Written by Mark Buff, GunZee founder and CEO.
When temperatures rise, jackets come off and concealment gets trickier. Let’s look at some compact yet capable pistols that won't weigh you down or cause discomfort. It’s time to find the perfect concealed carry handgun to keep you protected when it's blazing outside.
Quick links:
Stay cool, stay safe, and stay prepared all summer long.
If you wear your gun in a KYDEX holster during the summer, our holster cushion will do you a favor!
Things to Consider When Concealed Carrying in the Summer
Concealed carrying in the summer heat brings unique challenges, but with thoughtful preparation, you can stay comfortable and protected. Consider the following when picking your summer conceal carry setup:
- Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that allow for proper ventilation while still providing effective concealment.
- Consider CCW holsters specifically designed for hot weather carry, such as those with moisture-wicking properties or breathable materials.
- Choose a compact and lightweight CCW gun that is comfortable to carry for extended periods in warmer temperatures.
- Look for corrosion-resistant finishes, and take extra care to prevent moisture buildup that could affect firearm functionality.
- Ensure your chosen holster offers proper retention, stability, and a secure fit to prevent shifting or discomfort during movement.
- Get the GunZee holster pad for maximum comfort, even during hot summer days.
What are the Best Pistols for Summer?
Thankfully, today's concealed carry market overflows with petite yet potent pistols, perfect for summer. Look for guns with lightweight polymer frames that won't drag down your shorts. Compact equals comfortable when covered in just a t-shirt.
While staying small, your summer CCW needs to pack enough punch to handle business if things get hairy. A slim single stack that shoots like a dream beats a chunky heater that prints like a billboard.
Here are some of the most popular picks for summer concealed carry:
- Ruger LCP II
- S&W M&P Shield
- Sig Sauer P938
- Glock 43
- Colt Mustang
- Ruger LCR
- Bersa Thunder
- Walther PPS M2
- Walther PPQ
- Kimber Micro 9
Let’s get into the pros and cons of each.
Ruger LCP II
Ruger LCP II
Image source: https://ruger.com/products/lcpII/models.html
Compact and lightweight, the Ruger LCP II excels for discreet summer carry. This slim .380 ACP pistol easily fits into pockets or tucks flush against the waistband. At just 10.6 ounces, it adds minimal bulk while carrying, whether you opt to pack it in your pocket, or in an IWB holster.
The textured grip manages recoil, and the smoothed-out trigger enhances shootability. With its slim profile and 6+1 round capacity, the LCP II provides reliable warm-weather protection without printing. Its low-profile design keeps carrying comfortable and concealed during the hot summer months.
Here are its specifications:
- Caliber: .380 ACP
- Capacity: 6+1 rounds
- Barrel length: 2.75 inches
- Overall length: 5.17 inches
- Height: 3.71 inches
- Width: 0.91 inches
- Weight: 10.6 ounces (unloaded)
- Slide material: Alloy steel
- Grip frame: High-performance glass-filled nylon
- Sights: Integral
- Trigger: Single action with short, crisp pull
Smith and Wesson M&P Shield
Smith and Wesson M&P Shield
Image source: https://www.smith-wesson.com/product/m-p-9-shield-m2.0
The M&P Shield was tailor-made for sweltering summer carry. At just 18.3 ounces, its lightweight polymer frame won't drag down warm-weather wares. The slim single-stack profile banishes print, while textured grip panels deliver control.
This 9mm strikes the perfect balance between concealability and shootability. An optimal 18-degree grip angle mitigates muzzle rise for fast follow-up shots. Durable titanium-coated internal parts brush off corrosion from sweat and humidity.
When the sun is scorching, rely on the Shield to provide ample firepower in a featherlight, sweat-proof package.
Specifications of the SW Shield:
- Caliber: 9mm or .40 S&W
- Capacity: 7+1 or 8+1 rounds of 9mm, 6+1 or 7+1 rounds of .40 S&W
- Barrel length: 3.1 inches
- Overall length: 6.1 inches
- Height: 4.6 inches
- Width: 0.95 inches
- Weight: 19 ounces (unloaded)
- Slide material: Stainless steel
- Frame material: Polymer
- Sights: Red dot sights
- Trigger: Striker-fired with a smooth and consistent pull
Sig Sauer P938
Sig Sauer P938. Image source: https://www.sigsauer.com/p938-sas2b-micro-compact.html
The Sig P938's small size and lightweight construction make it easy to carry comfortably, especially in hot weather. The P938 is a compact 9mm handgun that offers a balance of power and performance.
Here are the Sig P938’s major specifications:
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 6+1 rounds
- Barrel length: 3 inches
- Overall length: 5.9 inches
- Height: 3.9 inches
- Width: 1.1 inches
- Weight: 16 ounces (unloaded)
- Slide material: Stainless steel
- Frame material: Alloy
- Sights: SIGLITE night sights
- Trigger: Single-action only with a crisp and short pull
Glock 43
Fully loaded, the Glock 43 weighs a bit more than 22 ounces. It’s 6.26 inches in length, 4.25 inches in height, and just a touch over 1 inch in width, making it a perfect lightweight companion for hot summer days.
Here are its specifications:
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 6+1 rounds
- Barrel length: 3.39 inches
- Overall length: 6.26 inches
- Height: 4.25 inches
- Width: 1.02 inches
- Weight: 17.95 ounces (unloaded)
- Slide material: Steel
- Frame material: Polymer
- Sights: Glock night sights or standard sights
- Trigger: Safe action trigger system
This redditor wears a G43 during the summer.
Colt Mustang
The Colt Mustang features a single-action trigger and a 6-round magazine capacity, making it reliable and easy to conceal in personal defense situations, even in the hottest summer days.
Its specs:
- Caliber: .380 ACP
- Capacity: 6 rounds
- Barrel length: 2.75 inches
- Overall length: 5.5 inches
- Height: 3.9 inches
- Width: 1.06 inches
- Weight: 12.5 ounces (empty)
- Slide material: Stainless steel
- Frame material: Aluminum alloy
- Sights: Fixed
- Trigger: Single-action
Ruger LCR
When packing heat in a pocket or waistband, every ounce counts. Cue the Ruger LCR—the quintessential flyweight wheelgun built for summer. At just 13 ounces, its aerospace-grade aluminum frame adds minimal burden while combating corrosion from sweat.
The smooth double-action trigger nullifies snags when drawing from concealment. Meanwhile, the hammerless enclosed firing pin boosts snag-free reliability. Offered in versatile calibers like .38 Special and .357 Magnum, this revolver blends potent firepower with featherlight portability.
Stay locked and loaded through hot, humid days with the profoundly packable LCR.
Ruger LCR specifications:
- Caliber: .38 Special, 9mm, .357 Magnum (various models)
- Capacity: 5 rounds
- Barrel length: 1.87 inches
- Overall length: 6.5 inches
- Height: 4.5 inches
- Width: 1.28 inches
- Weight: 13.5-17.8 ounces (empty)
- Slide material: Stainless steel or aluminum (varies by model)
- Frame material: Polymer or aluminum (varies by model)
- Sights: Fixed or replaceable (varies by model)
- Trigger: Double-action
Bersa Thunder
With its compact size, comfortable grip, and lightweight frame, the Bersa Thunder is easy to carry for extended periods, even during the summer. It offers a double-action/single-action trigger and a magazine capacity of 7 or 8 rounds, depending on the model.
Here are its specs:
- Caliber: .380 ACP
- Capacity: 7+1 rounds or 8+1 rounds (various models)
- Barrel length: 3.5 inches
- Overall length: 6.6 inches
- Height: 4.9 inches
- Width: 1.3 inches
- Weight: 17-19 ounces (empty)
- Slide material: Steel
- Frame material: Alloy
- Sights: Fixed or adjustable (varies by model)
- Trigger: Double-action/single-action or double-action only (varies by model)
Walther PPS M2
Walther engineered the PPS M2 specifically for unfailing concealment across seasons. Its slender, subcompact frame conceals with ease, while a pronounced grip tames recoil for shootability.
Available in 9mm, this striker-fired polymer pistol provides a versatile mix of magazine capacities. Choose 6 rounds for imperceptible carrying, or opt for 7 or 8 to bring more firepower to hot-weather carry. An optimized trigger and ergonomic grip keep you shooting straight as temperatures rise.
When summer heat leaves you stripping layers, the PPS M2 keeps you covered.
Walther PPS M2 specifications:
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 6, 7, or 8 rounds (various magazine options)
- Barrel length: 3.18 inches
- Overall length: 6.3 inches
- Height: 4.4 inches
- Width: 1 inch
- Weight: 21.1 ounces (empty)
- Slide material: Steel
- Frame material: Polymer
- Sights: Fixed or night sights (varies by model)
- Trigger: Striker-fired
This redditor loves the M2 for summer.
Walther PPQ
The Walther PPQ brings big firepower for those who can conceal fuller figures. Available in hard-hitting calibers like 9mm and .45 ACP, this full-size polymer pistol cranks up capacity without excessive weight.
Its ergonomic grip soaks up recoil, while the buttery smooth trigger enhances precision across lengthy shooting sessions. Carrying larger handguns in warm weather takes practice and proper holsters.
For those who put in the work, the PPQ provides a potent balance of shootability and higher magazine capacity to own the heat.
Here are the major specs of Walther PPQ:
- Caliber: 9mm, .45 ACP
- Capacity: 10+1 or 15+1 rounds (9mm), 12+1 rounds (.45 ACP)
- Barrel length: 4 inches (9mm), 4.25 inches (.45 ACP)
- Overall length: 7.1 inches (9mm), 7.4 inches (.45 ACP)
- Height: 5.3 inches (9mm), 5.6 inches (.45 ACP)
- Width: 1.3 inches
- Weight: 24-26 ounces (empty)
- Slide material: Steel
- Frame material: Polymer
- Sights: Adjustable or fixed (varies by model)
- Trigger: Striker-fired
Kimber Micro 9
The Kimber Micro 9 shines for concealed carry in hot, humid conditions. This micro-compact 9mm pistol combines an ultralight aluminum frame with a corrosion-resistant stainless steel slide and barrel. At just 15 ounces unloaded, the Micro 9 adds minimal burden to your summer wardrobe.
Its compact 6.1-inch length and single stack magazine tuck discreetly against your body, while still providing 6+1 or 7+1 rounds of capacity. Ergonomic textures allow confident grip and manipulation, even when sweaty. Kimber firearms are renowned for dependability across conditions, so you can trust the Micro 9 will perform when called upon despite heat and humidity. With its lightweight, compact, and robust design, the Micro 9 gives you potent and portable protection all summer long.
Micro 9 specifications:
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 6 or 7 rounds (various models)
- Barrel length: 3.15 inches
- Overall length: 6.1 inches
- Height: 4.07 inches
- Width: 1.06 inches
- Weight: 15.6-17 ounces (empty)
- Slide material: Stainless steel
- Frame material: Aluminum alloy
- Sights: Fixed
- Trigger: Single-action
Related: check out the best holsters for the Kimber Micro 9.
What is the Best Concealed Carry Clothing for Summer?
Beating the heat is no excuse to go unarmed. With smart wardrobe choices, you can stay discreetly carrying from sunrise to sunset.
When selecting summer concealed carry clothing, consider these hot weather-friendly options:
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, moisture-wicking blends, and cotton
- Drapey, relaxed, and loosely fitted silhouettes
- Neutral solids or camouflaging prints and patterns
- Light layers like open shirts, vests, and lightweight jackets
- Garments with built-in holsters such as CCW shirts and shorts
Ditch the heavy layers and get creative with your summer style while staying secure. With the right fabrics and fits, you can conceal carry comfortably all season long. Don't let soaring temperatures leave you unprotected; beat the heat in style and stay discreetly armed.
When it comes to women's concealed carry clothing for summer, skirts with belt loops are a great option. To prevent printing, you can also easily conceal your gun under a loose-fitting shirt or wear a tighter shirt with a lightweight wrap or shawl-type garment. Any shirt with an embellishment, such as a knot, front tie, or another distracting style, works well as well.
Does a Good Gun Belt Make a Difference in Summer?
A quality gun belt is crucial for comfortable and secure summer concealed carry. When temperatures rise, a flimsy belt can lead to irritation, sagging, and increased printing.
A sturdy gun belt provides stability and support, preventing your holstered firearm from shifting and bouncing as you move. The best belts use rigid materials like leather or nylon that resist stretching in heat and humidity. This maintains tension and keeps your gun properly positioned.
Reinforced edges and robust buckles also contribute to stability with a loaded holster. For hot weather, look for breathable belts with airflow channels or moisture-wicking properties to reduce sweat.
A good belt evenly distributes weight across your hips for all-day carrying comfort. Proper tension helps minimize printing by keeping the gun grip close to the body. This is especially key with lightweight summer clothing.
Upgrading to a purpose-built gun belt can make a huge difference in comfort and concealment during the dog days of summer. Invest in a quality belt designed to securely hold your EDC in place.
Should I Use a Holster Claw?
A holster claw can improve concealment when carrying in warmer weather. Claws push the grip of your concealed pistol tighter against the body, minimizing printing through light clothing.
During the summer, printing becomes more likely as jackets come off and cover garments get smaller. A holster claw counteracts that by leveraging force against your belt to keep the entire handgun tucked in discreetly.
Look for holsters with adjustable claws to customize pressure and find your ideal concealment angle. Use just enough force to hide the grip while maintaining a comfortable draw stroke.
While very effective, claw holsters require a sturdy gun belt to brace against. A flimsy belt can lead to uncomfortable pressure points and even increased printing. Invest in a robust belt designed for concealment holsters.
Test claw holsters before committing to one to ensure proper comfort and concealment for your body type and typical summer wardrobe. Dialing in the right holster setup takes experimenting but pays off in discreet protection.
Should I Carry Off Body?
When summer heat limits on-body concealed carry options, some look to off-body carry in bags or packs as an alternative. But this approach has both advantages and disadvantages.
Potential benefits of off-body carry in summer:
- Accommodates skimpier clothing like swimsuits or running shorts with no waistband for holsters
- Lightens your load by shifting the pistol weight into a bag you'd carry anyway
- Fanny packs and crossbody bags provide some accessibility for quick draws
Downsides to consider:
- Drawing from a bag is slower and less intuitive than drawing from a holster
- Greater risk of accidental dropping or theft compared to on-body solutions
- Forces you to remember your bag everywhere you go - no just slipping on a holster
- Still causes fatigue lugging around the weight during summer activities
If trying off-body carry, use bags designed for concealment with retention features. Train extensively for safe handling and access. While offering pros and cons, off-body carry still generally poses more risks than on-body options. But in certain situations, it can provide an alternative during hot weather.
Summer CCW FAQ
What is the best concealed carry position in the summer?
Inside the waistband holsters are generally considered the best way to conceal carry in summer. These holsters can be concealed under even a simple T-shirt, making them much easier to dress for in warmer seasons.
What guns should I carry while running?
Lightweight and compact firearms like the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, Sig P365, or Ruger LCP Max are ideal for running. These pistols offer convenient concealment and reliable performance and won't hinder your movement.
What is the best round to carry?
While many concealed carriers prefer larger or smaller calibers, the 9mm has stood the test of time. The 9mm pistol’s moderate recoil, carrying capacity, and accuracy make it the most popular round to carry.
Should you conceal carry every day?
Many experts recommend carrying every day for consistent protection. Threats can arise at any time, and having your firearm with you provides a level of preparedness and peace of mind. However, it's important to follow local laws, receive proper training, and maintain a responsible mindset when carrying concealed.
What is the best material for a concealed carry holster for hot weather?
During hot weather, nylon or KYDEX holsters provide good airflow and moisture-wicking properties. To accommodate different clothing styles and body positions, look for holsters with adjustable retention and cant options.
What is the easiest handgun to conceal carry?
Some popular options include the Sig Sauer P238, Ruger LCP II, Springfield Armory XD-S, and Walther PPS M2. These concealed carry handguns are compact, lightweight, and designed for easy concealment.
Their slim profiles and smaller dimensions make them ideal for comfortable and discreet carry, especially in hot weather when minimal clothing is preferred.
What is the best cant angle for concealed carry?
30 degrees is the best cant angle for CCW carry. While the majority of concealed carry holsters on the market are only adjustable up to 15 degrees, the highest level of adjustability is 30 degrees of forward and reverse cant.
The benefit of a holster with such drastic adjustability is that you can carry it in absolutely any position.
What is a good concealed carry firearm?
Here are some of the best weapons to carry concealed:
- Walther PPKS
- Sig Sauer P365
- Sig Sauer P365 XL
- Sig P238
- S&W Shield M20
- MP Shield Plus
- Glock 19
- Glock 43X
- Springfield Armory Hellcat
- Walther PDP
- Kimber Micro 9
- Colt Mustang
- Canik TP9 Elite SC
- CZ P-10 C
- Beretta PX4 Compact
What is the most popular pocket pistol to buy?
The Ruger LCR Max is one of the most popular pocket pistols on the market. The LCP Max is an evolution of the original design and the LCP II with increased capacity in the same overall footprint as the original LCP. The LCP MAX ships with a 10-round magazine, and you can buy an aftermarket 12-round magazine for it.
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.
Further Reading
Concealed carry tips for small frames
What is the best ambidextrous concealed carry gun?
What is the best CCW gun for new shooters?
What is the best CCW holster for women?
The best Springfield Hellcat holster
Are Eclipse holsters any good?
Are Tenicor holsters any good?