Intro
Discover the top 5 concealed carry 9mm pistols for self-defense. Our expert review covers the best compact handguns for concealed carry, featuring reliable and accurate options from top brands. Learn about the pros and cons of each pistol, including size, weight, and shooting performance, to make an informed decision for your concealed carry needs.
Concealed carry is a popular method of self-defense for many individuals, and choosing the right firearm is a crucial decision. Among the various options available, 9mm pistols stand out for their compact size, ease of use, and effectiveness. In this article, we'll explore the five best concealed carry 9mm pistols on the market, discussing their features, benefits, and drawbacks.

When selecting a concealed carry pistol, several factors come into play. These include the pistol's size and weight, caliber, trigger type, and safety features. The best concealed carry pistols balance these factors to provide a reliable and user-friendly firearm for self-defense.
1. Glock 43
The Glock 43 is a popular choice for concealed carry due to its slim design and compact size. This 9mm pistol measures 6.26 inches in length, 4.25 inches in height, and 1.06 inches in width, making it easy to conceal in a variety of holsters. The Glock 43 also features a striker-fired trigger and a 6-round magazine capacity.

One of the key benefits of the Glock 43 is its reliability and durability. As a Glock pistol, it's built to withstand harsh environments and heavy use. Additionally, the Glock 43 is easy to operate, with a smooth trigger pull and a manageable recoil.
Pros and Cons of the Glock 43
Pros:
- Compact size and slim design for easy concealment
- Reliable and durable construction
- Smooth trigger pull and manageable recoil
- Easy to operate and maintain
Cons:
- Limited magazine capacity (6 rounds)
- No external safety features
2. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is another popular choice for concealed carry, known for its slim design and lightweight construction. This 9mm pistol measures 6.1 inches in length, 4.6 inches in height, and 0.95 inches in width, making it easy to conceal in a variety of holsters. The M&P Shield also features a striker-fired trigger and a 7-round magazine capacity.

One of the key benefits of the M&P Shield is its ergonomic design, which provides a comfortable grip and intuitive controls. Additionally, the M&P Shield is easy to operate, with a smooth trigger pull and a manageable recoil.
Pros and Cons of the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
Pros:
- Slim design and lightweight construction for easy concealment
- Ergonomic design for comfortable grip and intuitive controls
- Smooth trigger pull and manageable recoil
- Easy to operate and maintain
Cons:
- Limited magazine capacity (7 rounds)
- No external safety features
3. Sig Sauer P938
The Sig Sauer P938 is a popular choice for concealed carry, known for its compact size and lightweight construction. This 9mm pistol measures 5.9 inches in length, 3.9 inches in height, and 1.1 inches in width, making it easy to conceal in a variety of holsters. The P938 also features a single-action trigger and a 6-round magazine capacity.

One of the key benefits of the P938 is its compact size and lightweight construction, making it easy to conceal in small holsters or purses. Additionally, the P938 features a smooth trigger pull and a manageable recoil.
Pros and Cons of the Sig Sauer P938
Pros:
- Compact size and lightweight construction for easy concealment
- Smooth trigger pull and manageable recoil
- Easy to operate and maintain
- Ambidextrous safety features
Cons:
- Limited magazine capacity (6 rounds)
- Single-action trigger may not be suitable for all users
4. Ruger LCP
The Ruger LCP is a popular choice for concealed carry, known for its compact size and lightweight construction. This 9mm pistol measures 5.16 inches in length, 3.6 inches in height, and 0.82 inches in width, making it easy to conceal in small holsters or purses. The LCP also features a double-action trigger and a 6-round magazine capacity.

One of the key benefits of the LCP is its compact size and lightweight construction, making it easy to conceal in small holsters or purses. Additionally, the LCP features a smooth trigger pull and a manageable recoil.
Pros and Cons of the Ruger LCP
Pros:
- Compact size and lightweight construction for easy concealment
- Smooth trigger pull and manageable recoil
- Easy to operate and maintain
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited magazine capacity (6 rounds)
- No external safety features
5. Beretta Pico
The Beretta Pico is a popular choice for concealed carry, known for its compact size and lightweight construction. This 9mm pistol measures 5.1 inches in length, 3.9 inches in height, and 0.71 inches in width, making it easy to conceal in small holsters or purses. The Pico also features a double-action trigger and a 6-round magazine capacity.

One of the key benefits of the Pico is its compact size and lightweight construction, making it easy to conceal in small holsters or purses. Additionally, the Pico features a smooth trigger pull and a manageable recoil.
Pros and Cons of the Beretta Pico
Pros:
- Compact size and lightweight construction for easy concealment
- Smooth trigger pull and manageable recoil
- Easy to operate and maintain
- Ambidextrous safety features
Cons:
- Limited magazine capacity (6 rounds)
- No external safety features
Concealed Carry Pistols Image Gallery









What is the best concealed carry pistol for beginners?
+The best concealed carry pistol for beginners is the Glock 43. It's a reliable and easy-to-use pistol with a smooth trigger pull and manageable recoil.
What is the most compact concealed carry pistol?
+The most compact concealed carry pistol is the Ruger LCP. It measures 5.16 inches in length, 3.6 inches in height, and 0.82 inches in width, making it easy to conceal in small holsters or purses.
What is the best concealed carry pistol for self-defense?
+The best concealed carry pistol for self-defense is the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield. It's a reliable and easy-to-use pistol with a smooth trigger pull and manageable recoil, making it suitable for self-defense situations.
In conclusion, the best concealed carry 9mm pistol for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as size, weight, trigger type, and safety features when making your decision. Remember to always practice responsible gun ownership and follow local laws and regulations regarding concealed carry.