By James England via concealednation.org
So many great choices are out there for the concealed carrier! We fought, argued, debated, and cussed, but finally we narrowed it down to 20 concealed-carry firearms that make the Concealed Nation honor roll. We are pleased to present the 2015 edition of the Top 20 Concealed Carry Firearms . . .
If you find yours notably absent, it’s because we’re human. But you should let us know why yours should be included in the comments below.
These are presented in no particular ranking order — simply our selection of 20 of the best concealed-carry guns we’ve run across.
GLOCK 26/27 aka “Baby GLOCK”
Released in 1994, the GLOCK 26 has become the most highly sought after concealed-carry handgun on the market. In a pinch, this semi-automatic can accept larger Glock magazines and it can be altered easily to allow for right-handed/left-handed operators.
Did you know? Episode 15 of the television series “Law & Order: Los Angeles” featured a polymer frame murder weapon that alternated between a GLOCK 16, GLOCK 17, and a Glock 26 throughout the episode (source: IMDb).
Specs: GLOCK 26 Gen 4 GLOCK 27 Gen 4
Caliber: 9mm /.40 S&W
Magazine Capacity: 10+1/9+1 (Standard)
MSRP: $599
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm/M&P .40 S&W
We’ve reviewed this firearm extensively in a prior article you can find here. Our opinion? It’s a good, reliable and cheap single-stack concealed-carry pistol. Chambered in either 9mm or .40 S&W ammo, people have largely taken to it like a duck to water.
Did You Know? Agent Coulson from Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. actually carries an M&P Shield. (source: IMDb)
Specs: Smith and Wesson M&P Shield 9mm .40 S&W
Caliber: 9mm/.40 S&W
Magazine Capacity: 7+1 (Standard)/6+1 (Standard)
MSRP: $449
SIG SAUER P220/Sig P250
The P220 Carry is a much more concealable version of the famous SIG SAUER P220. All the capabilities of an single action/double action full-size combat pistol packaged perfectly for self defense. Added bonus? It’s chambered in .45 ACP. The big alternative (though not the only one) is the SIG SAUER P250. This 9mm pistol provides DAO operation perfect for fast reaction times. Available in stainless steel or blued steel finishes.
Did You Know? SIG SAUER was first featured in cinema in “Rambo: First Blood Part II” (1985; source – IMDb).
Specs: P220 Carry P250
Caliber: .45 ACP/9mm
Magazine Capacity: 8+1 (.45 ACP)/15+1 (9mm)
MSRP: $1,015
Ruger LCP Pistol
The Ruger Lightweight Carry Pistol was designed from the ground up to be an extremely reliable sub-compact centerfire pistol. At this price point — this little gun is accessible to anyone in the market for a good, concealable pistol.
Specs: Ruger LCP 3701
Caliber: .380 ACP
Magazine Capacity: 6+1
MSRP: $389
Kahr CM9/PM9
A Kahr CM9 can fit nearly anywhere on the concealed carrier. It truly is built for everyday carry. While the PM9 features some largely aesthetic improvements over the CM9, the Kahr CM9093 is truly a fine, well put-together DAO pistol with an overall length of fewer than 5.5 inches.
Specs: CM9093 3-inch Barrel PM9093A 3.1-inch Barrel
Caliber: 9mm
Magazine Capacity: 6+1 (standard)
MSRP: $460/$810
Beretta PX4 Storm – Compact
It sort of looks like that gun Harrison Ford’s character carried in “Bladerunner.” Well, Beretta is bringing geek sci-fi to a whole new level with the Px4 Storm Compact. Its modular design allows the user to configure the pistol to suit his carry style best. Best of all, it’s one of the few pistols that can be chambered in .40 Smith & Wesson and actually perform well with it.
Did You Know? In “Live Free or Die Hard” (2007), McClane ditches his iconic Beretta 92 for the Px4 Storm.
Specs: Px4 Storm Compact Type F
Caliber: 9mm/.40 S&W
Magazine Capacity: 15 (9mm)/12 (.40 S&W)
MSRP: $599
Ruger LCR Double-Action Revolver
Equipped standard with either five rounds of .38 Special, .357 Magnum, or even 9x19mm Luger, this double-action revolver is ideal for single-hand grip. Whether it’s an everyday carry or an emergency back-up — this J-frame-sized revolver was designed for precision, reliability, and force.
Specs: Ruger LCR Double-Action Revolver
Caliber: 38 Spc +P (available in .357 Magnum and 9mm Luger)
Magazine Capacity: 5
MSRP: $545 (Base model, .38 Spc +P)
Springfield XD-S 45 – 3.3-inch barrel/Springfield Armory XD-S 9
Single-stack .45 ACP capability in a concealed-carry gun? We’re in. The XD-S .45 ACP with a 3.3-inch barrel length definitely provides a great platform for putting large caliber rounds downrange. Best of all — its ergonomic shape handles the torsion and stress extremely well. Worth every penny. For those who don’t dig larger calibers, it’s also available in 9mm.
Specs: XD-S 3.3″ Single Stack .45 ACP XD-S 3.3″ Single Stack 9mm
Caliber: .45 ACP/9mm
Magazine Capacity: 5+1 (Standard)/7+1 (Standard)
MSRP: $599
Taurus 111 G2
Taurus, a Brazilian-owned manufacturer of firearms, has always come under a lot of scrutiny. Most recently, there was a massive recall that included many of their concealed-carry pistols. So, why the heck are we including the Gen 2 111? Because, as we’ve seen it thus far — it’s proven itself to have extremely reliable performance at a great price point. And it’s also extremely popular amongst ccw holders — a double-stack 12+1 capacity 9mm handgun shorter than 6.5 inches in overall length for $300.
Specs: Taurus 111 G2
Caliber: 9mm
Magazine Capacity: 12+1
MSRP: $301.52
Kimber Micro Carry
Kimber is known for its special edition and custom models of 1911. And plenty of concealed carriers insist on carrying a full-size Kimber or even Kimber Pro Carry. For those who may have a more difficult time concealing a full-size 1911 in their waistbands, Kimber offers the Solo and the Micro. The Micro is great because it stays on the 1911 platform — so if you’re a 1911 aficionado, you can stay with a form factor you’re familiar with and get a single-action trigger and thumb safety. It measures less than 5.6 inches in total length and features a six-round magazine.
Specs: Micro Carry .380 Auto
Caliber: .380 Auto
Magazine Capacity: 6+1
MSRP: $651
Rock Island 1911 Compact
Some concealed carriers will carry no less than a 1911 chambered in .45 ACP. To these people, this model epitomizes classic American ingenuity matched with a harrowing record of service. And for those people, Armscor’s Rock Island Armory offers a compact GI Standard chambered in .45 ACP. Compact but not too compact, it manages to stay faithful to the stopping power of the round and offers a manual safety, while being slightly more concealable than its bigger brothers.
Specs: GI Standard CS – 45 ACP Model #51416
Caliber: .45 ACP
Magazine Capacity: 7+1
MSRP: $546
Bersa Thunder .380
No frills, no chills — this is a bare-bones aluminum-frame Argentinian .380 Auto known for its reliability and service with pilots in South America. Its rise to popularity has largely been from its price point — but that’s quickly been followed up with good range reviews and decent magazine capacity.
Did You Know? The Bersa Thunder .380 is used by the Ecuadorian Air Force.
Specs: Bersa Thunder .380
Caliber: .380 Auto
Magazine Capacity: 7+1
MSRP: $300
Springfield Ultra Compact 1911
If Rock Island Armory and Kimber aren’t your thing but you absolutely demand a 1911 in a compact form factor, Springfield’s got you covered. The Springfield Ultra Compact Custom Carry 1911A1 features a whole host of high speed match-grade performance parts in a classic 1911 fit with a great trigger pull.
Specs: PC9104
Caliber: .45 ACP
Magazine Capacity: 6+1 (Standard)
MSRP: $2,799 (Fully Custom)
Ruger SP101
The Ruger SP101 double-action revolver has been a mainstay in the concealed-carry community for quite awhile. With a five-round capacity, it’s capable of delivering a frighteningly accurate high rate of fire for a revolver.
Did You Know? In the critically-acclaimed TV series, “Breaking Bad,” Jesse Pinkman purchases a snub-nose Ruger SP101 for personal protection against Tuco Salamanca. Mike Ehrmantraut ends up collecting it up while cleaning Jesse’s apartment for suspicious evidence before police arrive. (Source: Breaking Bad Wikia)
Specs: Ruger SP101 5718 2.25-inch barrel
Caliber: .357 Magnum/(5737) .38 Spl +P
Magazine Capacity: 5
MSRP: $679
Kel-Tec P-3AT
A lot of people look down on Kel-Tec for largely silly reasons. This firearms manufacturer has found a great home in the world of conceal carry with their .380 Auto P-3AT. Measuring around 5 inches in total length, this sub-compact pistol is perfect for everyday concealed carry. For those uninterested in a pocket pistol .380 Auto, Kel-Tec also makes a similar model chambered in 9mm (PF-9) or .32 caliber. Best part? The Kel-Tec P-3AT is one of the few extremely reliable firearms available for less than $350.
Specs: Kel-Tec P-3AT
Caliber: .380 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP)
Magazine Capacity: 6+1
MSRP: $338
Walther PPS
The Walther PPS — chambered in either 9mm or .40 S&W — has been out on the market so long that people have forgotten about it. That’s unfortunate because the Walther PPS has proven itself to be one of the most consistent, stable, and well functioning single-stack compact firearms on the market. It features some surprisingly awesome nuances — like an ambidextrous magazine release and super smooth striker-fire operation. Night sight options are available.
Specs: Walther PPS 9mm 2796333 .40 S&W 2796350
Caliber: 9mm/.40 S&W
Magazine Capacity: 6+1/5+1 (Standard)
MSRP: $533
GLOCK 43
The GLOCK 43 is GLOCK’s answer to the market demand for single-stack concealed carry pistols chambered in 9mm. It took awhile for GLOCK to get to market with a 9x19mm variety but the GLOCK 42 (.380 Auto, 9x17mm) certainly made plenty of headway into that demand. By the time GLOCK 43 arrived, it came out at the right price point for concealed carriers to embrace and its performance was generally well received.
Specs: GLOCK 43
Caliber: 9mm
Magazine Capacity: 6+1
MSRP: $535
Ruger SR9C
Good Guy Ruger makes an affordable, high capacity centerfire pistol that’s widely available for all AND makes a compliant version for states that limit magazine capacity. It’s one of the reasons why Ruger does so well in the concealed carry market — they understand what the majority of concealed carriers are looking for. With an overall length of fewer than 7″, it is compact but not sub-compact. The Ruger SR9C is a pistol with excellent precision and a good record of performance. Crimson Trace makes an easy-to-attach laser for the trigger guard.
Specs: Ruger SR9C Centerfire Pistol 3313 CA-compliant 3316
Caliber: 9mm
Magazine Capacity: 17+1/10+1
MSRP: $529
Beretta Nano
Just like the Beretta Px4 Storm, the Beretta Nano was built with a modular design. This allows the concealed carrier to choose the best configuration for his or her hands. Having the ability to make a right-handed pistol a left-handed one is invaluable. Having a pistol that actually performs up to spec and comes in at a reasonable price (on top of this) is amazing.
Specs: BU9 Nano
Caliber: 9mm
Magazine Capacity: 6+1
MSRP: $450 (base)
GLOCK 19
Extremely customizable, durable, and lightning quick — the GLOCK 19 has well earned its reputation as one of the premier full-size concealed carry pistols on the market. Almost no list of notably awesome pistols is complete without at least a nod to the GLOCK 19.
Did You Know? In 1986, the police department of Colby, Kansas became the first law-enforcement organization in the United States to formally adopt the GLOCK 19. They were given a generous discount at $300 per pistol and still carry them to this day. (GLOCK, P.M. Barrett, 2012)
Specs: GLOCK 19 Gen 4
Caliber: 9mm
Magazine Capacity: 15+1/(CA-complaint) 10+1
MSRP: $619
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Concealed Carry Honor Roll Honorable Mentions
Walther CCP
Offering all the sleek, high performance operation we’ve come to expect from Walther, the Walther CCP in 9mm is easy to holster and even easier to put on target. MSRP – $469
FNH USA FNS-9 Compact
Fabrique Nationale certainly makes a great gun, chambered in 9mm. It’s certainly on the list of pistols we’re itching to fire sometime soon. MSRP – $560
L.W.S. Seecamp .380
A beautifully ornate yet mechanically simple firearm renowned the world over by discerning concealed carriers — it fits conveniently in almost any small pocket holster. MSRP – $500.
Did we leave out the concealed-carry firearm in your waistband holster? Tell us about it in the comments section. Who knows? Maybe it’ll earn itself the review it rightfully deserves and join the ranks of most popular in 2016.
More from The Truth About Guns:
Top 5 Concealed Carry Guns: Ruger LCR, Glock 43, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, Springfield XDS 3.3″, Walther P99c AS
Gun Review: SIG SAUER P365 Micro-Compact 9mm Pistol
Gun Review: Springfield Armory XD(m) 9mm 3.8″ Compact
It’s interesting that conceal carry is such a personal thing that a “top 20” list was necessary versus a top 3, 5, or even 10.
How in hell can they overlook the classic J-frame S&W when compiling a list like this?
I’d think the J-frame Smith makes the list of the top 3-5 CCW guns of all time (along with the Glock 26)!
The 642/442/636 etc. are some of the top CCW guns of all time. At least one of them should have been on this list.
The frickin Beretta Nano has been out for what a couple years? The Glock 43 looks promising, but it’s been around what, less than a year?
Millions of people have carried J-frames for decades.
Overall the list looks pretty good (and contains several of my favorite guns).
But how can they overlook the J-frame?
Word. As in preach the word, brother. J frame.
Smith 340 PD is in my rotation. Great gun, but a b!tch to shoot.
.357 is a bit much out of a 13 oz. gun, but .38+P is manageable out of a 15 oz. gun. The triggers aren’t great with these guns either (but feel safe carrying them in a pocket holster). A Glock-like trigger in a pocket gun makes me a bit nervous. There is a clear trade off to everything.
I agree about the J Frame. My other carry gun got left out also, the 9mm Sig P290RS. Both are great carry guns. Another good choice is the 9mm Sig P938.
Agree with both of these. Add the P238 for those .380 fans. The 938 is my EDC choice.
I carry a model 60 all the time 5 shots guaranteed. I’m old school
It’s not an all time list, it’s a list for 2015.
If it were an all time best list then you would have to include the HK P7 “Squeeze Cocker”. I’d also like to mention the HK P30 is now Sootch00’s favorite concealed carry handgun and it’s a mighty fine shooter.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oq7o6qDy0yA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlp7ldIItLI
the S&W 340PD, it is lighter than the LCR, it shoots 357,and most importantly it is hammerless.
2nd that one. somewhat surprised it was missed. I must be getting old.
Too many S&W j-frames for any one of them to make a list like this. That said I don’t like the 340. Too light, and .357 is pointless in a <2" barrel. Dramatic velocity loss turns it into stout 38 +P — with a ton of recoil and flash.
Most wouldn’t load it with .357 anyway so why spend twice as much as an LCR?
I knew about the Seecamp .32, didn’t know about their .380. Interesting.
If you have LARGE hands , like a full size frame , think 380 or 9mm is enough fire power for self defense , like the idea of producing maximum fireballs and noise , are recoil sensitive ( everyone is ) , want maximum bullets on target with 1 inch accuracy at twenty feet , aren’t still worried about rim fire failure rates ( problems solved with quality ammo ) , want the absolutely lightest and most comfortable concealable fire arm made , and you can get one for under $ 600.00 , buy yourself a PMR 30 , order yourself a Dead Eye Luke inside the waist holster and have fun practicing personal self defense .
It really is about more bullets on target making more bleeder holes and a 22 magnum is good for this .
Derp?
I Know , Know , I Know
22 Magnums out of a pistol are actually slower than 22 long rifle. 22 magnum is loaded for rifles abd thus has slower powder that wont be even started burning before the bullet is gone in a pistol. I know this because i chronographed them in a S &W K frame 22 6″ bbl. Back then nobody made a 22 mag pistol so I made a reamer and made my own only to realize why the gun mfg didn’t make one.
I think Smith and Wesson would object to someone calling a Ruger LCR a J Frame.
Sig 938. The quality and reliability of a kimber with a lower price and much larger selection of aesthetic models.
Because of our insipid “approved gun list” here in ca, the big winner is the Sig 238. Same gun, less bang. Also a very popular choice.
By what blistering departure from logic could they possibly consider a 238 in a different category than a 938?….. Commiefornia confuses me.
On a related note…. The 238 is nice too!
If a pistol has a polymer frame made in a different color plastic than the original, and nothing else different, it must be resubmitted to get onto the “approved list”. Yes, they are flat out stupid in California, and by that, I mean the government and those who elect them.
With the microstamping requirement, California has a de facto ban on all new semi-automatic pistols.
Changing color is not a reason for resubmission. The fact is the P238 had to be specially configured for California, and the P938 came out after the microstamping mandate, which means that, because no manufacturer makes a pistol that complies with the mandate, it would be pointless for Sig to even try to get it approved, even if the pistol complied in all other respects with the California changes to the P238.
My Sig 238 functions flawlessly, and it eats everything.
I love my P238 with a fervor that most would consider unhealthy, but around here, is nothing of note.
Agreed, I LOVE my 938, I have shot the the XDS and Kimber and i Like my Sig better. Surprised it isn’t on this list.
For the Px4 Compact entry you have a picture of the Px4 Sub Compact instead. Both are quality editions.
Thanks. Photo swapped.
I would also add that the Sig P225 & P239 are good options for someone like me. I stand 6’4 with large hands and trying to hold the smaller framed single stack pistols can be awkward at time- especially if drawing under stress or an increased heart rate. These two models of Sig Sauer’s tend to fit comfortable in the hand and still conceal well.
As a (multi) P225 owner for going on 25 years I can say I used to carry my 225 as my CCW all the time. Now in the days of pocket autos it seems like a beast (and it is, comparatively), but back in the early 90s it was either my PPK/S or 225, and given my PPK/S weighed a half-ton already, I usually took the 225.
With its (physically) shorter trigger it is a bit less ergonomic than a full-sized P220 or P226, but with practice it is still quite decent.
Now they sit in the safe, barring the occasional range day where someone wants to shoot ‘those weird single-stack Sigs you have’. 😉
+1 on the 239
+1 239.
Did they fix it? It’s definitely identical to the Px4 Compact holstered at 5 o’clock on my belt right now.
Yes sir, Dan was very quick with updating the picture for the Beretta Storm to the correct model.
Glock 16? Really IMDb? This is why I stick to the IMFDb.
Right. I don’t know how they flubbed up that one.
S&W 442. The alloy J-frame is small, lightweight, hammerless and reliable.
though great carry / pocket gun, they do have a safe but heavy trigger.
Agreed. 442 is a great little gun. The Pro model loses the internal lock and gives you moonclips (which are great for ejecting rounds w/o getting one stuck under that short ejector).
P3AT extremely reliable? Its cheap magazine is a real weak point, feed issues abound in this thing.
Gaston Glock’s balls must taste like pumpkin pie or something.
Correction…. Pumpkin spice. EVERYTHING tastes like pumpkin spice this time of year.
Glocks suck. Buy ??‼️
In all seriousness, the Ruger LCP sucks.
The ruger LC9s Pro is a great side arm.
The storm, ruger SR, and a few other are great guns, just not for carry. Their built like bricks.
A few Glocks are manufactured in GA. In fact, I have a GA, USA-made Glock 17.
Good for you. Dedication our own Country seems to be a thing of the past. Good to know there are still some good men out there. ?
If economic patriotism is such a great thing then why not only buy from your own state, or your own city, or your own neighborhood, or only make it yourself?
Our militaries rifle is Belgium and the pistol is Italian by your standards…
Hmmm, didn’t mean to take this off topic. Buying American and locally is definitely the right thing to do. But the conversation is more about conceal carry firearms. I only have one compact. All my duty side arms are full size. I am not allowed to carry a backup.
I thought some of those picks were a little bit blocky for conceal carry. For example- if you’re going to conceal the storm we may as well just grab the full-size. Is it really that big a difference? It’s a good list overall.
Actually the point is that buying local is often not the right thing to do. Maybe look up and try to understand the economic theory of comparative advantage. It is counter intuitive and not terribly easy to grasp, at first, but it is an extremely important economic principle when considering trade policy.
+1
The shorter handle is much easier to conceal. I do wish they made a version with the full length barrel and the short handle.
My EDc is a SR9c. It is a great gun and it is accurate for me.
TTAG why don’t you do a poll of what model of gun each reader carries most? I guess that would include concealed and open. Add them all up and have your own top # carry guns.
Might be anecdotal, (or just a concentration in my area) but there seem to be lots of Sig P380 carriers around my area. Given the price drops over the last few years, and the ease of carry, honorable mention?
Okay; someone’s opinion of top 20, not the result of actual data.
Notably absent: Any model CZ.
Still, though…what difference does it make? Someone’s opinion of what constitutes a “Top 20 gun” does not necessarily make one a good gun for any given individual.
This kind of tripe just fuels the nonsensical “X is the best, just get that” mindset we see far too often on the intarwebs, as if such objective statements have meaning.
Exactly. One of the aluminum alloy 75 Compact D or RAMI D should be on the list.
A 75 compact can be on there in full steel with the non-decocker trigger if the baby 1911s can be.
Do you mean subjective?
No; I meant, opinions stated as objective fact. Something like “this is best” stated as objective has no meaning…because it is NOT objective.
As someone who’s wearing an 82 right now, I wholeheartedly agree.
With so many choices it’s good to get an informed opinion, thank-you.
Sig p250 compact and sub-compact, Great choice. sweet trigger weight compared to a
j frame smith. For safety its DAO is long but smooth. Simple, clean, Not cluttered with unnecessary buttons or levers, easy to quick change to different calibers with Sigs x change caliber kits.
Good operating trigger and slide, if someone has hand issues … i.e. carpal tunnel, arthritis etc.
“Best of all, it’s one of the few pistols that can be chambered in .40 S&W and actually perform well with it.”
WTF does this mean? Not a .40 fan but I’ve shot countless variations and all have “performed” fine.
Agreed. I’ve never had problems with a .40. I wish I could say the same for other calibers.
Not a .40 fan, but I wondered about that as well. It’s a perfectly functional round in just about every handgun there is.
Maybe they meant *compact* pistols specifically? Recoil from a .40 would be a bigger issue the smaller the pistol gets.
CZ P-01
Correction:
CZ P-01 with the carry package from CZ Custom. Second best handgun I’ve ever fired (after my CZ 75 Shadow from CZ Custom).
im surprised the LC9s/LC9sPro didn’t make the list, especially over the LCP
I was thinking the same thing.
I like my LC9sPro. Comfortable, easy to carry, shoots well, doesn’t beat my hand up and so far has fired every type of ammo I’ve run through it. When the weather cools down and the clothes get a bit heavier it’ll be back to my Glock (I don’t all cap anything, unless I’m screaming at someone) 19. Both rest easy in IWB Cross Breed holsters. The Super tuck for the 19 and the Mini tuck for the LC9sPro.
what, no 10mm?
Kimber ultra
What’s a Glock 16? Lol I know they got it from IMDB, but how did the gun in the show change to a gun that doesn’t exist? Or were the writers seriously not smart enough to use the same name in the same episode?
And my two carry guns are the Glock 26 and Sig938. Both are awesome. Only issue is the Glock hates Fiochi (spelling?) ammo. Dunno why. But ANY other ammo is flawless. Eh.
Would have liked to see the Sig938 on the list. I think they are absolutely fantastic guns.
HK P7M8.
Hoooo boy, do I want one of those! I had a pal who had one back in the 90s and I loved shooting it.
No Glock 7? The x ray defeating gun of legend.
phelps.
Smith J frame? How do you leave that off a list like this? They’ve been around for a long time and carry like a dream.
Well, there is ONE Sig on here, but the wrong one for CCW.
Not one mention of my beloved EDC Sig P938.
It’s rigged I tells ya!
(Good round-up, I will grudgingly admit.)
Yes, yes!
The Sig P938 should be #1.
Well made, reliable, sub compact, 1911 platform. 9MM
What’s not to like?
The P238, the P938 and the Colt Mustang appear to be miniature 1911s, but they are not.
I bought my SCCY CPX-2 sight unseen, based on a TTAG review. I love it. it’s my EDC CC, and very often my OC as well.
I’ll join the chorus bemoaning the lack of the venerable J-Frame. As much as I love my SP-101 (3″ barrel), it’s kinda heavy. S&W 438 goes everywhere with me, and there’s a 642 at home for when I need a minor change of pace.
Sig 239 and Smith and Wesson K frame are what I am usually carrying…
I don’t think anyone of those made the top 20… ah well…
Glock 30s ftw
An Boberg XR45-S Onyx white double stack would nice and 357 sig and 10mm auto option.
Mainly came to see if any milsurp would be in here–I like all-steel durable reliability for under two-and-a-half myself. But it remains a niche interest I see. I will say the P-64 hould have a place in the “honorable mentions” if they have room for the Seecamp.
Like you, I love me some milsurp. The P-64 is a great little gun, but the stock 25-lb DA trigger pull and it not being drop-safe should probably disqualify it from a list like this. It’s not a pistol I’d recommend to someone relatively new to concealed carry, that’s for sure (and that’s really the target audience for a list like this, isn’t it?). It’s not that the P-64 is necessarily unsafe, but it’s definitely less safe than a modern gun that simply can’t fire unless the trigger is pulled all the way back.
Valid points, I’m a bit spoiled because my stock trigger is apparently a lot better than most. And the drop-safe thing is, well, a thing too.
AS WE ALL KNOW, IT’S A PERSONAL CHOICE. I CARRY A GLOCK 17 IN 9MM, A RUGER SP101 IN 357 AND A TAURUS 85 IN 38+P. ALL WITH CRIMSON TRACE LASERS. IT ALL DEPENDS ON WEATHER AND MODE OF DRESS. ALL 3 WILL GROUP 1 INCH OR LESS AT 10 YARDS. HAND LOADS. THE 38 IS THE MOST CARRIED. CONCEALABLE EVEN WEARING A T-SHIRT. OF THE TOP 20, I CAN’T FAULT ANY. AS LONG AS YOU CARRY ALL THE TIME.GOOD LUCK, BE SAFE AND MAY GOD BLESS.
Are you shouting, or is this an old-timey Western Union telegram?
HE’S SHOUTING.
full stop.
I also have a Taurus 85 in 38 special. Mine is the Titanium frame at a bit over 14 oz. I also have a Sig 938, that I adore. I can’t make up my mind which one I want to carry when I “go to town”. The Sig holds more, but I don’t like to have the thing cocked, too easy to accidentally flip the safety off.
I used to carry a Walther P99 in .40 but jave since switched to a Para Expert Carry in .45. The Expert Carry is a 1911 style gun with a 3″ barrel and full size grip so it still holds 8+1 and has so far functioned superbly.
My semi auto carries made the cut, even in #1 and #2 spots.
No love at all for the S&W 60?
As to the Kahr selection, I prefer the CW9 as opposed to the CM9. The barrel is half an inch longer (3.5″ vs. 3″) and there is one more round capacity, yet it is the same width and only a fraction taller, so it is just as concealable.
And Steyr’s excellent line of handguns gets overlooked yet again.
I also have to tip my hat to Ruger . The P 85 and P 95 are kind of hard to conceal but if you can they are beast of burden and the SRC 9C is also a favorite of mine , it is my wife’s favorite . I am not a Glock fan but really can’t bitch about them , just not a fan .
I guess I just like my guns that I carry to hold lots of projectiles
Click bait. Of course my daily carry isn’t on there, despite trialing and rejecting many of the guns on the list.
We all have different needs – lists like this are quite frankly just silly. Carry what works best for your needs/system.
Wilson Combat Sentinel
I alternate between a Walther PPS in 9mm and a Glock 19 G4. They’re similar enough in operation that I am of the opinion that stress reloading should not be an issue. The difference in texture indicates to me how I actuate the magazine release.
Most pistols on your list I would not carry concealed anywhere near my body. I was required to carry a Glock for over 12 years and think the trigger type safety is especially hazardous after seeing and hearing of numerous accidental discharges. Yes, my favorites are versions of the 1911 and SP101
My Sig P290 is sad…
So was this a qualitative analysis or a quantitative study? Whose opinions are these and why does this read more like an advertisement for gun manufacturers rather than actual journalism? I thought TTAG strove to be better than this tripe.
Oh, get over yourself. It’s a bunch of guys sitting around bullshitting about “what do you think the best 20 concealed carry guns out there are?” Opinions vary, you argue, you drink, you come up with a list, and nobody really cares who’s right or wrong. It’s a way to pass the time. It’s not intended to be an exhaustive analysis, and you’re taking it way too seriously.
Mine’s a Springfield XD 9 Subcompact.
Why get caliber specific on the Springfields? Like a Glock they are all the same whatever the caliber. Especially since we all know caliber doesn’t make a difference.
At least half of those are NOT REALLY CONCEALABLE unless you weigh 300lbs. I’ve carried a G26 and a Commander sized 1911 before and I shore am glad a friend of a friend turned me onto the Sig P290RS. Two ex SEALs turned him on to it. Happiness is a small 9 mike mike that stows away in the front or back pocket of your jeans.
I carry a Colt Mustang + II in stainless. Had it for many years. I just have an aversion to plastic guns. Sorry.
I carry a CZ Rami 2075. It’s really good carry gun for those who like all-metal double stack or 1911/Hi-power guns with a safety. It carries the equivalent ammo load of a compact or full-size at half the size. Super reliable and little to no recoil. Good luck finding one though.
Good list but i wouldnt carry any one of them. By choice of course. Prefer double stacks because there twice the mag capacity as most of the list above… Also a lot of double stacks are same size if not smaller than the list above.
And id like to see a list of the top 10 cc double stack guns. Hope to see the xd9 sub compact in there!
There are at least five or six double-stacks on this list…
Is that it? Where’s the Sig P239?
I guess Glock has the whole world in a tail spin. I went to the gun show last weekend looking for a P224 to fondle and found exactly one Sig, a P250. Bass Pro and Academy have damn few Sigs too.
I was also looking for a 6-shot S&W Kit Gun in 6″ or better, Steiner 7X50 Mil/Marine binoculars, and a couple or three AR type muzzle covers. No joy on any count, and same story as last 6 or 10 shows I went to. I’m gonna quit going to gun shows and save my money!
Glock 19 is full size now?
I can’t believe that the Sig P938 wasn’t on the list. It’s a very small accurate and reliable 1911 that comes with night sights. What’s not to love?
Ahh, no love for a 9mm 1911 in the list? The Springfield EMP (Enhanced Micro Pistol) in 9mm is a single stack, sweet shootin’ son of a gun. 9+1, light enough to carry all day, heavy enough to feel almost no recoil. Glad to see the plastic fantastics highlighted, but this is a very subjective list…
My concealed preferences are the Glock 21 and the S&W 60 (snub)……
I like my KR7s
I must comment upon your inclusion of the Kahr CM9 in that list. I purchased a Kahr CW380 a year ago, NIB. I have yet to fire a shot from it. It refuses to feed anything I’ve tried to feed it from the magazine. When I called Kahr’s optimistically named “tech support” for suggestions or advice, the rep caustically and dismissively stated, “Kahr advises breaking the pistol in by shooting at least 200 rounds through it before contacting Kahr about any problems.” He was like a broken record, repeating that over and over. He even repeated it when I asked how I was supposed to fire 200 rounds through a pistol that won’t feed. As far as I’m concerned, the quality control and tech support from Kahr would make anything from Taurus appear to be on a level with the old Colt Python by comparison.
Kahr really does have some crappy customer serv. You are not alone on that one.
Is that a Barrett M82 in your pants, or are you glad to see…..oh nevermind
Smith J-frame revolvers and the Sig p238 are still the best sellers out there
It nice to see my PPS made the list. A little surprised at the lack of S&W revolvers. Also surprised not to see the PPK.
My employer does not allow guns on the premises, although other car dealerships have been shot up in the past by disgruntled customers. My work uniform is pleated chinos and a tucked in sport shirt, so I front pocket carry an LCP in a Recluse Holster every day. It absolutely does not print, and in years no one has ever noticed or even asked what was in my pocket.
When I am not at work I front pocket carry a Taurus TCP. Very reliable, quite inexpensive at under $200, and a better trigger than the LCP.
Minor fail by omitting the Sig P938/238 and Smith J frames. How do either not make a top 20 ccw list?
Sig P938. Yes it’s a little more expensive that most singe stack 9’s – but for us folk that like 1911s & single action only & cocked and locked carry – the P938 is legit. Performance wise it is close to a 3″ 1911, both in capacity & ballistics however it is much more concealable & reliable.
Wow ! Finally a consensus on something . Thank you everyone for your input and it’s wonderful to note that the #1 CC gun was the PMR 30 . Signed , sealed and delivered .
Next perhaps a consensus on air guns will be recognized !
It is interesting that the CZ compact designs were overlooked altogether. It doesn’t matter that their new compact police model is the widest used weapon in the western world, but as their design is the same as the full sized CZ75 / 75b variants, and improved , I’d have thought a missed mention impossible. It’s true that they were not imported until a few years after their technology birth in 1975 , but hey, with 40 years of exposure in the gun market and of a design copied and sold more than any other than the 1911’s….PLEASE !.
No mention of the CZ 75? Or the Walther PPQ? Biased reporting, evidently
I would like to know more about a couple of pistols that could possibly be on this list. The Springfield Armory XDM 3.8″ Compact 9mm and Sig Sauer P320 Nitron Compact. I’d also like to know what are the required dimensions for a concealed carry firearrm? Barrel length and round capacity.
thanks,
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