Choosing the right concealed carry pistol is a deeply personal decision, heavily influenced by individual hand size, shooting style, and intended use. While there's no single "best" 9mm carry gun, this guide will explore some top contenders, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed choice. We'll focus on factors crucial for concealed carry, including size, weight, capacity, reliability, and ergonomics.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a 9mm Carry Gun
Before diving into specific models, let's outline the essential characteristics to look for in a concealed carry pistol:
1. Size and Weight: The Concealability Factor
Concealed carry prioritizes compact size and manageable weight. Too bulky, and your firearm becomes uncomfortable and difficult to conceal. A good balance between size and firepower is key.
2. Capacity: Rounds in the Magazine
Higher capacity means more rounds available in a self-defense situation. Consider magazines with extended capacity, but remember this can impact concealability and weight.
3. Reliability: A Gun You Can Depend On
Malfunctions are unacceptable in a self-defense scenario. Choose a pistol known for its rugged reliability and consistent performance under stress.
4. Ergonomics: A Comfortable and Controllable Grip
A pistol that fits your hand well is easier to control and shoot accurately, especially under pressure. Consider the grip angle, texture, and overall feel.
5. Trigger: Safety and Accuracy
A crisp, clean trigger is vital for accurate shot placement. However, safety must always be the priority. Consider the trigger pull weight and its overall feel.
Top Contenders: 9mm Pistols for Concealed Carry
Several excellent 9mm handguns consistently rank highly among concealed carry enthusiasts. Let's examine a few popular options:
1. Glock 19: The Workhorse
The Glock 19 is a legendary choice, known for its reliability, affordability, and wide availability of aftermarket parts and accessories. Its relatively compact size makes it suitable for concealed carry, though it's on the larger side compared to some subcompacts.
Pros: Reliable, affordable, readily available parts, high capacity. Cons: Can be somewhat large for deep concealment, somewhat harsh recoil for some shooters.
2. Sig Sauer P365: The Compact Powerhouse
The Sig Sauer P365 is a popular choice for its remarkably small size while still offering a respectable magazine capacity. Its slim profile allows for easy concealment.
Pros: Extremely compact and concealable, surprisingly high capacity for its size. Cons: Can be difficult for those with larger hands, potentially more expensive than some alternatives.
3. Springfield Hellcat: Micro-Compact Contender
The Springfield Hellcat is another micro-compact option pushing the boundaries of capacity in a small frame. It features an impressive magazine capacity for its size.
Pros: High capacity for its size, relatively comfortable grip for a micro-compact. Cons: Can be difficult to handle for those with larger hands, requires proper training to master.
4. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus: Balanced Performance
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus offers a great blend of concealability, capacity, and ergonomics. It’s a popular choice for its comfortable grip and reliable performance.
Pros: Good balance of size, weight, and capacity, comfortable grip, reliable performance. Cons: Might feel slightly large for some users seeking the smallest possible carry pistol.
Choosing the Right Gun: Beyond the Specs
Ultimately, the "best" 9mm carry gun is the one that you shoot best and can consistently carry comfortably and safely. Consider visiting a gun range to rent and test-fire several models before making a decision. Professional training is also crucial to ensure you can safely and effectively handle your chosen firearm. Remember, responsible gun ownership includes ongoing training and adherence to all applicable laws and regulations.
