Top Concealed Carry Guns Compared

Springfield Armory Hellcat

Springfield Armory Hellcat. Image source: https://www.springfield-armory.com/hellcat-series-handguns/hellcat-3-micro-compact-handguns/

The Hellcat is a high-capacity 9mm semi-automatic microcompact and is incredibly popular.

“Perfect size conceal ability and capacity,” says this redditor of the Hellcat, and many other CCW folks share the sentiment.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The Hellcat's advantages include its large magazine capacity, small size, good ergonomics, and high-quality construction. The pistol has an 11+1 round standard magazine capacity and a 13+1 round extended magazine capacity, making it one of the highest-capacity micro-compact handguns on the market. It has a comfortable grip and simple controls.

The small size and light weight of the frame may make it feel like it has more recoil than larger handguns. Some users may find the texture of the grip to be too rough, but this is a matter of personal taste.

This reddit user loves the Hellcat, especially its capacity, and many others agree with the sentiment.

Comparisons to Other Popular Handguns

Springfield Armory Hellcat vs. Springfield Armory XD-S Mod 2

Let’s put these two Springfields up against each other and see how they compare.

Size and concealability. The Hellcat is a microcompact handgun, whereas the XD-S Mod.2 is a subcompact. Both handguns are made for concealed carry, but the Hellcat is much easier to conceal.

Caliber. The Hellcat is chambered in 9mm, while the XD-S Mod.2 comes in 9mm,.40 S&W, and.45 ACP. Some shooters prefer the XD-S Mod.2 in larger caliber for greater stopping power.

Magazine capacity. The Hellcat wins with a standard magazine capacity of 11+1 rounds and an extended magazine capacity of 13+1 rounds. The 7+1 capacity (9+1 extended) of the 9mm XD-S looks downright puny in comparison.

Grip and ergonomics. The Hellcat and XD-S Mod.2 both have comfortable, ergonomic grips designed for a secure hold. The Hellcat has a texture that changes depending on how you hold it, while the XD-S Mod.2's GripZone texture is a good mix of comfort and control. Some users may prefer one model's grip over the other, but both guns hold their own in this department.

Features. The Hellcat is equipped with a U-Dot sight system that includes a high-visibility front sight and a tactical-rack rear sight as standard. A fiber-optic front sight and a low-profile combat rear sight are standard on the XD-S Mod.2. Both handguns have trigger systems and passive safety features in common. The Hellcat comes in an optics-ready OSP version that allows for easy mounting of a red dot sight, whereas the XD-S Mod.2 does not.

Overall Design. The Hellcat and XD-S Mod.2 both feature the same high-quality construction and dependability that Springfield Armory is known for.

Price. The Hellcat tends to be the more expensive of the two, which is no surprise considering its high capacity and smaller size.

Hellcat vs. Walther PPS M2

Size and concealability. The Hellcat is slightly smaller and may be easier to hide than the PPS M2.

Caliber. Both the Hellcat and the PPS M2 are chambered in 9 mm.

Magazine capacity. The Hellcat has significantly larger magazine capacity than the PPS M2.

Grip and ergonomics. Some prefer the Hellcat’s adaptive grip texture, whereas others swear by the Walther's signature grip shape and texture.

Features. The Hellcat is equipped with a U-Dot sight system that includes a high-visibility front sight and a tactical-rack rear sight as standard. The PPS M2 has a three-dot metal sight system with windage adjustability. Both handguns have trigger systems and passive safety features in common. The Hellcat, on the other hand, comes in an optics-ready OSP version that allows for easy mounting of a red dot sight, whereas the PPS M2 does not.

Overall Design. The Hellcat and PPS M2 are both reliable and well-made. The Hellcat looks more modern and aggressive, while the M2 looks more traditional and sleek.

Springfield Armory Hellcat vs. Kimber Micro 9

Size and concealability. The Hellcat is a bit smaller and lighter than the Micro 9.

Caliber. Both the Hellcat and the Micro 9 are chambered in 9mm.

Magazine capacity. The Hellcat’s 11+1 rounds (13+1 extended) beat the daylights out of the Micro 9’s 6+1 or 7+1.

Grip and ergonomics. The Micro 9 has different grips for each gun model, such as G10 and rosewood. The Hellcat has its signature adaptive texture. It really comes down to personal preference here.

Features. The Hellcat is equipped with a U-Dot sight system that includes a high-visibility front sight and a tactical-rack rear sight as standard. Depending on the model, the Micro 9 has a three-dot sight system or night sights. The Hellcat is a striker-fired handgun, while the Micro 9 is a single-action, hammer-fired handgun. The Hellcat has an optics-ready OSP version that allows for the simple mounting of a red dot sight, whereas the Micro 9 does not.

Overall design. Both the Hellcat and Micro 9 are great for concealed carry, but they have different design philosophies. The Hellcat’s aggressive aesthetics are beloved by many, while others prize the Micro 9’s 1911-style aluminum frame that focuses on craftsmanship and tradition.

Price. The Kimber Micro 9 is the more expensive of the two.

Hellcat History

In 2019, Springfield Armory added the Hellcat to its line of handguns for concealed carry. It was created to compete with other popular high-capacity sub compact 9mm pistols on the market, such as the SIG Sauer P365.

If you’re wearing your Hellcat IWB, grab this pad, apply it to your holster, and thank us later.

Walther PPS M2

The Walther PPS M2 is a slim, single stack semiauto gun. Many find it easy to use with its ergonomic grip, smooth trigger, and 3-dot metal sight.

The M2 has a capacity of 6+1 rounds with its flush-fitting magazine and 7+1 or 8+1 rounds with its extended magazines.

Redditor bryanthebryan considers the PPS M2 the best concealed carry gun out there.

Many concealed carry enthusiasts agree, but not the ones who prize capacity or concealment above all else.

Taurus G2C / G3C

Taurus G2C and G3C are chambered in 9 mm and provide a decent balance of stopping power, recoil, and capacity, making them popular self-defense options. The G2C has a capacity of 12+1 rounds, whereas the G3C has a slightly higher capacity of 13+1 rounds with its extended magazine.

Both models have a strong polymer frame and a striker-fired action. They also have comfortable grips with textured surfaces that make it easy to hold on to them even when the weather is bad. The G3C has a new sight system that includes a front night sight and a serrated rear sight for quick target acquisition.

Reviews and opinions are mixed, with many swearing by the G2C and G3C, and many faulting them for quality issues.

Differences Between Taurus G2C and G3C

• Sight system. For quick target acquisition, the G3C has a front night sight and a serrated rear sight, whereas the G2C has a more basic three-dot sight system.

• Magazine capacity. The G2C has a standard magazine capacity of 12+1 rounds, while the G3C has an extended magazine with a slightly higher capacity of 13+1 rounds.

• Slide design and compatibility. The G3C has front and rear slide serrations, which improve grip and slide manipulation over the G2C, which only has rear serrations. The G3C is also available in a Taurus Optic System (T.O.R.O.) version that is optics-ready, allowing for easy mounting of a red dot sight.

Kimber Micro 9

 

This 9 mm 1911-style handgun has a dedicated fan base for its WWII-era aesthetics, smooth performance, customizability, and concealability. The Micro 9 is lightweight and durable, with an aluminum frame and a stainless-steel slide.

The Micro 9 has a standard magazine capacity of 6+1 or 7+1 rounds, depending on the model and magazine. It comes with a number of grip options, including G10 and rosewood, for a comfortable and secure grip. Depending on the model, the Micro 9 also includes a three-dot sight system or night sights for quick target acquisition and accuracy.

Overall, the Micro 9 is a reliable, high-quality choice for people who want a retro-style concealed carry gun that is well-made, works well, and can be customized in a lot of different ways.

CZ P-10 S

The CZ P-10 S is a subcompact, striker-fired, semiautomatic pistol chambered in 9 mm. It provides a good balance of stopping power, manageable recoil, and capacity, making it a popular self-defense weapon. This gun is lightweight and tough, with a strong polymer frame that works well in a wide range of situations.

With a standard magazine capacity of 12+1 rounds, the P-10 S has a lot of firepower but is still small enough to be easy to hide. The pistol has an ergonomic grip with an aggressive texture that ensures a comfortable and secure hold while in use. For quick target acquisition and accuracy, the CZ P-10 S features a three-dot sight system with a high-visibility front sight and a serrated rear sight.

Kahr CW9

The Kahr CW9 is a slim, single-stack, semi-automatic pistol that was made to be carried in a pocket and used for personal protection. The CW9 is chambered in 9 mm and provides a good balance of stopping power, manageable recoil, and capacity. It has a polymer frame and a slide made of stainless steel.

The CW9 has a standard magazine size of 7+1 rounds and a textured, ergonomic grip. The CW9 comes with a drift-adjustable, white bar-dot combat sight system for quick target acquisition and accuracy.

Whatever piece you’re packing, if you’re wearing it IWB, grab this holster pad, apply it, and enjoy pure comfort.

Best Concealed Carry Guns For New Shooters

Here are some great guns for new shooters to carry concealed. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but these are some of the most popular pistols.

1. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ (9mm or .380 ACP). The M&P Shield EZ has an easy-to-rack slide and manageable recoil. It is a fantastic pick for novices who are still learning firearm handling and safety due to the grip safety and easy-to-load magazines.

2. Ruger LCP II (.380 ACP). The LCP II is small and light, making it an excellent concealed carry alternative for beginners. Its ease of use, simplicity, and controllable recoil all contribute to its beginner-friendly nature.

3. Glock 42 (.380 ACP). The 42 is a thin, compact, and lightweight .380 ACP pistol known for its dependability. It has a moderate recoil and is simple to use.

4. The SIG Sauer P238 (.380 ACP) is a compact, 1911-style pistol that is easy to conceal and carry. Its single-action trigger and manual safety provide a familiar control arrangement for inexperienced shooters, and its light recoil makes it easy to manage.

5. Taurus G2C / G3C (9mm). These tiny, low-cost pistols are known for their dependability and ease of use. They have a comfortable grip and a smooth, consistent trigger pull, making them ideal for first-time shooters searching for a less expensive alternative.

6. The Walther CCP M2 (9mm) has a Softcoil gas-delayed blowback system, which reduces felt recoil and makes it easier for beginning shooters to control. Its ergonomics and simple controls contribute to its beginner-friendly appeal.

7. 9mm or .45 ACP Springfield Armory XD-S Mod.2: The XD-S Mod.2 has a thin, compact design that is easy to hold and has a smooth trigger pull. Its passive grip safety and visible loaded chamber indicator makes it a safe and simple choice for beginning shooters.

If you’re a beginner, you should get out and try different guns to find what works best for you. Reddit user 19mls6874 provides sound advice:

• Get the biggest gun you can comfortably conceal.

• Get out and shoot a variety of guns.

• Get the right gun holster and belt—don’t skimp.

This redditor loves the Sig P365 / P365XL and the Springfield Hellcat, and claims the Hellcat is better for beginners.

New shooters and experienced shooters alike hate holsters digging into them when they sit down. Apply this pad and thank us later.

Best Concealed Carry Guns for Women

When it comes to choosing a concealed carry gun, women may have different worries and priorities than men. Some of the most common concerns women have while selecting a concealed carry firearm include the following:

• Concealability. Women's attire and body shapes can make concealment trickier. Whether they want on-body carry (e.g., inside-the-waistband) or off-body carry, many women prefer smaller frames.

• Size and weight. Women may prefer smaller, lighter firearms that are easier to carry and use. A large or heavy firearm might be difficult to handle, especially for people with smaller hands or less upper body strength.

• Recoil management. Excessive recoil can make shooting a gun uncomfortable, especially for people with less experience or a smaller frame. Women may prefer firearms with lesser recoil, which can aid in accuracy and confidence when shooting.

• Women's hands are frequently smaller than men's, so finding a weapon with an ergonomic grip that fits comfortably and securely in their hand is critical. A good grip can have a big impact on accuracy, control, and overall shooting experience.

• Simplicity of use: Women, especially those who are new to shooting, may prefer firearms that are simple to load, rack, and disassemble. Complex mechanics or features that take a lot of force to operate may not be the ideal fit.

• While aesthetics should not be the major consideration when selecting a concealed carry gun, some women may prefer firearms with visually appealing designs or customizable choices like colors, inscriptions, or grip types.

• Compatibility of holsters and apparel. Many women prioritize guns for which there are the right type of holsters and other accessories.

As this reddit user so aptly describes, some ladies don’t like the recoil of a 9mm, and it’s always a good idea to try out multiple guns to see what works for you.

Let’s look at some of the most popular concealed handguns for ladies.

Glock 42

• Concealability. Slim, single-stack design makes it highly concealable.

• Size and weight. Small and lightweight, ideal for comfortable carrying.

• Recoil management. .380 ACP caliber offers manageable recoil.

• Ergonomics and grip. Comfortable grip for smaller hands.

• Ease of use. Simple, reliable Glock design.

• Aesthetics. Sleek appearance; customizable colors and accessories available.

• Reliability and quality. Renowned Glock reliability.

Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ 9/380

• Concealability. Slim profile allows for easy concealment.

• Size and weight. Compact and lightweight for comfortable carrying.

• Recoil management. Manageable recoil, especially with the .380 ACP version.

• Ergonomics and grip. Smaller grip circumference.

• Ease of use. EZ slide and lighter recoil spring for easy racking.

• Aesthetics. Sleek design with different colors and finishes available.

• Reliability and quality. Proven Smith & Wesson quality and reliability.

TimL305 from the liberalgunowners subreddit vouches for the Shield EZ’s easy operation and petite grip.

Another poster on the same subreddit dings the Shield EZ for its low capacity but otherwise gives it high marks.

Sig Sauer P238

• Concealability. Compact size ensures easy concealment.

• Size and weight. Lightweight and ideal for comfortable carrying.

• Recoil management. .380 caliber gives this gun very manageable recoil.

• Ergonomics and grip. 1911-style design with various grip options.

• Ease of use. Single-action, hammer-fired pistol with easy-to-use controls.

• Aesthetics: Stylish finishes and options available.

• Reliability and quality. Sig Sauer quality and reliability. Say no more.

Many users, such as shawn3210 from Reddit, attest to the P238’s easy slide rack and and concealability.

Ruger LCP II

We’ve already reviewed the LCP II above. It’s popular with many women for its tiny size. One reddit commenter notes that the LCP is not the smoothest to shoot, but has unrivaled concealability.

Ruger LCR

The LCR is a revolver and meets many of the criteria prioritized by a majority of female shooters.

• Concealability. Compact size and snag-free shape for easy concealment.

• Size and weight. This revolver is super lightweight (13.5 oz) due to most of the gun being made of a glass polymer instead of steel.

• Recoil management. Hogue Tamer grip helps manage recoil. Ladies love the .38 Special chambering (the gun is available in several calibers) for its lower recoil also.

• Ergonomics and grip. Comfortable grip works for various hand sizes.

• Ease of use. Simple revolver operation with no external safeties.

• Aesthetics. Modern design with customizable grip colors.

 

9 mm for Women

Even though many women prefer a .380 chambering for its lower recoil, a sizable contingent vouch for some of the popular 9mm guns reviewed above.

For example, redditor “blueangel1953” loves the Glock 43X, and apparently doesn’t mind the 9mm recoil at all.

Like we said, you’ve got to get out and shoot some guns and find what works for you.

Uncomfortable holsters are an equal-opportunity annoyance. No matter your gender, apply this pad to your IWB holster and experience CCW nirvana.

Best Concealed Carry Guns For Fat Guys

Choosing the perfect concealed carry gun can be difficult for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for those of larger stature. Let’s look at some of the best concealed carry options for larger people. From ergonomics to holster options, we've got you covered.

Here are five guns consistently beloved by large fellows. We’ve already reviewed them above, so we won’t go into too much detail here.

1. Glock 43 / Glock 43X. The slim profile and lightweight design of these guns make them easy to carry and conceal for larger individuals.

2. S&W Shield M2.0. With a thin frame and contoured grip, this firearm provides a comfortable hold and easy concealment for those with larger bodies.

3. Sig Sauer P365 / P365 XL. These guys pack a high capacity into a small package, which makes them perfect for bigger people who want to carry something they can hide.

4. Ruger LCP II. The LCP II's small size and light weight make it easy to hide, even for people with bigger bodies.

5. Springfield Hellcat. With its large capacity and small footprint, the Hellcat is a versatile option that can meet the needs of larger people without sacrificing performance or concealability.

 

Best Practices for Large-Bodied CCW

When it comes to concealed carry for larger people, here are some tips to help fat guys get the most out of their concealed carry experience:

Gun holster selection and positioning. Choosing the proper holster is critical for comfort and ease of use. Positioning it in a way that works for you is also important. Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters with adjustable cant and ride height may be best. If you’re open to outside-the-waistband (OWB) or belly band holsters, they may provide better weight distribution and ease of access.

BDizzler thinks that IWB at 4 or 5 o’clock positions are the most comfortable for bigger guys.

This reddit user suggests using an OWB holster at 3 o’clock or an IWB starting at 4 o'clock and moving it around until you find the position that suits you the best.

Common positions include 3 to 5 o'clock (for right-handed shooters) and 7 to 9 o'clock (for left-handed shooters). Some larger people find it easier and more comfortable to carry in the appendix position or in a cross-draw position.

One redditor aptly points out that the ability to appendix carry depends on the size of one’s belly. For those particularly well-endowed in the gut department, a strong-side carry is more feasible.

Another commenter recommends low-riding holsters (such as the Fat Guy Holster) to minimize friction between one’s belly and the holster.

Clothing choices. Dress in clothes that help with concealment without sacrificing comfort. Choose slightly oversized shirts, jackets, or vests that drape well and do not cling to your body. You can also hide the shape of your gun by wearing clothes with dark colors or patterns.

This redditor is able to hide even full-size guns by wearing too-large pants, a large belt, and a 3x-4x shirt.

Ridge_runner56 suggests carrying the handgun at 4 o’clock OWB with a patterned button-up shirt to hide it.

Another reddit user concurs.

No matter your size, you deserve comfort. Apply our magical pad to your holster and breathe a sigh of relief.

 

Best Concealed Carry Handguns For Small Hands

It's important for people with small hands to find the right concealed carry handgun so they can shoot well and handle it easily.

Here are some factors small-handed shooters should consider.

• Grip size and shape. Make sure the grip is narrow and comfortable for your hand size, allowing for a secure hold and proper trigger reach.

• Manageable recoil. Choose a firearm with manageable recoil for better shooting control, especially if you have small hands or limited grip strength.

• Overall size and weight. Choose a compact and lightweight firearm that is easy to handle and will not cause discomfort over time.

• Trigger reach. Check the distance between the backstrap and the trigger to ensure proper finger placement and smooth operation.

• Ergonomics. To accommodate your hand size, look for a handgun with an ergonomic grip design and customizable features such as replaceable backstraps or grip panels.

• Controls accessibility. Check that the location of the safety, slide release, and magazine release is accessible and comfortable for your hand size and finger length.

• Caliber. Consider the firearm's caliber, balancing stopping power with recoil management and overall size.

• Magazine capacity. Consider the capacity of the handgun, keeping in mind that single-stack designs often have slimmer grips for small hands but may have lower round capacity.

• Holster options. Check to see if holsters for your chosen firearm are available that will provide comfortable and secure carry for your body type and preferred carry position.

• Personal preferences. Always try out different models to see which one feels the most comfortable, provides the best control, and meets your specific concealed carry requirements.

Here are some popular CCW options for those less-well-endowed in the hand department

Glock 42

The Glock 42 is a slimline pistol chambered in .380 ACP with a single-stack design that makes the grip smaller and more manageable for those with smaller hands. Because of its lightweight design and dependability, it is a popular choice for concealed carry.

 

Glock 43 or 43 X

When compared to other Glock models, this 9mm single-stack microcompact pistol has a slimmer grip profile, making it ideal for those with small hands. The 43 combines dependability, manageable recoil, and a small size, making it ideal for concealed carry.

This reddit user recommends the 43 or 43X as one of his top choices (in addition to several others).

Smith & Wesson M&P Shield M2.0

The Shield M2.0 has a narrow grip that is easy for those with smaller hands to hold and control. Gawernator from reddit gives the Shield high marks.

Sig Sauer P238

The P238 is a 1911-style pistol chambered in .380 ACP with a single-action trigger. Its small size and lightweight design make it ideal for people with small hands who prefer a classic 1911-style grip and manual safety.

 

Sig Sauer P365

This microcompact 9mm pistol has a large capacity in a small package, as well as a slim grip profile that is ideal for small hands. The P365 has an ergonomic grip and night sights for increased accuracy in low-light situations.

 

Ruger LCP II

The Ruger LCP II is an ultracompact .380 ACP pistol and a popular choice for those with small hands. The LCP II has a better trigger, grip texture, and sights than the original LCP, which improves its overall usability and shootability.

 

Springfield Armory XD-S Mod.2

The slim grip profile of this single-stack 9mm subcompact pistol is ideal for smaller hands. The XD-S Mod.2 provides improved control and comfort during use thanks to its improved grip texture and high-hand beavertail.

 

Walther PPS M2

The PPS M2 is a slim, single-stack 9mm concealed carry pistol. It can be adjusted to fit different hand sizes thanks to its ergonomic grip and replaceable backstraps. This means that even people with small hands can hold it comfortably and securely.

 

Kimber Micro 9

The Kimber Micro 9 is a 9mm with a slim design and the same controls as a 1911, making it a great choice for shooters with small hands who like classic designs. Its lightweight aluminum frame and small size make it easy to handle and conceal.

 

Kahr PM9

The Kahr PM9 is a lightweight, ultracompact 9mm pistol with a slim, single-stack design that is ideal for shooters with small hands. Its smooth, consistent trigger pull and textured grip ensure comfortable shooting and good control.

 

H&K P30

With its customizable grip, many small-handed folks (such as this redditor) love the P30.

It’s not about the size of your hands; it’s about the warmth in your heart—and what’s with that holster digging into your waist? Try this pad and thank us later.

Best Handguns for Appendix Carry

Appendix carry is a method of carrying a concealed handgun where the firearm is positioned in the front of the body, typically between the belly button and the hip bone. The gun is typically positioned between 12 and 2 o'clock for right-handed shooters and 10 to 12 o'clock for left-handed shooters. The term "appendix carry" refers to the placement of the gun near the appendix for right-handed people.

This method of concealment has grown in popularity in recent years due to its faster draw times, better firearm retention, and ease of concealment with appropriate clothing choices. But because the gun's muzzle could be pointed at sensitive parts of the body like the femoral artery or groin, it's important to think about the safety risks of appendix carry. These risks can be lessened with proper trigger control and a high-quality, well-fitted holster made just for appendix carry.

Some of the things you should consider when choosing the right handgun for appendix carry include the following:

• Size and weight. Choose a compact and lightweight firearm that is easy to conceal and will not cause discomfort when worn for an extended period of time.

• Grip profile. For better concealment and comfort in the appendix carry position, choose a handgun with a slim grip.

• Trigger guard. Look for a handgun with a well-defined trigger guard to reduce the possibility of accidental discharge when drawing or reholstering.

• Holster compatibility. To ensure proper retention and safety, choose a firearm that is compatible with readily available, high-quality holsters designed specifically for appendix carry.

• Safety features. Consider guns with passive safeties, such as a striker-fired system, or manual safeties that can be disengaged quickly and easily during a draw.

• Ease of draw. Ensure that the dimensions and design of the firearm allow for a smooth and efficient draw from the appendix position.

• Magazine capacity. Consider the capacity of the handgun's magazine, keeping in mind that single-stack designs often have slimmer profiles suitable for appendix carry but may have lower round capacity.

• Reliability. Appendix carry may expose the gun to more sweat and debris than other carry positions, so choose a firearm with a reputation for dependability.

• Personal comfort. Always test different models to see which one feels the most comfortable and provides the best control for your body type and carry preferences.

Let’s take a look at some of the most recommended concealed carry gun choices for appendix carry.

1. Glock 19. A compact 9mm pistol known for its dependability and versatility; due to its size and weight, it is ideal for appendix carry.

2. Sig Sauer P365. The P365 is a micro-compact 9mm with a slim profile and a high capacity that makes it easy to carry in the appendix without sacrificing firepower.

3. Smith & Wesson Shield M 2.0. A single-stack 9mm with a slim, ergonomic design that provides both comfort and concealability for appendix carry.

4. Ruger LCP II. An ultra-compact .380 ACP pistol with lightweight and minimal dimensions for easy appendix concealment and carry.

5. Glock 43 / Glock 43X. Slimline subcompact Glocks in 9mm with a single-stack design and comfortable grip, suitable for appendix carry.

6. Springfield Armory Hellcat. A high-capacity micro-compact 9mm that combines small size and performance for effective appendix carry.

7. Walther PPS M2. A slim, single-stack 9mm pistol with an ergonomic grip that provides a comfortable and secure option for appendix carry.

8. CZ P-10 S. A compact, striker-fired 9mm pistol with a slim profile and smooth trigger, ideal for concealment and appendix carry.

9. Taurus G2C / G3C. Affordable, compact 9mm pistols with ergonomic designs and high capacity, ideal for budget-conscious appendix carry.

10. Kimber Micro 9 is a slim 1911-style subcompact 9mm pistol that is a popular appendix carry piece.

Best Concealed Carry Guns for Winter

During the colder months, clothes tend to be heavier and bulkier, making it easier to hide guns. Many folks carry a larger CCW during the winter than they do in the summer.

Here are some features many folks look for in a winter EDC gun.

• Larger size. Winter clothing provides more coverage, making larger firearms, such as full-size or compact handguns, easier to conceal.

• Durable finish. A durable finish, such as stainless steel or a corrosion-resistant coating, is essential in winter weather to prevent rust and moisture damage.

• Good grip. Maintaining a secure grip on the firearm, especially in cold and wet conditions, requires a good grip texture.

• Easy-to-use controls. Firearms with controls that are simple to operate while wearing gloves are ideal for winter concealed carry.

With these factors in mind, here are some of the best concealed carry guns for winter:

• Glock 19. A compact 9mm pistol with a long-lasting, corrosion-resistant finish that strikes a good balance between size and capacity.

Forum commenter B Snappy is one of many who have the Glock 19 as a go-to winter CCW.

• Smith & Wesson M&P Compact. This 9mm pistol has a comfortable grip, simple controls, and a long lifespan.

• Sig Sauer P229. A full-size handgun in 9mm or .40 that provides excellent accuracy and dependability in winter conditions.

• Springfield Armory XD Mod.2. This small 9mm pistol with an ergonomic grip and a corrosion-resistant finish is ideal for winter concealed carry.

• Beretta PX4 Storm. A full-size or compact handgun with a simple slide stop and magazine release that is suitable for winter use.

• CZ P10F. This carry gun performs admirably in the winter, providing dependability, durability, ease of handling, cold resistance, accuracy, and high capacity.

Here’s a vote for the P10F.

• Beretta 92FS. Because of its compactness, dependability, comfort, corrosion resistance, accuracy, and ease of control, the 92FS shines as a winter concealed carry.

This redditor vouches for the 92FS—in a shoulder holster.

• Jericho 941. The 941 excels as a winter concealed carry gun due to its reliability, ergonomic design, accuracy, and cold-weather resilience.

Here’s a vote for the 941.

Best Single-Stack Concealed Carry Guns

Single-stack guns are popular for those who prioritize concealment over magazine capacity. There are several high-quality single-stack options on the market, whether you want a compact 9mm or a smaller caliber handgun.

Let’s look at some of the most popular single-stack concealed carry guns. We’ve already reviewed some of them above.

1. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield

2. Glock 43

3. Glock 48

4. Kahr CM9

5. Ruger LC9s

6. Kimber Micro 9

7. Walther PPS M2

8. Sig Sauer P938

This reddit user thinks the Glock 43 and the Shield are the best single-stack guns.

Another vote for the Shield, and also one for the Glock 48.

We have another vote for the P938.