Choosing the right Glock for concealed carry is a deeply personal decision, heavily influenced by individual hand size, shooting style, and intended use. There's no single "best" Glock, but rather a selection of excellent models that excel in different aspects of concealed carry. This guide will help you navigate the options and determine which Glock best suits your needs.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Carry Glock
Before diving into specific models, let's examine the crucial factors influencing your choice:
1. Size and Weight:
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Subcompact (e.g., Glock 43, 43X, 48): These are the smallest and lightest Glocks, ideal for deep concealment. However, they often have smaller magazine capacities and can be slightly more difficult to shoot accurately due to their reduced size.
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Compact (e.g., Glock 19, 26, 36, 46): These offer a balance between concealability and shootability. They provide more grip and magazine capacity than subcompacts while remaining relatively easy to conceal. The Glock 19 is a popular choice for many.
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Full-Size (e.g., Glock 17): While offering the largest capacity and best ergonomics, full-size Glocks are less ideal for concealed carry due to their size and weight.
2. Caliber:
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9mm: A popular and versatile round, offering a good balance of stopping power and manageable recoil. Most Glock models are available in 9mm, giving you a wide range of size and capacity options.
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.40 S&W: Provides more stopping power than 9mm but with increased recoil. This might be a consideration for those prioritizing stopping power above all else, but the increased recoil can make it less suitable for smaller individuals.
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.45 ACP: Offers substantial stopping power but with significant recoil. It's less common for concealed carry due to the recoil and often larger size of the handgun.
3. Magazine Capacity:
Higher capacity is generally preferred for self-defense, offering more rounds if needed. However, this can increase the size and weight of the firearm. Extended magazines are available for many Glock models, but these might negatively impact concealability.
4. Personal Preferences:
Ultimately, the best Glock for you depends on your individual preferences and comfort level. Consider these factors:
- Grip size: Does the gun feel comfortable and secure in your hand?
- Recoil management: How manageable is the recoil for you?
- Accuracy: Are you able to consistently hit your target with the chosen firearm?
Top Glock Models for Concealed Carry:
Here's a closer look at some popular Glock options for concealed carry:
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Glock 19: Often hailed as the "perfect" carry gun, it strikes a superb balance between concealability, shootability, and capacity. Its popularity stems from its manageable size and excellent ergonomics.
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Glock 43X/48: These slimline models offer exceptional concealability, making them ideal for smaller individuals or those who prioritize deep concealment above all else. The 48 offers a slightly longer grip than the 43X, improving shootability.
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Glock 26: A compact option offering significant stopping power and a respectable magazine capacity, but it is generally considered to have a slightly more challenging grip and recoil than the Glock 19.
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Glock 43: The smallest single-stack 9mm Glock, it prioritizes maximum concealability but sacrifices capacity and shootability compared to other options.
Conclusion:
The ideal concealed carry Glock is subjective and depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your hand size, shooting experience, and desired level of concealability when making your decision. It is highly recommended to visit a gun range and try out different models before making a purchase to ensure a comfortable and safe fit. Remember that responsible gun ownership includes proper training and familiarization with your chosen firearm.
