Choosing the best small 9mm carry gun is a deeply personal decision, hinging on factors like hand size, shooting style, and individual comfort. There's no single "best" option, but this comprehensive guide will explore top contenders, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed choice. We’ll delve into factors beyond just size, considering reliability, ergonomics, and features crucial for concealed carry.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Small 9mm Carry Gun
Before diving into specific models, let's establish the key criteria to evaluate:
1. Size and Weight:
The "small" designation is subjective. Consider your body type and clothing preferences. A gun comfortable for one person might be cumbersome for another. Balance size with shootability; a tiny gun can be difficult to control.
2. Shootability and Ergonomics:
A comfortable grip is paramount. A gun that's hard to hold accurately under stress is dangerous. Consider the grip texture, the angle of the grip, and how well it fits your hand. Test-firing different models is highly recommended whenever possible.
3. Reliability:
A concealed carry pistol must function flawlessly. Look for models with proven track records of reliability, known for their consistent performance even under adverse conditions.
4. Capacity:
Magazine capacity is a balancing act. Larger magazines add weight and size, impacting concealability. However, more rounds mean greater fighting capacity. Assess your needs and priorities.
5. Features:
Consider features like night sights (crucial for low-light situations), ambidextrous controls (for ease of use for both left- and right-handed shooters), and available accessories (holsters, extra magazines).
Top Contenders for Best Small 9mm Carry Gun
Several excellent small 9mm pistols consistently rank among the top choices. Here are a few, with pros and cons to aid your decision:
1. Glock 43X/48:
- Pros: Reliable, affordable, readily available, excellent aftermarket support, high capacity for its size.
- Cons: Can be snappy for some shooters due to its lightweight design, somewhat larger than some micro-compacts.
2. Sig Sauer P365:
- Pros: High capacity for its size, excellent ergonomics for many shooters, highly reliable.
- Cons: Can be expensive, slightly larger than some micro-compacts, some find the grip slightly narrow.
3. Springfield Armory Hellcat:
- Pros: High capacity (often higher than competitors), compact size, aggressive grip texture for better control.
- Cons: Can feel somewhat "snappy" due to its lightweight design, grip can be too aggressive for some hands.
4. Smith & Wesson Shield Plus:
- Pros: Comfortable grip, reliable, relatively affordable, good aftermarket support.
- Cons: Slightly larger than some micro-compacts, magazine capacity isn't as high as some competitors.
5. Ruger MAX-9:
- Pros: Affordable, very reliable, lightweight.
- Cons: Basic features, grip may not suit all hand sizes, some reports of occasional feeding issues (though less frequent than older models).
Choosing the Right Gun for You
The "best" small 9mm carry gun is the one that you shoot accurately and comfortably. Don't solely rely on online reviews. If possible, rent or borrow several models to test fire them. Pay close attention to the recoil, trigger pull, and overall feel in your hand. Consider taking a concealed carry class to further refine your skills and gain a deeper understanding of firearm safety. Remember, responsible gun ownership includes proper training and safe handling practices.
