Best Concealed Carry Gun: Your Ultimate Guide to Making the Right Choice

Introduction

Choosing the best concealed carry gun can feel like a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Whether you’re a seasoned gun owner or someone new to the world of concealed carry, finding a firearm that fits your needs is crucial. This guide will help you navigate the sea of choices by breaking down the top contenders, offering practical advice, and highlighting what makes a gun ideal for concealed carry. We’ll go beyond the basics, diving into comparisons, new insights, and practical tips to ensure you make an informed decision. Let’s get started!

What Makes a Gun Ideal for Concealed Carry?

Before we jump into the top picks, let’s establish what makes a gun suitable for concealed carry. The best concealed carry gun should strike a balance between size, weight, capacity, and ease of use. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Size and Weight: A concealed carry gun needs to be compact and lightweight. You want something that’s easy to conceal under clothing without being too bulky or heavy to carry all day.
2. Capacity: While size matters, so does firepower. The ideal gun will have a good balance of compactness and capacity, giving you enough rounds to feel secure without sacrificing concealability.
3. Caliber: The caliber of your gun will affect both its stopping power and recoil. While 9mm is a popular choice for its balance, other calibers like .380 ACP or .45 ACP may also be worth considering depending on your needs.
4. Ergonomics and Comfort: How a gun feels in your hand is essential. You need a firearm that fits comfortably, allowing you to handle and shoot it effectively under stress.
5. Reliability: This is non-negotiable. Your concealed carry gun must function flawlessly every time you pull the trigger.

Top Contenders for the Best Concealed Carry Gun

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some of the best options available. We’ve analyzed and compared these guns based on the criteria above, focusing on their pros, cons, and what sets them apart from the competition.

1. Glock 19 Gen 5

• Overview: The Glock 19 Gen 5 is a staple in the concealed carry community, known for its reliability, capacity, and versatility.
• Pros:
  • 15+1 capacity in a compact frame
  • Easy to find accessories and holsters
  • Proven track record of reliability
• Cons:
  • Slightly larger than some other options, which may impact concealability for some users
• Why It Stands Out: The Glock 19’s reputation is well-earned. It’s a go-to choice for many due to its balance between size, capacity, and reliability. It also has a vast aftermarket, making it easy to customize.

2. Sig Sauer P365

• Overview: The Sig Sauer P365 revolutionized the concealed carry market with its high capacity in a subcompact frame.
• Pros:
  • 10+1 or 12+1 capacity in a very compact size
  • Excellent ergonomics for small hands
  • Night sights come standard
• Cons:
  • The smaller grip may not be comfortable for those with larger hands
• Why It Stands Out: The P365 is the gun that made other manufacturers up their game. Its combination of capacity and size set a new standard for concealed carry pistols.

3. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus

• Overview: The Shield Plus takes everything great about the original Shield and adds a higher capacity, making it an even better option for concealed carry.
• Pros:
  • 13+1 capacity with an extended magazine
  • Excellent trigger and ergonomics
  • Slim profile for easy concealment
• Cons:
  • Slightly heavier than some other options
• Why It Stands Out: The M&P Shield Plus is a solid choice for those who want a thin, easy-to-conceal gun that doesn’t skimp on capacity or ergonomics.

4. Springfield Armory Hellcat

• Overview: The Hellcat is another high-capacity micro-compact that has quickly become a favorite among concealed carry enthusiasts.
• Pros:
  • 11+1 or 13+1 capacity
  • Compact size with excellent shootability
  • Adaptive grip texture for a secure hold
• Cons:
  • Trigger pull might feel too heavy for some
• Why It Stands Out: The Hellcat’s combination of size, capacity, and features like its adaptive grip texture make it a top contender in the micro-compact market.

5. Ruger LCP Max

• Overview: The Ruger LCP Max is an ultra-compact option that’s perfect for deep concealment or as a backup gun.
• Pros:
  • 10+1 capacity in a tiny package
  • Lightweight and extremely easy to conceal
  • Soft recoil for its size
• Cons:
  • Small size can make it harder to shoot accurately at longer distances
• Why It Stands Out: The LCP Max offers a surprising amount of capacity for its size, making it a great choice for those who prioritize concealability above all else.

New Insights and Considerations

While the above guns are excellent choices, there are a few newer considerations that many blog posts overlook:

1. Holster Compatibility: Finding the right holster for your gun is just as important as the gun itself. A poor holster can make even the best concealed carry gun uncomfortable or difficult to conceal. Look for holsters that offer a balance between security and comfort, and consider trying several styles to find what works best for you.
2. Optics-Ready Options: With the rise of red dot sights on pistols, many manufacturers now offer optics-ready versions of their concealed carry guns. Adding a red dot can significantly improve your accuracy, especially in high-stress situations. Consider whether an optics-ready model is something you might want to invest in.
3. Aftermarket Support: Beyond holsters, consider the availability of aftermarket parts and accessories. Guns like the Glock 19 have a vast ecosystem of parts, allowing for easy customization. Other guns might have more limited options, which could be a deciding factor if you plan to modify your firearm.
4. Training and Practice: No matter which gun you choose, consistent training is key. Many concealed carry permit holders don’t practice enough with their firearm. Consider investing in regular training sessions and practicing drawing from concealment. Some of the most important features of a concealed carry gun—like reliability and ease of use—can only be fully appreciated through regular use and practice.

Conclusion: Making Your Choice

Choosing the best concealed carry gun is a personal decision that should be based on your specific needs, preferences, and lifestyle. While the Glock 19, Sig Sauer P365, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus, Springfield Armory Hellcat, and Ruger LCP Max are all excellent options, the best choice for you will depend on factors like comfort, concealability, and how the gun fits in your hand.

Remember, the right gun is the one you’re most comfortable carrying and shooting. Take your time to try out different models, consider the factors we’ve discussed, and prioritize what matters most to you. Your concealed carry gun is an investment in your safety—make sure it’s one you’re confident in.