Choosing your First Concealed Carry Firearm

So you’re thinking about starting to carry concealed…

Choosing your first concealed carry weapon (CCW) is a critical decision, one that requires careful thought about factors such as safety, usability, and personal preferences. Whether you’re new to firearms or looking to make your first purchase for self-defense purposes, selecting the right concealed carry pistol is an important step in ensuring that you're prepared to protect yourself and your loved ones when necessary.

The world of concealed carry is vast, with a wide variety of pistols to choose from. This post will break down the key considerations, including caliber selection, frame size, and some of the most popular concealed carry pistols currently on the market.

Caliber: How to Choose the Right One for You

The caliber of a concealed carry weapon (CCW) refers to the size of the ammunition it uses, which has a direct impact on its stopping power, recoil, and magazine capacity. When it comes to concealed carry, balance is key — you want a caliber that offers enough stopping power while maintaining manageable recoil for quick and accurate follow-up shots. Here are the most common calibers for concealed carry weapons:

1. 9mm Luger 

   The 9mm is by far the most popular caliber for concealed carry. It strikes an ideal balance between recoil, stopping power, and magazine capacity. A 9mm round has sufficient stopping power for self-defense situations while being easier to handle for first-time shooters compared to larger calibers. Additionally, 9mm ammunition is widely available and relatively inexpensive, making it a great choice for regular practice. Due to its popularity, many firearm manufacturers produce a wide range of 9mm pistols designed specifically for concealed carry.

   - Benefits: Manageable recoil, good stopping power, readily available ammo, and generally higher magazine capacity.

   - Popular options: Glock 19, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, Sig Sauer P365.

2. .380 ACP 

   The .380 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) is a smaller and less powerful round compared to the 9mm. However, it is still considered effective for self-defense in close-range situations. The smaller size of the .380 round allows for even more compact pistols, which can be easier to conceal and carry for those who prioritize comfort and convenience. While the .380 has less stopping power than a 9mm, it is still a popular choice among concealed carriers who prefer a smaller, lighter weapon.

   - Benefits: Small size, easier concealability, low recoil.

   - Popular options: Ruger LCP II, Glock 42, Sig Sauer P238.

3. .40 S&W 

   The .40 Smith & Wesson round offers more power than the 9mm but comes with increased recoil. It's a good option for those who want additional stopping power but don’t want to go as high as the .45 ACP. The .40 S&W is a great choice for individuals who are experienced shooters and can handle its recoil. However, due to its higher recoil, it’s not always recommended for beginners.

   - Benefits: Increased stopping power compared to 9mm, suitable for experienced shooters.

   - Popular options: Glock 22, Smith & Wesson M&P40, Sig Sauer P229.

4. .45 ACP 

   The .45 ACP is a larger round known for its significant stopping power. However, it comes with more recoil and a lower magazine capacity compared to smaller calibers. While the .45 is effective in self-defense scenarios, its size and recoil may make it a challenging option for first-time concealed carriers. This caliber is often chosen by experienced shooters who prioritize power over capacity or ease of concealment.

   - Benefits: Powerful stopping power, effective for personal defense.

   - Popular options: Springfield XD-S, Glock 21, Sig Sauer P220.

Frame Size: Finding the Right Fit for Concealed Carry

When choosing a concealed carry pistol, the frame size is a critical factor in how comfortable and practical the firearm will be to carry. Frame size affects the overall dimensions of the gun, including weight, barrel length, and grip size, all of which influence how easily the weapon can be concealed and drawn from your holster.

1. Subcompact 

   Subcompact pistols are the smallest and lightest option, designed specifically for concealed carry. They’re often chosen for their superior portability and comfort when carrying inside the waistband (IWB) or in pocket holsters. However, subcompact pistols typically have smaller magazine capacities and may be harder to handle for those with less experience due to their shorter grips and higher recoil.

   - Best for: Concealability, comfort, and daily carry.

   - Popular options: Glock 43, Ruger LC9s, Sig Sauer P365.

2. Compact 

   Compact pistols strike a balance between concealability and firepower. While they are slightly larger than subcompacts, they often provide better ergonomics and higher magazine capacities. Compact pistols are a great choice for those who want to carry a powerful gun with manageable recoil and a higher magazine capacity while still maintaining good concealability.

   - Best for: Those who want more capacity but still need concealability.

   - Popular options: Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm, Glock 19, Sig Sauer P320 Compact.

3. Full-size 

   Full-size pistols are typically too large for comfortable daily concealed carry but may be chosen by those who prioritize accuracy and firepower over concealability. These guns are great for open carry or as a backup weapon in certain situations but are often considered impractical for everyday concealed carry because of their bulk.

   - Best for: Open carry or home defense.

   - Popular options: Glock 17, Sig Sauer P226, Smith & Wesson M&P Full Size.

Top 3 Most Popular Concealed Carry Pistols

Now that you have an understanding of the key factors to consider, let’s look at three of the most popular concealed carry pistols on the market today. These models are widely regarded for their reliability, ease of use, and solid performance in self-defense situations:

1. Glock 19 (9mm) 

   The Glock 19 is one of the most iconic and widely used concealed carry pistols in the world. It offers a great balance of size, capacity, and firepower, making it a top choice for both beginners and seasoned shooters. Its 15-round magazine capacity and reputation for reliability make it a solid pick for those who want a versatile, everyday carry pistol.

2. Sig Sauer P365 (9mm) 

   The Sig Sauer P365 has quickly become a favorite in the concealed carry community due to its compact size and impressive 10+1 magazine capacity. It’s often praised for its accuracy and ease of concealment, offering the stopping power of a full-size pistol in a subcompact frame. The P365 is ideal for individuals looking for a smaller weapon with a larger capacity.

3. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield (9mm or .40 S&W) 

   The M&P Shield is a standout choice for those seeking a slim, lightweight pistol that is both reliable and easy to conceal. Available in both 9mm and .40 S&W, the M&P Shield offers a good balance of power and concealability, making it one of the most popular options for concealed carry in both civilian and law enforcement circles.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your first concealed carry weapon is an important decision that should be made based on your personal preferences, comfort level, and intended use. The 9mm is the most popular caliber for good reason — offering a balance of stopping power, recoil control, and availability of ammunition. The right frame size depends on how you plan to carry the weapon and what level of comfort and concealability you need. With reliable models like the Glock 19, Sig Sauer P365, and Smith & Wesson M&P Shield available, new concealed carriers have many excellent options to consider.=

Finally, regardless of the model you choose, remember that regular practice, training, and repetition are key to putting rounds on target.