The xde isn't good looking at all, but does it matter for something you are shoving in a holster and hiding? I wouldn't dismiss it just based on looks.
I carry a Glock 43 as an off duty weapon (not mine, issued to me). Added the grip +2 extensions and like it but had some trouble with it not locking open on the last shot. Never FTF or FTE, that was only issue. Always fired and operated, much better than the Glock 380.
My wife really likes her Walther PPS M2 and it has been 100% reliable, I've shot it and found it handles well.
First, thanks to everyone that took a moment to respond!
I found a range in South Bend that had nearly every item on the list available to rent. So, I’ll share my thoughts if anyone is interested.
I had three favorites: Shield 2.0, XDS, and PPS. Which seems to align with what a lot of you said. The shield felt wrong before I got to shoot it, now it feels right. I like the feel, look, and stock sights better on the XDS, but I shot the shield better. The PPS felt great for a few mags, then it started biting my pinkie in the gap (counter to AngryRooster’s experience in his review). PPS felt the best while not shooting, but I think it’s out due to the pinkie thing, and local dealers selling it for a decent amount more than xds or shield.
The G43 and LC9S both felt too small, and were not enjoyable at all for me to shoot.
The PM9 trigger was a major turnoff and it gets last place on my list. Well, kind of... I didn’t even shoot the XDE because it was just too ugly in my eyes.
I didn’t get to shoot the p365, XDS mod2, CM9, or 290RS. I did get to handle the 365, and it was cool, but I’m going to pass on it.
I checked out the micro 9 and 938 at another shop. They are both very cute, but not what I’m looking for right now.
In conclusion to this rambling... it’s shield 2.0 or XDS. I don’t love the pricing I saw in South Bend. I guess the internet had me expecting approx $100 less for each of them. But, I’d like to support a local store. Or I’d like to find a nice one in the classifieds.
Now that you've gotten to this point take a look at the other things. Check out holster selection and cost, spare mag cost, parts availability, other such things. Think about how you might want to carry the gun now and in the future. I was always content with a kydex IWB holster for single stack guns, they never really bothered me. Last year after a trip to the ER I was told I have diverticulitis. It's not comfortable to carry IWB for me anymore, it hurts and gets that way pretty quick. OWB from here on. There isn't a huge selection of leather OWB holsters for the PPS. Hence part of the reason for a change to the Shield.
It's the little things now that will help you figure out the right one to choose.
My edc for afew yrs now has been Kahr cm9. Great carry, not gonna break the wallet and has been 100%.This thing just runs with anythg ive put in it.
Now that you've gotten to this point take a look at the other things. Check out holster selection and cost, spare mag cost, parts availability, other such things. Think about how you might want to carry the gun now and in the future. I was always content with a kydex IWB holster for single stack guns, they never really bothered me. Last year after a trip to the ER I was told I have diverticulitis. It's not comfortable to carry IWB for me anymore, it hurts and gets that way pretty quick. OWB from here on. There isn't a huge selection of leather OWB holsters for the PPS. Hence part of the reason for a change to the Shield.
It's the little things now that will help you figure out the right one to choose.