Market for concealed carry guns is as diverse and advanced as ever. With new technologies and innovations constantly being introduced, choosing the best concealed carry gun can be challenging. Factors such as size, weight, caliber, reliability, concealability, and ergonomics are all important to consider when selecting a firearm for personal defense.
Based on these critical factors, this article will review some of the best concealed-carry guns available in 2023. Whether you're a seasoned firearms enthusiast or a first-time gun owner, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you choose the right concealed carry gun for your needs.
A concealed carry gun is a firearm carried in a concealed manner, typically for personal protection. The weapon is designed to be easily concealable and lightweight for comfortable carry but still powerful enough to provide effective self-defense if needed.
Concealed carry guns come in various shapes and sizes, including handguns, revolvers, and sub-compact pistols. They are designed to be easily concealed and carried discreetly, often with a slim profile and short barrel length.
Carrying a concealed weapon is a serious responsibility that requires proper training, knowledge of the law, and adherence to safety guidelines.
Laws vary by state: Each state has its laws and regulations regarding concealed carry. It's essential to understand the laws in your state, including where and when you can carry, the type of firearm you can carry, and the requirements for obtaining a concealed carry permit.
You need a permit in most states: Most states require a concealed carry permit to carry a firearm publicly. The process for obtaining a permit can vary by state but typically involves a background check, completion of a training course, and submission of an application.
Concealed carry is not allowed in certain locations: There are certain locations where concealed carry is prohibited, such as federal buildings, schools, and some private property. It's essential to understand the laws in your state regarding prohibited locations.
Training is essential: Proper training in firearms safety and self-defense is critical before carrying a concealed firearm. Consider taking a training course from a reputable instructor to ensure you know how to handle your gun safely and effectively.
Disclosure to law enforcement: It's important to know when and how to disclose that you are carrying a concealed weapon to law enforcement, as laws vary by state. Some states require you to inform law enforcement immediately upon contact, while others only require you to do so if asked.
Responsibility: Carrying a concealed firearm is a serious responsibility. It's essential to be aware of the potential consequences of using a gun in self-defense and to ensure that you are mentally and emotionally prepared to carry a weapon. It's also important to safely handle and store your firearm to prevent accidents.
Handguns come in various sizes; obviously, the smaller the gun, the easier it can be to conceal the gun.
Pocket guns are small, lightweight handguns carried in a pocket. They are often used for concealment due to their small size.
Micro pistols are the smallest type of semi-automatic pistol available. They are lighter and easier to conceal, but they have limited magazine capacity and can be difficult to shoot accurately.
These are the most common type of concealed carry gun. They are easy to carry and offer high magazine capacity. They are available in various calibers and sizes, making them versatile.
Derringers are small, single-shot handguns that are easy to conceal. They are often used as backup guns or for close-range self-defense.
Subcompact pistols are smaller versions of semi-automatic pistols designed for concealed carry. They are lightweight and easy to carry but have low magazine capacity.
Compact pistols are larger than subcompact pistols but smaller than full-sized pistols. They are a good compromise between size and capacity, making them a popular choice for concealed carry.
Revolvers are simple and reliable guns used for over a century. They are available in various calibers and sizes, making them a great option for concealed carry. However, their magazine capacity is limited compared to semi-automatic pistols.
When comparing concealed firearms to other types of firearms, there are some important differences to consider.
While concealed handguns may not be as powerful or versatile as larger firearms, they do offer a good balance of comfort, convenience, and effectiveness for everyday use.
Self-defense has moved to the forefront of Americans' minds, and scores have gone after concealed carry guns like no other time in recent history. There are a lot of great pistols that should be added to this gun list.
In this blog post, we compiled a list of 15 favorites concealed carry guns and divided them into low range, mid range and value options.
The Ruger LCR 38 is often considered one of the best concealed carry guns on the market due to its compact size, lightweight design, and reliable performance. It is small in size, and its low weight makes it easy to carry concealed, and its five-round capacity provides sufficient firepower for self-defense.
Built to precise standards and the ideal mid-priced revolver for pocket carry is the Ruger LCR 38. Enhanced Power + Capable of handling the puncture pressure of P rounds and holding 5 rounds, this hybrid polymer and steel revolver is very lightweight. It features a bobbed hammer design, with less chance of snagging on the draw.
The trigger is an interesting design, providing about 11 pounds of weight to pull, but the unique design increases leverage and makes the pull feel very light. It is very smooth and easy to fire in double action.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range $499.99 - $710.99
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus is a popular choice for a concealed carry gun, known for its compact size, lightweight design and excellent performance. It is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9mm, with a 10-round capacity and an optional extended magazine that can hold up to 13 rounds.
Not only is this pistol suitable for most shooters, but it also offers a better trigger than the early generation 1.0 versions. The aggressive stippling on the grip also helps improve the purchase. The Shield Plus comes in versions with and without magazine disconnect, with and without external protection.
Other notable features include an optional manual thumb safety, an improved magazine release, and a white-dot front and white two-dot rear sighting system for increased visibility. The M&P Shield Plus also features a durable polymer frame and a stainless steel slide for added reliability and corrosion resistance.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range $334.80 - $595.00
The Glock 19 is the best concealed carry gun, known for its reliability, versatility, and ease of use. It is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9mm, with a 15-round capacity and an optional extended magazine that can hold up to 33 rounds.
One of the key features of the Glock 19 is its compact size, which makes it easy to carry concealed. The pistol is also lightweight, which makes it comfortable to carry for extended periods. The grip is textured for a secure hold, and the trigger has a smooth pull with a consistent break.
Other notable features include a simple and intuitive design, a low profile for easy concealment, and a durable polymer frame for added reliability and corrosion resistance.
Overall, the Glock 19 is an excellent choice for a concealed carry gun, offering a balance of size, capacity, and performance. However, as with any firearm, it is important to receive proper training and practice regularly to ensure safe and effective use in self-defense situations.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start $497 -&649.98 ( Depend on various retailers)
The Mossberg MC2 Compact is a relatively new entry into the market of concealed carry handguns, but it has quickly gained a reputation for its reliability, performance, and ease of use. It is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9mm, with a 13-round capacity and an optional extended magazine that can hold up to 15 rounds.
One of the key features of the Mossberg MC2 Compact is its slim and compact design, which makes it easy to carry concealed. The grip is textured for a secure hold, and the trigger has a smooth pull with a crisp break. The pistol is also lightweight, which makes it comfortable to carry for extended periods.
Other notable features include an adjustable rear sight, a reversible magazine release, and aggressive front and rear slide serrations for improved grip and manipulation. The Mossberg MC2 Compact also has a durable polymer frame and a stainless steel slide for added reliability and corrosion resistance.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start From &357.58 - $421.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The Beretta APX Carry is a popular choice for concealed carry in 2023. This firearm is compact, lightweight, and easy to conceal, making it a great option for those who prioritize comfort and discretion.
One of the key features of the Beretta APX Carry is its modular design, which allows for easy customization to fit the user's specific needs. The grip can be easily adjusted with interchangeable backstraps, and the slide features serrations that make it easy to manipulate.
The APX Carry also has a 6+1 capacity and features a striker-fired system for reliable and consistent firing. Its low profile design and snag-free edges make it easy to draw from a concealed position without catching on clothing or other obstructions.
The Beretta APX Carry also boasts impressive accuracy, thanks partly to its dovetailed front and rear sights, which are easy to adjust for windage and elevation. The trigger has a short reset and a consistent pull weight, making it easy to fire accurately in rapid succession.
The Beretta APX Carry is an excellent choice for a reliable, customizable, and accurate concealed carry firearm. Its modular design, low profile, and comfortable ergonomics make it a top contender for anyone in the market for a concealed carry gun in 2023.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start $399.99 - $458.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The Sig Sauer P365XL is another top contender for the best concealed carry gun in 2023. This firearm is known for its small size, lightweight construction, and high capacity, making it a popular choice among gun owners who prioritize both concealment and firepower.
One of the most impressive features of the P365XL is its magazine capacity. Despite its small size, this firearm can hold up to 12 rounds in its standard magazine, giving the user a significant advantage in a self-defense situation. Additionally, the P365XL is built with a flat trigger and a consistent, smooth pull, allowing for easy and accurate shooting.
The Sig Sauer P365XL also features a comfortable grip with a unique texture that provides a secure hold, even in wet or slippery conditions. The extended beavertail and undercut trigger guard enhance the user's grip and control, further improving the firearm's accuracy and ease of use.
The P365XL is also built with a low profile design and smooth edges, allowing for easy and comfortable concealed carry. The firearm's slide is also designed with front and rear serrations, making it easy to manipulate, even with wet or sweaty hands.
Regarding reliability, the P365XL is built with Sig Sauer's renowned attention to detail and quality. This firearm has a steel slide and frame, ensuring durability and longevity. Additionally, the P365XL is equipped with a crisp, audible trigger reset, making it easy to fire quickly and accurately in rapid succession.
Overall, the Sig Sauer P365XL is an excellent choice for a high-capacity, reliable, and accurate concealed-carry firearm. Its compact size, impressive magazine capacity, and comfortable ergonomics make it a top contender for the best concealed carry gun in 2023.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start From $599.99 - $1,683.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The Sig Sauer P229 is a classic choice for concealed carry and continues to be a popular option in 2023. This firearm is known for its reliability, accuracy, and versatility, making it a top contender for anyone looking for a concealed carry gun that can also be used for home defense or range shooting.
One of the most notable features of the P229 is its size. While slightly larger than other concealed carry options, the P229's compact design still makes it relatively easy to conceal. Additionally, its solid construction and all-metal frame provide a sturdy and durable platform for firing.
The P229 also has a double-action/single-action trigger system, allowing quick and accurate shooting in a self-defense scenario while providing a smoother trigger pull for longer-range shooting. The firearm is also equipped with a four-point safety system, ensuring it can only be fired when the user intends to do so.
In terms of accuracy, the P229 is built with a short reset trigger and low-profile night sights, making it easy to fire quickly and accurately in any lighting conditions. The firearm's comfortable grip and excellent balance also help to enhance accuracy, especially during rapid-fire shooting.
The Sig Sauer P229 is also known for its reliability. This firearm has high-quality components and is designed to withstand various conditions. Additionally, the P229 is easy to clean and maintain, making it a low-maintenance choice for a concealed-carry gun.
Specification:
Approximate Price range $489.99 - $1,689.99 (Depends On Various Retailers)
The Colt King Cobra Carry DAO is a top contender for the best concealed carry gun in 2023. This firearm is known for its compact size, reliability, and impressive accuracy, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a concealed carry gun that can also be used for range shooting.
One of the most notable features of the King Cobra Carry DAO is its size. This firearm has a compact design that makes it easy to conceal, without sacrificing accuracy or firepower. Additionally, its stainless steel construction provides a sturdy and durable platform for firing.
The King Cobra Carry DAO also has a double-action-only (DAO) trigger system. It provides a smooth and consistent trigger pull, making it easy to fire accurately in rapid succession. The firearm is also equipped with a bobbed hammer, allowing easy and quick drawing from a concealed position.
In terms of accuracy, the King Cobra Carry DAO is built with a 2-inch barrel and low-profile sights, making it easy to aim and fire accurately in various lighting conditions. Additionally, the firearm's comfortable grip and excellent balance help to enhance accuracy, especially during rapid-fire shooting.
The Colt King Cobra Carry DAO is also known for its reliability. This firearm is built with high-quality components and is designed to withstand various conditions. The King Cobra Carry DAO is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a low-maintenance choice for a concealed carry gun.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start From $893.99 - $1,195.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The HK VP9 SK is a popular choice for concealed carry due to its compact size and reliable performance. It features a 3.39-inch barrel and an overall length of 6.61 inches, making it easy to conceal on your person.
However, the best concealed carry gun for you will ultimately depend on your individual preferences and needs. It's important to consider factors such as your body size, clothing choices, shooting experience, and personal preferences when selecting a concealed carry gun.
Before making a purchase, you may want to try out different models and see how they feel in your hand and how well you can shoot them. It's also important to consider factors such as reliability, accuracy, and ease of use when selecting a concealed carry gun.
Ultimately, the best concealed carry gun is the one that you feel most comfortable and confident carrying and that you can rely on to protect yourself in a potentially life-threatening situation.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start From $649.99 - $1,325.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The Sig Sauer P320 Compact is also popular for concealed carry due to its compact size, reliability, and accuracy. It features a 3.9-inch barrel and an overall length of 7.2 inches, making it easy to conceal on your person.
One of the standout features of the P320 Compact is its modularity, which allows you to easily swap out the grip frame, slide, and barrel to customize the gun to your needs. This can be particularly useful for concealed carry, as you can adjust the gun to fit your hand size and shooting preferences.
The P320 Compact also features a striker-fired trigger system, which provides a smooth and consistent trigger pull for accurate shooting. And with a 15+1 round capacity, you can feel confident knowing you have plenty of ammunition in self-defense.
Overall, the Sig Sauer P320 Compact is a solid choice for concealed carry, offering reliability, accuracy, and modularity in a compact package. However, as with any gun, it's important to try it out and ensure that it feels comfortable and natural in your hand before making a purchase.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start From $499.99 - $1,551.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The Bersa Thunder is a popular choice for concealed carry due to its compact size, reliability, and affordability. It features a 3.5-inch barrel and an overall length of 6.6 inches, making it easy to conceal on your person.
One of the standout features of the Bersa Thunder is its affordability, as it is often priced lower than other popular concealed-carry guns. However, despite its lower price point, it still offers reliable performance and accuracy.
The Bersa Thunder also features a double-action/single-action trigger system, which provides both a smooth and consistent trigger pull and the option for a lighter trigger pull for subsequent shots. And with a 7+1 round capacity, you can feel confident knowing you have enough ammunition to defend yourself in self-defense.
Overall, the Bersa Thunder is a solid choice for concealed carry, offering reliability, accuracy, and affordability in a compact package. However, as with any gun, it's important to try it out and ensure that it feels comfortable and natural in your hand before making a purchase.
Bersa Thunder 380 ACP Pistol Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start From $299.99 - $449.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The Ruger EC9s is a popular choice for concealed carry due to its compact size, reliability, and affordability. It features a 3.12-inch barrel and an overall length of 6 inches, making it easy to conceal on your person. One of the standout features of the Ruger EC9s is its affordability, as it is often priced lower than other popular concealed carry guns. However, despite its lower price point, it still offers reliable performance and accuracy.
The Ruger EC9s also features a striker-fired trigger system, which provides a smooth and consistent trigger pull for accurate shooting. And with a 7+1 round capacity, you can feel confident knowing you have enough ammunition to defend yourself in self-defense.
The Ruger EC9s has a compact, lightweight design that makes it easy to carry for extended periods. And with its textured grip, you can maintain a secure hold on the gun even in stressful situations. Overall, the Ruger EC9s is a solid choice for concealed carry, offering reliability, accuracy, and affordability in a compact package. However, as with any gun, it's important to try it out and ensure that it feels comfortable and natural in your hand before making a purchase.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start From $269.99 - $429.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The Stoeger STR-9 is a full-sized handgun that may be more challenging to conceal carry compared to other compact-sized handguns. However, it is still a popular choice for concealed carry due to its reliability, accuracy, and affordability.
The Stoeger STR-9 features a 4.17-inch barrel and an overall length of 7.44 inches, making it larger than other popular concealed carry guns. However, its ergonomic grip design and low bore axis allow for comfortable and accurate shooting.
The STR-9 also features a striker-fired trigger system with a short reset, providing a smooth and consistent trigger pull. It has a 15+1 round capacity, providing ample ammunition for self-defense situations.
While there may be better choices than the Stoeger STR-9 for all concealed carry needs due to its size, it can be a reliable and affordable option for those prioritizing accuracy and capacity in their concealed carry gun. As always, trying out a gun before purchasing is important to ensure that it feels comfortable and natural in your hand.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start From $301.99 - $459.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The Canik TP9 Elite Subcompact is a solid choice for concealed carry, offering reliability, accuracy, and affordability in a compact package. It features a 3.6-inch barrel and an overall length of 6.7 inches, making it easy to conceal on your person.
One of the standout features of the Canik TP9 Elite Subcompact is its affordability, as it is often priced lower than other popular concealed carry guns. However, despite its lower price point, it still offers reliable performance and accuracy.
The Canik TP9 Elite Subcompact also features a striker-fired trigger system, which provides a smooth and consistent trigger pull for accurate shooting. Additionally, it has a low-profile design and an ergonomic grip that is comfortable to hold and shoot.
The Canik TP9 Elite Subcompact also has a 12+1 round capacity, providing ample ammunition for self-defense situations. And with its lightweight, it can be easily carried for extended periods.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start From $423.99 - $599.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The Ruger LCP .380 Auto Pistol is a popular choice for concealed carry due to its small size and lightweight. It's a reliable and affordable firearm, and its small size makes it easy to conceal in a pocket, purse, or holster.
The LCP is designed to be simple and easy to use, with a double-action-only trigger that requires a longer and heavier trigger pull for each shot. Some shooters find this trigger design less desirable than a traditional single-action or double-action trigger, but others appreciate its simplicity and reliability.
The .380 Auto cartridge is also popular for concealed carry, as it offers a good balance of power and manageable recoil in a small package. However, it's important to note that the .380 Auto cartridge is not as powerful as larger calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP and may not be as effective at stopping an attacker.
Ultimately, the Ruger LCP .380 Auto Pistol can be a good choice for concealed carry. Still, it's important to choose a firearm you feel comfortable and confident using and get proper training and practice with it to ensure you can use it effectively in a self-defense situation.
Specification:
Approximate Price Range Start From $251.99 - $359.99 (Depends on various retailers)
The conclusion of the best concealed carry gun is subjective and depends on individual preferences and needs. There are many factors to consider when choosing a concealed carry firearm, including size, weight, caliber, capacity, and personal comfort and proficiency.
Ultimately, the best concealed carry gun is one that you feel comfortable and confident carrying and shooting and that meets your specific needs and preferences. It's important to get professional training and practice regularly with your firearm to ensure you can use it effectively in self-defense.