Best Concealed Carry Updated for 2022

Want to go in armed, but not sure what to buy? Here are 20 excellent concealed carry guns.

The concept of self-defense has gained a lot of traction in recent years, and scores of people have clamorped for concealed carry guns like never before. This raises a question. Which concealed carry gun are the best? Here are our suggestions. But before we move on to our picks for the best covert heaters, let us cover a few key points about getting armed and buying a gun for this particular niche. If you are familiar with the basics, feel free to move on to our recommendations.

Lifestyle of concealed carry

In essence, becoming an armed citizen is a lifestyle choice. You will live your entire life around your concealed carry gun. Don’t let this scare you off. It’s less daunting than it seems, yet it deserves some consideration.

Having a concealed carry gun does not make you an expert in self-defense or lethal force, much like buying a guitar doesn’t make you a musician. It is essential that you educate yourself, practice and continue to do so. It is, in essence, a lifetime endeavor. Don’t give up, because it is hard work you’ll love with a lot of range time as a side benefit.

Having regular firearms training will greatly benefit you in a legal battle after a gunfight.

In the event of a legal dispute after a gunfight, having regular firearms training will greatly help you.

Have you just bought a concealed carry gun? Consider doing some research and finding a reputable firearms instructor. From basic pistol courses to advanced concepts like dynamic shooting and low-light engagements, as well as mindset, there are numerous levels of training out there – some of which your state may even require for a permit. It’s also essential to get educated about the legalities surrounding self-defense, as these vary greatly across the US. Be sure to investigate what options are available in your area, so that you know exactly when, where and how it is permissible to use lethal force.

Once you have the fundamentals down-pat, consider taking refresher classes. How you practice is up to you – it’ll vary from person to person – but make sure to familiarize yourself with every detail of your concealed carry weapon. Hitting the range is an ideal opportunity for honing your skills with a pistol or revolver, whilst regular dry-fire drills at home are both ‘free’ and hugely beneficial in helping advance your abilities.

Having a concealed carry gun also comes with a lifestyle component called clothing. It’s likely you’ll need to update your wardrobe … most likely. If you’re still mired in the baggy days of the grunge movement, it’s safe to say that many of your clothes will not conceal your gun. Or, if it does, you’ll be plum uncomfortable. Again, we won’t go into detail here—there are lots of fine points to consider. Just expect to buy clothing along with your concealed carry gun.

Fit for concealed carry guns

Likewise, no two concealed carry guns are alike, nor are two armed citizens. A pistol that works for you might be unwieldy for your friend.

Fit of the gun in your hand

Fitting the gun to your carry style

There is a common misconception among new shooters that all guns are the same. They pick a reputable brand and assume everything will be fine.

Finding the right fit is essential when choosing a gun. If it’s too big for your hand, you can end up with problems controlling it – even a 9mm can be hard to manage if it doesn’t match your grip. Fortunately, many new guns come with interchangeable backstraps and palm swells that allow you to customize the size and shape of your firearm. To make sure you get exactly what you need, why not try a few different makes and models at your local range? It’s the best way to see which fits your hand like a glove – as they say, the proof is in the pudding!

With a good grip, stance, and position, this shooter controls the recoil in the Glock G35.

With good fundamentals of stance, position, and grip, this shooter controls the recoil in the Glock G35.

It’s essential to consider your daily activities and wardrobe whilst choosing the perfect concealed carry gun. Depending on your size, lifestyle, and how you plan to wear it, not all firearms will be suitable for carrying concealed. An example of this could be a hefty trucker being able to easily inconspicuously carry a Government-size 1911, yet a much smaller business executive may find this gun more difficult to conceal. Thinking hard about the way you usually dress and what types of carry methods would work best for you will help in finding an ideal hidden carry weapon.

What is the best caliber?

8.5 Mars, .455 Webley, and some other oddball calibers will probably be mentioned among 100 people when you ask them what the best caliber for a concealed carry gun is. This topic is so divisive that friendships have been destroyed and gun forums have burned to the ground. Presently, the most popular concealed carry calibers are:

ACP .380

Special .38

The 9 mm

S&W .40

ACP .45

The 10 mm

Magnum .357

The dirty secret is, they’re all right.

With ammunition progressions of the last two decades, bullet design in particular, each caliber has the potential to save your life. However, selecting self-defense rounds for smaller calibers such as .380 ACP and .38 Special may demand extra consideration. On the other hand, 10mm and .357 Magnum necessitate enhanced ability to use appropriately. Don’t let either factor put you off if a certain concealed carry firearm fits your needs – just be ready to invest some more time in making it work effectively.

The old-school 23-grain FMJ of the Black Hills 125-grain Subsonic HoneyBadger in 9mm is ready for subsonic velocities.

Do you prefer 9mm, .45 ACP, or another caliber?

It leaves us with the most popular self-defense calibers of 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. Again, we can’t make a choice for you, but only point out that each is an effective option, neutralizing a threat, and easily available. It is important to find what you shoot best and that comes in a make/model that fits your lifestyle. A range that rents guns can be very helpful for figuring this out. Take them for a spin before buying!

Although .22 LRs and other small pistols are not advisable for most armed citizens, if that’s all you can get or shoot effectively, it’s better than nothing.

Picks for concealed carry guns

Here are 20 of the best concealed carry guns you can count on:

CSX Smith & Wesson

Hellcat from Springfield

9mm S&W M&P Shield EZ

CCP .380 ACP Walther

MC2c Mossberg

Compact Stoeger STR-9

Three-inch Ruger LCRx

Midsize FN 509

HK VP9SK

EDX X9S from Wilson

48-round Glock

USP Compact .45 by Heckler & Koch

P365 by Sig Sauer

BullPup9 Bond

PPK Walther

Glock 43

CM9 Kahr

LCP II Ruger

340 PD Smith and Wesson

CSX Smith & Wesson

Modern hammer guns are few and far between that make concealed carry viable. Mostly because the striker-fired options have sucked the air out of the room, but also because hammer guns by and large flirt with boat anchor status. Smith & Wesson’s CSX is not one of those. Introduced in 2022 to little fanfare, the trim little 9mm offers a unique and reliable defensive system perfectly suited for everyday carry.

The CSX is familiar in its resemblance to the M&P striker guns. Nixing polymer, a durable aluminum alloy forms its frame, creating a substantial impression in the hand. Though this gives it a heftier 19.5-ounce unloaded weight, the single-action remains nimble and precise in presentation and target moves.

The trigger on this single-action pistol is snappy due to the flat-faced shoe. A thumb safety must be engaged to carry it loaded, but Smith & Wesson has opted for an ambidextrous switch. It also has an EZ tab at the rear for cocking and a comfortable 18-degree rake to the grip as well as glare-reduction serrations atop the slide. While its capacity may be lighter than similar guns in its class, with 12- and 10-round magazines many will find that it is more than enough for a concealed carry gun.

Hellcat from Springfield

Concealed carry Springfield Hellcat OSP

As highlighted below, the Sig P365 is a game-changer. The Springfield Hellcat is proof. By embracing the micro-compact concept quickly, the Illinois concern created a direct competitor to the popular Sig. A concealed carry gun option that’s on par with the original is the result in many ways.

The Hellcat definitely lives up to its reputation of being small and concealable. With dimensions of 1-inch in width and 6-inches in length, this striker-fired gun weighs only 18-ounce. Despite its small size, it offers capability comparable to much larger concealed carry pistols when it comes to capacity. It ships with an 11 round magazine but you can get one with 13 rounds for even more firepower than other guns of the same class.

The Hellcat features adaptive grip texturing, providing a secure hold and the ability to shift position as necessary. Equipped with a flat-faced trigger, it provides smooth deployment, an incredibly light break and rapid reset for increased accuracy. Its sight system diverges from the standard three-dot approach in favor of a more unique U-notch construction. The fiber-optic front pipe fits into a white outlined U-notch, allowing for quick and effortless target acquisition. For those who prefer something different than iron sights, there’s also the OSP model that has a slide cut for mounting optics such as red dots.

The Hellcat is one of the most affordable options in its class, giving you little excuse not to go small for everyday carry. MSRP: $587.

In 9mm, S&W M&P Shield EZ

Concealed carry gun M&P9 Shield EZ

In spite of the fact that He-Man types will scoff at a slide that takes less than a metric ton to rack, the concept is solid. Smith & Wesson sees it this way and has expanded its easy-to-manipulate line of pistols with the M&P 9 Shield EZ M2.0 to accommodate people with weaker hand strength due to age, infirmity or other factors.

The 9mm hammer-fired pistol requires less powerful springs than today’s commonly found striker-fired models, which in turn reduces the amount of force needed to operate the slide. Smith & Wesson improved this capability for the Shield EZ with features like rough cocking serrations forward and aft and a flared edge on the back end of the slide for a more secure hold. Additionally, it’s compact at 3.575 inches barrel length without compromising weight; it weighs only 23 ounces unloaded.

Although the 9 Shield EZ has only a single stack with 8+1 capacity, it should be more than adequate for most defensive situations. MSRP: $521.

CCP .380 ACP Walther

The Walther CCP M2 is a concealed carry handgun

Walther, for example, has dedicated itself to the creation of a concealed carry firearm accessible to the masses. The CCP M2 is the result.

With Walther’s gas-delayed blowback technology, the .380 ACP uses a gas piston system that aids in cycling and requires a lighter return spring, so the slide is easier to operate.

As with the original 9mm pistol version, the 8+1 capacity gun comes with an array of conveniences. In addition to toolless disassembly, the 3.54-inch barreled single stack weighs 20 ounces and is 1.18 inches wide, making it a perfect carry gun. MSRP: $469

MC2c Mossberg

Mossberg MC2c concealed carry gun

Aiming to address just this, Mossberg might just have hit the sweet spot with its MC line of pistols, which focuses on convenience and capacity.

Known as the MC2c, this double-stack pistol is much larger than the original MC1sc, but retains nearly the same proportions. With its flush-fit magazine holding 13+1 rounds (15+1 extended mag), the pistol doubles the firepower of a single-stack 9mm. While its barrel is a fraction of an inch longer and its height is only a fraction of an inch higher, Mossberg accomplished this feat by using steel magazines for structural support.

The MC2c features a flat-faced trigger, an oversized trigger guard, and a simple takedown process. MSRP: $505.

The Mossberg MC2c is $449.99 at the Palmetto State Armory

Compact Stoeger STR-9

Compact Stoeger STR-9

Let’s be honest, there isn’t much originality with the STR-9. Sure, it has a fairly unique slide with aggressive cocking serrations, but when you get to the bottom of it, it’s essentially a Glock clone. It offers almost identical performance for a fraction of the price.

It is for this reason that Stoeger’s STR-9 Compact striker-fired pistols have been expanded. The pistol is right-sized for concealed carry and is one of the best values on the market. Interchangeable backstraps, snappy trigger, great reset make it an ideal defensive weapon.

Although it weighs 24 ounces, the double-stack is well worth the extra weight since it holds 10+1 rounds of 9mm (13+1 extended mag).

Palmetto State Armory offers the Stoeger STR-9 Compact 9mm for $299

3-inch Ruger LCRx

LCRx 3 357 Mag Ruger

The LCRx 3-inch revolver was introduced by Ruger a year ago, but it has earned its place on this concealed carry handgun list.

The LCRx packs a powerful punch for its 3-inch barrel, making it out perform any similar .357 caliber snubbies. Compact in size, it’s easy to conceal on your person with even the lightest attire – you may not be able to tuck it away in small of your back or at the ankle like a snub nose, but compared to anything else out there, its slim profile shouldn’t be beat. The adjustable rear sight and hammer might give some cause for concern in terms of snagging upon a draw but rest assured that Ruger have kept these features as minimal as possible. The MSRP is $829.

Midsize FN 509

Developed for the Modular Handgun competition by the U.S. Military, the 509 has an impeccable reputation. Due to a few key differences, the Midsize model offers greater accuracy potential than the Compact model. As a result of its 4-inch barrel, the 9mm gun has a wider sight radius and therefore a longer grip, which gives the shooter more control over the gun.

When it comes to concealability, don’t be fooled by its dimensions; it might be a little larger, but easily concealable. At just 26.5 ounces unloaded, you won’t feel weighed down. With 15+1 capacity and intuitive controls, this gun provides duty-pistol functionality in a very concealable package. MSRP: $719

VP9SK Heckler & Koch

The VP9 from HK

This pistol doesn’t come with a hammer. That’s crazy with a gun from Hecker & Koch, but this striker-fired VP9 proves the gunmaker knows more than one tune. The VP9SK is the shrunk-down version, offering all the overengineering of the original in a size that’s perfect for tucking along your waistline. You rarely hear a disparaging comment from someone who’s fired it.

With interchangeable backstraps, the 9mm conforms to almost any hand size, like most of HK’s wares. A large trigger guard gives fast access to the trigger, even with gloved hands, and wings at the back of the slide make manipulation a snap. And the trigger itself—[[chief kiss]]—is unassailable, one of the best you’ll find out of the box. MSRP: $839

EDC X9S by Wilson

EDC Wilson Combat

In terms of concealed carry guns, this is the cream of the crop. However, if you’re unwilling to compromise on safety, the Wilson Combat all-metal masterpiece deserves your consideration.

Essentially a shrunk-down 1911-Hi Power hybrid, the X9S has built a reputation for reliability—pull the trigger, and it’ll go bang! Although the 9mm is heavier than most concealed carry guns, this is beneficial when using it fast. With a 10-round magazine, it soaks up recoil while maintaining accuracy, but you can upgrade it to Sig P226/228 mags if you wish. MSRP: $2,995

48-round Glock

Concealed Carry Gun G48

While both of Glock’s slimline models—the 43X and 48—are excellent concealed carry guns, there’s something to be said for going for the larger model. They both have the same height and only 2-ounces separate them in weight, but the G48 has a longer barrel, which makes a huge difference when it comes to steady sight-thus accuracy. This is especially true for new shooters.

The 10+1, single-stack 9mm is a great choice for comfortable carry and ease of control. As with all Glocks, reliability and accuracy are never in question – only the sometimes-contentious grip rake. But the fact that law enforcement officials, military personnel and armed citizens alike trust their lives to this Austrian pistol speaks volumes about its capability. MSRP: $580

Compact .45 Heckler & Koch

USP/ HK

Compact .45 ACP pistols aren’t the easiest to pull off, but H&K does it eloquently with the USP. The HK USP Compact is a small frame pistol capable of firing the strongest cartridges in 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP. These handy pistols combine compact size and optimum shooting performance based on the full-size USP models.

UPS fits this bill despite being slightly taller than some concealed carry guns. A lightweight polymer frame qualifies it for every-day carry, as does its reliability. Capacity is a little underwhelming at 10+1, but that’s to be expected with a compact .45. Opted for H&K’s LEM (Law Enforcement Modified) Trigger if you go for the USP. Featuring a modified DA/SA system, it breaks exceptionally cleanly and light after the first shot.

P365 by Sig Sauer

P365

The pistol that changed the face of concealed carry? That’s not too much of a stretch. The Sig P365 has proven among the most monumental handguns to hit the market in a spell, offering what many consider the perfect package for self-defense on-the-go. Although the 9mm is a tall claim, it more than fulfills it.

The P365 stands out for its size above all else. Measuring only 1-inch in width and 17 ounces, this 3.1-inch barreled pistol is among the most concealable and easy-to-carry handguns available. Although there are smaller models, they tend to be weaker or have a limited capacity – not so with the P365. You get two 10-round magazines included and an identical payload to many larger compact models. If you crave more firepower, 12- and 13-round extended magazines can be acquired.

There are impressive shocks for a pistol this size. Shooters who are unfamiliar with the touchiness of small guns might find it challenging, but Sig offers them the tools to keep them steady, thanks to the abbreviated sight radius. In addition to aggressive grip texturing, the striker-fired’s exceptionally light trigger ups the gun’s accuracy potential. Additionally, the 9mm is quite easy to handle—an often overlooked aspect. In summary, Sig has developed a gun that is truly a game changer. MSRP: $749

BullPup 9 by Bond

We’ve got a niche for you. Bond Arms, a Texas-based company known for its Derringer-style pistols and other micro pistols, is dedicated to producing small, powerful personal protection weapons made entirely in the USA. Bond BullPup9 hit its stride after being introduced in late 2018.

With its ultra-short barrel and muzzle that sit flush with the trigger guard, the BullPup9 (of course) is an eye-catcher with its 9mm chamber. Bond’s signature rosewood grips add a bit of style to the gun’s overall appearance. With the chamber sitting directly above the magazine, the 3.35-inch barrel presented a unique challenge to the designers: feeding the ammunition.

With most semi-autos, ammunition is pushed forward into the chamber as the slide cycles. Not so with the BullPup9: its unique design requires rounds to be pulled from the magazine from behind, lifted even with the chamber, and inserted into the barrel.

BullPup9 does not recommend the use of uncrimped rounds like those made by Blazer, as these can be pulled apart in the magazine when fired due to the powerful chambering mechanism. This could lead to potentially serious malfunctions, including spilling of gun powder into the magazine. Testing has revealed that any other ammunition with a proper crimp is safe to use. If you prefer Blazer ammo, however, it might be wise to look for another firearm.

BullPup9 is a 7+1 capacity, double-action pistol only made in limited production – only 150 per month. MSRP: $1,099

PPK Walther

Walther Concealed Carry Handgun

It’s already in your mind, but let me say it again: Bond, James Bond. Yes, it’s that gun — the legend of the silver screen. Now, before you go off all half-cocked (check that one out for an interesting history of a cliché), we know this isn’t a brand new gun. Although it was first introduced in 1930, this gun has been redesigned for 2019 while maintaining its heritage.

The gun has had a controversial history, particularly due to its connection to Hitler’s suicide. However, it is probably most widely known for being wielded by iconic secret agent 007. After taking a break from Walther’s catalog in 1992, the gun is back with a .380 ACP chamber, providing an extra round than the 9mm and more power than in previous years. So despite the slightly smaller round work, you really don’t lose out on much.

The controls are all right-handed, as in older models, both original and redone. The magazine is a scant 6+1. If you want one more round, opt for the sport version (PPK/S), which has a longer grip and a 7+1 magazine.

The production of this venerable weapon has moved to Walther’s US headquarters in Fort Smith, Arkansas, making it a truly American-made gem. MSRP: $799.

The Walther PPK/S 380ACP is available at Palmetto State Armory for $899

EVO SP from Kimber

Kimber Concealed Carry Handgun

With a long history of hammer-fired semi-automatics, Kimber is breaking new ground with their first ever striker gun — the EVO SP. Chambered in 9mm, this lightweight and compact pistol is available in four distinct finishes — from two-tone to custom. Its frame is constructed out of aluminum, with a stainless slide coated in FNC black. Users will find a unique grip texturing on each variation, and all come equipped with changeable backstraps that meld style and function.

Putting rounds down the 3.16-in barrel onto that easily-acquired target comes through a 6-7 pound trigger with integrated safety, which is standard on all four variations.

A smaller magazine on the market, the EVO SP holds 6+1 rounds, a surprising number in today’s industry race to stuff bullets into compact and subcompact semi-autos. MSRP: $638 to $965.

Cabela’s offers this for $549

With an unloaded weight of less than 18 ounces and a small profile, the Glock 43 is slim, light and allows comfortable daily concealed carry — 365 days a year. It has good sights and is simple to operate. The 9mm caliber is a reasonable stopper, and even those who don’t like Glocks will not argue with its reliability. Glock 43 is a reliable pistol that is easy to use and carries enough ammunition in its supplied magazine. Larger magazines are also available. MSRP: $599

Palmetto State Armory sells the Glock 43 9mm for $599

CM9 Kahr

Concealed Carry Gun Kahr CM9

The CM9 from Kahr is a great choice for those looking for a lightweight and easily conceable pistol. Its 6+1 capacity packs quite a punch, despite being smaller than the average 9mm. The long-stroke trigger gives it an almost double-action feel, although unfortunately it’s not equipped with second-strike capabilities. Recoil can be quite strong compared to heavier pieces, but with some practice it’s manageable. For those who are after even more stopping power, this model comes in both .40 S&W and .45 ACP at slightly increased weight. MSRP: $518

LCP II Ruger

LCP II Ruger

When you need a compact arm, the Ruger LCP II stands out. It’s been improved with enhanced sights, a striker-fired trigger and slide lock on the last round. Its petite size and lightweight make it totally concealable. Not only that, but modern .380 defensive ammunition is significantly more reliable than traditional .38 Special loads of years past. Moreover, this gun is easy for even those with less hand strength to operate – older folks and women especially can benefit from its ergonomics. On top of that, the price tag is reasonable too – MSRP at $419.

Cabela’s $279.99, Brownells $323.99

340 PD Smith & Wesson

Concealed Carry Gun Smith and Wesson 340 PD

The Smith and Wesson 340 PD is back, and it’s the perfect Noisy Cricket. It packs a powerful punch with its .357 Magnum caliber, in spite of the 2-inch barrel size, which can affect its performance. The sensation of holding this gun is comparable to that of the LCP II; though lighter at only 12 ounces, its profile is thicker. Its lighter weight and strength come at a price – $1,019 – plus you must account for brutal recoil when shooting it. If you’re looking for something less intense, there’s always the S&W 442 in .38 Special which weighs in at 15 ounces and has an MSRP of $1,095.

Don’t neglect the Holster!

The Holster

You wouldn’t tuck that baby in your waistband naked, did you? There are many different types of concealed carry holsters available today.

The pros and cons of each fit certain armed citizens, but not all. They all accomplish the same thing, however: retaining the gun, covering the trigger (among the most important), protecting you and the gun, enhancing concealability, making carrying comfortable, and facilitating a smooth draw and reholster. I know that sounds long.

Kydex is the best choice for AIWB holsters. Leather will soften over time, which is not good for appendix rigs.

When it comes to holster reliability, Kydex is almost always a good choice.

Nobody has the magic bullet that will show you the perfect holster the first time out. All we can say is, expect plenty of trial and error-and a closet shelf of rejects-before you find the perfect hanger.