Choosing the best pocket carry pistol is a deeply personal decision, depending heavily on individual hand size, shooting experience, and comfort level. There's no single "best" option, but understanding the key factors and examining top contenders will help you make an informed choice. This guide explores essential considerations and reviews some of the leading pocket pistols available today. Finding the right pocket carry pistol significantly improves your personal safety and confidence.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Pocket Carry Pistol
Selecting a pocket pistol requires careful consideration of several factors that directly impact safety, effectiveness, and overall ease of carry.
Caliber: Power vs. Shootability
Caliber significantly impacts the pistol's power and recoil. Smaller calibers like .22LR, .25 ACP, and .32 ACP offer less recoil but less stopping power. Larger calibers like .380 ACP and 9mm provide increased stopping power but with more recoil, potentially making them less manageable for some shooters.
Consider these points:
- .22 LR: Extremely low recoil, inexpensive ammunition, high capacity magazines. However, limited stopping power.
- .25 ACP: Similar to .22 LR in recoil, but slightly more stopping power. Ammunition availability can be an issue.
- .32 ACP: A step up in power compared to .22 LR and .25 ACP, offering better stopping power but still manageable recoil.
- .380 ACP: A popular choice offering a good balance of power and shootability. Wider availability of ammunition.
- 9mm: Powerful round, but more recoil. Not ideal for all pocket carry situations due to increased size and weight.
Size and Weight: Concealability and Comfort
Pocket carry demands a small and lightweight pistol. A bulky or heavy pistol will be uncomfortable to carry and may print (be visible under clothing), compromising concealment. Look for pistols with slim profiles and lightweight frames.
Factors to check:
- Overall dimensions: Measure the pistol against your pocket size.
- Weight: Heavier pistols can be tiring to carry all day.
- Grip size: Ensure a comfortable and secure grip. Too small a grip can be awkward and unsafe.
Features: Safety and Reliability
Essential features include a reliable safety mechanism and a positive trigger pull to prevent accidental discharge. Consider these points:
- Manual safety: Provides an extra layer of safety, but requires remembering to engage/disengage it.
- Double-action/single-action (DA/SA): DA requires a long, heavy pull for the first shot, SA has a shorter, lighter trigger pull for subsequent shots (usually requires manual safety).
- Double-action only (DAO): Always requires a long, heavy trigger pull, simplifying operation but requiring more training to become proficient.
- Striker-fired: Simpler mechanism, usually lighter trigger pull. Requires meticulous training and attention to safety.
Reliability and Ease of Maintenance: Choosing a Dependable Companion
Your pocket pistol needs to function flawlessly under stress. Look for a well-reviewed model known for its reliability, ease of maintenance and cleaning.
Top Pocket Carry Pistol Contenders
Many excellent pocket pistols are available; however, a few consistently rise to the top due to their combination of features.
| Pistol Model | Caliber | Notable Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruger LCP II | .380 ACP | Lightweight, slim profile, easy to conceal | Reliable, affordable, easy to shoot | Small sights, somewhat snappy recoil |
| Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380 | .380 ACP | Integrated laser, lightweight | Easy to conceal, laser sight enhances accuracy | Can be challenging to rack the slide |
| Glock 42 | .380 ACP | Reliable, compact, well-regarded | Excellent reputation, smooth trigger pull | Relatively expensive, higher recoil than others |
| SIG Sauer P365 SAS | 9mm | Flat profile, no external safety, reliable | Excellent ergonomics, high capacity magazine | Larger size and weight compared to other options |
| Kel-Tec P32 | .32 ACP | Extremely lightweight, small profile | Very easy to conceal, lightweight | Lower stopping power compared to larger rounds |
Disclaimer: This is not an exhaustive list, and the best pistol for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Always handle firearms responsibly and receive proper training before carrying a concealed weapon.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the best pocket carry pistol requires careful consideration of your personal needs and preferences. Prioritize factors such as caliber, size and weight, features, and reliability. Research thoroughly, handle different models if possible, and consider professional training to ensure safe and effective use of your chosen firearm. Remember, responsible gun ownership includes ongoing training and a commitment to safe handling practices. Your safety and the safety of others depend on your knowledge and preparedness.