best 9mm for carry

2 min read 21-12-2024
best 9mm for carry

Choosing the best 9mm for concealed carry is a deeply personal decision, heavily influenced by individual hand size, shooting style, and intended use. There's no single "best" gun, but rather a selection of excellent options that excel in different aspects of concealed carry. This guide breaks down key considerations and highlights some top contenders to help you find the perfect fit.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a 9mm Carry Gun

Before diving into specific models, let's examine the crucial factors influencing your choice:

1. Size and Weight:

Concealed carry demands a firearm that's comfortable and easily concealable. Consider your body type and clothing choices. Smaller, lighter pistols are generally preferred for everyday carry (EDC), while larger options might offer greater capacity and shootability.

2. Shootability and Ergonomics:

A pistol's ergonomics directly impact accuracy and comfort. A gun that fits your hand well, with a manageable recoil impulse, will enhance your shooting performance and reduce fatigue. Consider grip texture, trigger reach, and overall feel.

3. Capacity:

Higher magazine capacity provides more rounds in a self-defense situation. However, this often comes at the cost of increased size and weight. Balance your capacity needs with concealability requirements.

4. Reliability:

Reliability is paramount in a self-defense firearm. Choose a pistol known for its robust design and consistent performance under stress. Read reviews and look for models with a proven track record.

5. Features:

Consider features like night sights, ambidextrous controls, and a manual safety (if desired). These features can significantly enhance usability and safety.

Top 9mm Handguns for Concealed Carry:

Several excellent 9mm pistols consistently rank highly for concealed carry. This isn't an exhaustive list, but it covers a range of sizes and styles:

Subcompact/Micro-Compact Options (Prioritizing Concealability):

  • SIG Sauer P365/P365XL: The P365 series is extremely popular due to its surprisingly large capacity for its compact size. The XL model offers slightly increased capacity and a longer barrel for improved accuracy.

  • Glock 43X/48: Glock's entry into the slim, single-stack market, these pistols offer reliable performance and excellent concealability. The 48 offers a slightly larger grip and higher capacity than the 43X.

  • Smith & Wesson Shield Plus: Known for its comfortable grip and high capacity, the Shield Plus is another strong contender in the subcompact category.

Compact Options (Balancing Concealability and Shootability):

  • Glock 19: A perennial favorite among law enforcement and civilians alike, the Glock 19 offers a balance of size, capacity, and shootability. It's a reliable workhorse.

  • SIG Sauer P320 Compact: The modularity of the P320 allows for customization to fit individual needs. The compact version provides a good balance of concealability and features.

  • Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Compact: Another popular choice, the M&P 9 Compact provides a comfortable grip and reliable performance.

Choosing the Right 9mm for YOU:

The best 9mm for carry is the one that you can shoot accurately and comfortably, and that you can consistently carry. Rent and test fire several different models before making a purchase. Consider taking a concealed carry course to hone your skills and learn proper techniques.

Remember, responsible gun ownership includes regular practice, safe storage, and understanding and adhering to all applicable laws and regulations. This guide serves as a starting point for your research. Thoroughly research each model and consider your specific needs before making a decision.

Site Recommendations


Related Posts


Latest Posts


close