Hey, fam!
So, the most common question I get from men and women is, “What’s the best gun for concealment?” This is a question I can’t answer for you! Just like a car, you have to test drive it because what I like for my lifestyle is going to be different than what you like.
BUT! I can still help. I post this carousel on Instagram about once a month to keep it high up on my feed because it has some popular firearms that I recommend and a lot of my students enjoy.
In order, here’s what we’ve got:
-Sig Sauer 365XL (9mm)
-Springfield Hellcat (9mm)
-Smith and Wesson Shield or Shield Plus (9mm)
-Glock 48 (9mm)
-Glock 43X (9mm)
-Glock 43 (9mm)
-Sig Sauer 365 (9mm)
-Smith and Wesson Shield EZ (9mm)
-Smith and Wesson Shield EZ (.380)
-Glock 42 (.380)
There are soooo many other manufacturers to look at, like FN, Berretta, Taurus, Ruger, and Canik. The whole process can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t have someone to guide you through the process.
Side note: Every time I work the gun counter at my family’s gun store, I see customers walk in, look at the hundreds of guns on the wall, and I can tell they’re just thinking, “They all look the freaking same.”
Happens ALL. THE. TIME.
Start with this- Ask yourself these questions to narrow down your choices:
1. What purpose will it be used for?
I’m talking more about concealed carry or home defense, but other purposes can be hunting, target practice, competition, etc. Each gun has an intended purpose, kind of like a car. Do you need a truck for work, a hybrid for gas mileage, Rolls Royce because we boujee? You get it.
2. Is it only for you, or will a spouse/family member be using it as well?
These factors affect the grip size a little further and caliber of ammunition, like Goldilocks and The Three Bears, LOL.
3. Semi-Automatic or Revolver?
Semi-Automatics are the most popular, higher round capacity, easier for reloading because it takes magazines, but has more parts/moving functions. Revolvers are simple but have less round capacity, fewer calibers, and can have a gnarly trigger pull depending on the type of revolver.
4. What caliber?
Like gas in cars, each gun takes one type of ammunition (caliber).
The most popular caliber of ammunition for defense is 9mm, hands down. You’ll also have a wayyyy bigger selection if you go with 9mm. Other calibers I’d recommend for defense are .380, 40, and 45. Even though 22lr is fun to shoot and has the less kick, I wouldn’t choose it for personal defense.
5. How does it fit in your hand?
It has to feel comfortable in your hand! Do you like the texture of the grip? Does your hand slip off the bottom? (The pinky is fine if you want a small gun to conceal).
6. What’s your budget?
Yes, gun prices have risen since 2019, but not an alarming amount. For the guns I listed above, expect to pay $400-$650 depending on the model and accessories included. There are guns for as low as $200-$300; just be mindful of their quality and durability. Firearms are an investment and, just like a car, lose value because it’s immediately seen as a “used gun” as soon as you walk out with it.
Pro Tip: If your budget is $600, don’t get a gun that’s priced at $599.99! Instead, find one in the $400 range and use the leftover money for training, ammunition, classes, a safe! You need it all.
These are just a few questions to ask yourself when shopping for a firearm! What other questions come to mind? Let me know in the comments!
