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Posted by Kevin Lallab
Jan 14, 2025
Handguns

Best Compact Handguns for Everyday Carry

What Are Compact Handguns?

Compact handguns are smaller, lightweight guns designed to be easy to carry and hide. They’re bigger than tiny subcompact guns but smaller than full-sized pistols, making them perfect for daily use. Most compact handguns have barrels about 3 to 4 inches long, offering a good balance between size and performance.


Why Compact Handguns Are Perfect for Everyday Carry

Compact handguns are ideal for people who want to carry a gun daily but don’t want something too big or heavy. They’re small enough to be hidden under your clothes but still powerful enough for self-defense. Think of them as the Goldilocks of guns—not too big, not too small, just right.


What to Look for in a Compact Handgun

When shopping for a compact handgun, here are the most important things to keep in mind:

  • Weight: A lighter gun is easier to carry all day.
  • Grip: It should fit comfortably in your hand.
  • Magazine Size: Look for enough rounds to feel confident (usually 10+ is good).
  • Safety Features: These help prevent accidents and make the gun easier to handle.


Why Compact Handguns Are Great for Concealed Carry

Easy to Carry

Compact handguns are light and portable, making them comfortable for everyday use. They won’t weigh you down or feel bulky, even if you wear them all day.

Easy to Hide

The best thing about compact handguns is that they’re easy to conceal. You can hide them under a t-shirt, jacket, or dress without anyone noticing. This is important if you want to stay discreet and avoid drawing attention.

Comfortable for All-Day Use

Nobody wants to feel uncomfortable while carrying a gun. Compact handguns are designed to be easy to carry for long periods, so you don’t feel weighed down or awkward.


What to Think About When Choosing a Compact Handgun

Caliber (Bullet Size)

The caliber of your handgun affects how powerful it is and how much it kicks when you shoot. Popular choices include:

  • 9mm: Great balance of power and easy to shoot.
  • .380 ACP: Less powerful but softer recoil, good for beginners.
  • .45 ACP: Very powerful but harder to control.

Comfortable Grip

Your gun should feel natural in your hand. Some handguns let you adjust the grip or come with textured surfaces for better control.

How Many Rounds It Holds

Some compact handguns hold 10 rounds, while others hold up to 15 or more. The higher the capacity, the more peace of mind you’ll have in a self-defense situation.

Safety Features

Good safety features, like a manual safety or a trigger lock, make your gun safer to carry and use.


Top Compact Handguns for Everyday Carry

Glock 19

  • Why It’s Great: The Glock 19 is one of the most popular compact handguns because it’s reliable, easy to use, and holds 15 rounds. Its simple design makes it a top choice for beginners and experienced users.

Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus

  • What’s Special: This handgun is slim and easy to hide but still packs a punch. With a good trigger and up to 13 rounds, it’s a solid choice for daily carry.

Sig Sauer P365

  • Why People Love It: The Sig Sauer P365 is super small but holds a lot of rounds—up to 12+1. It’s perfect if you want a compact gun with extra firepower.

Springfield Hellcat

  • What Sets It Apart: The Hellcat holds 11+1 rounds, or 13+1 with an extended magazine. It’s compact, reliable, and comes with great sights for accuracy.

Ruger Max-9

  • Why It’s Affordable: The Ruger Max-9 is budget-friendly but doesn’t skimp on features. It’s lightweight, holds 10+1 rounds, and has great sights for low-light shooting.


Comparing Handguns for Performance

Accuracy

Compact handguns are best for short distances, around 7 to 25 yards. Guns like the Glock 19 and Sig Sauer P365 are known for their accuracy.

Reliability

A good handgun should work in all conditions—hot, cold, wet, or dry. Glock handguns are famous for being dependable no matter what.

Easy Maintenance

Keeping your gun clean and in good shape is important. Guns with rust-resistant finishes, like the Sig Sauer P365, stay in better condition over time.


Tips for Responsible Carry

Practice Makes Perfect

Owning a gun isn’t enough—you need to know how to use it safely. Spend time at the range and consider taking self-defense classes to build your skills.

Know the Laws

Every state has different rules about carrying guns. Make sure you know the laws in your area, including where you can carry and how to get a permit.

Store Your Gun Safely

When you’re not carrying your gun, store it in a lockable case or safe. This keeps it out of reach of children or unauthorized users.


Accessories for Your Compact Handgun

Holsters

The right holster makes a big difference. Popular types include:

  • Inside-the-Waistband (IWB): Great for hiding your gun under clothes.
  • Outside-the-Waistband (OWB): Easier to access but harder to hide.
  • Appendix Carry: Comfortable and easy to reach.

Extra Magazines

Carrying an extra magazine gives you more rounds if you ever need them. Use a magazine pouch to keep them organized and easy to access.

Cleaning Kits

To keep your gun working well, clean it regularly. A basic kit with brushes, patches, and lubricant is all you need.


Compact Handguns for Beginners

Best Options for New Shooters

If you’re new to guns, look for models that are easy to handle, like the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus. These guns are simple to use and have manageable recoil.

Affordable Choices

For budget-conscious buyers, the Ruger Max-9 is a great choice. It’s reliable, compact, and doesn’t break the bank.


Taking Care of Your Handgun

Clean It Regularly

After every use, clean your gun to remove dirt and debris. This keeps it working smoothly and safely.

Check for Wear

Every so often, check for worn-out parts like springs or grips. Replacing them early prevents bigger problems later.

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Kevin Lallab

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