Best Concealed Carry Gun: Your Ultimate Everyday Defense Guide

Selecting the right handgun for concealed carry is an important decision for anyone interested in personal protection. With hundreds of models on the market, a handgun that slips comfortably and inconspicuously on your person can offer peace of mind and, if necessary, a means for self-defense. Each individual has unique considerations when it comes to choosing a concealed carry firearm, including ergonomics, caliber, capacity, size, and reliability.

To find the best concealed carry gun, it’s essential to balance these factors with your specific needs. You might prioritize a more compact handgun for easier concealment or a larger caliber for increased stopping power. Additionally, the nuances of different carrying methods and the selection of an appropriate holster to ensure safety and comfort can’t be overlooked. Regular maintenance is critical as well to ensure your concealed carry weapon functions properly when you need it most.

Key Takeaways

• Your personal needs dictate the balance of size, caliber, and capacity for a concealed carry gun.
• Choose a holster and carrying method that offers both concealment and accessibility.
• Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the reliability of your concealed carry weapon.

Choosing the Right Concealed Carry Gun

When you’re in the market for a concealed carry gun, it’s essential to find one that feels like an extension of yourself. It should be comfortable, reliable, and suit your hand and shooting style.

Factors to Consider

Before choosing your concealed carry gun, consider how it fits in your hand. You want a grip that’s not too large or too small but just right. Reliable performance is a must, so look for reputable brands known for their quality, like Glock 19 or Sig Sauer P365. Remember, the best gun for you is one that fits well and can be depended on when it matters most.

• Fit: Ensure the gun feels natural in your hand.
• Reliability: Prioritize models known for minimal malfunctions.

Balancing Size and Caliber

Your concealed carry gun should strike a balance between size and caliber. Consider a compact or micro-compact model if portability is key. Compacts like the Glock 19 provide a happy medium, while a micro-compact like the Sig Sauer P365 maximizes concealability. Handgun sizes vary widely:

• Micro-Compact: Small frame, easy to conceal, may have reduced capacity.
• Compact: Balance of size and capacity, manageable recoil.
• Full-Size: More difficult to conceal, larger capacity, typically more comfortable shooting experience.

Select a caliber that you can handle confidently. The 9mm is popular for its balance of power and manageable recoil.

Evaluating Handgun Ergonomics

The ergonomics of your handgun are critical. It should feel comfortable in your hand with all controls accessible. Consider models with interchangeable backstraps for a more personalized fit. Pay attention to how the pistol grip feels and whether your fingers wrap comfortably around it:

• Grip: Should not pinch or leave excessive space.
• Finger Reach: You should be able to reach the trigger without straining.
• Control Accessibility: Your thumb should easily reach safety and magazine release buttons.

A pistol that’s awkward to handle won’t do you any favors. It’s not just about carrying it; it’s about being able to use it effectively if you ever need to.

Popular Concealed Carry Calibers

When you’re choosing a concealed carry gun, the caliber is a critical factor affecting stopping power, recoil, and the size of the firearm itself. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of some of the most popular concealed carry calibers which will help you make your choice.

9mm: The Standard Choice

The 9mm caliber is widely considered the go-to for concealed carry. It balances stopping power with manageable recoil and comes in a variety of compact models. Most concealed carry handguns are chambered in 9mm, making it the standard option for everyday carry.

.38 Special and .357 Magnum: The Revolver Options

• .38 Special: Known for its reliability, the .38 Special offers less recoil, making it a favorite for those with smaller hands or who are sensitive to kickback.
• .357 Magnum: If you’re looking for more power, the .357 Magnum can be your pick, but expect it to come with increased recoil. It’s a versatile choice as it can also safely fire .38 Special rounds, providing flexibility in ammo selection.

Other Common Calibers

• .380 ACP: Often found in micro-pistols, the smaller .380 ACP is easier to conceal. While lesser in power compared to a 9mm, it is still a respectable option for self-defense.
• .45 ACP: Preferred by many for its stopping power, the .45 ACP does bring more recoil, which might not be ideal for all concealed carry users.
• .40 S&W: Falling between the 9mm and .45 ACP in terms of size and power, the .40 S&W was once a popular law enforcement caliber, offering a good balance for defensive carry.

Top Concealed Carry Guns Reviewed

When choosing your ideal concealed carry weapon, it’s essential to consider comfort, reliability, and suitability for your personal defense needs. Here’s a rundown of standout options in both revolvers and semi-autos that have earned their stripes.

Revolver Options

Finding the right concealed carry revolver means looking for something easy to handle yet dependable when it counts. The Ruger LCR is a favorite for its lightweight frame, making it a breeze to carry all day. You’ll appreciate its push-button cylinder release and smooth trigger pull if you lean towards a wheel gun. Another top pick is the Ruger LCP, though it’s a semi-auto, it’s often compared with revolvers for its size and reliability; it’s tiny, pocket-friendly and comes in a caliber you can trust.

Semi-Auto Must-Haves

For those inclined towards semi-automatics, you’re spoilt for choice. The Sig P365 is a standout for capacity and comfort in the palm, boasting a double-stack magazine within a micro-compact frame. If you’re a Glock enthusiast, the Glock 43 and its slightly larger sibling, the Glock 43X, are both exceptional choices, offering that renowned Glock reliability in a slimline package perfect for concealed carry.

The Springfield Hellcat Pro is another top-tier semi-auto that should be on your radar, with its high-capacity magazine and grip texture that keeps the gun secure in your hand. Ruger offers the Ruger LCP II and the Ruger LCP Max, each improving on the original LCP with better sights and a more refined trigger, giving you more confidence and control. For those who desire a more premium option, the Staccato CS comes with precision engineering and a reputation for exceptional performance right out of the box.

Whether you’re team revolver or team semi-auto, picking a gun that feels right and shoots straight is your pathway to confident concealed carry.

Carrying Methods and Holster Choices

When you’re considering concealed carry, your holster options and how you choose to carry can make all the difference in comfort and accessibility. Let’s check out the specific carrying methods and the types of holsters that suit each one.

Inside the Waistband (IWB)

IWB holsters tuck inside your waistband and clip onto your belt, making them a go-to for deep concealment. Your clothing choice is key here—think roomier waistbands or a size up in pants. Popular picks include the Alien Gear Holsters, known for its balance of comfort and functionality.

Outside the Waistband (OWB)

OWB holsters sit on the outside of your waistband but require a bit more strategy with your clothing to stay hidden. Jackets or longer shirts are your allies with OWB. A widely recommended OWB option is the Galco Combat Master Belt Holster, which offers easy access and stability.

Alternative Carry Methods

Looking beyond traditional waistband options, you’ll find ankle and pocket holsters. Ankle holsters like the Galco Ankle Glove can be ideal for backup guns, while pocket holsters must ensure no trigger exposure and should break up the outline of the gun in your pocket. These carry methods may require specific clothing adjustments or dedicated carry pants.

Maintaining Your Concealed Carry Weapon

Keeping your concealed carry gun reliable and high-performing requires consistent maintenance and regular training. You wouldn’t skip oil changes for your car, right? Treat your weapon with the same care.

Regular Cleaning and Care

You’ve got to keep it clean if you want your gun to function when you need it most. Here’s a quick checklist:

• After every use: Wipe down your gun to remove fingerprints and potential moisture that can lead to rust.
• Every few hundred rounds or monthly (whichever comes first): Break down your firearm for a thorough clean. You want to:
  • Remove residue by cleaning the barrel, slide, frame, and magazine.
  • Inspect parts for wear and damage.
  • Lubricate the moving parts to prevent metal-on-metal wear that can mess with your gun’s performance.

Training and Proficiency

Your gun’s only as good as your ability to use it. So, keep your skills sharp with regular training. This means:

• Hit the range: Shoot regularly to familiarize yourself with the recoil and trigger of your gun.
• Dry fire practice: Work on your aim and trigger pull at home to better your technique without using up ammo.
• Professional training: Consider occasional classes to improve your handling and stay up-to-date on safety protocols.

Remember, taking care of your gun and your skills is an ongoing responsibility. Stick to it and you’ll keep yourself in good shape to handle whatever comes your way.

Frequently Asked Questions

When choosing a concealed carry gun, comfort, safety, suitability for specific users, and ease of concealment are crucial factors. Explore the top questions to help you select the right firearm for your needs.

What are the top choices for comfortably carrying a concealed weapon?

For a comfortable concealed carry experience, guns like the Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Compact are favored for their reliability and affordability, while options like the XD-M Elite OSP also offer a higher capacity in a compact size.

Which concealed carry pistols offer the best manual safety features?

Pistols with robust manual safety features include models from the SIG Sauer P-series, or those like the Beretta 92FS with a physical safety lever, giving you an added level of security.

What’s the most suitable 9mm pistol for seniors who carry?

Seniors might prefer 9mm pistols that are easy to handle and lightweight, such as the Walther CCP M2, which offers a reduced recoil and is simple to operate.

Which handguns are ideal for new shooters looking to conceal carry?

New shooters should look for handguns that offer a balance of ease of use and effective safety mechanisms. Guns like the Glock 19 provide a user-friendly introduction to carrying with their consistent trigger pull and no external safety to manipulate.

What’s a good option for a lightweight concealed carry gun for women?

Many women opt for lightweight and compact weapons such as the Ruger LC9s, which are easier to conceal and not cumbersome to carry for long periods.

For those wearing business attire, what concealed carry weapon fits best with a suit?

For business attire, slim and compact pistols like the SIG Sauer P365 or P938 are great choices, as they can fit seamlessly into a holster without bulging, maintaining a sharp and professional appearance.