Choosing the right concealed carry handgun is crucial for anyone looking to protect themselves or their loved ones.
With so many available options, finding the best handgun that suits your needs and preferences can be overwhelming. Concealed carry handguns are designed to be small, light, and easy to hide on your body or in your clothing.
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Understanding Concealed Carry Handguns
Concealed carry handguns are designed for discreet and comfortable carrying, allowing individuals to keep their firearms concealed while ensuring quick and reliable access when needed.
These firearms are typically compact, lightweight, and chambered in calibers, suitable for self-defense.
Best Handguns for Concealed Carry
The handguns mentioned below are considered to be the best-concealed carry handguns.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield M2.0 Compact
Our top pick for the best concealed carry handgun is the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield M2.0 Compact. This is a compact semi-automatic pistol that is chambered in 9mm Luger. It has a 3.6-inch barrel length with a 15-round magazine capacity.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield M2.0 Compact is made from polymer with a stainless steel slide and barrel. It has a black finish that gives it a sleek and professional look.
The pistol also has an ergonomic grip with an aggressive texture, providing a secure and comfortable hold.
Key Features of the M&P Shield M2.0 Compact
- M&P Shield M2.0 Compact: Reliable and easy to use
- Striker-fired mechanism with crisp, light trigger pull
- Ambidextrous thumb safety and slide release for convenience
- Low bore axis reduces muzzle rise and recoil
- Excellent choice for concealed carry, balancing size, capacity, and performance
- Affordable and widely available
Sig Sauer P365
Our runner-up for the best concealed carry handgun is the Sig Sauer P365. This is a subcompact semi-automatic pistol that is chambered in 9mm Luger.
It has a 3.1-inch barrel length with a 10-round magazine capacity.
The Sig Sauer P365 is made from polymer with a stainless steel slide and barrel. It has a black finish that gives it a simple and elegant look.
The pistol also has an ergonomic grip with finger grooves, providing a comfortable and natural hold.
Key Features of the Sig Sauer P365
- Reliable and easy to use
- Striker-fired mechanism with the smooth trigger pull
- Manual thumb safety and external extractor for safety and visibility
- High-visibility front and rear night sights for low-light aiming
- High capacity in a compact design, ideal for concealed carry
- Trendy and customizable with many aftermarket options
Glock 43
Our best budget option for the best concealed carry handgun is the Glock 43. This is a subcompact semi-automatic pistol that is chambered in 9mm Luger.
It has a 3.39-inch barrel length with a 6-round magazine capacity. The Glock 43 is made from polymer with a steel slide and barrel. It has a black finish that gives it a classic and minimalist look.
Key Features of the Glock 43
- Ergonomic grip with finger grooves for a comfortable hold
- Reliable and easy to use
- Simple striker-fired mechanism with no external safety or hammer
- The ambidextrous magazine release and slide stop lever for convenience
- Low bore axis reduces muzzle rise and recoil
- Small, light, and concealable design, perfect for concealed carry
- Affordable and widely available, offering accessibility and economy
Ruger LCR Revolver
If you prefer a revolver over a semi-automatic pistol, the Ruger LCR Revolver might be a good option.
This subcompact revolver is chambered in various calibers, such as .38 Special, .357 Magnum, 9mm Luger and .22 LR.
LCR has a 1.87-inch barrel length with a 5-round or 6-round cylinder capacity. The Ruger LCR Revolver is made from polymer with a steel or aluminium frame and a stainless steel cylinder.
Key Features of the Ruger LCR Revolver
- Black finish for a modern and sleek look
- Rubber grip with finger grooves for a comfortable hold
- Reliable and easy to use
- Double-action-only trigger with a smooth pull
- Patented friction-reducing cam for improved trigger force and accuracy
- Low-profile front sight and integral rear sight for easy aiming
- Small, light, and concealable design, perfect for concealed carry
Walther PPK
If you want a classic and elegant concealed-carry handgun, the Walther PPK might be the one for you.
This subcompact semi-automatic pistol is chambered in .380 ACP or .32 ACP. It has a 3.3-inch barrel length with a 6-round or 7-round magazine capacity.
The Walther PPK is made from steel with a stainless steel or blued finish.
Key Features of the Walther PPK
- Sleek and timeless design, an icon of cinema and history
- Ergonomic grip with checkered panels for a secure and comfortable hold
- Reliable and easy to use
- Single-action/double-action trigger with decocking safety lever for safety and versatility
- Exposed hammer and external extractor for visibility and audibility
- Fixed front and rear sight with windage adjustment for easy aiming
Factors to Consider Handguns for Concealed Carry
Size and Weight
The size and weight of a concealed carry handgun are crucial considerations. The firearm should be compact enough to conceal effectively yet large enough to provide a comfortable grip and proper control during shooting.
Strike a balance between concealability and shootability to find the ideal size and weight for your needs.
Caliber and Recoil
Selecting the right caliber is essential for a concealed-carry handgun. Consider a caliber that appropriately balances stopping power and manageable recoil. Popular choices include 9mm, .380 ACP, and .45 ACP. Remember, choosing a caliber you can handle effectively is crucial to ensure accurate and controlled shots.
Capacity and Reloading
Evaluate the magazine capacity of a handgun before making a decision. Higher capacity means more rounds at your disposal, potentially providing an advantage in self-defense situations.
Additionally, consider how easy it is to reload the firearm and whether it offers features like ambidextrous magazine releases or extended magazine options.
Ergonomics and Comfort
A concealed carry handgun should fit comfortably in your hand. Pay attention to the ergonomics of the firearm, including the grip texture, shape, and overall feel.
Try different models to find one that feels natural in your hand, allowing for accurate shooting and minimizing fatigue during extended practice sessions.
Reliability and Durability
Reliability is paramount when it comes to personal defense firearms. Look for reputable manufacturers known for producing reliable handguns.
Research reviews and user experiences ensure you choose a firearm that can withstand rigorous use and perform consistently in critical situations.
Selecting the best concealed carry handgun requires careful consideration of various factors, including size, caliber, capacity, reliability, and concealability.
The Glock 19, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, Sig Sauer P365, Springfield XD-S, and Ruger LCP II are among the top choices for personal protection.
Remember, owning a concealed carry handgun requires proper training, regular practice, and legal compliance.
Considering these factors and investing in your training, you can confidently have a concealed handgun for personal protection.
Got more ideas about the best concealed carry gun? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
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