15 Best Concealed Carry Gun in 2024: Small & Compact for EDC
In 2024, the options for concealed carry guns are better than ever! Considering that self-defense is becoming increasingly important in today’s world, choosing a firearm that’s reliable and easy to carry discretely is a must. Get ready to deep dive into the top picks for all the major firearm brands, features, and the latest innovations in the firearm world! Whether you’re a seasoned gun owner or a first-time buyer, you are guaranteed to find the best concealed carry gun to fit for your needs.
What Is The Best Concealed Carry Gun?
The best concealed carry guns on the market in 2024 are just ahead (a few scrolls away)! From compact pistols to subcompact pistols to revolvers, we’re covering all the options to help you make an informed decision! So let’s dive in to discover which ones are worth considering for your personal defense needs.
Top Picks:
- Author’s Choice: Springfield Hellcat OSP
- Best Revolver: Ruger LCR
- Budget-Friendly: Taurus G2c
- Best 9mm: Sig Sauer P365
- Best 380: Ruger LCP Max
- Best .40: Beretta PX4 Storm Compact
1. Springfield Hellcat OSP
The Springfield Hellcat was designed with concealed carry in mind. It’s compact, while not sacrificing quality, comfort, or magazine capacity. This OSP (Optic Sight Pistol) model allows effortless customizations with micro red dot sights. If you’re looking for versatility, power, and concealability, the Hellcat OSP is a top choice for concealed carry.
Key Benefits
- Adaptive Grip Texture
- Loaded Chamber Indicator
- Reversible Magazine Release
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 11+1 (13+1 with extended magazine)
- Hand: Right
- Barrel Length: 3”
- Length: 6”
- Width: 1”
- Height: 4” (with flush magazine)
- Weight: 17.9 oz (with flush magazine)
- Action: Striker Fired
- Frame: Black Polymer with Adaptive Grip Texture
- Sights: Tritium/Luminescent Front, Tactical Rack U-Notch Rear
Pricing
2. Sig Sauer P365
The Sig P365 is extremely popular in the world of concealed carry guns, and for good reason! It’s been dubbed America’s #1 selling micro-compact pistol. Whether you’re a seasoned concealed carry enthusiast or new to the game, the Sig P365 is one you can’t go wrong with. Its smooth trigger pull with little recoil, lightweight design, and grip suitable for varying hand size makes it a reliable and efficient choice for a concealed carry gun.
Key Benefits
- Nitron Optic-Ready Slide
- Siglite Night Sights
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 10+1
- Hand: Right
- Barrel Length: 3.1”
- Length: 5.8”
- Width: 1”
- Height: 4.3”
- Weight: 17.8 oz
- Action: Striker Fired
- Frame: Black Nitron Stainless Steel
- Sights: X-Ray3 Day/Night Sights
Pricing
3. Glock 19
Glocks will forever be in the concealed carry hall of fame. The Glock 19 is a 9mm pistol with a magazine capacity of 15 rounds. This model is the Gen 5, which features a frame design without finger grooves allowing you to customize the grip to your hand size. Glocks remain with a solid reputation for self-defense, making them dependable concealed carry guns.
Key Benefits
- Loaded Chamber Indicator
- Modular Backstrap System
- Reversible Magazine Catch, Ambidextrous Slide Stop Lever
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 15+1
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Barrel Length: 4.02”
- Length: 7.28”
- Width: 1.34”
- Height: 5.04” (including mag)
- Weight: 30.16 oz
- Action: Safe Action
- Frame: Black Polymer
- Sights: Fixed front and rear sights
Pricing
4. Taurus G2C
The Taurus G2C is a slept-on option in the concealed carry gun realm. It’s a compact 9mm pistol with great comfort, easy handling, and smooth shooting. A standout feature of this option is affordability, making it a top-notch choice for those who have a tight budget but want a great, effective concealed carry gun.
Key Benefits
- Re-Strike Capability
- Accessory Rail
- Manual Safety and Trigger Safety
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 12
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Barrel Length: 3.2”
- Length: 6.3”
- Width: 1.2”
- Height: 5.1”
- Weight: 22 oz (unloaded)
- Action: SA with Restrike
- Frame: Black Polymer Stainless Steel
- Sights: Fixed front sight, adjustable rear sight
Pricing
5. Ruger LCP Max
The Ruger LCP Max is an ultra-compact .380 ACP handgun with a 10-round magazine capacity. Its slim profile is under 1” wide making it a true pocket pistol. Don’t judge it by its size because it still delivers impressive firepower! This concealed carry gun is an ideal choice whether you’re looking for an EDC firearm or just a reliable backup.
Key Benefits
- Pocket Sized – Under 1” Wide, Under 11 Oz
- Patented Barrel Cam
Specifications
- Caliber: 380 Auto
- Capacity: 10+1
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Barrel Length: 2.8”
- Length: 5.17”
- Width: 0.81”
- Height: 4.12”
- Weight: 10.6”
- Action: Double Action
- Frame: Black, High Performance, Glass Filled Nylon
- Sights: Tritium with White Outline Front Sight, Drift Adjustable Rear Sight
Pricing
6. Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield M2.0
Smith & Wesson is a brand you can’t go wrong with. The M&P9 Shield has everything you need in a concealed carry gun. It features a slim, lightweight profile that is great for everyday concealed carry. Smith & Wesson terms this as a more compact version of their full-sized M&P pistols with all the power and features!
Key Benefits
- Upgraded Trigger with Lighter Pull
- Sear Deactivation System (allows for disassembly without pulling the trigger)
- Armornite Finish (durable and resists corrosion)
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 7, 8
- Hand: Right
- Barrel Length: 3.1”
- Length: 6.1”
- Width: 0.95”
- Height: 4.6”
- Weight: 20.8 oz
- Action: Striker Fired
- Frame: Black Polymer Stainless Steel
- Sights: White Dot
Pricing
7. Walther PDP Compact
With its sleek design and top-notch performance, the Walther PDP Compact offers a great everyday concealed carry option with excellent accuracy and control. This concealed carry gun was designed to exceed all expectations! Its upgraded duty trigger, slide serrations, and other updated features make it a sought-after option for EDC!
Key Benefits
- Pre-Cocked Trigger
- Reversible Magazine Release
- SuperTerrain Slide Serrations
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 15 (10 option available)
- Hand: Right
- Barrel Length: 4”
- Length: 7.5”
- Width: 1.34”
- Height: 5.4”
- Weight: 24.4 oz (with empty mag)
- Action: Striker Fired
- Frame: Black Polymer, Steel
- Sights: 3-Dot White
Pricing
8. Glock 26 (Gen 5)
Another Glock? Absolutely, yes! There are too many great concealed carry Glocks to limit down to one for the sake of this list, it wouldn’t be complete without the best concealed carry Glocks. Afterall, they are a top choice for law enforcement. SPOILER ALERT: There’s a 3rd Glock on this list.
Key Benefits
- Front Serrations (better grip when handling the slide, even with sweaty hands)
- Glock Marksman Barrel (increases accuracy)
- Coil Spring Design (increases longevity)
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 10
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Barrel Length: 3.43”
- Length: 6.42”
- Width: 1.30”
- Height: 4.17” (including mag)
- Weight: 19.72 oz
- Action: Safe Action
- Frame: Black Polymer
- Sights: Fixed
Pricing
9. Ruger LCR
A revolver may not be someone’s first choice for an EDC, but it’ll sure make you feel like you came straight out of an old Western movie. The Ruger LCR is one of the best revolvers for concealed carry. This J-Frame revolver helps you be efficient in action, for example, the concealed hammer that keeps the firearm from getting snagged while being drawn from your concealed carry position.
Key Benefits
- PVD Finish (durability)
- Patented, Friction Reducing Cam (smooth, non stacking trigger pull)
- Patented Polymer Fire Control Housing (reduces weight and recoil)
Specifications
- Caliber: 357 Mag
- Capacity: 5
- Hand: Right
- Barrel Length: 1.87”
- Length: 6.5”
- Width: 1.278”
- Height: 4.5”
- Weight: 17.1 oz
- Action: Double Action
- Frame: Matte Black Aluminum
- Sights: Ramp Front, U Notch Integral Rear
Pricing
10. Beretta PX4 Storm Compact
Looking for something not super compact, but also not full-sized? You’ve met your match. The Beretta PX4 Storm Compact gives you just the right feel for concealed carry and self-defense needs. Beretta claims this to be a handgun that “can do it all”, and I think there’s truth to that statement. This concealed carry gun is easy to use, easy to customize, and easy to maintain! Here are some cool features!
Key Benefits
- MIL-STD Picatinny Rail
- Rotary Barrel System (reduced recoil)
- Ambidextrous Slide Stop
Specifications
- Caliber: .40 S&W
- Capacity: 12
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Barrel Length: 3.3”
- Length: 6.8”
- Width: 1.42”
- Height: 5.51”
- Weight: 27.3 oz
- Action: Single/Double Action
- Frame: Black Polymer
- Sights: Dovetail 1-Dot Front Sight, Dovetail 2-Dot Rear Right
Pricing
11. HK VP9SK Sub Compact
The Heckler & Koch VP9SK was long awaited because it’s a sub-compact model with all the great features of the larger frame VPs. The VP9SK is loaded with convenient features that make it a go-to concealed carry gun. Let’s check them out!
Key Benefits
- Enhanced Light Pull Trigger
- Interchangeable Backstraps and Side Panels (customize the fit of the grip for your hand)
- Cold Hammer Forged Barrel, Cannon Grade Steel (ensures durability and longevity)
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 10
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Barrel Length: 3.39”
- Length: 6.61”
- Width: 1.31”
- Height: 4.57”
- Weight: 23.07 oz
- Action: Striker Fired
- Frame: Black Polymer
- Sights: 3 Dot Sighting System
Pricing
12. Glock 43 Sub Compact
This is the 3rd, and final, Glock on the list and it wouldn’t be complete without it. The G43 is a sub compact concealed carry pistol that features a single-stacked magazine, safe-action trigger, and a beaver tail design. The beaver tail design on the G43 enables you to have a higher grip while maintaining full control.
Key Benefits
- Built-In Beaver Tail Design
- Safe Action Trigger System
- Textured Polymer Grip
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 6
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Barrel Length: 3.5”
- Length: 6.26”
- Width: 1.06”
- Height: 4.25” (including mag)
- Weight: 20.64 oz
- Action: Safe Action
- Frame: Black Polymer
- Sights: White Dot Front Sight, White Bracket Rear Sight
Pricing
13. Kimber R7 Mako
Kimber had something new in mind for the R7 Mako and it didn’t disappoint. It’s Kimber’s first sub-compact, polymer-framed handgun with high capacity, which are all the features you’d want in a concealed carry gun. It has ambidextrous controls (always a plus) and comes optic ready out of the box.
Key Benefits
- Tritium Pro Night Sights
- Ambidextrous Controls
- Optic Ready
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 13
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Barrel Length: 3.37”
- Length: 6.20”
- Width: 1.0”
- Height: 4.3”
- Weight: 19.5 oz
- Action: Striker Fired
- Frame: Black Polymer, Molded Stippling
- Sights: Tritium
Pricing
14. Mossberg MC2c
The Mossberg MC2c is loaded with features that are convenient for an everyday concealed carry gun and personal protection. The MC2c features Mossberg’s STS (Safe Takedown System). The STS allows you to disassemble the gun without pulling the trigger for cleanings and maintenance, making it an easy process for shooters of all experience types.
Key Benefits
- Mossberg STS (Safe Takedown System)
- Double Stack Magazines
- Flat Profile Trigger
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 14+1
- Hand: Right
- Barrel Length: 3.9”
- Length: 7.10”
- Width: 1.10”
- Height: 4.90”
- Weight: 21 oz (unloaded)
- Action: Semi Automatic
- Frame: Matte Black Polymer
- Sights: White Dot, Drift Adjustable Dovetail Sight (Front); Dual White Dot, Drift Adjustable Dovetail Sight (Rear)
Pricing
15. Ruger Max 9
Last, and definitely not least, is the Ruger Max 9. This pistol comes equipped with a textured grip, integrated trigger safety, and reversible magazine release. This concealed carry pistol is slim and lightweight allowing you to carry without hassle!
Key Benefits
- Cold Hammer-Forged Barrel
- Optic Ready (for direct mounting)
- Reversible Magazine Release
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 10+1
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Barrel Length: 3.20”
- Length: 6”
- Width: 0.95”
- Height: 4.52”
- Weight: 18.4 oz
- Action: Striker Fired
- Frame: Glass-Filled Nylon Grip Frame
- Sights: Tritium Fiber Optic (Front); Drift Adjustable (Rear)
Pricing
Importance of Small & Compact Guns for Everday Carry (EDC)
Having a small and compact gun for everyday carry may seem like a no-brainer, but a lot of people overlook it. Small and compact concealed carry guns are essential for everyday carry, especially because they offer a lot of advantages over larger options.
A compact size is what makes the whole idea of “concealed carry” work. It makes it more comfortable and easier to conceal without drawing unnecessary attention. They won’t weigh you down or feel too uncomfortable, making them ideal for those who want to carry their concealed carry guns for longer periods of time.
Promise yourself one thing: when considering the best concealed carry gun for everyday carry, you’ll commit to opting for an option that suits your preferences and won’t be a hassle to carry. It can be small in size, but big in performance!
Key Features In Concealed Carry Guns
There are so many concealed carry guns available and they all have their own unique features. But there are only a few main features to keep an eye out for when making your decision. These features are also helpful to come back to if you’re torn between options.
All in all, it is crucial to consider size, weight, capacity, and overall comfort. You have to remember: the whole purpose of a concealed carry pistol is to CARRY it, so keeping these main features in mind will help you remember this.
Size
Let’s talk about size. When it comes to the size of your concealed carry gun, do not have a pissing contest. Everyone has a different hand size, so having the biggest concealed carry gun will not do you any good if it’s too big for your unique grip.
Weight
Weight is important because you don’t want your concealed carry gun to feel like a brick weighing down on you all day. This is why it’s helpful to shop for guns that are specifically designed with concealed carry in mind, like the guns provided on this list of the best concealed carry guns on the market.
Capacity
Capacity can be an overlooked factor. Of course you want a more compact pistol that’s easy for you to conceal, but that can also mean a lower capacity. It’s important to strike a balance between concealability and capacity when selecting a concealed carry gun. Take, for example, a revolver that has a capacity of 5 – that only gives you 5 rounds before having to reload. In the real world, we can’t stop and reload in a high-stress situation as fast as John Wick. On the other hand, if you go for a gun with a 10+ capacity, that will give you more rounds and less worry about reloading in those situations.
Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to choosing the best concealed carry gun for you. When you’re going about your daily routine, you don’t want your concealed carry to be uncomfortable or a hassle to deal with. If it’s uncomfortable and inconvenient, you‘ll begin to find yourself leaving it at home and that completely defeats the purpose of a concealed carry handgun.
Your concealed carry pistol is not just a fashion statement or a casual accessory, it’s a tool designed for your protection. Remember, this gun is going to be with you day in and day out, so it needs to be something you can rely on without fail. Size, weight, capacity, and comfort can all impact your ability to carry and conceal your firearm effectively. So, as you embark on your search and explore different concealed carry guns, keep these factors in mind!
Conclusion/Wrapping Up
As you can see, there are plenty of options to choose from when considering the purchase of a concealed carry gun. From compact pistols to subcompact to revolvers, there are plenty of designs offered to provide you with your perfect match.
Out of this entire list, the truth is there isn’t one gun in particular that is the best concealed carry gun. The best concealed carry pistol is going to be different for everyone, which is why it’s completely subjective.
If you’re prioritizing concealability, there’s an option for you. Firepower may be important to you, well there’s an option available for you. If ease of use is what you want in a concealed carry gun, there’s an option for you.
We’ve highlighted the best concealed carry guns on the market and all their unique features and benefits. They are all proven and have a great reputation for concealed carry needs, whether you’re carrying sometimes or all the time.
Ultimately, the decision on which is best for you comes down to your personal preferences. Everyone has a different hand size, tolerance level as far as the overall weight of the gun, where they feel comfortable carrying on their person, and even style preferences.
Whichever you choose, you’re going to be well-equipped to have peace of mind knowing you are armed to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Stay safe and stay blessed!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable conceal carry gun?
There are so many reliable concealed carry guns on the market, but if it had to be narrowed down to one, it’d be the Springfield Hellcat OSP. The Hellcat checks a lot of boxes, making it the best concealed carry gun.
What caliber gun is best for concealed carry?
The best caliber for concealed carry guns is 9mm. It’s the most popular and common caliber choice. It’s also the same caliber among the best concealed carry guns.
What is the best size handgun to carry?
The best concealed carry guns are compact and subcompact. There are a lot of great options that accommodate many handsizes for compact and subcompact models.
How to get a concealed carry permit?
The basic process for getting a concealed carry permit is going through a training/course, passing your exam, then going on to complete the application and fingerprints. Every state may have slightly different processes, so be sure to check your state specific guidelines.
Where is the best place to buy concealed carry guns?
The best place to buy concealed carry handguns is online, hands down. It’s never a bad idea to check out your local gun shops to get a feel for sizing, weight and comfort in person, but you can always find the best deal and the most options online.
What is the main feature I should look for in a concealed carry handgun?
The main feature to look for in concealed carry handguns is the size. Size matters the most when it comes to concealed carry guns because it has to be the right size to carry on you. If it’s too large, it’s not going to work. And in some cases, if it’s too small, it may not work to your liking.
What is the best way to carry concealed carry guns?
The most common way to carry is with concealed carry holsters. There are so many different kinds of concealed carry holsters, and they’re super convenient because you can attach them straight to you and go. There are other methods for women, such as carrying in their purses, thigh holsters, and bra holsters.
Why should I consider purchasing a concealed carry handgun?
You should consider purchasing a concealed carry handgun for the same reason you decided to research and are now reading this. Everyone’s reason is different, but the most common reason is for personal safety and self-defense.
Most concealed carry pistols are versatile, meaning you don’t have to only use them for concealed carry. There are lots of folks who use their concealed carry pistols for recreational shooting or for home defense.
What’s a good budget for concealed carry guns?
The average cost for concealed carry guns is $500-600. However, there are great options to choose from no matter what budget you set. On the high end, the best concealed carry guns are within the $600-$900 range. For an average budget, the best concealed carry guns are within the $400-$500 range. If you’re looking at an even smaller budget, the best concealed carry guns are within the $200-$300 range. So there’s definitely a concealed carry handgun within your budget.