Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right handgun for concealed carry is not a one-size-fits-all process. The ideal choice depends on your personal needs, physical attributes, lifestyle, and the legal requirements where you live. Several key factors must be carefully evaluated.
Concealability
A firearm must be easily concealable. The smaller and lighter a handgun, the easier it generally is to conceal. Consider grip size, barrel length, and overall dimensions. A larger gun might be powerful, but if it’s difficult to hide, its practicality diminishes. Different carry methods—Inside the Waistband (IWB), Outside the Waistband (OWB), pocket carry, or ankle carry—impact what handgun size will work best. Each method presents its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of comfort, concealment, and accessibility. Experimenting with various carry styles and handguns is crucial to determine the best fit.
Reliability
Reliability is absolutely paramount. Your good conceal and carry handgun must work consistently. A firearm that jams or malfunctions in a self-defense situation is worse than useless. Thoroughly research a handgun’s reputation for reliability. Read reviews, consider the manufacturer’s track record, and, if possible, try to handle or even test-fire different models before purchasing. Ensure the gun is well-maintained with regular cleaning and lubrication to minimize the risk of malfunctions.
Caliber and Stopping Power
Selecting the right caliber requires a balance. The size of the round, or caliber, affects the effectiveness of a handgun in stopping a threat. This balance also includes considering recoil. Common calibers for concealed carry include 9mm, .380 ACP, and .38 Special. Each has pros and cons regarding stopping power, recoil, and concealability. Larger calibers generally offer more stopping power but may produce more recoil, making them harder to control and potentially affecting follow-up shots. Smaller calibers might be easier to handle and conceal but may have slightly less stopping power. Research the ballistics of various ammunition and what caliber best suits your needs.
Ergonomics and Shootability
The ability to handle a handgun comfortably and effectively is essential. Consider ergonomics and how easy a handgun is to shoot. Grip size should fit comfortably in your hand, allowing a firm and secure grip. Trigger pull should be smooth and manageable. The sight picture—how quickly and clearly you can acquire the target with the sights—is also crucial. Visit a gun range, if possible, and try out different models. This hands-on experience will help determine which feels the most comfortable and accurate for you.
Capacity
Capacity is another consideration. Magazine capacity refers to the number of rounds a handgun can hold. While the primary goal is to deter a threat, having more rounds might provide a greater advantage in a protracted defensive situation. However, a higher capacity often means a larger grip and overall size, which can compromise concealability.
Safety Features
Your good conceal and carry handgun should have safety features. Manual safeties, trigger safeties, and firing pin safeties all have their roles in safe gun handling. Even if you have all the latest safety features, your mindset must always be safety first. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire. Never point the gun at anything you are not willing to destroy. Know your target and what is beyond it. These are the basic rules of gun safety that are never to be violated.
Choosing a Good Handgun: Practical Examples
We will look at several examples to get you started. These are popular choices and good examples of what is on the market. This is not an exhaustive list, and the best choice will vary from person to person.
Glock 19
For those looking for a larger, but still very concealable, 9mm pistol, consider the Glock 19. This firearm has a reputation for reliability. Its compact size, relative to full-sized handguns, makes it suitable for concealed carry. The Glock 19 offers a generous magazine capacity, typically holding 15 rounds. It has a polymer frame, making it relatively lightweight and durable. It comes standard with a trigger safety and a good overall feel. Pros: Excellent reliability, high magazine capacity, proven track record. Cons: Some find the grip angle to be less ergonomic than other models. IWB carry is a common method.
SIG Sauer P365
Another excellent choice for concealed carry is the SIG Sauer P365. This subcompact 9mm offers an impressive balance of size and capacity. The P365 is renowned for its small profile, making it extremely easy to conceal. The gun features a good trigger and ergonomic grip, contributing to its shootability. The P365 can also handle the slightly more powerful 9mm +P ammunition. Pros: Very compact, high capacity for its size, good trigger, reliable. Cons: The smaller size may result in more felt recoil than larger pistols. This gun excels at IWB or pocket carry.
Springfield Armory Hellcat
If you prefer a slightly smaller handgun and prefer something with a slightly higher capacity, consider the Springfield Armory Hellcat. This is a small, lightweight, and easy-to-conceal 9mm pistol. Despite its compact size, the Hellcat boasts a high-capacity magazine, maximizing firepower in a small package. Springfield offers various versions of the Hellcat, including models with optics-ready slides. It’s a reliable and accurate handgun that is easily carried. Pros: High capacity, small size, excellent accuracy. Cons: Can be challenging for shooters with large hands. This is another excellent choice for IWB carry.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus is a solid option. This is a slightly larger subcompact that is extremely reliable. It offers a good balance of size, shootability, and capacity. It has a comfortable grip and a crisp trigger. The Shield Plus has a modular design, allowing for easy customization and maintenance. Pros: Reliable, easy to shoot, and affordable. Cons: Smaller grip may not suit all shooters. Perfect for IWB.
Smith & Wesson J-Frame
When considering a revolver for concealed carry, the Smith & Wesson J-Frame is a classic and reliable option. These compact revolvers have a strong reputation for durability and ease of use. The J-Frame is very compact, making it ideal for deep concealment. Revolvers, in general, are known for their simple and reliable operation. Many prefer them due to their inherent safety features. Pros: Simple operation, reliable, excellent for deep concealment. Cons: Limited capacity compared to semi-automatic pistols, slower to reload. Often carried IWB or in a pocket.
Additional Crucial Elements
Carrying a good conceal and carry handgun effectively means more than simply selecting the right firearm. You must also consider the right gear and training.
Holsters
Choose a high-quality holster. A good holster securely holds your handgun, protects it from the elements, and allows for a smooth and quick draw. The holster should be made of durable materials. Holsters come in various styles: IWB holsters conceal the handgun inside the waistband; OWB holsters sit outside the waistband; and pocket holsters are designed for discreet carry in a pocket. Selecting the right holster often involves considering your body type, clothing style, and preferred carry position.
Training
Prioritize training. Proper training is absolutely vital. Seek professional instruction from certified firearms instructors. Training will cover safe gun handling, marksmanship, drawing from concealment, and the legal aspects of using a firearm for self-defense. A comprehensive training course can significantly improve your skills and confidence, as well as teach you about when and how you can legally use your weapon for self-defense.
Accessories
Think about accessories. While the handgun itself is the core, consider appropriate accessories that enhance the firearm’s function. A weapon-mounted light can be extremely valuable in low-light situations. A laser sight can improve target acquisition. However, these accessories add to the overall bulk, so make sure the pistol is still easily concealable.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Maintain your firearm. Consistent maintenance is critical to the reliability of your firearm. Learn how to properly disassemble, clean, and lubricate your handgun according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular cleaning removes debris and prevents malfunctions.
The Path Forward
Choosing a good conceal and carry handgun is a personal decision. The handgun you choose needs to fit you, your lifestyle, and your legal obligations.
Carefully research different models, try them out if possible, and always prioritize safety and training. The responsibility that comes with carrying a concealed handgun must be taken seriously. You must become skilled in its use. Always practice safe gun handling.
The legal ramifications of using a handgun in self-defense are significant. It is crucial to understand the laws in your area. Become thoroughly familiar with your state’s laws regarding self-defense, the use of force, and the legal requirements for concealed carry. Seek legal counsel to get accurate legal advice. Always adhere to all laws and regulations.
Take your time. Do your research. The right handgun, paired with the right training and responsible mindset, can be a valuable tool for personal protection. By diligently preparing yourself, you can make a responsible and informed decision.
