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In regards to a BUG, for on-duty use, Im having a hell of a time weighing pros and cons between a J-Frame (model 442) and a 26. I feel I have two strong points for both but just cant seem to make up my mind. Any opinions?
442 Pros:
-better concealment
-reliability (cant limp wrist if injured, wont go out of battery for contact shots, ect...)
26 Pros:
-same operation as primary weapon, Glock 17
-higher capacity/ ability to use primary mags
Having a back up using the same mag is nice. Having a J frame when the ability to use 2 hands is not an option, even better. You plan to carry in an ankle holster? If so I use a 638, you might look at a 640.
Tough decision indeed. I would prefer a revolver myself as it pretty much guarantees you five shots. Find yourself without a magazine in that 26 somehow and you now have a nice single shot. Another drawback for the revolver is it won't use your standard issue duty ammo. If it were me, I'd probably look for a 9mm revolver that doesn't use moon clips. You could reload it straight from your duty mags if necessary.
I went through that same process, sold a 27 and bought a lightweight J frame. From the standpoint of carrying, I much prefer the Smith. I'd rather shoot the Glock. However, it's a BUG (and occasionally my primary) so that's a secondary consideration. Ease of carry is primary.
I like the reliability of a revolver, especially for contact shots.
The J can be comfortably carried on an ankle. The Glock can be carried there, but it will wear a hole in your leg.
Mine is 11 ounces and chambered in .357 mag. It's unshootable by me with full power loads. If I could do it over, I'd save some money and buy one just rated for +P.
I'm happy with my choice and wouldn't go back to the Glock.
I'd also suggest you consider a 9mm revolver for BUG.
I am another who sold a G27 and went to a 2" revolver.
I always carry a j frame on the ankle (as a backup) when I leave the house. Its so light, so small its easy to "forget" you are wearing it. dependable, unobtrusive, etc.
I vote g26
It will depend on how you envision the BUG will be used primarily. If your primary G17 is lost or taken away and you're in a prolonged firefight, go with the G26 that uses your G17 mags and continue the fight. If your injured and down and just need something to get you out of harms way, the lighter 442 works. G26 bulkier, accurate, more commonality with primary, 442 lighter, easier to carry and conceal, can fire while injured, different ammo, less rounds. You'll need to determine how you believe it will be mostly used to make that decision.
I carry a 642, have to force myself to shoot it. It pocket carries better then anything I have looked at. No fun practice is available.
If I was to start over I might go G26 as you can have fun shooting local USPSA or IDPA matches and have some fun training.
I carried a g26 for approx a year its big bulky and heavy, but nice and comfortable to shoot. I have pocket carried a 642 for 2 years now every day, I cant even tell its there super comfortable to carry, sucks to practice with.