Best Guns for Concealed Carry in 2025: Top 5 Picks for EDC

Why It’s Great for Concealed Carry:

• 12+1 capacity in a micro-compact frame.
• Crisp flat-faced trigger for improved accuracy.
• Optics-ready slide (compatible with RomeoZero and Holosun 507K).
• Compact grip module for better concealability.

The Sig P365X is like the Swiss Army knife of concealed carry pistols—versatile, reliable, and oh-so-compact! It combines the best features of the original P365 with the upgraded trigger and optics-ready slide of the P365XL. If you’re after a high-capacity, ultra-concealable handgun, this one’s a top contender. Plus, you can impress your friends with your knowledge of optics compatibility at the next range outing!

🔗 Check out our full Sig P365X review!

2. Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield Plus Pro – The Feature-Rich CCW Option

Why It’s Great for Concealed Carry:

• 13+1 capacity – one of the highest in its class.
• Flat-faced trigger for a smooth pull.
• Optics-ready slide with high-visibility sights.
• Comfortable grip texture for control without excess bulk.

Think of the M&P 9 Shield Plus Pro as the overachiever in your concealed carry lineup. It’s got the looks, the brains, and the brawn to make any EDC enthusiast swoon. With improved ergonomics, an upgraded trigger, and a higher capacity, this pistol is more than ready to accompany you on life’s adventures.

🔗 Check out our full M&P 9 Shield Plus Pro review!

3. Springfield Hellcat OSP Pro – The High-Capacity Micro-Compact

Why It’s Great for Concealed Carry:14+1 capacity – one of the highest in the micro-compact category.

• Adaptive grip texture for superior control.
• Flat trigger with a clean break and short reset.
• Optics-ready slide for red dot compatibility.

The Springfield Hellcat OSP Pro is kind of like carrying a tiny tiger in your pocket—it’s fierce, powerful, and surprisingly compact! Offering insane capacity in a petite package, the Hellcat OSP Pro is the top choice if you crave a small yet mighty pistol that’s ready for anything.

🔗 Check out our full Springfield Hellcat OSP Pro review!

4. Glock 43X – The Ultra-Reliable Carry Option

Why It’s Great for Concealed Carry:

• Slim and lightweight – great for everyday carry.
• Glock reliability – trusted for self-defense.
• Easy-to-shoot grip – comfortable for all hand sizes.
• Shield Arms 15-round mag option for extra capacity.

When it comes to reliability, the Glock 43X is the trusty old friend you can always count on. With legendary Glock dependability, great ergonomics, and a slim profile, it’s a top-tier choice for EDC. It’s like the comfort food of pistols—always satisfying and never lets you down.

🔗 Check out our full Glock 43X review!

5. Ruger MAX-9 – The Budget-Friendly Optics-Ready Carry Gun

Why It’s Great for Concealed Carry:

• Affordable price – great value for an optics-ready pistol.
• 10+1 or 12+1 capacity for solid firepower.
• Optics-ready slide for modern carry setups.
• Lightweight and ultra-slim for deep concealment.

The Ruger MAX-9 is the perfect blend of economy and performance. If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck (pun intended) while still having a feature-packed carry option, this optics-ready micro-compact is a fantastic choice. It’s like finding a designer handbag at a thrift store—you get all the style without the hefty price tag!

🔗 Check out our full Ruger MAX-9 review!

How to Choose the Best Concealed Carry Gun for You

• Capacity vs. Size – Do you prefer a higher round count or deeper concealment?
• Optics-Ready or Iron Sights? – If you plan on running a red dot, an optics-ready model is key.
• Ergonomics & Grip Comfort – Which pistol feels best in your hand?
• Trigger Feel & Recoil – A crisp trigger and manageable recoil make a big difference in defensive shooting.
• Reliability – A self-defense gun must function flawlessly every time.

Each of these top 5 concealed carry guns offers a unique advantage, whether you prioritize capacity, comfort, or affordability. Remember, choosing the right gun is like finding the perfect pair of jeans—it’s all about what fits you best!

FAQ

1. What’s the best concealed carry gun for beginners?
The Glock 43X is often recommended for beginners due to its reliability, easy handling, and slim profile. It’s the little black dress of pistols—versatile and a staple in any collection!

2. Are optics-ready pistols worth the investment?
If you’re comfortable using a red dot sight, optics-ready pistols can enhance accuracy and target acquisition speed. They’re like adding a GPS to your road trip—extra guidance never hurts!

3. How do I choose between capacity and concealability?
It depends on your personal preference and lifestyle. Higher capacity is great for extended range sessions, while better concealability is ideal for discretion. It’s all about striking the perfect balance.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best concealed carry gun is one that aligns with your unique needs, preferences, and training. Whether you’re eyeing the perfect balance of size and capacity with the Sig P365X or looking for a budget-friendly optics-ready option like the Ruger MAX-9, our top 5 picks offer something for every concealed carrier.

✅ Want the best balance of size and capacity? → Sig P365X
✅ Looking for the most feature-packed option? → M&P 9 Shield Plus Pro
✅ Need the highest capacity in a micro-compact? → Springfield Hellcat OSP Pro
✅ Prefer a reliable, no-frills carry gun? → Glock 43X
✅ On a budget but still want optics? → Ruger MAX-9

Whichever you choose, rest assured you’ll have a top-tier self-defense pistol built for everyday carry. And remember, the best gun is the one you feel confident and comfortable with—so happy carrying!

📌 Read More Detailed Reviews

🔗 Sig P365X Review
🔗 M&P 9 Shield Plus Pro Review
🔗 Springfield Hellcat OSP Pro Review
🔗 Glock 43X Review
🔗 Ruger MAX-9 Review

Visit Voodoo Firearms
📍 408 W Mondamin St, Minooka, IL 60447
📞 815-218-6620
📧 voodoo@voodoofirearms.com

🚀 Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!