When it comes to self-defense, choosing the right concealed carry handgun can make all the difference. Countless individuals across the globe rely on a compact and reliable firearm for protection, and 9mm handguns often strike the perfect balance between stopping power, size, and ease of use. In 2022, some models stood out for their performance, build quality, and innovative features, proving to be favorites among firearm enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll look at the top 10 concealed carry 9mm handguns of 2022, providing you with essential information to make an informed decision for your personal safety needs. Let’s begin with number 10 and work our way to the top pick.
#10: Ruger EC9s
The Ruger EC9s is an affordable and compact striker-fired pistol. Its slim, lightweight design makes it an excellent option for concealed carry. With a 7+1 capacity, the EC9s features a short, light, crisp trigger pull, giving the shooter improved control. An integral accessory rail provides space for lights and lasers, while the built-in sights are fit for rapid target acquisition.
#9: Taurus G3c
Building on the success of the G2c, the Taurus G3c enters the market as a budget-friendly concealed carry option with features that punch above its weight class. It sports a 10+1 capacity with the potential for extended magazines. The G3c comes with an ergonomic grip, a smooth trigger, and a safety system that includes manual and trigger safeties, making it a reliable choice for daily carry.
#8: Beretta APX Carry
The Beretta APX Carry delivers the dependability associated with the Beretta name in a subcompact frame. Its low-profile slide and snag-free design make it ideal for quick draws from concealment. A capacity of 6 or 8 rounds, three-dot sights, and a modular chassis system ensure shooters have a customizable and comfortable firearm that doesn’t sacrifice power or accuracy.
#7: Springfield Armory Hellcat
The Hellcat, with its impressive 11+1 or 13+1 capacity with extended magazine, boasts the highest capacity of any micro-compact pistol. The Hellcat also has a patented magazine design and Adaptive Grip Texture that provides a secure grip in any condition. The OSP (Optical Sight Pistol) version allows for easy mounting of red dot sights, which are becoming increasingly popular in concealed carry guns.
#6: SIG Sauer P365
When SIG Sauer introduced the P365, it quickly became a game-changer in the world of concealed carry. Known for its high capacity of 10+1, which can be expanded to 12+1 or even 15+1, this micro-compact pistol juxtaposes size with firepower. The P365 also offers a fast and clean trigger pull, XRAY3 Day/Night sights, and has an ergonomic design that fits well in various hand sizes.
#5: Glock 43X
The Glock 43X provides a crossover design that combines a compact-size grip length with a built-in beaver tail for comfortable shooting. It has a 10+1 round capacity and a slim profile that is ideal for concealed carry. The Glock 43X also inherits the proven reliability of the Glock name and features a precision-milled front serration for better handling.
#4: Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus
Enhancing the popular M&P Shield series, the Shield Plus offers improvements in capacity and shootability. Featuring a capacity of up to 13+1 while maintaining a slim, micro-compact profile, the Shield Plus is an excellent option for those who need more rounds at their disposal. It also comes with a flat-faced trigger and features enhanced grip texture for better control during rapid firing.
#3: CZ P-10 M
With the subcompact P-10 M (Micro), CZ enters the concealed carry market with a force. This striker-fired pistol offers a 7+1 capacity and is designed for ultimate concealability without compromising ergonomics. The P-10 M boasts superior craftsmanship, a crisp trigger, and a cold hammer-forged barrel, making it a top contender for those in need of a reliable concealed carry 9mm.
#2: Walther PDP Compact
Of German engineering, the Walther PDP (Performance Duty Pistol) Compact is a feature-rich, ergonomic firearm that caters to the needs of the modern shooter. The PDP Compact offers a 15+1 capacity and sports a Performance Duty Texture grip for superior hold, SuperTerrain Serrations on the slide for improved manipulation, and red dot readiness right out of the box, showcasing its adaptability to various scenarios and preferences.
#1: Kimber Micro 9
Topping the list is the Kimber Micro 9, a premium subcompact pistol that combines customary Kimber craftsmanship with the necessary attributes of a great concealed carry firearm. It’s small and light enough to be easily concealed, yet it has a 7-round magazine capacity, extended grip for comfort, and a crisp trigger feel. The Micro 9 also features intuitive 1911-style thumb safety and a high-quality metal frame, which stands out in a market crowded with polymer alternatives.
Choosing the right handgun for concealed carry is a highly personal decision, and what works best for one individual may not be the ideal choice for another. The handguns listed above were widely recognized in 2022 for their balance of size, capacity, reliability, and ease of use, making them top choices for personal defense. When selecting a firearm, it’s crucial to consider comfort, functionality, and proficiency. Ultimately, the best concealed carry handgun is one that you can reliably operate and confidently carry.