Resurrecting an old thread. Or, perhaps just bored sitting here at 5:30 AM. Yes, I'm reading through old posts (almost 2 years ago for this one).
First off, I have had a CCL since Ohio initially began issuing them in 2004. Prior to that I carried for many years (depending on where I needed to go). Had some excellent (initial) instructions from a good friend who was a PD instructor.
Anyway, to the meat of the matter. I have found over the years that depending on where I will be carrying, will determine my handgun of choice for the day. To me, this is critical because there are too many situations that come into play.
Example 1: Going to a flea market with shoulder to shoulder crowds. I love carrying my Glock 23 BUT, this IS NOT the place to carry that. So, I opt for my Kel Tec 32.
Example 2: Hiking the wooded trails Kel Tec stays home and the Glock or Ruger P94 comes with me.
Example 3: Alone, launching my boat before sunrise. Or, loading the boat after sunset. Again the Glock. In hot summer I'll dress very lightly so, Kel Tec suffices.
Example 4: Going out to in-laws property, I'll usually take 3-4 handguns and a rifle (most likely my Winchester 30-30).
I guess my point is that not every handgun is ideal in every situation. Let me also say, I'm lucky enough to be able to pick and choose a more appropriate weapon for the circumstance.
I know also that not everyone has that choice. Some only have 1 weapon to carry. So, indeed carry what you have.
I too like to see how accurate I can be at the range with my handguns out to 50 yards. But I probably won't use more than 1 or 2 magazines doing that.
I much prefer more realistic distances for range time. Starting at 5 yards and increasing to 25 yards.