What is the Best Handgun to Carry?
Choosing the right handgun to carry can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available in the market. With so many factors to consider, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of what makes a handgun suitable for everyday carry (EDC). In this article, we’ll delve into the key considerations and provide a comprehensive guide to help you find the best handgun to carry.
What Makes a Handgun Suitable for EDC?
Before we dive into specific recommendations, let’s discuss the essential characteristics of a handgun that makes it suitable for EDC:
• Concealability: The handgun should be easy to conceal and carry discreetly.
• Reliability: The handgun should be reliable and accurate, with minimal maintenance required.
• Capacity: The handgun should have a sufficient magazine capacity to provide adequate firepower.
• Size and weight: The handgun should be compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry for extended periods.
• Ergonomics: The handgun should have a comfortable grip and be easy to handle, even for those with smaller hands.
• Safeties: The handgun should have adequate safeties to prevent accidental discharge.
Top 5 Handguns for EDC
Based on the above criteria, here are our top 5 handgun recommendations for EDC:
| Handgun | Caliber | Capacity | Weight (oz) | Overall Length (in) | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glock 43 | 9mm | 6+1 | 19.6 | 6.98 | $400-$500 |
| Smith & Wesson M&P Shield | 9mm | 7+1 | 20.5 | 6.45 | $400-$600 |
| Sig Sauer P365 | 9mm | 10+1 | 17.7 | 6.27 | $500-$700 |
| Ruger Security-9 | 9mm | 15+1 | 26.4 | 7.03 | $300-$400 |
| Heckler & Koch P30SK | 9mm | 10+1 | 23.6 | 6.64 | $600-$800 |
Glock 43: A Compact and Reliable Choice
The Glock 43 is a popular choice for EDC due to its compact size, reliability, and ease of use. It’s a single-stack 9mm handgun with a 6+1 capacity, weighing in at 19.6 oz. The Glock 43 is known for its accuracy and has a reputation for being easy to handle, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced shooters.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield: A Compact and Ambidextrous Option
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is another popular choice for EDC, offering a compact and ambidextrous design. It’s a double-stack 9mm handgun with a 7+1 capacity, weighing in at 20.5 oz. The M&P Shield has a reputation for being reliable and accurate, with a comfortable grip and easy handling.
Sig Sauer P365: A High-Capacity and Compact Option
The Sig Sauer P365 is a relatively new addition to the EDC market, but it’s quickly gained popularity due to its high-capacity and compact design. It’s a double-stack 9mm handgun with a 10+1 capacity, weighing in at 17.7 oz. The P365 has a reputation for being reliable and accurate, with a comfortable grip and easy handling.
Ruger Security-9: A Budget-Friendly Option
The Ruger Security-9 is a budget-friendly option for EDC, offering a compact and reliable design. It’s a double-stack 9mm handgun with a 15+1 capacity, weighing in at 26.4 oz. The Security-9 has a reputation for being easy to handle and accurate, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Heckler & Koch P30SK: A High-End Option
The Heckler & Koch P30SK is a high-end option for EDC, offering a compact and reliable design. It’s a double-stack 9mm handgun with a 10+1 capacity, weighing in at 23.6 oz. The P30SK has a reputation for being accurate and reliable, with a comfortable grip and easy handling.
Conclusion
Choosing the best handgun for EDC depends on various factors, including personal preference, budget, and intended use. The five handguns listed above are some of the most popular and highly-regarded options for EDC, offering a range of characteristics and price points. When selecting a handgun for EDC, it’s essential to consider factors such as concealability, reliability, capacity, size, and weight, as well as ergonomics and safeties. By taking these factors into account, you can find the best handgun to carry for your specific needs and preferences.
