Best Glock for Concealed Carry: Top Picks for Everyday Use

Choosing the best Glock for concealed carry can be challenging. There are many factors to consider, like size, weight, and ease of use. The Glock 19 is often seen as the best choice for many due to its balance of size and firepower.

Other options include the Glock 43 and Glock 26. These models are smaller and more compact. They are easier to conceal but still reliable.

It's also essential to think about holsters and how to maintain your Glock. Picking the right holster ensures comfort and safety. Regular maintenance keeps your Glock in top shape and ready when needed.

Key Takeaways

• Glock 19 is a popular choice for concealed carry.
• Smaller models like Glock 43 and 26 offer easy concealability.
• Proper holster choice and maintenance are crucial.

Essentials of Concealed Carry

Choosing the best Glock for concealed carry involves considering key factors such as ease of concealment, caliber efficiency, and long-term reliability.

Concealability and Comfort

Concealability and comfort are crucial for everyday carry. A Glock should be slim enough to hide under clothing without printing.

The width and grip size impact how well it can be concealed. Glocks like the Glock 43 and Glock 43X are praised for their slim profiles, making them easier to hide.

Comfort matters, too. A lightweight gun minimizes discomfort during extended wear. Features such as a smooth grip texture and rounded edges can prevent irritation against the skin.

Caliber and Stopping Power

The caliber defines a firearm's stopping power and effectiveness in defensive situations. For concealed carry, the balance is between manageable recoil and sufficient power.

9mm is a popular choice because it offers a good balance. The Glock 19, for instance, uses this caliber and is well-regarded for its stopping power and manageable recoil.

Some may prefer the .40 S&W or .45 ACP for more stopping power but may find the recoil harder to manage. Choosing a caliber that the carrier can handle confidently and accurately is essential.

Reliability and Durability

A concealed carry weapon must function reliably under all conditions. Glocks are known for their durability and dependability. Their simple design with fewer parts reduces the chance of a malfunction.

Regular maintenance keeps a Glock in good working order. Glock's reputation for ruggedness makes it a trusted option. The polymer frame and Jennifer-treated slide resist wear and corrosion, extending the gun's life.

Real-world reports show Glocks performing well in various conditions, ensuring they can be relied upon when needed—many trust Glock for its proven track record and solid construction.

Top Glock Models for Concealed Carry

These Glock models are popular choices for concealed carry due to their size, weight, and reliability. Each model has unique features and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and needs.

Glock 19

The Glock 19 is a compact model that balances size and firepower. With a 4.02-inch barrel and a magazine capacity of 15 rounds, it is versatile for concealed carry and duty use.

It has an overall length of 7.36 inches, making it easier to conceal while still providing good accuracy. Many find the Glock 19 comfortable to shoot due to its grip size and overall ergonomics.

Its lightweight polymer frame helps reduce overall weight, and the trigger pull is consistent with other Glock models. The Glock 19 is a solid choice for those who want a blend of capacity, control, and ease of carry. Check out the best Glock 19 Holster for concealed carry.

Glock 43

The Glock 43 is an ultra-compact model specifically designed for concealed carry. With a slim profile and single-stack magazine that holds six rounds, it is easy to hide even with lighter clothing.

Its 3.41-inch barrel and overall length of 6.26 inches make it one of the most compact Glocks available. This model is favored by those who prioritize concealability above all else, and its lightweight design makes it comfortable for all-day wear.

Despite its small size, the Glock 43 maintains the reliability and durability for which Glock is known. Check out the best Glock 43x Holster for concealed carry. It is an excellent option for those needing a highly concealable and dependable firearm.

Glock 26

The Glock 26, also known as the "baby Glock," perfectly balances concealment and capacity. It features a double-stack magazine that holds ten rounds, with the option to use more prominent magazines if needed. Check out the best Glock 26  Holster for concealed carry.

It has a 3.43-inch barrel and an overall length of 6.50 inches, making it compact yet capable. The Glock 26's slightly thicker frame can feel more comfortable in hand than slimmer models like the Glock 43.

Many appreciate the Glock 26's versatility, allowing for concealed carry and backup gun use. Its size makes it manageable without sacrificing much capacity or firepower.

Glock 48

The Glock 48 features a slimmer profile while providing a more extended slide than models like the Glock 43. With a 4.17-inch barrel and a single-stack magazine that holds ten rounds, it offers a balance of slim design and shooting accuracy.

Its total length is 7.28 inches, making it slightly longer but easy to conceal. The Glock 48’s slimmer frame and increased sight radius improve accuracy while maintaining easy concealment.

It's a good option for those who want a compact firearm that doesn't sacrifice barrel length, providing better performance without excessive bulk. The Glock 48 is ideal for those seeking a mix between slimness and effective shooting capabilities.

Maintaining Your Glock for Concealed Carry

Proper maintenance is crucial for keeping your Glock reliable for concealed carry. This involves routine cleaning, careful ammunition selection, and regular practice.

Routine Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular cleaning is vital to ensuring your Glock stays in top condition. After each use, disassemble the firearm according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean the barrel, slide, and frame using a cleaning kit. Lubricate the moving parts to reduce wear and tear.

Check for any signs of damage or excessive wear. Replace worn-out parts to maintain reliability. Store the firearm in a clean, dry place to prevent rust and other forms of corrosion.

Ammunition Selection

Choosing the right ammunition is essential for reliable performance. Glock recommends using high-quality, factory-loaded ammunition. Avoid using reloads or remanufactured rounds, as they may not meet standard safety and performance criteria.

Ensure the ammunition you choose is compatible with your specific Glock model. Different models may require different types of ammo, such as 9mm or .40 S&W. Using the correct ammunition helps maintain the firearm's reliability and longevity.

Regular Practice and Training

Regular training is necessary to stay proficient with your Glock. Schedule practice sessions to improve shooting accuracy and handling skills. Practice drawing the firearm from a concealed position to ensure you can do so quickly and safely.

Participate in training courses to stay updated on self-defense techniques and Glock maintenance. Familiarity with your firearm builds confidence and ensures that it functions correctly when needed.

Consistency is key. Regular practice ensures you are prepared and that your Glock remains reliable for concealed carry.

Frequently Asked Questions

When choosing a Glock for concealed carry, important points include size, weight, ease of use, and comfort. Each model offers different features that may suit various self-defense and everyday carry needs.

What features make Glock 19 a suitable option for concealed carry?

The Glock 19 is popular because of its compact size and large magazine capacity. It provides a good balance between concealability and firepower. Its design allows for comfortable carry and quick access.

Can the Glock 26 be comfortably used for everyday concealed carry?

The Glock 26 is often favored for its subcompact size, making it easy to conceal under clothing. Its more petite frame fits comfortably in most holsters but still offers a respectable magazine capacity for self-defense.

How does the Glock 43X perform as a concealed carry weapon compared to other models?

The Glock 43X offers a slim profile and lightweight design, which enhances comfort for everyday carry. Its extended grip and magazine provide better control and capacity than other single-stack models, making it a reliable choice.

What are the advantages of choosing a Glock 19 Gen 5 for self-defense carry?

The Glock 19 Gen 5 features improved ergonomics and a more aggressive grip texture, providing better control. Enhanced durability and a smoother trigger pull make it a strong option for reliability and quick response in self-defense scenarios.

For concealed carry purposes, is the Glock 42 effective for self-defense?

The Glock 42 is extremely compact and lightweight, making it highly concealable. It's chambered in .380 ACP, offering manageable recoil for easier control. While it has a smaller capacity, it's still effective for close-range self-defense.

How does the Glock 45 compare to the Glock 19 regarding concealability and comfort?

The Glock 45 combines the compact slide of the Glock 19 with a full-sized frame, offering a comfortable grip and better balance. It may be less concealable than the Glock 19 due to its larger size, but it provides enhanced handling for those who prefer a fuller grip.