Choosing the Right Compact 9mm Handgun for Concealed Carry
When it comes to concealed carry, having a reliable and compact handgun is crucial. Among the various calibers available, 9mm has become a popular choice due to its manageable recoil, sufficient stopping power, and widespread availability of ammunition. In this article, we will explore the top 5 compact 9mm handguns for concealed carry, highlighting their features, benefits, and what makes them stand out in the market.
1. Glock 43
The Glock 43 is a slim, lightweight, and highly reliable compact handgun that has gained a loyal following among concealed carry enthusiasts. With a length of 6.26 inches, height of 4.25 inches, and width of 0.87 inches, it is an ideal choice for those who prefer a smaller firearm.
Key Features:
- 9x19mm Parabellum caliber
- 6-round magazine capacity
- 3.39-inch barrel length
- 17.95 ounces unloaded weight
- Striker-fired design
The Glock 43 is known for its durability, ease of use, and accuracy, making it an excellent choice for self-defense.
2. Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield is another popular compact handgun designed specifically for concealed carry. Its slim profile, light weight, and ergonomic design make it an ideal choice for those who want a reliable and comfortable firearm.
Key Features:
- 9x19mm Parabellum caliber
- 7-round or 8-round magazine capacity (depending on the model)
- 3.1-inch barrel length
- 19.3 ounces unloaded weight
- Striker-fired design
The M&P9 Shield features a smooth trigger pull, reduced recoil, and a Picatinny rail for attaching accessories.
3. Sig Sauer P938
The Sig Sauer P938 is a compact, single-action handgun that has gained a reputation for its reliability and accuracy. With a length of 5.9 inches, height of 3.9 inches, and width of 0.74 inches, it is an excellent choice for concealed carry.
Key Features:
- 9x19mm Parabellum caliber
- 6-round or 7-round magazine capacity (depending on the model)
- 3-inch barrel length
- 16 ounces unloaded weight
- Single-action design
The P938 features a manual safety, ambidextrous thumb safety, and a ergonomic design for comfortable shooting.
4. Ruger LC9s
The Ruger LC9s is a compact, striker-fired handgun designed for concealed carry. Its slim profile, light weight, and ergonomic design make it an ideal choice for those who want a reliable and comfortable firearm.
Key Features:
- 9x19mm Parabellum caliber
- 7-round magazine capacity
- 3.12-inch barrel length
- 17.1 ounces unloaded weight
- Striker-fired design
The LC9s features a smooth trigger pull, reduced recoil, and a manual safety for added security.
5. Kahr CM9
The Kahr CM9 is a compact, single-stack handgun designed for concealed carry. With a length of 5.42 inches, height of 4 inches, and width of 0.9 inches, it is an excellent choice for those who want a slim and lightweight firearm.
Key Features:
- 9x19mm Parabellum caliber
- 6-round magazine capacity
- 3.14-inch barrel length
- 15.9 ounces unloaded weight
- Double-action-only design
The CM9 features a smooth trigger pull, reduced recoil, and a manual safety for added security.
🔍 Note: When choosing a compact handgun for concealed carry, it's essential to consider factors such as size, weight, caliber, and ergonomics to ensure a comfortable and reliable shooting experience.
In conclusion, these top 5 compact 9mm handguns for concealed carry offer a range of features and benefits that cater to different preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize size, weight, reliability, or ergonomics, there is a compact handgun on this list that is sure to meet your requirements.
What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a compact handgun for concealed carry?
+
The most important factor to consider is size and weight, as a compact handgun should be easy to conceal and comfortable to carry.
What is the difference between a single-action and striker-fired design?
+
A single-action design requires the user to manually cock the hammer before firing, while a striker-fired design uses a spring-loaded striker to ignite the primer.
What is the recommended caliber for concealed carry?
+
The 9x19mm Parabellum caliber is a popular choice for concealed carry due to its manageable recoil, sufficient stopping power, and widespread availability of ammunition.
Related Terms:
- Best 9mm pistol
- Compact pistol
- Walther
