What is the Best Small Handgun?
When it comes to choosing the best small handgun, there are many factors to consider. From size and weight to caliber and functionality, the perfect handgun for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top contenders for the best small handgun, highlighting their key features and benefits.
What Makes a Small Handgun "Small"?
Before we dive into the list, it’s important to define what makes a handgun "small". Typically, small handguns are defined as those with a barrel length of 3.5 inches or less and a overall length of 6 inches or less. These smaller handguns are often preferred for concealed carry, self-defense, and backup purposes.
Top 5 Small Handguns
Here are five of the top small handguns on the market:
| Handgun | Caliber | Barrel Length | Weight | Magazine Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glock 43 | 9mm | 3.39 inches | 17.18 ounces | 6+1 |
| Ruger LCP | .380 ACP | 2.75 inches | 9.5 ounces | 6+1 |
| Smith & Wesson Bodyguard | .380 ACP | 2.75 inches | 14.7 ounces | 6+1 |
| Sig Sauer P365 | 9mm | 3.7 inches | 17.8 ounces | 10+1 |
| Kel-Tec P-3AT | .380 ACP | 2.5 inches | 10.2 ounces | 6+1 |
1. Glock 43
The Glock 43 is a single-stack, subcompact 9mm pistol that is perfect for concealed carry. Weighing in at just 17.18 ounces, it’s lightweight and easy to carry. With a magazine capacity of 6+1, it’s also compact and easy to manage.
2. Ruger LCP
The Ruger LCP is a lightweight, single-stack.380 ACP pistol that is designed for self-defense. Weighing in at just 9.5 ounces, it’s one of the lightest handguns on the market. With a magazine capacity of 6+1, it’s also compact and easy to manage.
3. Smith & Wesson Bodyguard
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard is a double-stack.380 ACP pistol that is designed for self-defense. Weighing in at 14.7 ounces, it’s slightly heavier than the other two handguns on this list. With a magazine capacity of 6+1, it’s still compact and easy to manage.
4. Sig Sauer P365
The Sig Sauer P365 is a striker-fired, subcompact 9mm pistol that is designed for self-defense. Weighing in at 17.8 ounces, it’s slightly heavier than the Glock 43. With a magazine capacity of 10+1, it’s also more capable than the other handguns on this list.
5. Kel-Tec P-3AT
The Kel-Tec P-3AT is a lightweight, single-stack.380 ACP pistol that is designed for self-defense. Weighing in at 10.2 ounces, it’s one of the lightest handguns on the market. With a magazine capacity of 6+1, it’s also compact and easy to manage.
What to Look for in a Small Handgun
When choosing a small handgun, there are several factors to consider. Here are a few key things to look for:
- Caliber: What caliber do you want your handgun to be in?.380 ACP and 9mm are popular choices for self-defense.
- Barrel Length: A shorter barrel length can make a handgun easier to conceal, but may also affect accuracy.
- Weight: A lighter handgun can be easier to carry, but may also be less accurate.
- Magazine Capacity: A larger magazine capacity can give you more shots before needing to reload.
- Grip Size: A smaller grip size can make a handgun easier to conceal, but may also be less comfortable for larger hands.
Conclusion
Choosing the best small handgun for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. By considering factors such as caliber, barrel length, weight, magazine capacity, and grip size, you can find the perfect handgun for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight, compact handgun for concealed carry or a more capable handgun for self-defense, there are many options to choose from.
