When it comes to personal protection, size matters – but smaller is often better. A compact pistol that’s easy to conceal can be the difference between being prepared and being caught off guard. For homesteaders and preppers, having a reliable firearm that doesn’t print or weigh you down is crucial. This list covers 15 pistols that excel in concealment without sacrificing too much in firepower or accuracy. From pocket-sized .380s to subcompact 9mms, these guns are designed to disappear under clothing while remaining quick to access in an emergency.
1. Sig Sauer P365
The Sig P365 revolutionized the concealed carry market with its micro-compact size and 10+1 capacity in 9mm. Measuring just 5.8 inches long and 1 inch wide, it practically disappears in a pocket or waistband. The 3.1-inch barrel provides good accuracy for its size, while night sights come standard. Extended 12 and 15-round magazines are available for those wanting more capacity. The P365’s innovative design has spawned several variants, including the P365XL with a longer grip and barrel, offering even more options for concealed carriers.
2. Glock 43
Glock’s single-stack 9mm offering, the G43, has become a favorite among concealed carriers. At 6.26 inches long and less than an inch wide, it’s easy to hide in various carry positions. The 6+1 capacity might seem low, but aftermarket extensions can bump that up to 8 or 9 rounds. Its familiar Glock ergonomics make it a natural choice for those already comfortable with the platform. The G43 also benefits from Glock’s legendary reliability and vast aftermarket support, allowing for extensive customization.
3. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
The M&P Shield offers a balance of concealability and shootability. Available in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP, there’s an option for every preference. The 9mm version measures 6.1 inches long and 0.95 inches wide, with a 7+1 capacity (8+1 with extended magazine). The 3.1-inch barrel provides good accuracy, while the crisp trigger aids in precise shot placement. The Shield’s popularity has led to a wide range of holster options, making it easy to find the perfect carry setup for your needs.
4. Ruger LCP II
For deep concealment, it’s hard to beat the Ruger LCP II. This .380 ACP pistol measures just 5.17 inches long and 0.91 inches wide. Weighing only 10.6 ounces, it’s perfect for pocket carry or as a backup gun. The improved trigger and sights over the original LCP make it much easier to shoot accurately. With a 6+1 capacity, it strikes a good balance between size and firepower. The LCP II’s lightweight and slim profile make it an excellent choice for non-permissive environments or as a backup to a larger handgun.
5. Walther PPS M2
Walther’s PPS M2 is a single-stack 9mm that prioritizes ergonomics. At 6.3 inches long and 1 inch wide, it conceals easily while providing a comfortable grip. The 3.18-inch barrel offers good accuracy, and three magazine options (6, 7, or 8 rounds) allow you to balance concealability and capacity. Its low bore axis helps manage recoil for fast follow-up shots. The PPS M2’s ergonomic design and smooth trigger make it a joy to shoot despite its compact size, encouraging regular practice.
6. Kahr CM9
The Kahr CM9 is a no-frills 9mm that excels in concealment. Measuring 5.42 inches long and 0.9 inches wide, it’s one of the smallest 9mm pistols available. The 6+1 capacity is typical for its size class. Known for its smooth double-action-only trigger, the CM9 is easy to shoot accurately despite its small size. Its stainless steel slide and polymer frame keep weight down to 14 ounces. The CM9’s slim profile and rounded edges make it particularly suited for appendix carry, where printing is a major concern.
7. Springfield Hellcat
Springfield’s answer to the P365, the Hellcat packs 11+1 rounds of 9mm into a micro-compact frame. It measures 6 inches long and 1 inch wide, with a 3-inch barrel. The standout feature is its optional OSP (Optical Sight Pistol) model, which comes milled for micro red dot sights. Weighing just 18.3 ounces empty, it’s easy to carry all day. The Hellcat’s high-visibility sights, which feature a tritium front sight with a luminescent ring, provide quick target acquisition in various lighting conditions.
8. Beretta Nano
The Beretta Nano takes a unique approach to the subcompact 9mm. Its snag-free design has no external controls except the magazine release. Measuring 5.63 inches long and 0.9 inches wide, it’s highly concealable. The 6+1 capacity is augmented by an available 8-round extended magazine. Its modular chassis system allows for easy customization. The Nano’s low-profile design and smooth edges make it an excellent choice for pocket carry or deep concealment in a tuckable holster.
9. Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380
For those preferring .380 ACP, the M&P Bodyguard 380 offers reliability in a tiny package. It’s just 5.3 inches long and 0.75 inches wide, making it ideal for pocket carry. The 6+1 capacity is standard for its class. An optional integrated laser provides quick target acquisition in low-light situations. Weighing only 12 ounces, it’s one of the lightest options available. The Bodyguard 380’s second-strike capability allows for an immediate follow-up trigger pull in the event of a failure to fire, enhancing reliability in critical situations.
10. Glock 26
The Glock 26, often called the “Baby Glock,” offers 10+1 rounds of 9mm in a subcompact package. At 6.41 inches long and 1.18 inches wide, it’s larger than some others on this list but still very concealable. Its main advantage is compatibility with larger Glock magazines, allowing capacity up to 33 rounds with the right extension. The familiar Glock ergonomics make it a popular choice. The G26’s chunky grip provides a full firing grip for most shooters, enhancing control and accuracy compared to slimmer subcompacts.
11. Sig Sauer P938
The P938 is Sig’s answer to those wanting 1911-style controls in a micro-compact 9mm. Measuring 5.9 inches long and just under an inch wide, it conceals easily. The all-metal construction gives it a solid feel despite its 16-ounce weight. With a 6+1 capacity (7+1 with extended magazine) and 3-inch barrel, it offers good shootability for its size. The P938’s single-action-only operation and manual safety make it a favorite among those who prefer cocked-and-locked carry.
12. Kimber Micro 9
Another 1911-inspired option, the Kimber Micro 9 brings classic styling to the micro-compact world. It’s 6.1 inches long and 1.06 inches wide, with a 3.15-inch barrel. The 7+1 capacity is respectable for its size class. Weighing 15.6 ounces, it’s light enough for all-day carry. The aluminum frame and steel slide offer durability without excessive weight. The Micro 9’s match-grade barrel and tight tolerances contribute to excellent accuracy, often surpassing larger pistols in this regard.
13. Ruger EC9s
Ruger’s EC9s offers budget-friendly concealed carry without sacrificing reliability. At 6 inches long and less than an inch wide, it disappears easily under clothing. The 7+1 capacity in 9mm is standard for its class. Weighing just 17.2 ounces, it’s comfortable for everyday carry. The low-profile sights are snag-free, ideal for drawing from concealment. The EC9s features a through-hardened alloy steel slide and one-piece, high-performance, glass-filled nylon grip frame, providing durability at an affordable price point.
14. Taurus GX4
Taurus entered the micro-compact 9mm market with the impressive GX4. It measures 5.8 inches long and 1.08 inches wide, packing 11+1 rounds into its small frame. The 3.06-inch barrel provides good accuracy, while the textured grip ensures a solid hold. Weighing 18.5 ounces empty, it strikes a good balance between concealability and shootability. The GX4’s reversible magazine release and ability to adjust the point of impact make it a versatile option for both right and left-handed shooters.
15. Kel-Tec P3AT
For the ultimate in deep concealment, the Kel-Tec P3AT is hard to beat. This .380 ACP pistol is just 5.2 inches long and 0.77 inches wide. Weighing a mere 8.3 ounces, it’s the lightest option on this list. The 6+1 capacity is standard for its size. While not the easiest to shoot due to its small size, it’s a gun you can carry when others might be left at home. The P3AT’s locked-breech design, unusual for a pistol this small, helps tame recoil and enhances reliability compared to simple blowback .380s.
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