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To assist you in your EDC journey, the Classic Firearms team has selected some of the best handguns available in today's market - each offering the optimal balance of capacity, concealment, and shootability.
The concealed carry market has grown exponentially in the past decade, prompting firearms manufacturers to develop some of the best handguns on the market. In 2023, shoppers have myriad options when selecting a defensive handgun, so we've narrowed it down to the eight best pistols and revolvers for personal protection.
To be considered for our list, each handgun must have a barrel length of 4.25" or less and should be designed for carry. This means a minimum capacity of 10 rounds for pistols and 6 rounds for revolvers.
The Classic Firearms team also considered factors such as ergonomics, felt recoil, and ease of use - as these often influence shooter preference when selecting a firearm for every day carry (EDC).
Semi-autos are by far the most popular choice for concealed carry in 2023. Brands like Taurus, Smith & Wesson, Glock, & Sig Sauer all have compact models with excellent capacity and a slim profile. Here are the best EDC pistols this year (so far).
The brand new Canik Mete MC9 is a slimmed down, micro compact version of the full-sized Mete pistol. It features a clean, crisp trigger pull with an optics-ready slide and interchangeable backstraps so the gun can comfortably fit the hand of every shooter. Each pistol ships with everything you need for carry: an IWB holster, tool kit and punch, speed loader, cleaning kit, one 12-round magazine, and one 15-round magazine - plus, the Mete MC9 is compatible with all existing Canik mags. Watch our video below to learn more about this incredible pistol.
Be the first to know when the Canik Mete MC9 is back in stock!
New from Beretta, the A1 model improves on the original APX pistol in almost every way. It features improved slide serrations and an optics-ready slide, plus the finger grooves have been replaced with a flat checkered front strap for better ergonomics. By far the largest semi-auto on our list, the APX A1 has a 4.25" barrel and a capacity of 17+1.
Purchase the Beretta APX A1 pistol today!
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus is probably the best concealed carry firearm at this price point. Simply put, this pistol combines the proven ergonomics of the Shield with a whopping 13+1 rounds of 9mm. Standard models include three dot iron sights, but some Performance Center variants are machined for red dot optics.
Purchase the Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus pistol today!
With the same capacity and approximate dimensions as the Shield Plus, the Shadow Systems CR920 features a fluted barrel and an optics-ready slide. It is truly one of the most feature-packed, concealable Glock-style pistols on the market in 2023.
Purchase the Shadow Systems CR920 pistol today!
We covered the P365X Macro back when it first launched last year. Not only does the pistol come with a 17-round magazine, an integral compensator, and an optics-ready slide, but it is also the EDC of choice for several members of the Classic Firearms team. You can learn more about the pistol by watching our video below!
Purchase the Sig Sauer P365X Macro pistol today!
While less popular, revolvers still see wide use as deep concealment and back-up guns due to their reliability and simplicity. They are easy to shoot but can be difficult to shoot well, though at self-defense distances this may be a moot point. If you prefer a solid wheel gun, we've got you covered.
As its name would suggest, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite Defender is a compact and lightweight revolver chambered in .38 Special. The cylinder holds six rounds and is rated for over-pressured ammunition. This model ships with Hogue rubber grips and a front night sight, making it ideal for concealed carry.
Purchase the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite Defender revolver today!
The King Cobra Carry sports a 2" barrel and a heavy stainless-steel frame for reduced felt recoil. Chambered in .357 Magnum, this handgun features double action only (DAO) trigger and a bobbed hammer, so it is as concealable as it is powerful.
Purchase the Colt King Cobra Carry revolver today!
Like other models in the Rhino line, the 200DS Rhino revolver fires from the bottom of the cylinder rather than the top. This results in less muzzle flip and a significant reduction in recoil, while the aluminum alloy frame and barrel shroud translates to a lightweight and comfortable carry gun. With it's sleek, elegant looks and innovative firing mechanism, the 200DS Rhino is one of the most unique revolvers on the market in 2023.
Purchase the Chiappa 200DS Rhino revolver today!
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