) AIWB holsters and they all do the same thing but the comp-tac leather backed one is the least bad.
 
I have a nexbelt appendix (very stiff) and two different rigger's belts (an old 5.11 that is not stiff enough for AIWB but comfortable for strong-side, and this one which is actually a very nice belt). The nexbelt digs into my hips because it's so stiff and the guns still tip forward. Are there better ones out there? I have comp-tac, phlster, safariland etc. (i.e. nice) AIWB holsters and they all do the same thing but the comp-tac leather backed one is the least bad.
have you tried a wedge and/or a claw?
 
Claw yes, that helps keep the butt of the gun tight against my body. Wedge, kinda...I bought the "wedge pack" or whatever it's called from phlster, which were tiny pieces of velcro-backed foam. They kinda helped but it was still super uncomfortable. What I want is a holster with the vented neoprene like an aliengear strong-side holster (I tried their AIWB and it was not great) AND a claw. That might help eliminate the horrible hotspot that makes more than 20 minutes with an AIWB holster agonizing. Does such a holster exist? Or an aftermarket wedge/foam add-on pack?
 
Claw yes, that helps keep the butt of the gun tight against my body. Wedge, kinda...I bought the "wedge pack" or whatever it's called from phlster, which were tiny pieces of velcro-backed foam. They kinda helped but it was still super uncomfortable. What I want is a holster with the vented neoprene like an aliengear strong-side holster (I tried their AIWB and it was not great) AND a claw. That might help eliminate the horrible hotspot that makes more than 20 minutes with an AIWB holster agonizing. Does such a holster exist? Or an aftermarket wedge/foam add-on pack?
I feel like you need to post a pic... ive been carrying all kinds of guns for years and none of these have been an issue.

Kydex and a decent belt and I'm off
 
I feel like you need to post a pic... ive been carrying all kinds of guns for years and none of these have been an issue.

Kydex and a decent belt and I'm off
AIWB really depends upon how you are built. I’ve tried a number of different AIWB holsters and I haven’t been able to make any of them work for me.
 
AIWB really depends upon how you are built. I’ve tried a number of different AIWB holsters and I haven’t been able to make any of them work for me.
I've gone from 205 to 275 and different builds in between

Currently im sitting at 240 without much issue.

Idk maybe but i have a hard time believing it
 
AIWB really depends upon how you are built. I’ve tried a number of different AIWB holsters and I haven’t been able to make any of them work for me.
This. I'm sure it's just luck that I can AIWB anything from a Shield to 5" 1911. While I like to tell everyone to get taller, it's meant to be my recognition that every body is different.

Claw yes, that helps keep the butt of the gun tight against my body. Wedge, kinda...I bought the "wedge pack" or whatever it's called from phlster, which were tiny pieces of velcro-backed foam. They kinda helped but it was still super uncomfortable. What I want is a holster with the vented neoprene like an aliengear strong-side holster (I tried their AIWB and it was not great) AND a claw. That might help eliminate the horrible hotspot that makes more than 20 minutes with an AIWB holster agonizing. Does such a holster exist? Or an aftermarket wedge/foam add-on pack?
I haven't heard of anything like you're describing. Maybe there's a market?

The wedges I've used were basically just foam that glues on.
 
This. I'm sure it's just luck that I can AIWB anything from a Shield to 5" 1911. While I like to tell everyone to get taller, it's meant to be my recognition that every body is different.


I haven't heard of anything like you're describing. Maybe there's a market?

The wedges I've used were basically just foam that glues on.
Being tall and thin certainly helps lol. I'm 6'4
The tenicor velo I use AIWB has a wedge molded in.
I've got this model for multiple guns and the 365 is the only one I can't get to feel right, probably because the short length prevents the wedge riding in correct spot.
 
The best in MA I would get with modern options that is still being made and not a revolver

1. Some kind of Sig P365 variant (you can remove the safety after buying it if it’s not your thing). Multiple platform options for EDC.

2. A Beretta 92 variant they make the die hard. 92FS style version most of us grew up with up to SA style 92s and ones with optic and light mounts. Your gonna pay for preban mags but it’s still a modern platform and in some cases costs as much as pre ban glock.
This could be a good home defense pistol.
 
I feel like you need to post a pic... ive been carrying all kinds of guns for years and none of these have been an issue.

Kydex and a decent belt and I'm off
That is a safariland incogx P365/356XL holster and nexbelt appendix. The cover shirt doesn't really capture it, a layperson could glance at me from across the room and tell I'm either carrying a gun or missed my calling in the adult film industry. That is cinched tight, and I couldn't stand to wear it for more than maybe 5 or 10 minutes.

ETA: that is a regular P365 with a 12 round mag (I'm in NC right now)

holsterandbelt.jpeg cover-shirt.jpeg
 
I purchased my first pistol on the recommendation of a family member. It felt great in my hand but guess where that pistol sits now…at the bottom of the safe. Will I part with it? No, because it was the first pistol I ever purchased. Definitely find a range where you can try many things. Will they be slightly clapped out? Yes but at least you’ll get a feel for them and if you find one you take a liking to it should be much better when you buy it brand new.
 
That is a safariland incogx P365/356XL holster and nexbelt appendix. The cover shirt doesn't really capture it, a layperson could glance at me from across the room and tell I'm either carrying a gun or missed my calling in the adult film industry. That is cinched tight, and I couldn't stand to wear it for more than maybe 5 or 10 minutes.

ETA: that is a regular P365 with a 12 round mag (I'm in NC right now)

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Nah... lol you're just self conscious no one could tell man.

I have xmacro with light and optic in that pic can you find it

But to me it feels like I'm printing like a mofo
 

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Claw yes, that helps keep the butt of the gun tight against my body. Wedge, kinda...I bought the "wedge pack" or whatever it's called from phlster, which were tiny pieces of velcro-backed foam. They kinda helped but it was still super uncomfortable. What I want is a holster with the vented neoprene like an aliengear strong-side holster (I tried their AIWB and it was not great) AND a claw. That might help eliminate the horrible hotspot that makes more than 20 minutes with an AIWB holster agonizing. Does such a holster exist? Or an aftermarket wedge/foam add-on pack?
Try Trex Arms' new hybrid. It's a full kydex shell for safety and retention, but with an alcantara backing for comfort.
 
Hi all - appreciate all the replies. I think it makes sense to start with a full size frame and I can always pick up something smaller down the line if I want to be carrying more frequently. Not too concerned about being able to conceal something a little larger if it's only occasional.

I went and shot 200 rounds through the models that I outlined in my OP (VP9, G19, and M&P 2.0 Metal). I thought the VP9 fit my hand the best, but had the most recoil of the three (granted, it's 9mm and this isn't a huge deal, but I noticed the higher bore axis), and I don't love the paddle mag release. The grip on the Glock was just bad for me - the gen 5 felt like a brick and I didn't think that the grip angle was natural to point. I also don't care for the plastic mags (yeah, they're cheaper, but they also feel cheap). The M&P was really close to the VP9 from a grip perspective, but I thought the trigger was by far the best of the three. These were all range demos - I'm sure that they're never cleaned and the the M&P was probably the newest of the three - but I thought this was the best by a significant margin.

Planning to grab the M&P whenever I have time to run over there. I didn't even shoot the polymer version - from what I've read, they're close enough that I probably wouldn't notice a difference. The aluminum frame is not that much more money and the finish looks phenomenal.

Thanks again for the insight and the shitposts.
 
Try Trex Arms' new hybrid. It's a full kydex shell for safety and retention, but with an alcantara backing for comfort.
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Try Trex Arms' new hybrid. It's a full kydex shell for safety and retention, but with an alcantara backing for comfort.

Is that just a strongside holster? I have a very similar aliengear and it's awesome for that, totally comfortable and conceals well for me. After going through my AIWB holster collection again and trying everything on I might give up on it again, lol. It's just not comfortable. I would rather have the gun in front of me for several reasons but I just can't get it to work.
 
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