Choosing the right carry gun is a deeply personal decision, heavily influenced by individual needs, experience, and preferences. There's no single "best" gun, but rather a best gun for you. This guide explores ten popular and highly-regarded concealed carry pistols, considering factors like size, caliber, reliability, and ease of use. This information is for educational purposes only; always consult with a firearms professional and ensure you comply with all applicable laws and regulations before purchasing or carrying a firearm.
Understanding Your Needs Before Choosing a Carry Gun
Before diving into specific models, consider these crucial factors:
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Concealability: How easily can you conceal the firearm? This depends on your body type, clothing choices, and carry method (e.g., inside the waistband (IWB), outside the waistband (OWB), pocket carry). Smaller, lighter guns generally conceal better.
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Caliber: Larger calibers offer more stopping power, but often come with increased recoil and a larger, harder-to-conceal firearm. Popular calibers for concealed carry include 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. Smaller calibers like .380 ACP are also an option, though their stopping power is debated.
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Reliability: A malfunction in a self-defense situation can be catastrophic. Choose a reliable handgun known for its robust design and consistent performance. Look for guns with a solid reputation for reliability.
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Ergonomics: How well does the gun fit your hand? A comfortable grip is crucial for accuracy and control, especially under stress. Test-fire different models if possible to determine which feels best in your hand.
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Ease of Use: Consider the controls (slide release, magazine release, safety) and how easily you can manipulate them. Simplicity is often preferred for self-defense situations.
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Training: Regardless of your choice of firearm, proper training is essential. Regular practice with your chosen firearm is crucial for building proficiency and confidence.
Top Ten Carry Guns (In No Particular Order)
This list encompasses a range of calibers and sizes to cater to diverse needs. Remember, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right gun.
1. Glock 19: A ubiquitous choice for concealed carry, the Glock 19 offers a balance of size, capacity, and reliability. Its polymer frame keeps it lightweight, and its simple design ensures easy maintenance. It's available in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG.
2. SIG Sauer P365: This subcompact pistol is exceptionally popular for its small size and surprisingly large magazine capacity (10+1 rounds in 9mm). Its slim profile makes it easy to conceal, even in appendix carry.
3. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus: The Shield Plus builds on the success of the original Shield, offering increased magazine capacity and an improved grip texture. It's available in 9mm and .45 ACP.
4. Springfield Armory Hellcat: Known for its surprisingly high capacity for its size (11+1 rounds in 9mm), the Hellcat is another strong contender in the subcompact category. Its slim profile and light weight make it suitable for deep concealment.
5. Ruger LC9s: This striker-fired pistol is an affordable and reliable option for concealed carry. Its lightweight design and small size make it suitable for pocket carry or IWB.
6. Beretta APX Carry: The APX Carry combines a durable design with a comfortable grip and relatively high capacity. It is available in 9mm and .40 S&W.
7. Taurus G2c: A budget-friendly option, the G2c is a reliable striker-fired pistol that offers a good balance of features for its price point. Available in 9mm.
8. Kahr CW9: Known for its slim profile, the CW9 is a good choice for those seeking a lightweight, easily concealable pistol. It's a single-stack design, offering a smaller capacity than double-stack models. Available in 9mm.
9. Kimber Micro 9: This subcompact .380 ACP pistol is a great option for smaller individuals who want a more manageable recoil and a compact firearm.
10. CZ P-07 Duty: For those who prefer a slightly larger pistol offering better ergonomics and more manageable recoil, the CZ P-07 Duty is an excellent option. This is a full-size pistol but can still be concealed depending on the user's body type and carry method. Available in 9mm.
Choosing the Right Carry Gun: It's Personal
This list provides a starting point for your research. The best carry gun is the one that best suits your individual needs, preferences, and training level. Spend time researching, handling different models, and, if possible, test-firing them before making your decision. Remember that responsible gun ownership includes regular practice, safe storage, and adherence to all applicable laws and regulations. Always prioritize safety and responsible gun handling above all else.