Compact 9mm Handguns for Concealed Carry: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to concealed carry, a compact 9mm handgun is often the preferred choice for many gun owners. These firearms offer a perfect balance of power, size, and convenience, making them ideal for self-defense. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best compact 9mm handguns for concealed carry, highlighting their features, benefits, and drawbacks.
What to Look for in a Compact 9mm Handgun
Before we dive into our top picks, it’s essential to consider the key factors that make a compact 9mm handgun suitable for concealed carry:
- Size and weight: A compact handgun should be small and light enough to carry comfortably, without being too bulky or heavy.
- Caliber: 9mm is a popular caliber for concealed carry, offering a good balance of power and manageable recoil.
- Magazine capacity: A higher magazine capacity can be beneficial, but it may also increase the size of the handgun.
- Sights and ergonomics: A good compact handgun should have intuitive sights and an ergonomic design that makes it easy to handle and shoot.
- Reliability and durability: A concealed carry handgun should be reliable and durable, with a reputation for withstanding regular use and maintenance.
Top Compact 9mm Handguns for Concealed Carry
Here are some of the best compact 9mm handguns for concealed carry, in no particular order:
1. Glock 19
- Size: 7.28 inches (length), 4.99 inches (height), 1.18 inches (width)
- Weight: 23.65 ounces
- Magazine capacity: 15 rounds
- Sights: Fixed sights, with optional adjustable sights
- Ergonomics: Ergonomic grip with finger grooves and textured surface
The Glock 19 is a popular choice for concealed carry, known for its reliability, durability, and versatility. Its compact size and light weight make it easy to carry, while its 15-round magazine capacity provides ample firepower.
2. Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield
- Size: 6.8 inches (length), 4.6 inches (height), 0.99 inches (width)
- Weight: 20.8 ounces
- Magazine capacity: 7 rounds (standard), 8 rounds (extended)
- Sights: Fixed sights, with optional adjustable sights
- Ergonomics: Ergonomic grip with finger grooves and textured surface
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield is a slim and lightweight handgun, designed specifically for concealed carry. Its compact size and low weight make it easy to carry, while its 7-round magazine capacity provides a good balance of firepower and size.
3. Sig Sauer P938
- Size: 5.9 inches (length), 3.9 inches (height), 1.1 inches (width)
- Weight: 16 ounces
- Magazine capacity: 6 rounds (standard), 7 rounds (extended)
- Sights: Fixed sights, with optional adjustable sights
- Ergonomics: Ergonomic grip with finger grooves and textured surface
The Sig Sauer P938 is a compact and lightweight handgun, designed for concealed carry. Its small size and low weight make it easy to carry, while its 6-round magazine capacity provides a good balance of firepower and size.
Comparison Table
| Handgun | Size (inches) | Weight (ounces) | Magazine capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glock 19 | 7.28 x 4.99 x 1.18 | 23.65 | 15 rounds |
| Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield | 6.8 x 4.6 x 0.99 | 20.8 | 7 rounds (standard), 8 rounds (extended) |
| Sig Sauer P938 | 5.9 x 3.9 x 1.1 | 16 | 6 rounds (standard), 7 rounds (extended) |
Conclusion
Choosing the right compact 9mm handgun for concealed carry depends on several factors, including size, weight, magazine capacity, and ergonomics. The Glock 19, Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield, and Sig Sauer P938 are all excellent options, each offering a unique set of features and benefits. Ultimately, the best handgun for you will depend on your personal preferences, shooting style, and concealed carry needs.
What is the best caliber for concealed carry?
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9mm is a popular caliber for concealed carry, offering a good balance of power and manageable recoil. However, other calibers, such as.40 S&W and.45 ACP, may also be suitable depending on personal preference and needs.
How do I choose the right handgun for concealed carry?
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Consider factors such as size, weight, magazine capacity, and ergonomics when choosing a handgun for concealed carry. It’s also essential to try out different handguns before making a purchase to ensure a comfortable fit and intuitive handling.
What is the difference between a compact and subcompact handgun?
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A compact handgun is generally smaller and lighter than a full-size handgun, but larger than a subcompact handgun. Subcompact handguns are designed to be even smaller and more concealable, often with a shorter barrel and smaller magazine capacity.
