In the realm of firearms, the compact gun market stands as a testament to innovation and versatility. Compact handguns offer a blend of portability, concealability, and firepower that caters to a wide range of shooters, from seasoned professionals to everyday citizens seeking personal protection. It seems like the default choice for most buyers looking for a compact handgun is a Glock 19 and for good reason.
The Glock 19 is one of the best selling handguns, packing excellent reliability, features and an endless array of aftermarket options for accessories. While the Glock 19 undeniably reigns supreme as a stalwart in the compact handgun category, it’s essential for enthusiasts and prospective buyers to broaden their horizons and explore alternatives.
By considering options beyond the Glock 19, shooters open themselves up to a world of diverse features, ergonomics, and performance characteristics. Each firearm possesses its own unique set of attributes that may resonate more deeply with certain individuals, whether it’s a matter of comfort, accuracy, or aesthetic appeal.
Moreover, diversifying one’s knowledge and experience with different firearm platforms fosters a deeper understanding of the industry and enhances one’s ability to make informed decisions based on personal preferences and needs.
Table of Contents
- Criteria for Selection
- Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield
- Sig Sauer P365
- Springfield Armory Hellcat
- Ruger LC9s
- Walther PPS M2
- Final Thoughts
Criteria for Selection
When it comes to choosing the right compact handgun, several key factors should be taken into consideration. Each aspect plays a crucial role in determining the suitability of a firearm for individual needs and preferences. Let’s explore these criteria in detail:
Size and Weight
Compact guns are prized for their ability to offer potent firepower in a package that is easily concealable and comfortable to carry. The dimensions and weight of a firearm can greatly influence its suitability for everyday carry or other intended purposes. A firearm that is too bulky or heavy may be cumbersome to carry for extended periods, while one that is too small may sacrifice magazine capacity or shootability.
Reliability
Reliability is paramount in any firearm, but particularly so in a self-defense or duty weapon. A reliable handgun should consistently cycle ammunition without malfunction, regardless of environmental conditions or shooting techniques. Dependability is not only a matter of convenience but also a critical factor in life-threatening situations where failure is not an option.
Accuracy
Accuracy is the foundation of marksmanship and is influenced by various factors, including barrel length, sights, trigger quality, and ergonomics. A handgun that consistently delivers precise shot placement enhances shooter confidence and effectiveness, whether for target shooting or defensive use.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics encompass the comfort, handling, and usability of a firearm. A well-designed handgun should fit comfortably in the shooter’s hand, allowing for a natural and secure grip. Features such as grip texture, grip angle, and controls placement can significantly impact user experience and shooting performance.
Price
While budgetary constraints are a reality for many shooters, it’s essential to strike a balance between affordability and quality when selecting a compact handgun. While high-end firearms may offer premium features and craftsmanship, there are also many budget-friendly options that provide excellent value without sacrificing performance or reliability.
Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield stands as a shining example of excellence in the compact handgun category. Renowned for its reliability, comfort, and concealability, this pistol has earned a well-deserved reputation among shooters of all skill levels.
Features and Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: Standard 7+1 or extended 8+1 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
- Overall Length: 6.1 inches
- Width: 0.95 inches
- Height: 4.6 inches
- Weight: Approximately 20.8 ounces (unloaded)
- Trigger: Striker-fired with a crisp, consistent pull
- Sights: White dot sights for quick and easy target acquisition
- Frame: Polymer construction with an ergonomic grip design
- Safety: Manual thumb safety and optional integrated Crimson Trace laser sight
Despite its compact dimensions, the M&P9 Shield boasts features typically found in larger handguns, including a textured grip for enhanced control, a tactile trigger with a smooth pull, and ample capacity for its size.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design for easy concealment
- Excellent ergonomics and grip texture for comfortable shooting
- Reliable performance with a wide range of ammunition
- Optional manual thumb safety for added security
- Available with an integrated Crimson Trace laser sight for enhanced accuracy
- Competitive pricing compared to other compact handguns
Cons:
- Limited capacity compared to some competing models
- Trigger may feel stiff to some shooters, especially initially
- Manual thumb safety adds an extra step for those who prefer passive safety features
Sig Sauer P365
The Sig Sauer P365 has taken the compact handgun market by storm, offering unmatched firepower and capacity in a package small enough for everyday carry. Boasting innovative design features and Sig Sauer’s legendary quality, the P365 has garnered widespread acclaim from shooters worldwide.
Features and Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: Standard 10+1 or extended 12+1 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
- Overall Length: 5.8 inches
- Width: 1.0 inch
- Height: 4.3 inches
- Weight: Approximately 17.8 ounces (unloaded)
- Trigger: Striker-fired with a smooth, consistent pull
- Sights: XRAY3 Day/Night sights for enhanced visibility in all lighting conditions
- Frame: Stainless steel slide with a polymer grip module for durability and reduced weight
- Safety: Integrated passive safety features and optional manual thumb safety
Despite its compact dimensions, the Sig Sauer P365 delivers the performance and capacity of a full-sized handgun, making it an ideal choice for both concealed carry and duty use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched capacity for its size, with options for 10+1 or 12+1 rounds
- Slim profile and lightweight design for comfortable all-day carry
- Ergonomic grip and texturing for a secure hold and enhanced control
- High-quality construction and materials for durability and reliability
- Excellent sights for quick and accurate target acquisition
- Smooth trigger with a short reset for fast follow-up shots
Cons:
- Some users may find the trigger pull slightly heavy compared to other striker-fired pistols
- Higher price point compared to some competing models
- Limited aftermarket support for accessories and modifications
Springfield Armory Hellcat
The Springfield Armory Hellcat has quickly risen to prominence in the world of compact handguns, delivering unprecedented capacity and performance in a package that defies its diminutive size. With innovative design elements and meticulous engineering, the Hellcat has earned its place among the elite in the concealed carry market.
Features and Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: Standard 11+1 or extended 13+1 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3 inches
- Overall Length: 6 inches
- Width: 1 inch
- Height: 4 inches
- Weight: Approximately 18.3 ounces (unloaded)
- Trigger: Adaptive Grip Texture for enhanced control and comfort
- Sights: Tritium and luminescent front sight paired with tactical rack U-notch rear sight for quick target acquisition
- Frame: High-strength polymer construction with a textured grip for a secure hold
- Safety: Adaptive Recoil Management and loaded chamber indicator for added safety
Despite its compact dimensions, the Springfield Armory Hellcat packs a formidable punch with its generous capacity and intuitive design features.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unrivaled capacity for a subcompact pistol, with options for 11+1 or 13+1 rounds
- Slim profile and lightweight design for comfortable concealed carry
- Ergonomic grip texture and design for enhanced control and shooting comfort
- High-visibility sights for rapid target acquisition in various lighting conditions
- Robust construction and materials ensure durability and reliability
- Adaptive Recoil Management system mitigates felt recoil for improved control and follow-up shots
Cons:
- Some users may find the trigger pull slightly gritty compared to other pistols in its class
- Limited aftermarket support for accessories and customization options
- Higher price point compared to some competing models
Ruger LC9s
The Ruger LC9s has garnered a loyal following among concealed carry enthusiasts for its compact design, reliable performance, and affordability. As a striker-fired variant of Ruger’s popular LC9 series, the LC9s offers improved trigger characteristics and enhanced shootability.
Features and Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 7+1 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.12 inches
- Overall Length: 6 inches
- Width: 0.9 inches
- Height: 4.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 17.2 ounces (unloaded)
- Trigger: Striker-fired with a smooth, crisp pull and short reset
- Sights: Drift-adjustable 3-dot sights for easy target acquisition
- Frame: High-performance glass-filled nylon construction with checkered grip panels
- Safety: Integrated trigger safety and manual thumb safety for added security
Despite its compact size, the Ruger LC9s delivers the reliability and accuracy expected from a larger handgun, making it an excellent choice for everyday carry or as a backup firearm.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Slim and lightweight design for comfortable concealed carry
- Smooth and consistent trigger pull for enhanced accuracy and control
- Affordable pricing compared to many competing models
- Drift-adjustable sights allow for easy customization to suit individual preferences
- Reliable performance with a wide range of ammunition types
- Manual thumb safety provides an extra layer of security for peace of mind
Cons:
- Limited capacity compared to some other compact handguns in its class
- Some users may find the grip texture too aggressive for extended shooting sessions
- Trigger pull weight may feel heavier than desired for some shooters
Walther PPS M2
The Walther PPS M2 stands out as a pinnacle of German engineering, combining precision craftsmanship with practical design features to create a compact handgun that excels in both performance and concealability.
Features and Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: Standard 6+1 or extended 7+1 rounds
- Barrel Length: 3.18 inches
- Overall Length: 6.3 inches
- Width: 1 inch
- Height: 4.4 inches
- Weight: Approximately 21.1 ounces (unloaded)
- Trigger: Striker-fired with a smooth, consistent pull and short reset
- Sights: Three-dot polymer sights for quick and easy target acquisition
- Frame: High-strength polymer construction with ergonomic grip design and interchangeable backstraps
- Safety: Integrated trigger safety and optional manual thumb safety
Despite its compact dimensions, the Walther PPS M2 offers features typically found in larger handguns, including customizable grip options, ergonomic design, and a reliable trigger system.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Slim and lightweight design for comfortable concealed carry
- Ergonomic grip with interchangeable backstraps for a customized fit
- Smooth trigger pull with short reset for fast follow-up shots
- Ample capacity for a single-stack compact pistol, with options for 6+1 or 7+1 rounds
- High-quality construction and materials ensure durability and reliability
- Excellent sights for quick and accurate target acquisition
Cons:
- Some users may find the grip texture too aggressive for extended shooting sessions
- Manual thumb safety may be considered unnecessary by some shooters
- Limited aftermarket support for accessories and customization options compared to some competing models
Final Thoughts
While the Glock 19 undoubtedly holds a prominent place in the compact handgun market, it’s essential for shooters to expand their horizons and consider alternatives. Each firearm offers unique features, ergonomics, and performance characteristics that may better suit individual preferences and needs.
Exploring options beyond the Glock 19 allows shooters to discover new innovations, technologies, and design elements that could enhance their shooting experience. Whether it’s a matter of capacity, ergonomics, or price, there’s a compact handgun out there to match every shooter’s requirements.
