The Best 9mm Handgun for Concealed Carry: Small but Mighty

For individuals looking for a 9mm handgun suitable for concealed carry, there are several options on the market that meet the criteria for a small, lightweight, and reliable option. In this article, we will explore the Smith Wesson MP Shield Plus and Equalizer, two popular models that have earned good reviews for their compact size and performance. Additionally, we will discuss other budget-friendly options and considerations for choosing the right 9mm handgun for concealed carry, especially in varied weather conditions.

Smith Wesson MP Shield Plus and Equalizer

I currently carry the Smith Wesson MP Shield Plus, and I have been very happy with it. It is reliable, easy to shoot, and comfortable to carry, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry. The MP Shield Plus comes with a flush-fitting 10-round magazine and a slightly extended 13-round magazine. There are also 15-round extended magazines available if you need more capacity.

I usually carry mine with a 10-round magazine in the weapon and a 15-round magazine for reloads, should the need arise. The MP Shield Plus is also available with optics and with or without a thumb safety, depending on your preference. Despite these excellent features, if I were to purchase today, I would also consider the new Smith Wesson Equalizer. The Equalizer uses the same magazines as the Shield Plus but adds a slightly longer barrel and an accessory rail, so you can’t go wrong with either model.

My advice, if possible, is to visit a range that rents guns and try out a few different models to see what works best for you. The Smith Wesson Shield Plus and Equalizer are both excellent concealed carry firearms, but there are other good options available as well. Shooting the guns first will help you make the best choice for your needs!

Additional Budget-Friendly Options

For those looking for more budget-friendly options, there are several choices available. For example, around $200, you can get an SCCY, which is just marginally better than a Hi-Point 250. A Taurus G2C is a decent option if you replace the factory recoil rod and spring, which cost around $20 and are known failure points. Used guns can also help keep the price down and provide a more reliable option for around $300, such as a Ruger 9mm like the Security 9. Double action is important, and therefore I would exclude Glocks for the most part. Sig P365s are very popular and range between $400 to $500, depending on the submodel and configuration.

I took a different approach by choosing two guns with almost the same dimensions, so I can use the same holsters for convenience. I run a Walther P380, which has an 81-round capacity, with some modifications, and a Taurus G2C 9mm, which has been upgraded to around a 430 gun with a ported barrel and several upgrades, because it was super easy and took almost no time when weather is warm.

I use mostly metal guns in the winter when temperatures drop below 40 degrees, usually carrying a small or medium revolver, 22WMR or .357 Magnum, occasionally a full-size Beretta. The newer polymer guns can stutter in cold weather due to the polymer lower shrinking, which can cause issues with chambering the firearm. However, metal handguns are not affected by cold weather as the molecular microstructure of metal is denser, making them less susceptible to freezing temperatures.

To simulate these conditions, I test newer guns or those I have never fired in near-freezing weather at an outdoor range. I have found that some amazing lightweight handguns with polymer lowers can fail to chamber or run a mag when the temperature drops below 37 degrees. While some gun reviews do mention this, it is crucial to consider that polymer guns have limitations in cold weather. As such, I highly recommend choosing an all-metal gun during colder months or a polymer pistol that is comfortable to carry, so you will keep it on you often, warm, and ready for use.

Conclusion

Whether you are a small person or not, the right 9mm handgun for concealed carry should be small, lightweight, and reliable. You can choose from options like the Smith Wesson MP Shield Plus, Equalizer, or even more budget-friendly models like the Walther P380, Taurus G2C, or Sig P365. However, consider the impact of cold weather on polymer guns and opt for all-metal guns if consistent performance is important to you. Testing different models and understanding your specific needs is the best way to choose a gun that suits you best.