WyldEyed1

I have owned both.  Still have the 709 and only sold the TCP because the wife bought a Bodyguard and didn't need two pocket pistols in the family.  I love the 709 and it has been 100% reliable.  Long trigger pull but a reasonable reset.  If you don't specifically need a pocket gun, I would go with the 709 out of your choices.  9mm over .380 considering stopping power, availability, cost, etc.

Taurus 92...got it in 1990 and still have it.  Carried a Beretta 92 in the Air Force but couldn't afford to buy my own back then.  Other than the decocker, the Taurus was basically the same gun and still shoots as good as any of the Berettas I was ever issued.

I was thinking this exact list minus the Takedown but that is a good option.

I'd prefer to read about the would-be rapist who ended up staring down the barrel of his intended victim's handgun and pulled the Crap-N-Pee move on himself... :pleased:

The 709 Slim is a good option but for less than $400 you might also find  a Kahr CM9.  Both are good for carry and not bad at the range.  If you can wait a little longer, most would say the Glock 19 is great for all your needs.

I just got a new Glock 19 Gen4 and usually try to make it to the range every other month or so.  Based on the current Glock availability, I suppose I should get down to the LGS and order it's replacement... :)  

I have a Taurus 709 and my son has a M&P Shield...both are small, 9mm, with a safety and I would recommend either one.  One more to consider, though no manual safety, is the Kahr CM9.  My wife has a S&W Bodyguard 380 which is quite "snappy" for her but she really likes shooting the CM9.   As others have already said...find a range with rentals and try out as many as possible.

Another vote for the M&P 40

Smith & Wesson Kahr Taurus Walther Giuseppe Tanfoglio Lorcin

Anyone know of an LGS in the Knoxville area that has the new M&P?

Another vote for the Kahr CM-9. Can't beat the quality and size for the price. I also have a Taurus TCP 380 and the wife carries the S&W Bodyguard 380, both have been very reliable but I prefer the 9mm.

I have an M&P 40 and my dad has an SD 40 which I have had the chance to fire. The M&P is worth the extra $ if cost is not a primary issue. That being said, there is nothing wrong with the SD for the price.