What is the best 9mm Glock for concealed carry?

Written by Mark Buff , GunZee founder and CEO.

Glocks are among the most reliable handguns ever made. That’s why they’re used by law enforcement officers, special operations units, and in other task force roles across the world.

9mm dominates as the most popular pistol caliber, and Glock offers ample excellent options for 9mm enthusiasts. Let's take a tour of the best 9mm Glock handguns for concealed carry.

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Why are 9mm handguns popular?

Here are a few of the main reasons why 9mm guns are popular choices among concealed carry enthusiasts:

The typically smaller size and lighter weight of 9mm handguns compared to larger calibers like .45 makes them more portable and less likely to weigh down a belt or CCW holster.
The compact size of 9mm rounds allows for larger capacity magazines. More shots per mag means more chances to stop a threat before needing to reload.
As one of the most commonly used handgun rounds, 9mm ammo is inexpensive and widely available. This makes stocking up on ammo and regular practice more convenient and affordable.
Many 9mm guns have relatively low recoil compared to larger, more powerful cartridges. This allows better handling and more accurate follow-up shots.
With carefully selected hollow point loads, 9mm ammunition can provide increased terminal ballistic performance. The availability of boosted stopping power gives concealed carry weapon enthusiasts more takedown capability for self-defense.

Glock makes some of the most popular 9mm handguns on the market. With so many models to pick from, it can be tough to decide which Glock 9mm is right for your needs.

We narrowed down the top 9mm Glocks for concealed carry and highlighted some of their most notable features.

Glock 17

Glock 17

Image source: https://us.glock.com/en/pistols/g17

Features	Details
Capacity	17+1
Barrel length	4.49”
Overall length	8.03”
Width	1.0”
Height	5.47”
Weight (unloaded)	22.05 oz

The G17 is a full-size pistol that can cause concealment issues, but its combination of reliability, capacity, and shootability has earned it a loyal following as a popular choice for daily carry.

The consistent trigger pull enables rapid strings of accurate fire free of any external safety levers to complicate things.

The polymer frame helps soak up felt recoil for faster transitions between targets and accurate follow-up shots. A Matte Tenifer finish withstands corrosion and wear and tear that would readily show on traditional blued steel. For enhanced versatility, an optic-ready slide option exists to complement the reversible magazine release and ambidextrous slide stop.

Despite its full-size dimensions, the grip circumference doesn't excessively penalize shooters with smaller hands, especially when using the SF variant frame. But for discreet carry, the G17's overall length and frame thickness can be an issue, even with a proper concealed carry holster.

This reviewer at BassPro loves his G17 because of its reliability and good magazine capacity.

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Glock 19

Glock 19. Image source: https://us.glock.com/en/pistols/g19

Features	Details
Capacity	15+1
Barrel length	4.02”
Overall length	7.36”
Width	1.34”
Height	5.04”
Weight (unloaded)	23.63 oz

With plenty of accessory and holster options, alongside tried and true reliability, the G19 has proven itself as a popular 9mm pistol, especially among law enforcement. The consistent trigger pull allows fast, intuitive shooting without external safeties getting in the way.

The polymer frame reduces weight for comfortable carry while the matte finish resists corrosion and glare well. The G19 also comes optic-ready with a removable slide plate and has reversible magazine and slide releases to suit both left and right-handed shooters.

Limitations include the blocky grip that may still be overly large for shooters with smaller hands, and despite the compact design, its thickness can cause printing and sacrifice concealability.

“Ladies, you can’t go wrong with the G19. Though it suffers some areas of improvement, overwhelmingly the Glock 19 is a solidly built pistol that offers enough modularity to keep things interesting. With the ability to add aftermarket accessories and a bevy of holster options to choose, the G19 earns high marks and proves why it remains one of the most sought after carry guns on the market.” —Jacki Billings, Guns

Glock 26

Features	Details
Capacity	10+1
Barrel length	3.43”
Overall length	6.50”
Width	1.26”
Height	4.17”
Weight (unloaded)	21.52 oz

The diminutive Glock 26 shines as a compact yet formidable concealable pistol. Despite using Glock's sub-compact frame, it has a 10-round capacity in a neatly condensed package ideal for everyday deep concealment.

While the 3.43-inch barrel gives up some velocity in comparison to full-size duty guns, it retains enough punch for self-defense use, especially with modern ammunition. The sturdy polymer frame withstands heavy use while an ergonomic grip texture enables shooter control, even with smaller hands.

Good accuracy comes courtesy of a buttery 5.5-pound trigger paired with fixed barrel dependability. A dual recoil spring also tames recoil for faster follow-up shots.

Those with bigger hands may find the stubby grip frame too cramped for comfort. But for anyone wanting substantial firepower in a truly compact form, the G26 deserves a close look.

Glock 43X

Features	Details
Capacity	10+1
Barrel length	3.41”
Overall length	6.50”
Width	1.10”
Height	5.04”
Weight (unloaded)	18.70 oz

The slimline Glock 43X has a 10-round magazine of 9mm firepower in an easily concealed single-stack platform. Measuring just 6.5 inches long and 1.1 inches wide, it hides with ease underneath clothing across all seasons.

The slim yet full-length grip enables a solid hold for accurate shooting without excess bulk hampering IWB carry comfort.

Signature Glock DNA offers robust polymer construction and a matte finish that shrugs off daily wear. Despite modest dimensions, the locked-breech design tames felt recoil for fast follow-up shots.

The 43X has excellent ergonomics. The natural pointability, light, consistent trigger pull, and lack of external safeties make it fast and intuitive to operate under pressure.

The single-stack footprint prioritizes concealability over ammunition capacity. Those with bigger hands may also find the slender grip to be too small. Despite its diminutive size, the 43X still stands taller than pocket-friendly micro-compact pistols.

“It’s one of the best options for carry away from home,” says this YouTube commenter about his G43X.

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Glock 45

Features	Details
Capacity	17+1
Barrel length	4.02”
Overall length	7.44”
Width	1.0”
Height	5.47”
Weight (unloaded)	24.48 oz

The Glock 45 makes no compromises on ammunition capacity with an impressive 17+1 loadout, the highest of any Glock 9mm. It combines features from the Glock 19 and Glock 17 to create a handgun well-suited for tactical and home defense uses.

A tried-and-true polymer frame and Tenifer-hardened steel slide stand up to heavy use. The Safe Action system also incorporates three auto safeties preventing accidental discharge from drops or bumps. A smooth, consistent trigger break further aids precision shooting.

Some downsides exist, including the absence of an accessory rail for add-on lights or lasers. The basic polymer sights leave room for upgrading, and while grippy, the texture lacks aggression for optimal handling when sweating excessively.

Yet for high-volume fire superiority right out of the box, the G45 warrants a spot on most 9mm best-of lists. It runs reliably with various ammo types and in all conditions to deliver defensive peace of mind when you need it most.

If you need a cleaning kit for your G45, look no further! GunZee handgun cleaning kit has it all!

Glock 45 is the current duty gun of this YouTube commenter, and he loves it!

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Glock 48

Features	Details
Capacity	10+1
Barrel length	4.17”
Overall length	7.28”
Width	1.10”
Height	5.04”
Weight (unloaded)	20.74 oz

The Glock 48 strikes an ideal balance of compact carry and sufficient firepower with its slim single-stack design offering 10+1 rounds of ammo. It retains the legendary Glock reliability and accuracy in a discreet package. Modest recoil and a crisp 5.5-pound trigger enable accuracy for consecutive shots.

A slender frame glides smoothly into concealment, but those with bigger mitts may find the petite grip too cramped for comfort. Extensions fit flush while boosting both capacity and footprint.

The mid-length 4.17-inch barrel promotes balanced handling and enhanced target acquisition over tiny subcompact models. However, the nearly 7.3-inch overall length could still print or poke for smaller-framed shooters.

If you need to practice with your G48, get GunZee’s anatomical shooting targets!

How do I choose the right 9mm Glock?

There are many great 9mm concealed carry Glocks on the market, and finding the right one can be a big task. Consider the following factors to find your best match:

Body type. Bulkier full-size Glock pistols print more noticeably on petite frames. However, extremely compact Glocks compromise shooting control and ammo capacity.
Hand size. Compact 9mm Glock grips can feel cramped for shooters with thicker fingers or bigger palms. In contrast, loose, oversized grips could prove unwieldy for those with smaller hands.
Hand strength. Polymer frames help minimize carry fatigue but often have sharper recoil versus all-steel builds. Those with less grip strength may favor 9mm pistols with lighter recoil.
Clothing choices. Looser shirts and jackets can conceal larger pistols well, but seriously snug fits demand more compact models to avoid excessive printing.
Priorities. Fitting extra 9mm rounds requires larger, bulkier, and less concealable magazines.
Handedness. Left-handed shooters will benefit most from ambidextrous slide releases and magazines. Though not necessary, they do provide more flexibility and better control.

9mm Glock FAQ

What is the best Glock 9mm made?

The Glock 19 hits the sweet spot blending shootability, reliability, capacity, and concealability. It's trusted by professionals yet accessible for new shooters. Proven design with endless accessory options make it one of the best 9mm Glocks on the market.

What Glock do Navy SEALs use?

The Glock 19 is one of the primary Glocks used by Navy SEALs. It is a popular option due to its reliability, compact size, and large magazine capacity.

Why is the Glock 19X so popular?

Merging a full-size G17 frame with the shorter slide of the G19, it balances ample capacity for lots of firepower with a slightly smaller profile easier to wield. This makes the Glock 19X a balanced and versatile CCW and duty pistol.

Is Glock the most reliable handgun?

Glock is widely regarded as one of the most reliable handgun brands. Its simple design, high-quality manufacturing, and extensive testing have contributed to its reputation for reliability among law enforcement, military, and civilian users.

Which is better: Glock 43X or Glock 48?

The choice between the Glock 43X and Glock 48 depends on personal preferences. The Glock 43X is more compact and better suited for concealed carry, while the Glock 48 has a slightly longer slide, providing a longer sight radius and increased muzzle velocity.

Which Glock is the most customizable?

The Glock 17 and Glock 19 are among the most customizable Glocks due to their popularity and wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories. Both full-size and compact models offer ample surface area for stippling modifications to enhance grip texture. Their ubiquity also means an abundance of slide milling options for adding optic mounts or enhancing aesthetics.

Which Glock has rear sights?

All Glock pistols utilize rear sight assemblies, typically low-profile two white dot polymer configurations that are adjustable for windage correction should you need it. Aftermarket metal sights with tritium inserts offer enhanced visibility if desired.

What is the strongest Glock model?

The term "strongest" can refer to different characteristics. In terms of caliber, the Glock 20 chambered in 10mm Auto is known for its increased firepower and versatility, making it the strongest choice from a bullet size and stopping power perspective.

What is the most reliable pistol of all time?

The Glock 19 Gen 5 is often considered one of the most reliable pistol models of all time. It is praised for its durability, performance, and extensive testing. Other reputable and reliable handgun manufacturers include Smith & Wesson, SIG Sauer, and CZ.

What makes for a comfortable grip on a Glock?

A comfortable Glock grip features ample surface area to spread recoil forces and a grip angle that points naturally for most shooters. Stippling or molded texture also enhances comfort while shooting by providing friction and avoiding slippage even with sweaty palms.

What is considered the standard capacity for a Glock magazine?

Glock’s standard capacity magazines hold 15 rounds of 9mm for compact models like the G19 and 17 rounds for full-size models like the G17. These capacities match what the pistols were originally designed for.

Why would you prefer a shorter barrel for concealed carry?

A shorter barrel length of around 3-4 inches balances concealability with adequate velocity and sight radius. Compact slides also cut weight and reduce printing. Together this makes it easier to hide the pistol under clothing compared to 5-inch barrels.

What does the slide-stop lever do on a Glock?

Glock’s slide-stop lever locks the slide back when the final round is fired, allowing you to swiftly reload or manually release the slide simply by dropping the lever down when a fresh magazine is inserted.

Why are metal dot sights preferred for defensive pistols?

Metal dot sights utilizing a rear notch and front post allow accurate aim while remaining snag-resistant. Painted dots or tritium inserts draw the eye quicker to the sight picture in stressful situations over plain black configurations.

What makes the G43X a good concealed carry pistol?

With its slim yet ergonomic grip frame and compact 10+1 capacity in 9mm, the G43X offers respectable firepower in a supremely concealable and packable single-stack platform making it an exemplary undercover companion.

Are there Glock models well-suited for new shooters?

The Glock 19 and Glock 17 are excellent choices for novice shooters. Their mid-size grips fit most hand sizes straight out of the box. Meanwhile, consistent 5.5-pound trigger pulls with a tactile reset enhance precision shot placement without manual safeties to complicate handling.

The G19 and G17 also have a grip angle and mild recoil impulse that is easy for new shooters to control for. They offer impressive magazine capacities, holding over 15 rounds of 9mm each. These beginner-friendly Glocks are great options for both new and experienced shooters.

About the Author

Mark Buff is the founder and CEO of GunZee. He is an ardent firearms enthusiast and has been carrying concealed for more than 15 years. He created GunZee to solve his own problem: that of uncomfortable KYDEX holsters. His patented GunZee memory foam holster pad makes inside-the-waistband carry super comfortable.