Choosing the Right 9mm Handgun for Concealed Carry
When it comes to self-defense, having the right firearm can make all the difference. For many, a 9mm handgun is the go-to choice for concealed carry due to its balance of power, size, and ease of use. With so many options on the market, selecting the best 9mm handgun for concealed carry can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top concealed carry 9mm handguns for self-defense, highlighting their features, pros, and cons.
What to Consider When Choosing a Concealed Carry Handgun
Before we dive into the top picks, it’s essential to consider a few key factors when choosing a concealed carry handgun:
- Size and weight: A smaller, lighter handgun is easier to conceal but may be more challenging to shoot accurately.
- Caliber: While we’re focusing on 9mm handguns, it’s essential to consider the type of ammunition you’ll be using and its effectiveness in a self-defense situation.
- Trigger and action: A smooth, reliable trigger and action are crucial for accurate shooting and quick follow-up shots.
- Safety features: Look for handguns with safety features such as a manual safety, decocking lever, or trigger safety.
- Concealability: Consider the handgun’s shape, size, and materials when evaluating its concealability.
Top Concealed Carry 9mm Handguns for Self Defense
Here are some of the top concealed carry 9mm handguns for self-defense:
1. Glock 19
- Size and weight: 7.28 inches long, 4.99 inches tall, 1.18 inches wide, and 23.65 ounces unloaded
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Trigger and action: Striker-fired, 5.5-pound trigger pull
- Safety features: No manual safety, but features a trigger safety and decocking lever
- Concealability: Compact size and rounded edges make it an excellent choice for concealed carry
The Glock 19 is a popular choice for concealed carry due to its compact size, reliability, and versatility. It’s an excellent option for those who want a handgun that’s easy to shoot and maintain.
🔍 Note: The Glock 19 is a striker-fired pistol, which means it doesn't have a manual safety. While this can be a concern for some, the trigger safety and decocking lever provide additional security features.
2. Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield
- Size and weight: 6.1 inches long, 4.6 inches tall, 0.95 inches wide, and 20.8 ounces unloaded
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Trigger and action: Striker-fired, 6.5-pound trigger pull
- Safety features: No manual safety, but features a trigger safety and decocking lever
- Concealability: Slim design and lightweight construction make it an excellent choice for concealed carry
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield is a slim, lightweight handgun designed specifically for concealed carry. It’s an excellent option for those who want a reliable, easy-to-shoot handgun that’s easy to conceal.
3. Sig Sauer P365
- Size and weight: 5.8 inches long, 4.3 inches tall, 1.0 inch wide, and 17.8 ounces unloaded
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Trigger and action: Striker-fired, 6-pound trigger pull
- Safety features: No manual safety, but features a trigger safety and decocking lever
- Concealability: Extremely compact size and rounded edges make it an excellent choice for concealed carry
The Sig Sauer P365 is a micro-compact handgun designed for concealed carry. It’s an excellent option for those who want a reliable, easy-to-shoot handgun that’s extremely compact.
4. Ruger LC9s
- Size and weight: 6.0 inches long, 4.5 inches tall, 0.9 inches wide, and 17.1 ounces unloaded
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Trigger and action: Striker-fired, 6-pound trigger pull
- Safety features: No manual safety, but features a trigger safety and decocking lever
- Concealability: Slim design and lightweight construction make it an excellent choice for concealed carry
The Ruger LC9s is a compact handgun designed for concealed carry. It’s an excellent option for those who want a reliable, easy-to-shoot handgun that’s easy to conceal.
5. CZ P-10 C
- Size and weight: 7.3 inches long, 5.2 inches tall, 1.2 inches wide, and 26.2 ounces unloaded
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
- Trigger and action: Striker-fired, 7.5-pound trigger pull
- Safety features: No manual safety, but features a trigger safety and decocking lever
- Concealability: Compact size and rounded edges make it an excellent choice for concealed carry
The CZ P-10 C is a compact handgun designed for concealed carry. It’s an excellent option for those who want a reliable, easy-to-shoot handgun that’s easy to conceal.
Conclusion
Choosing the right concealed carry handgun can be a daunting task, but by considering factors such as size, weight, caliber, trigger and action, safety features, and concealability, you can find the perfect handgun for your needs. The top concealed carry 9mm handguns for self-defense listed above offer a range of options for those looking for a reliable, easy-to-shoot handgun that’s easy to conceal.
What is the best concealed carry handgun for a beginner?
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The best concealed carry handgun for a beginner is one that is easy to shoot, maintain, and conceal. The Glock 19 is a popular choice for beginners due to its reliability, versatility, and ease of use.
What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a concealed carry handgun?
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The most important factor to consider when choosing a concealed carry handgun is concealability. A handgun that is too large or heavy can be difficult to conceal, making it less effective for self-defense.
Do I need a manual safety on my concealed carry handgun?
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No, you don’t necessarily need a manual safety on your concealed carry handgun. Many modern handguns feature trigger safeties and decocking levers, which provide additional security features.
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