Choosing the right carry gun is a deeply personal decision, heavily influenced by individual needs, preferences, and experience. There's no single "best" gun, but rather a range of excellent options depending on your priorities. This guide explores ten top contenders for concealed carry, considering factors like reliability, size, ergonomics, and ammunition capacity. Remember, this information is for educational purposes only, and you should always consult with a firearms professional and comply with all applicable laws and regulations before purchasing or carrying a firearm.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Carry Gun
Before diving into the specific models, let's outline key considerations:
- Size and Weight: Concealed carry demands a manageable size and weight, especially for all-day carry. Comfort and ease of concealment are paramount.
- Caliber: Popular concealed carry calibers include 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. 9mm offers a good balance of capacity and manageable recoil, while .40 S&W and .45 ACP offer greater stopping power but with increased recoil.
- Reliability: A malfunction in a self-defense situation can be catastrophic. Choose a firearm known for its reliability and proven track record.
- Ergonomics: A gun that fits your hand comfortably and points naturally will enhance accuracy and speed.
- Ammunition Capacity: Higher capacity magazines provide more rounds in a self-defense situation.
- Safety Features: Consider features like manual safeties, decocker mechanisms, and grip safeties.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best carry gun is the one you are most comfortable and proficient with.
Top Ten Carry Guns (In Alphabetical Order – To Avoid Bias)
This list isn't ranked, as the "best" gun depends on individual needs.
-
Glock 19: A ubiquitous choice for concealed carry, the Glock 19 offers a balance of size, capacity, and reliability. Its striker-fired design and simple operation are favored by many.
-
Heckler & Koch VP9: Known for its excellent ergonomics and smooth trigger, the VP9 is a popular choice among those prioritizing comfort and shootability.
-
SIG Sauer P365: A micro-compact pistol, the P365 prioritizes concealability without sacrificing capacity for its size.
-
SIG Sauer P320: A modular pistol system allowing for customization and adaptability, the P320 offers various sizes and configurations suitable for different carry needs.
-
Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield Plus: A compact 9mm with an enhanced magazine capacity, the Shield Plus offers excellent concealability and a manageable recoil.
-
Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact: Building on the success of the M&P line, the 2.0 Compact provides a reliable and comfortable platform for concealed carry.
-
Springfield Armory Hellcat: Another micro-compact contender, the Hellcat boasts impressive capacity for its size.
-
Springfield XD-S MOD.2: Known for its comfortable grip and reliable operation, the XD-S MOD.2 is a strong choice for smaller framed individuals.
-
Taurus G3c: An affordable and reliable option, the Taurus G3c offers a good balance of features and value.
-
Walther PPS M2: A slim and lightweight pistol, the Walther PPS M2 prioritizes concealability and ease of carry.
Beyond the Gun: Essential Considerations
Choosing a gun is only the first step. Equally important are:
- Holster Selection: A properly fitted holster is crucial for safe and comfortable concealed carry.
- Ammunition Selection: Choose high-quality self-defense ammunition that meets your needs.
- Training: Regular practice and professional training are essential for safe and effective handling of your firearm.
This list provides a starting point for researching carry guns. Remember to handle and test fire any firearm before purchasing it to ensure it's the right fit for you. Prioritize safety and training above all else. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered professional firearm advice. Always consult with a qualified firearms instructor and adhere to all local, state, and federal laws.
