Essential Factors in Your Handgun Selection
Choosing the right handgun for concealed carry is a significant undertaking. There’s more to it than simply picking the flashiest model or the one your friend recommends. The best concealed carry handgun should fit your needs and offer optimal protection. Let’s dissect the crucial factors that will influence your final decision.
Considering Size and Weight
The size and weight of your carry handgun are critical elements in determining its comfort and concealability. Handguns generally fall into subcompact, compact, and full-size categories. Subcompact handguns are exceptionally small and designed for maximum concealability, but they may sacrifice some features like grip size and magazine capacity. Compact handguns strike a balance, offering a manageable size and capacity, often favored for their blend of concealability and shootability. Full-size handguns provide the largest grip and highest capacity, but may be more difficult to conceal, especially for those with a smaller frame or who wear tighter clothing. The best concealed carry handgun for you will depend on your body type, the clothing you typically wear, and the environment you find yourself in. Consider how much time you are comfortable devoting to carry. Everyday carry, or EDC, requires a handgun that integrates into your daily life seamlessly, becoming a second nature. Can you manage the weight and size for long periods? These are questions of critical importance. A subcompact might disappear beneath light clothing, but a compact might be easier to handle and offer better accuracy. The best concealed carry handgun allows for a comfortable, unobtrusive fit.
Deliberating on Caliber
The caliber, or the diameter of the bullet, is a core consideration. Common calibers used in carry handguns include 9mm, .380 ACP, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. Each caliber presents a unique set of trade-offs. 9mm is widely regarded for its balance of stopping power, manageable recoil, and high capacity. It is generally less expensive to practice with, adding to its advantage as the best concealed carry handgun for many. .380 ACP is a smaller caliber, often found in subcompact handguns, offering greater concealability but with potentially less stopping power than larger calibers. .40 S&W provides more power than the 9mm, but might generate more recoil. .45 ACP is a powerful caliber that provides significant stopping power, but might result in greater recoil. A good understanding of ballistics is important. The bullet’s construction, the ammunition type, and the effect they have on performance are essential. Consider hollow points, a very popular bullet choice. They are designed to expand upon impact, transferring the maximum amount of energy and producing a larger wound channel. The best concealed carry handgun for you may depend on your experience handling recoil and your preferences for power versus capacity.
Prioritizing Reliability and Durability
Reliability is non-negotiable. Your carry handgun must function flawlessly in critical situations. This is one of the most vital attributes of the best concealed carry handgun. Factors contributing to reliability include the quality of manufacturing, the design of the firearm, and the materials used. Research the reputation of the handgun models you are considering, exploring reviews, and seeking out feedback from experienced gun owners. Look for a handgun known for its robustness and ability to perform consistently, regardless of environmental conditions. Test the handgun. Take it to the range and put it through its paces. A gun that won’t function when you need it is worse than useless.
Evaluating Ergonomics and Handling
Ergonomics encompass how the handgun feels in your hand and how easy it is to operate. The best concealed carry handgun should fit comfortably in your grip, allowing for a secure and controlled hold. Examine the grip size and shape. A grip that is too small may be difficult to manage and control, while a grip that is too large may affect concealability. Check how accessible the controls are, including the slide release, magazine release, and any manual safeties. Are they easy to reach and operate under stress? Does the design of the handgun promote proper handling techniques? Spend time dry-firing the handgun, and then live-firing at a range to see how comfortable it is, and how naturally you can maneuver the handgun. A comfortable and natural feel contributes significantly to accurate shooting and control.
Assessing Capacity
Capacity refers to the number of rounds the handgun can hold. The best concealed carry handgun should balance capacity with concealability. A larger capacity offers the potential for more rounds in a self-defense situation, but can also increase the size and weight of the handgun. Consider your local laws and the common threats you may face. Evaluate the trade-offs carefully. Are you willing to sacrifice some degree of concealability for the potential advantage of a higher capacity magazine? Your personal risk assessment plays a role here.
Considering Safety Features
The inclusion of safety features is paramount in the best concealed carry handgun. Internal safeties such as striker-fired systems and firing pin blocks help prevent accidental discharge. External safeties, like manual safeties, offer an additional layer of protection. However, it is imperative that you are well-trained in the safe handling and operation of any firearm. The best concealed carry handgun will not be useful if you are not proficient in the handling of firearms. Safety training is non-negotiable. Proper storage of your firearm, legal considerations, and a responsible mindset are essential parts of gun ownership. The best concealed carry handgun necessitates a commitment to responsible gun ownership.
Balancing Price and Budget
The price of a carry handgun can vary significantly. Consider the overall cost including the purchase price, ammunition, holsters, accessories, and training. The best concealed carry handgun is the one you can afford to maintain, and train with. It is more useful to have an affordable, reliable handgun that you practice with than a top-of-the-line model that you don’t. Look for value. Research the prices of different models, and factor in the cost of necessary accessories. Remember that your budget can have a very real impact on the long-term safety and effectiveness of your carry setup.
Personal Preferences and Needs
Ultimately, the *best carry handgun* is the one that aligns with your personal preferences and needs. Your shooting experience and proficiency level play a role. If you are a beginner, you may want to start with a handgun that is easy to handle and maintain. Consider the intended use of the handgun. Is it for concealed carry, home defense, or range practice? What threats are you anticipating in your particular environment? These factors shape your decision.
Exploring Some Popular Models
Now, let’s explore some well-regarded handgun models that frequently appear at the top of the discussion regarding the best carry handgun. These examples represent the many approaches to concealed carry, and give you a good place to begin.
Glock 19 (and the Glock Line)
Glock handguns have earned a reputation for reliability, durability, and ease of use. The Glock 19 is a compact model that has become a favorite for concealed carry. Its size strikes a balance between concealability and shootability. The Glock 19 features a simple design, making it easy to learn and operate. The advantages of a Glock include its high magazine capacity, its ease of maintenance, and its wide availability of aftermarket parts and accessories. The best concealed carry handgun for you may be a Glock. The Glock platform is very popular, and it is easy to find a wide range of accessories.
SIG Sauer P365 (and Similar Models)
The SIG Sauer P365 and similar models, often described as micro-compact handguns, have revolutionized the concealed carry market. These handguns pack a remarkable amount of firepower into a remarkably small package. The P365 offers a significant magazine capacity, making it a strong contender for the best concealed carry handgun. The small size of the P365 means that the handgun can be easily concealed, even beneath light clothing. The SIG Sauer platform is highly respected, and the P365 has become one of the most popular concealed carry handguns ever produced.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus (and Similar)
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus is another excellent choice for concealed carry. It builds upon the successful Shield platform, introducing enhancements such as an improved trigger. It’s known for its comfortable ergonomics and user-friendly design, fitting nicely into the hand. Its compact size makes it easy to conceal, and the Shield Plus offers a good balance of capacity and concealability. The best concealed carry handgun must fit your hand, and the Shield Plus provides a comfortable and intuitive shooting experience.
Springfield Armory Hellcat (and Similar)
The Springfield Armory Hellcat is another popular micro-compact handgun. It is known for its exceptional magazine capacity. The Hellcat often comes with a high-capacity magazine, providing plenty of rounds for self-defense. The Hellcat provides a compact size and a well-designed grip. It is easy to conceal and to operate. The Hellcat is a good choice for those seeking a balance of size, capacity, and performance.
Considering Accessories and Tactics for Concealed Carry
Your handgun is just one piece of the puzzle. Choosing the best concealed carry handgun is only the beginning. Other key elements must be considered.
Holsters
The choice of a holster is crucial for comfortable and effective concealed carry. There are several types of holsters, including Inside the Waistband (IWB), Outside the Waistband (OWB), ankle holsters, and pocket holsters. IWB holsters are typically worn inside the waistband, offering good concealment. OWB holsters are worn outside the waistband, usually requiring a larger garment for concealment. Ankle holsters are suitable for those seeking a deep concealment option, while pocket holsters are designed for carrying in a pocket. Materials include leather and Kydex. The best concealed carry handgun requires a high-quality holster. Choose a holster that fits your handgun snugly, and that provides good retention.
Concealment Techniques
Clothing choices can dramatically impact concealment. Choose clothing that is loose-fitting enough to conceal your handgun without printing. Adjusting your carry position can also improve concealment. Experiment with different positions to find what works best for your body type and the clothing you wear.
Ammunition Selection
Choosing the right ammunition for self-defense is vital. Quality self-defense ammunition is engineered for maximum stopping power and reliability. Research and select ammunition that is known for its performance and effectiveness. Practice with your chosen ammunition to ensure proper function and accuracy.
Training and Practice
Regular training and practice are non-negotiable. You should be able to draw, aim, and fire your handgun quickly and accurately. Take a firearms training course. Participate in regular range practice. Practice drawing from concealment. Practice shooting under stress to build your skills and confidence. The best concealed carry handgun will be useless without the appropriate skills and training.
Emphasizing Responsible Gun Ownership
Carrying a handgun is a great responsibility. It is crucial that you embrace the highest standards of responsible gun ownership. Practice safe gun-handling techniques. Store your handgun securely, away from children and unauthorized individuals. Learn and understand the legal considerations. It’s very important to know the laws in your area and the laws of anywhere you travel. Be prepared for a self-defense situation. Consider the ethical implications of your decisions. Responsible gun ownership helps to keep your community safe.
Concluding Thoughts
Selecting the *best carry handgun* is an intensely personal journey. The right choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and the specific demands of your lifestyle. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Carefully consider the factors outlined in this guide. Research different models, handle various handguns, and try to shoot them before making your purchase. The best concealed carry handgun is the one that you can carry comfortably, confidently, and responsibly. Prioritize safety, training, and responsible gun ownership above all else.
