What is the Best Concealed Carry Pistol?
Choosing the right concealed carry pistol can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available in the market. As a responsible gun owner, it’s essential to select a pistol that meets your specific needs, skill level, and personal preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when selecting a concealed carry pistol and provide an overview of some of the best options available.
What to Look for in a Concealed Carry Pistol
Before we dive into the best concealed carry pistols, let’s discuss the key factors to consider when selecting a pistol for concealed carry:
- Caliber: The caliber of your pistol is crucial, as it affects the stopping power and penetration of the bullet. Popular calibers for concealed carry include 9mm,.40 S&W, and.45 ACP.
- Capacity: The number of rounds your pistol can hold is important, as it affects the number of shots you can fire before needing to reload. Look for pistols with high-capacity magazines.
- Weight and Size: A lighter and smaller pistol is easier to conceal, but may sacrifice some stopping power. Consider a pistol with a weight of around 25-30 ounces and a length of around 6-7 inches.
- Trigger: A smooth and consistent trigger pull is essential for accurate shooting. Look for pistols with a trigger pull weight of around 5-7 pounds.
- Ergonomics: A comfortable and ergonomic design is crucial for shooting accuracy and reducing fatigue. Look for pistols with contoured grips and textured surfaces.
- Reliability: A reliable pistol is essential for concealed carry, as it will reduce the risk of malfunctioning during a critical situation. Look for pistols with a reputation for reliability and durability.
The Best Concealed Carry Pistols
Based on the factors mentioned above, here are some of the best concealed carry pistols available:
| Pistol | Caliber | Capacity | Weight | Length | Trigger | Ergonomics | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glock 19 | 9mm | 15+1 | 23.65 oz | 6.02 in | 5.5 lbs | Excellent | Excellent |
| Smith & Wesson M&P Shield | 9mm | 7+1 | 20.5 oz | 6.1 in | 5.5 lbs | Excellent | Excellent |
| Ruger SP101 | .357 Magnum | 5+1 | 29.5 oz | 7.25 in | 12.5 lbs | Good | Good |
| Sig Sauer P365 | 9mm | 10+1 | 17.7 oz | 6.3 in | 5.5 lbs | Excellent | Excellent |
| Kahr PM9 | 9mm | 7+1 | 20.5 oz | 6.1 in | 4.5 lbs | Good | Good |
Glock 19
The Glock 19 is a popular choice among concealed carry enthusiasts, and for good reason. It’s a reliable and accurate pistol that’s available in a variety of calibers, including 9mm. The Glock 19 has a capacity of 15+1 rounds and weighs around 23.65 ounces. It’s also relatively compact, measuring 6.02 inches in length.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is another popular choice among concealed carry enthusiasts. It’s a lightweight and compact pistol that’s available in a variety of calibers, including 9mm. The M&P Shield has a capacity of 7+1 rounds and weighs around 20.5 ounces. It’s also relatively short, measuring 6.1 inches in length.
Ruger SP101
The Ruger SP101 is a double-action revolver that’s available in a variety of calibers, including.357 Magnum. It’s a bit larger than the other pistols on this list, measuring 7.25 inches in length, but it’s still a popular choice among concealed carry enthusiasts. The SP101 has a capacity of 5+1 rounds and weighs around 29.5 ounces.
Sig Sauer P365
The Sig Sauer P365 is a relatively new pistol that’s quickly gained popularity among concealed carry enthusiasts. It’s a lightweight and compact pistol that’s available in a variety of calibers, including 9mm. The P365 has a capacity of 10+1 rounds and weighs around 17.7 ounces. It’s also relatively short, measuring 6.3 inches in length.
Kahr PM9
The Kahr PM9 is a lightweight and compact pistol that’s available in a variety of calibers, including 9mm. It’s a bit smaller than the other pistols on this list, measuring 6.1 inches in length, but it’s still a popular choice among concealed carry enthusiasts. The PM9 has a capacity of 7+1 rounds and weighs around 20.5 ounces.
Conclusion
Choosing the best concealed carry pistol is a personal decision that depends on a variety of factors, including your skill level, personal preferences, and specific needs. By considering the key factors mentioned above and exploring the options available, you can find a pistol that meets your specific needs and provides reliable and accurate performance.
Recommendations
- For beginners, we recommend the Glock 19 or Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, as they’re both reliable and easy to handle.
- For those looking for a more compact pistol, we recommend the Sig Sauer P365 or Kahr PM9.
- For those looking for a revolver, we recommend the Ruger SP101.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best concealed carry pistol is a serious decision that requires careful consideration of your specific needs and preferences. By considering the key factors mentioned above and exploring the options available, you can find a pistol that provides reliable and accurate performance and meets your specific needs. Remember to always handle firearms safely and responsibly, and to follow all local laws and regulations regarding concealed carry.
