In the world of self-defense and preparedness, a reliable handgun can make all the difference. For newcomers, finding the right balance between power and ease of use is key. Lightweight handguns offer better control and comfort, making them ideal for beginners. They’re also easier to carry, which is crucial for those who want to be ready for anything, anytime. These 15 lightweight handguns hit the sweet spot for new shooters.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ
The M&P Shield EZ lives up to its name with features designed for easy handling. Weighing 23–23.5 ounces unloaded, it’s still light enough for most shooters to carry comfortably. The slide is simple to rack, perfect for those with less hand strength. It comes in 9mm and .380 ACP, giving options for recoil sensitivity. The EZ also features a grip safety, adding an extra layer of security for those new to carrying.
Ruger LCP II
At a mere 10.6 ounces, the Ruger LCP II is ultralight and super concealable. It’s chambered in .380 ACP, offering good stopping power in a tiny package. The improved trigger and better sights over its predecessor make it more shooter-friendly for beginners. Its pocket-sized frame makes it an excellent choice for deep concealment or as a backup gun.
Glock 43
Glock’s reputation for reliability shines in this 17.99-ounce single-stack 9mm. Its slim profile makes it great for concealed carry. The Glock 43 has minimal controls, keeping things simple for new users while maintaining Glock’s famous durability. It’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket parts, allowing for customization as skills improve.
SIG Sauer P365
The P365 packs a punch with its 10+1 capacity in a compact 17.8-ounce frame. It’s known for its excellent ergonomics and smooth trigger pull. The P365’s balance of size, capacity, and shootability makes it a top choice for beginners and experts alike. SIG offers extended magazines, boosting capacity to 12+1 or 15+1 without significantly increasing bulk.
Walther CCP M2
The CCP M2 uses a gas-delayed blowback system to reduce felt recoil. At 22.3 ounces, it’s a bit heavier than some, but still plenty light. Its easy-to-rack slide and ergonomic grip make it very beginner-friendly. The M2 version features a tool-less takedown, simplifying cleaning and maintenance for new gun owners.
Kahr CM9
The CM9 is a no-frills, reliable 9mm that weighs 15.9 ounces unloaded. Its long trigger pull acts as a safety feature, good for those new to carrying. The CM9’s simplicity and lightweight make it a solid choice for everyday carry. Kahr’s reputation for tight tolerances means excellent accuracy in a small package.
Beretta Pico
Beretta’s Pico is one of the thinnest .380 ACP pistols out there, measuring just 0.725 inches wide. At 11.5 ounces, it’s feather-light and easy to conceal. The low-profile design means fewer snag points, a plus for new carriers. The Pico features a modular design, allowing for easy customization of grips and even caliber conversion.
Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38
For those who prefer revolvers, the Bodyguard 38 offers simplicity in a 14.4-ounce package. Its hammerless design makes for smooth draws from concealment. The .38 Special round provides good stopping power without overwhelming recoil. This revolver comes with an integrated laser sight, boosting accuracy for new shooters.
Ruger EC9s
The EC9s gives you 9mm power in an affordable, 17.2-ounce package. Its low-profile sights are snag-free, ideal for concealed carry. The EC9s’s price point makes it attractive for beginners looking to get into handgun ownership without breaking the bank. Despite its budget-friendly price, it maintains Ruger’s reputation for reliability and durability.
Kel-Tec P-32
Weighing a scant 6.6 ounces unloaded, the P-32 is one of the lightest options available. It’s chambered in .32 ACP, offering less recoil than larger calibers. The P-32’s tiny size makes it disappear in a pocket, perfect for deep concealment. Its unique locked-breech design helps tame recoil in this ultra-compact package.
Taurus G2C
The G2C offers high capacity (12+1) in a compact 22-ounce frame. It comes with adjustable rear sights, uncommon in its price range. The G2C’s balanced size and capacity make it versatile for both carry and home defense. Taurus includes a manual safety, appealing to those who prefer an extra layer of security.
Springfield Armory Hellcat
The Hellcat manages to pack 11+1 rounds of 9mm into an 18.3-ounce package. Its standout feature is the option for optics-ready models straight from the factory. The Hellcat’s high capacity and customization options make it a pistol that can grow with the user’s skills. The standard model includes tritium front sight for improved low-light aiming.
Kimber Micro 9
At 15.6 ounces, the Micro 9 brings 1911-style controls to a compact package. It’s chambered in 9mm, offering a good balance of power and controllability. The Micro 9’s all-metal construction gives it a premium feel that many plastic-framed pistols lack. Its single-action trigger provides a crisp, light pull that many shooters find easier to master.
Ruger LC9s
The LC9s is a striker-fired version of Ruger’s popular LC9, weighing in at 17.2 ounces. Its trigger is much improved over the original, making it easier for beginners to shoot accurately. The LC9s’s slim profile and light weight make it a great option for everyday carry. It features a loaded chamber indicator, providing both visual and tactile confirmation of a round in the chamber.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 2.0
The M&P Shield 2.0 builds on the success of the original, with improved texturing and trigger. At 18.3 ounces, it’s still plenty light for easy carry. The Shield 2.0’s balance of size, shootability, and affordability make it a perennial favorite among new and experienced shooters alike. It’s available with or without a manual safety, catering to different preferences in carry style.
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