The right to self-defense is a cornerstone of many societies, and for those who choose to exercise this right, concealed carry offers a vital layer of personal security. The popularity of concealed carry is on the rise, driven by a growing awareness of personal safety and the desire to be prepared. But choosing the right firearm for concealed carry is a significant decision, one that demands careful consideration. This guide delves into the critical factors involved in selecting the perfect concealed carry handgun, providing recommendations for some of the best options available to empower you in making an informed choice.
Navigating the Selection Process: Key Considerations
Choosing a concealed carry handgun isn’t just about picking the coolest-looking gun; it’s about finding the right tool for a crucial job. There are several factors that must be thoroughly evaluated to ensure that the handgun you select aligns with your individual needs, lifestyle, and ability to consistently and effectively deploy it.
The Crucial Role of Size and Weight
Perhaps the most paramount aspect of a concealed carry handgun is its size and weight. The primary goal is to have a firearm that can be carried comfortably and inconspicuously throughout the day. A bulky or heavy handgun can quickly become a burden, leading to adjustments in carry methods, potential discomfort, and even a temptation to leave the firearm at home.
Subcompact handguns excel in concealment. Their diminutive frames allow them to be easily tucked away under clothing, in a variety of carry positions. They are ideal for situations where discretion is of utmost importance. However, these smaller handguns typically make compromises. The grip is usually shorter, meaning less surface area to hold onto and control. Recoil may feel more pronounced, due to the lighter weight. Magazine capacity is often limited.
Compact handguns offer a balanced approach. They are larger than subcompacts, providing a more comfortable grip and enhanced control, as well as usually offering greater magazine capacity. Concealment is still achievable with the right holster and carry method, though requires a bit more attention to wardrobe choices. Compacts are often preferred by those who want a more readily-controllable firearm without sacrificing concealability.
Material choice also significantly affects weight. Polymer-framed handguns are generally lighter than their all-metal counterparts, which can make them preferable for all-day carry. However, the durability of both is excellent, and metal frames offer the advantage of increased heft, which can assist in absorbing recoil.
Reliability: The Undeniable Foundation
The single most non-negotiable characteristic of a concealed carry handgun is its reliability. The firearm must function flawlessly, every single time, when you need it. A malfunction can be devastating in a self-defense situation. It’s not merely a matter of convenience; lives can depend on the gun firing when you pull the trigger.
Reliability is determined by a combination of factors, including the quality of the manufacturing process, the design of the firearm, and its compatibility with various ammunition types. Researching the reputation of the manufacturer and looking for independent reviews from other users is crucial. Thoroughly testing the chosen firearm with various ammunition brands and bullet weights is absolutely necessary to ensure it operates reliably with your preferred ammunition. Any sign of a malfunction should be a red flag, demanding immediate attention and potentially a different handgun.
Evaluating Caliber and Performance
The caliber of the handgun determines the size and weight of the bullet it fires. While caliber is a matter of personal preference, and it often involves balancing factors, the most common calibers for concealed carry represent a generally agreed-upon balance between stopping power and manageability.
The 9mm Luger is the most popular choice, and it offers a compelling combination of manageable recoil, a good balance of stopping power, and plentiful magazine capacity. Furthermore, ammunition for 9mm handguns is typically readily available and cost-effective.
Other calibers, such as .380 ACP, can be found in very small and concealable handguns, but they are often considered to have somewhat less stopping power, although advancements in ammunition technology are closing the gap between 9mm and .380 ACP. Furthermore, .380 ACP handguns typically have less recoil, making them a good choice for shooters with a lower level of experience.
The .38 Special is a classic revolver caliber with a history of reliable service. While revolvers have a few inherent drawbacks in comparison with modern semi-automatics, they offer simplicity in operation, and the .38 Special packs a significant punch.
When selecting a caliber, consider your personal ability to handle recoil and your comfort level with the firearm. It’s essential to practice with the handgun regularly to develop proficiency and confidence.
Ergonomics and Handling: The Human Factor
The way a handgun feels in your hand is of paramount importance. Ergonomics encompasses the design of the grip, the location and accessibility of the controls, and the overall feel of the firearm. The handgun must feel natural and comfortable in your hand, allowing you to draw, aim, and operate it confidently.
The grip should be comfortable, allowing for a secure hold and easy access to the trigger. The trigger pull should be smooth and consistent. Controls such as the magazine release and slide release should be easily accessible and operated without requiring you to shift your grip.
The sights are another critical aspect of ergonomics. The sights need to be easy to acquire and align quickly under stressful situations. Consider night sights or sights with high-visibility markings if your lifestyle demands it.
Concealment and Carry Methods: Making it Discreet
The ultimate goal of concealed carry is to carry a firearm discreetly, so that it remains hidden from public view. Several carry methods are available, each offering different levels of comfort, concealment, and accessibility.
Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) carry is one of the most popular methods, as it places the firearm inside the waistband, close to the body, which offers a high degree of concealment. Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) carry positions the firearm outside the waistband, usually on the belt, but a cover garment is usually required. Pocket carry is a convenient option for small handguns, placing the firearm in a dedicated pocket holster, but it is more limited by the size of the firearm.
The choice of carry method will influence the selection of the handgun. Smaller handguns are generally more amenable to IWB and pocket carry. The holster is just as important as the handgun, providing both concealment and retention. Careful consideration of clothing choices, body type, and lifestyle is also critical for optimizing concealment.
Top Handgun Choices: A Deeper Dive
Selecting the “best” handgun is a highly individual process, so we will present a range of excellent choices. Each recommendation is based on factors like reliability, size, caliber, and overall performance, providing a starting point for your research.
9mm Subcompact Pistols
These handguns are the epitome of concealability, offering a significant advantage in terms of size and weight. They are perfect for those who prioritize discretion above all else.
Glock 43/43X
The Glock 43/43X are renowned for their simplicity, reliability, and ease of use. The Glock 43X features a slightly larger grip for enhanced handling and magazine capacity, offering a better balance between size and capacity. These handguns are chambered in 9mm, are easily customizable, and are generally considered exceptionally reliable.
- Pros: Compact size, lightweight, reliable, readily available accessories, easy to operate.
- Cons: Limited magazine capacity in the Glock 43, may have a slightly shorter grip.
Sig Sauer P365
The Sig Sauer P365 revolutionized the subcompact market with its high-capacity magazine in a small frame. This gives users more rounds in a package that is still very concealable, and it has a very good trigger. The P365 is a popular choice due to its impressive features in a compact package.
- Pros: High-capacity magazines, excellent ergonomics, good trigger, excellent aftermarket support.
- Cons: May take some adjustment for smaller hands, some find the grip a bit narrow.
Springfield Armory Hellcat
The Hellcat is another strong contender in the subcompact category. It offers a high-capacity magazine, comfortable ergonomics, and a built-in optic-ready slide. Its compact size makes it an excellent option for concealed carry.
- Pros: High-capacity magazine, optic-ready slide, comfortable grip, good value.
- Cons: Some find the grip texture aggressive.
Compact 9mm Handguns
These firearms strike a good balance between concealability, shootability, and capacity. They are often favored by those who want a handgun that is easily carried but offers more control and a greater number of rounds available.
Glock 19
The Glock 19 is a legendary handgun, celebrated for its reliability, simple design, and straightforward operation. It’s a compact 9mm that is widely carried by law enforcement and civilians alike. The Glock 19 is extremely reliable and has a large aftermarket for customization.
- Pros: Reliable, readily available accessories, easy to shoot, simple operation, large magazine capacity.
- Cons: Can be a little harder to conceal than subcompacts, might be too large for some carry methods.
Sig Sauer P320 Compact
The Sig Sauer P320 is a modular handgun, which means that the chassis, or fire control unit, can be swapped between different frames, allowing you to customize the grip size. The P320 has a great trigger, and offers an excellent shooting experience.
- Pros: Excellent trigger, modular design, high-capacity magazines, very accurate.
- Cons: Size is a bit larger than other compacts, can be costly.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus
The M&P Shield Plus is an evolution of the popular Shield line. The “Plus” offers an increased magazine capacity and excellent ergonomics in a small package. The M&P Shield Plus also features a comfortable grip, making it easy to handle and shoot.
- Pros: Comfortable grip, high-capacity magazines, excellent ergonomics, easy to conceal, reliable.
- Cons: May be slightly less concealable than some subcompacts.
Pocket Pistols (Chambered in .380 ACP)
For those who value maximum concealment, pocket pistols chambered in .380 ACP offer the smallest possible footprint. These firearms sacrifice some capacity and power for the sake of being incredibly discreet.
Ruger LCP MAX
The Ruger LCP MAX is a modern marvel, packing a significant magazine capacity in an incredibly small package. Its small size allows for easy pocket carry, but still gives a good grip. The LCP MAX is simple to operate and extremely lightweight.
- Pros: Very small, lightweight, easy to conceal, reliable.
- Cons: Less powerful than 9mm, may have more felt recoil due to its small size, small sights.
Sig Sauer P365-380
The P365-380 takes the excellent P365 platform and chamber it in .380 ACP. The P365’s excellent grip and great trigger make it easy to shoot even in the .380 chambering. It offers a great balance of shootability and compactness.
- Pros: Great shootability, excellent ergonomics, comfortable grip, easy to conceal.
- Cons: .380 ACP chambering is less powerful than 9mm.
Smith & Wesson Bodyguard
The Bodyguard is a very compact and lightweight .380 ACP option designed for easy concealment. It has a built-in laser sight, which can aid in targeting. The Bodyguard is designed to be easy to conceal and carry all day long.
- Pros: Very small, lightweight, and easy to conceal.
- Cons: Less stopping power than 9mm, controls can be small.
Revolvers for Concealed Carry
Revolvers offer inherent simplicity and mechanical reliability. They have a long history of use for self-defense and still have a niche in the world of concealed carry.
Smith & Wesson J-Frame
The Smith & Wesson J-Frame revolvers are classic carry firearms. They are compact, lightweight, and extremely easy to conceal. There are many versions, in both .38 Special and .357 Magnum, providing various choices for those that prefer a revolver.
- Pros: Simple to operate, extremely reliable, compact size.
- Cons: Limited capacity, slow reloads, heavy trigger pull (often).
Ruger LCR
The Ruger LCR offers modern upgrades in a classic revolver format. It features a polymer frame, which helps reduce weight, and a smooth trigger pull. The LCR is available in .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and other calibers.
- Pros: Lightweight, good trigger, reliable, simple.
- Cons: Limited capacity, slow reloads.
Essential Accessories
Owning a concealed carry handgun is only one part of the equation. Proper accessories can enhance your comfort, safety, and effectiveness.
Holsters
The holster is a critical component of concealed carry. The holster secures the firearm, protects it from damage, and allows for a safe and accessible draw. When selecting a holster, it’s important to consider your carry method. IWB holsters provide excellent concealment, but may take some getting used to. OWB holsters offer comfort but need a cover garment. Pocket holsters keep the gun in your pocket without printing. Choose a holster made from quality materials that offers good retention.
Spare Magazines
Carrying spare magazines is a wise decision. In a self-defense scenario, you might need additional rounds, and a spare magazine provides you with more ammunition.
Concealed Carry Gear
A sturdy gun belt is essential for IWB and OWB carry, providing support and preventing the handgun from sagging. Magazine carriers, whether attached to your belt or carried in a pocket, offer a secure way to carry additional magazines.
Prioritizing Safety and Training
Concealed carry is a responsibility. Always prioritize gun safety and comply with all local, state, and federal laws.
- Safe Gun Handling: Treat every gun as if it is loaded, and always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
- Regular Training: Training is an ongoing requirement. Practice your draw, aim, and firing techniques regularly. Take courses from qualified instructors, focusing on defensive shooting skills.
- Secure Storage: When not in use, store your handgun securely in a locked safe or container.
- Legal Awareness: Fully understand the laws regarding concealed carry in your jurisdiction, including the rules regarding the use of force.
Conclusion: Making the Right Decision
Selecting the best concealed carry handgun is a deeply personal choice. There is no single “perfect” option for everyone, and the optimal choice will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle. By considering the factors discussed in this guide—size and weight, reliability, caliber, ergonomics, and concealment methods—you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision. Research various models, handle them at a gun store, and practice with different firearms to find the one that best fits you. Remember that responsible gun ownership and continuous training are paramount. By understanding the process and the options, you can make the right choice and confidently carry the protection you need. With the right handgun and diligent practice, you can enhance your safety and be prepared to protect yourself and your loved ones.
