Choosing the right concealed handgun is a deeply personal decision, influenced by factors like hand size, shooting experience, and intended use. This isn't about picking the "best" gun – it's about finding the best gun for you. This guide explores ten popular concealed carry handguns, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to aid your decision. We'll cover factors like size, caliber, reliability, and ease of concealment. Remember to always check your local laws and regulations before purchasing any firearm.
Top Considerations When Choosing a Concealed Carry Handgun
Before diving into specific models, let's examine key factors affecting your choice:
Caliber: Finding the Right Balance
Caliber selection involves balancing stopping power with recoil and concealability. Popular choices for concealed carry include:
- 9mm: A widely available, versatile round offering a good balance of stopping power, manageable recoil, and high magazine capacity.
- .45 ACP: Provides significant stopping power but with increased recoil and typically lower magazine capacity.
- .380 ACP: Smaller and lighter than 9mm, offering less recoil but potentially reduced stopping power.
- .40 S&W: Falls between 9mm and .45 ACP in terms of power and recoil.
Size and Weight: Concealability vs. Shootability
The size and weight of the handgun directly impact concealability. Smaller guns are easier to hide but can be more difficult to shoot accurately. Larger guns offer better ergonomics and shootability but might be less comfortable for all-day carry.
Reliability: A Crucial Factor
Reliability is paramount in a self-defense situation. Choose a handgun known for its consistent function, even under stress. This often comes down to reputation and user reviews. Read reviews from reputable sources and consider the firearm's history of malfunctions.
Ease of Use: Handling and Controls
The handgun's controls (slide release, magazine release, safety) should be intuitive and easy to manipulate under pressure. A gun that's difficult to operate quickly can be a liability.
Top Ten Concealed Handguns: A Detailed Look
This list isn't exhaustive, and rankings are subjective, depending on individual preferences. However, these models represent consistently high-performing and popular choices within the concealed carry market.
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Glock 19: A workhorse known for its reliability, affordability, and wide range of aftermarket accessories. Its 9mm caliber offers a good balance of power and control. Excellent for both beginners and experienced shooters. Relatively easy to conceal for those with proper attire.
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Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield: A compact and lightweight 9mm pistol designed for easy concealment. Its slim profile makes it comfortable for everyday carry. The striker-fired design offers a smooth trigger pull.
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SIG Sauer P365: Another highly popular choice in the compact 9mm category. Known for its high capacity magazine for its size, it strikes a solid balance between firepower and concealability. Ergonomics are praised by many users.
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Springfield Armory Hellcat: A micro-compact 9mm pistol that maximizes capacity in a small frame. A notable feature is its high-capacity magazines which make up for its small size. Can be challenging for those with smaller hands.
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Ruger LC9s: A lightweight and affordable 9mm pistol that prioritizes concealability. A solid choice for budget-conscious buyers. It does have some user feedback about trigger pull that is worth considering before buying.
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Kimber Micro 9: This micro-compact 9mm pistol is slim and easy to conceal, offering a high degree of accuracy for its size. However, it's often considered a premium model, reflecting in the price point.
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Taurus G2c: An economical option, it's a compact 9mm that’s gaining popularity due to its affordability and generally reliable performance.
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Beretta Nano: This compact 9mm pistol is known for its sleek design and smooth trigger pull. It offers better ergonomics than many similarly-sized options.
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Kahr Arms CW9: The CW9 is another smaller option in the 9mm caliber that's favored for its light weight and slim profile. However, some users find the trigger pull somewhat stiff.
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SIG Sauer P320 Subcompact: The modularity of the P320 platform gives you options for different sizes and calibers, including compact 9mm versions well-suited for concealed carry. The trigger has received high marks.
Choosing the Right Holster
The choice of a concealed carry holster is just as critical as choosing the firearm. A good holster should:
- Provide a secure and comfortable fit: The gun shouldn't move around too much, but it should also be easy to draw.
- Protect the trigger: A holster should completely cover the trigger guard to prevent accidental discharge.
- Be comfortable for all-day carry: Consider the type of holster (inside-the-waistband (IWB), outside-the-waistband (OWB), pocket, etc.) based on your clothing and body type.
Conclusion: Responsible Gun Ownership
Concealed carry is a serious responsibility. Thorough training, consistent practice, and a deep understanding of relevant laws are essential. This article provides an overview of popular concealed carry handguns, but your final decision should be based on your individual needs, preferences, and responsible gun ownership practices. Consult with firearm professionals and seek professional training before carrying a concealed handgun. Always prioritize safety.