Choosing a concealed carry pistol is not necessarily the easiest thing to do. There are a number of factors to consider, including the "on paper" specifications as well as the intangibles that a magazine or internet article can't tell you.
Another thing to bear in mind is that there's no such thing as a perfect carry gun - but there may be a right gun for you. Here are a few of the things you should look at.
Picking The Right Gun Size
When it comes to concealed carry, one of the biggest factors to consider is gun size, in all three dimensions, as it makes a considerable impact. Generally speaking, there are four classes of pistol size, though plenty of guns flirt with other categories.
Full-size pistols are the most common size of firearm. Full-size guns generally have an overall height of 5 or more inches, barrel length of 4 or more inches, overall length of 7 inches or more and width of at least 1 inch or more. Capacity in these pistols is often higher, as some full-size pistols carry close to 20 rounds, and magazines are usually double-stack, meaning two staggered rows of bullets are held in the magazine...though not all.
These guns are the easiest to shoot, but weigh more and can be more difficult to conceal. Popular full-size pistols include the Beretta 92, Sig Sauer P226, Smith and Wesson K-frame pistols with 4-inch (or longer) barrels, the CZ-75, the Glock 17, the Ruger American and the "Government frame" pistol platform.
Compact pistols are slightly smaller than full-size guns. Usually, barrel lengths are 3 to 4 inches, overall length is 7.5 inches or less and overall height is between 4.5 and 5 inches. Width is usually the same as full-size pistols.
Double-stack magazines are very common. These pistols are somewhat more easily concealed and carried, though some find them still difficult in this regard. This class of pistol is still quite easy to shoot in most calibers, and many find them to be something of a "Goldilocks" gun - small enough to conceal and carry, big enough to shoot very well.
Often enough, these pistols are created by shortening the barrel, slide and frame length and height of a full-size pistol. Capacity in compact pistols is often, but not always, the same or slightly reduced compared to full-size pistols, though some compact pistols may accept full-size magazines.
Examples such as the CZ-75 Compact, Beretta PX4 Compact and Glock 19 essentially fit the same pattern. Compact revolvers are typically have a 3-inch or shorter barrel, and many reduce capacity to 5 shots for .38 Special or .357 Magnum chamberings.
Sub-compact pistols are basically the halfway point between a compact and a pocket pistol. Barrel length is often 3 inches or less, overall length is closer to 6 inches and overall height is usually less than 5 inches. Single-stack magazines become much more prevalent in this class of firearm, though some sub-compact pistols do employ a double-stack magazine.
Popular sub-compact guns include the Glock 26, CZ-75 RAMI, Sig Sauer P290, P938 and P239, Smith and Wesson M&P Shield, Ruger LC family of pistols (LCP, LC9, LC9s), Springfield EMP 1911, Bersa Thunder .380 and many others. Subcompact revolvers are the small-frame "snubnose" revolvers, such as the Smith and Wesson J-frame, Charter Arms Undercover, Ruger LCR and others. This class of firearm can be somewhat more difficult to shoot for extended periods, but some are known for being easier than others.
Micro-pistols are the smallest possible pistols for carry, often small enough to fit easily in a pocket. Smaller calibers such as .25 ACP, .32 ACP, and in particular the .380 Auto, dominate in this class of pistol. Guns such as the Kel Tec P32 and P3AT, S&W Bodyguard .380, Beretta Pico and Tomcat, Sig Sauer P238, Colt Mustang and others are among the more popular examples.
Micro-pistols are often thought of as a "last ditch gun" and many carry them only when the deepest of concealment is needed or as a backup. Many shooters find the best micro pistols are "bearable" to shoot and little more, as the small size dictates the shooter bear the brunt of the recoil, which can be ample despite a small caliber.
What To Look For In A CCW Pistol
In choosing the right size of gun as a CCW pistol, there are certain considerations to make.
First - can I shoot this pistol well? Full-size firearms, especially large double-stack service guns, can fill even large hands. Some shooters find them too large for comfort. Additionally, you won't shoot a gun well if you can't get a good, comfortable grip. By contrast, some people can barely hit the broadside of a barn with a micro-pistol at even close range.
Second, how much gun are you willing to carry on a regular basis? A fully-loaded firearm can add 3 or more pounds to the beltline. People with a larger frame can carry a full-size firearm without much complaint, but smaller persons (male or female) may find a subcompact is much more to their liking. Some people don't want to carry anything more than a or other snub-nose revolver.
Third, make sure that you can easily operate a pistol. If the firing mechanism is too complicated for you to easily use, then it may not be the gun for you. Do you need or want to have a manual safety or multiple safety mechanisms? You should learn about how guns operate, and decide what features you want in a pistol.
Lastly, consider how you're going to carry. Inside-the-waistband carry is the gold standard for concealed carry, but a full-size pistol can be uncomfortable compared a slim, single-stack subcompact. OWB carry makes concealment more problematic - though there are OWB holsters out there that can be concealed with as little as a t-shirt - but does make carrying a larger pistol easier.
Try Different Guns Before You Buy A Gun For Carry
Before you commit to a buying a gun for concealed carry, you should try as many of them as possible including shooting them. The good news is this may be easily done.
A good number of gun stores have indoor ranges and rentals available. This will allow you to try various types of pistols, including the various gun sizes, calibers and firing mechanisms. This way, you can get a feel for what you're able to shoot well. Some outdoor ranges have rentals available as well.
The rule of thumb is you should carry the smallest gun with the largest caliber that you can shoot well. If that's a single-stack 9mm subcompact, that's fine. If that's a mid-size .45 ACP such as a Smith & Wesson M&P45C or any brand of Commander 1911, that's fine too. If you're best with a 3-inch .38 Special, that's just fine as well. Once you've begun carrying, you'll want to put in regular practice to keep shooting skills sharp. Therefore, you'll need to carry a pistol you can stand to practice with.
If possible, try both practice ammunition - full metal jacket - and defensive ammunition - jacketed hollow point or semi-wadcutter - in a potential carry gun. This will give you a feel of how well you shoot the kind of ammunition you'll want to carry daily.
Another good consideration is not to spend more than you're willing to lose. The potential aftermath of a defensive shooting is that you may have your gun confiscated by police as evidence...which you may not get back in working condition, even if said shooting is ruled wholly justified.
These aren't the only considerations to make when choosing a CCW gun, but if you follow these guidelines...you should find the right gun for you.
Choosing a Concealed Carry Gun: FAQs
What factors are most important when choosing a concealed carry gun?
Selecting a concealed carry gun depends on reliability, size, weight, caliber, capacity, comfort, and ease of use. A gun that fits well in your hand, is easy to conceal with your clothing, and you can shoot accurately under stress is essential.
What are some of the best concealed carry guns in 2025?
Top picks include the Sig Sauer P365 series (notably the X-Macro variant), Springfield Armory Hellcat, and the Wilson Combat EDC X9 for high-end options. Budget-friendly choices like the PSA Dagger and reliable revolvers such as the Ruger LCR also stand out.
Why is the Sig Sauer P365 X-Macro highly recommended?
The P365 X-Macro offers a balance of capacity (up to 17+1 rounds), compact dimensions, and advanced features like optics readiness and excellent ergonomics. Its comfortable grip and crisp trigger make it ideal for everyday concealed carry.
How important is firearm size and weight for concealed carry?
Smaller, lighter guns enhance concealability and daily carry comfort. Models like the Springfield Hellcat and Ruger LCP MAX are ultra-compact, while the Glock 19 remains a versatile choice balancing concealability with shooting comfort.
What calibers are most common for concealed carry?
9mm is the predominant caliber for concealed carry due to manageable recoil, effectiveness, and capacity. Options in .380 ACP and .357 Magnum are also popular for smaller holsters or revolvers.
How does grip texture and design affect concealed carry usability?
Good grip texture provides secure control under stress. Adaptive textures, as featured on the Springfield Hellcat, help users maintain weapon retention without sacrificing comfort.
Are optics-compatible guns recommended for concealed carry?
Optics-ready pistols like the Sig P365 X-Macro and Staccato CS enhance accuracy and target acquisition. They remain highly concealable if paired with the right holster and training.
What role does holster compatibility play in choosing a concealed carry weapon?
Choosing a gun that fits well with quality holsters enhances comfort, concealment, and retention. For appendix or IWB carry styles, slim-profile pistols paired with holsters like Alien Gear Holsters’ Boltaron-built models improve daily carry experience.
How do revolvers fit into concealed carry gun choices?
Revolvers like the Ruger LCR and LCRx in calibers .327 Federal Magnum and .357 Magnum remain favored for simplicity, reliability, and ease of use, especially for newer shooters or those preferring revolver mechanics.
What are the best practices for testing and selecting a concealed carry gun?
Try multiple guns in hand for grip comfort and manipulation. Practice shooting different models to assess recoil and accuracy. Consider daily carry scenarios and clothing styles to evaluate concealment before purchasing.