Top 5 Concealed Carry Handguns

Choosing the right concealed carry handgun can make all the difference in a self-defense situation. The three most important things to consider when choosing a concealed carry pistol are size, capacity, and caliber. Follow along to learn more about concealed carry handguns and our top picks for concealed carry pistols.

Size

For size, you'll be looking at the size of the footprint along with the thickness. How thick a handgun is is mostly determined by whether the magazine is single stack or double stack; single stack is thinner but has less capacity, while a double stack is thicker but has more capacity. Barrel length also greatly affects overall size. Pistols with shorter barrels and single-stack magazines are generally the easiest to conceal.

Capacity

Capacity is very important in defense situations. Some shooters are fine with lower-capacity handguns that may hold seven rounds, while others prefer more rounds. If more capacity is important to you, the style of the magazine will affect capacity, along with the caliber of the gun you’re shooting.

Caliber

The caliber of your handgun plays a major role in self-defense. While it comes down to personal preference, things like capacity, stopping power, and recoil are greatly affected by caliber. For larger calibers like 10mm Auto, 40 S&W, and 45 ACP, capacities are generally lower due to the increased size of the ammo. Stopping power also plays a major role. While some trust the 380 ACP to get the job done, others put their faith in larger calibers like the 10mm. It is also important to take recoil into account. Shorter, lighter guns will generally produce more felt recoil than longer, heavier pistols. For quick, accurate follow-up shots, a caliber like the 9mm Luger may be a better choice than a cartridge with more knockdown power. With the technology available in modern defense ammo, most cartridges have enough power for adequate protection.

Glock 43X MOS Pistol

Chambered in 9x19 the G43X MOS features slide cuts designed for specific micro-optics and the GLOCK Slim Mounting Rail for mounting accessories. The perfect tactical partner in the well-known GLOCK Slimline design for comfortable concealability.
The G43X MOS has a short subcompact barrel length and a comfortably balanced, versatile compact-size grip with a minimal profile. It incorporates elements of the Slimline series such as the short trigger distance, a frame with a built-in beavertail as seen on the G43 and the G42, a reversible magazine catch. This model has the incredibly accurate, match-grade GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB) of the Gen5 series as well as the tough nDLC finish on the slide. The G43X MOS also features precision-milled front serrations.

The slim magazine is built in reliable GLOCK style, it has an orange magazine follower for higher visibility and is specifically developed to ensure the 10 rds magazine capacity.
Features

1 magazine, loader, cleaning kit, pistol case, gun lock
Optics ready
Safe action trigger
Rough textured beavertail grip

Note: The G43X with the Modular Optic System (MOS) does not come with adapter plates.

What Customers Are Saying

I would buy this product again as well as others from Midway

Great gun! Shoots really well and has a nice feel. Is one of my favorites. Service at Midway is outstanding. Great prices and no hassle delivery. Will continue do use them for my firearm purchases.

- Revgun, 6/17/2022

About Glock

Glock was founded in 1963 by Gaston Glock, an Austrian engineer, successful businessman, and manufacturer of injection molding parts and components. Originally designed for the Austrian Military, Glock has grown to be one of the most popular firearms brands in the world, trusted by civilians, militaries, and law enforcement agencies all over the globe. Glock is known for their ultra-reliable and budget-friendly semi-automatic handguns as well as their gun parts and accessories. Some of their most popular handgun models include the Glock 19, Glock 17, and Glock 43. Glock also offers training aids, magazines, storage, apparel, and more. Glock's pride in its design and precision is reflected in the company's motto: "Glock Perfection.”

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Sig Sauer P365 AXG Legion 9mm Luger Pistol 3.1" Barrel 17+1 Round Legion Gray Slide Black Grip Legion Gray Frame

The game changing P365 is now available as the Sig Sauer P365 AXG Legion Pistol. Micro-compact everyday carry size with unprecedented full-size capacity. The P365 is striker-fired, with the clean crisp trigger pull you expect from a SIG. Lightweight and easy to conceal, the P365 is chambered in 9mm and is rated for +P ammunition. Included standard are XRAY3 Day/Night sights, an optics ready slide and ported barrel.

Features

Two Port Integrated Expansion Chamber for recoil mitigation
Optic Ready Slide with enhanced serrations
AXG Grip Module with installed Magwell and Custom G10 Grips
XRay3 Day/Night Sights

About Sig Sauer

Born from the Swiss Wagon Factory company in 1853, the Sig Sauer brand we know today is one of the most recognized and trusted brands in the firearms and outdoor industry. In their world-class facilities, they build the toughest, most precise rifles, pistols, suppressors, optics, ammunition, and airguns, while offering the finest firearms training — all as a fully integrated system. They offer models such as the P365 Pistol, Tango Rifle Scope, MCX Rifle, and ROMEO-X Reflex Sight. They do this because they share the same drive to be the best, the same love of freedom, the same unwillingness to compromise — as those who choose their brand. SIG SAUER--NEVER SETTLE.

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Springfield Armory Hellcat OSP Pistol

The Springfield Armory Hellcat raises the bar on concealed carry pistols with service pistol comfort, capacity and accuracy in a remarkably compact chassis. Offering up to an amazing 13+1 rounds on tap, the Hellcat Micro-Compact OSP (Optical Sight Pistol) has its billet-machined rear slide deck cut to accept a micro red dot sight. Premium features like a 3" hammer-forged Melonite-coated 1:10"-twist barrel and svelte 1" grip width define the Hellcat line.

The 3″ barreled micro compact pistol features a class leading capacity of 11+1 with its patented magazine — 13+1 with the included extended mag. In addition to minute dimensions and stunning capacity, the Hellcat offers a paradigm shifting approach to red dot sight integration for an EDC pistol. The Hellcat OSP features a seamless cover plate that removes to allow direct mounting of a micro red dot to the slide for the lowest possible profile. The result? A micro sized pistol with capabilities previously reserved only for full size defensive handguns.

Features

Optics ready
Adaptive grip texture
Tritium U-Dot sight picture

What Customers Are Saying

Hellcat hell yea

Finally got to take my Hellcat OSP to range and all the hype is real. U notch sight is great and now is my new EDC.

- Chris, 3/10/2020

About Springfield Armory

Resurrected in 1974 by the Reese family, Springfield Armory has grown to become a premier manufacturer of quality firearms. Their obsession for improved manufacturing techniques and cutting-edge design allows them to develop products loyal to Springfield’s heritage while ensuring progression in American firearms. Springfield Armory is the leading maker of our country’s iconic 1911, SA-35 and M1A models, the exciting SAINT series of rifles and pistols, the custom-grade Model 2020 bolt-action family of hunting rifles, the Echelon Pistol, and the Hellcat Pistol. Anchored by our rich history and inspired to break new ground, our proudest legacy is giving you the tools to defend yours. striker-fired solutions, every Springfield Armory firearm is built on a foundation of excellence.

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Smith & Wesson M&P Shield X Pistol

Designed to enhance the Shield series from Smith & Wesson, the M&P Shield X focuses on versatility. Featuring aggressive front and rear serrations for racking, a reversible magazine catch, and a longer grip to maximize capacity, the Shield X ensures adaptability for any scenario. Improved ergonomics make for a better fit and feel in the hand for added comfort during extended range sessions. Customize to your needs with a flat-plane RMSc/K optic cut and front rail. Comfortable, reliable, and confident - the Shield X is the ideal choice for shooters of any skill level.

Features

Aggressive Slide Design
ClearSight Cut Diverts Gasses Away From Your Optic Maintaining Clear View
New Ergonomic Design
Ameriglo Trooper LumiGreen Front Night Sight
Flat Face Trigger
15-Round Version Ships with (1) 13-round Magazine and (1) 15-Round Magazine
10-Round Version Ships with (2) 10-Round Magazines

About Smith & Wesson

Since 1852 Smith & Wesson has empowered Americans with the freedom, equality, and security promised by the Declaration of Independence and guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. It is this sense of safety and security that frees us to pursue our goals and dreams, define our future, and fulfill the promise of America. Smith & Wesson has been manufacturing some of the finest revolvers, pistols, and rifles for decades and is a trusted brand by law enforcement agencies and civilians around the world. They also offer many pistol and rifle parts and upgrades, as well as magazines, knives/tools, training aids, cleaning kits, and much more. MidwayUSA is proud to offer many popular Smith & Wesson Models like the M&P Pistols, 629 Revolvers, Model 500 Revolvers, and more!

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Glock 48 MOS 9mm Luger Pistol 4.17" Barrel 10+1 Round Black

Chambered in 9x19 the G48 MOS features slide cuts designed for specific micro-optics and the GLOCK Slim Mounting Rail for mounting accessories. The perfect tactical partner with increased concealability.
The G48 MOS is of similar length and height as the compact size G19 but has the well-known GLOCK Slimline design with the reduced width of the pistol for perfect carrying comfort.
The frame features the GLOCK Slim Mounting Rail for mounting tactical accessories and incorporates elements of the Slimline series such the short trigger distance, a frame with a built-in beavertail, a reversible magazine catch and the incredibly accurate, match-grade GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB) of the Gen5 series. The G48 Rail also features precision-milled front serrations.
The slim magazine is built in reliable GLOCK style, it has an orange magazine follower for higher visibility and is specifically developed to ensure the 10rds magazine capacity.
Features

Two 10 round magazines included
Glock marksman barrel
Polymer frame with beavertail
Backstrap set

Note: The G48 with the Modular Optic System (MOS) does not come with adapter plates.

About Glock

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