The Best CCW Handguns in 2024: Small, Mighty, and Ready for Action

When it comes to concealed carry, the stakes are high. Your life—and the lives of those you care about—could hinge on the performance of the firearm you trust to defend you. But, of course, you don’t want to be walking around with a brick on your hip either. So, what’s the best CCW handgun in 2024? Let’s dive in and find out.

The CCW Conundrum

Concealed carry isn’t just about having a gun; it’s about having the right gun—one that balances power, size, reliability, and comfort. You want something that’s easy to carry, accurate enough to save your life, and reliable in any situation, from the unexpected to the worst-case scenario. It needs to disappear into your waistband or holster but still pack enough punch to stop an aggressor in their tracks.

 What Makes a Good CCW Handgun?

Before we jump into the best of 2024, let’s go over some key factors that define a solid CCW handgun:

- Size and Weight: A good concealed carry gun should be light enough to carry all day without even noticing it, but powerful enough to defend you effectively. 

- Reliability: It’s a no-brainer, but worth repeating: your carry gun should fire every time, without fail. Your life depends on it.

- Accuracy: No, you don’t need a sniper rifle, but being able to hit your target—especially under stress—is critical.

- Ergonomics: If your gun doesn’t feel right in your hand, you’re less likely to train with it. Comfort means you’ll carry it every day, and training makes you effective.

The Top Contenders for Best CCW Handgun in 2024

Alright, enough preamble—let’s get to the good stuff! Here are some of the hottest, most capable concealed carry handguns of 2024. Whether you’re looking for something with a snappy 9mm or prefer the punch of a .40, there’s a standout here for you.

 1. Sig Sauer P365 XMacro

The Sig Sauer P365 redefined what a compact handgun could be. But in 2024, Sig takes it a step further with the P365 XMacro. Imagine the ultra-compact P365's stellar performance but with a larger grip and extended magazine, giving you 17 rounds of 9mm—**in a carry gun**. That's a lot of firepower for something that still fits comfortably inside your waistband.

- Capacity: 17+1 rounds of 9mm

- Size: 6.6 inches in length, 1.1 inches wide

- Weight: 21.5 ounces (unloaded)

Why we love it: The P365 XMacro combines the small size of a subcompact with the power of a full-sized gun. Plus, its optics-ready slide makes it perfect for those who want to run a red dot sight on their carry piece. The crisp trigger and outstanding recoil management make it a dream to shoot, even for less experienced users.

2. Glock 43X MOS

You knew it was coming: the Glock 43X MOS. Glock continues to rule the concealed carry world, and the 43X MOS is one of their best offerings for 2024. It's slim, sleek, and carries enough capacity to give you peace of mind while still being small enough to conceal in just about any holster or carry position. Not only that, but the availability of aftermarket parts makes it a top choice

- Capacity: 10+1 rounds of 9mm

- Size: 6.06 inches in length, 1.1 inches wide

- Weight: 18.7 ounces (unloaded)

Why we love it: The Glock 43X MOS offers a nice middle ground between the subcompact and compact categories. It's the Goldilocks of carry guns—just right in terms of size, capacity, and performance. The modular optics system (MOS) makes it easy to mount a red dot sight, giving you that extra bit of precision when you need it most. Plus, it's a Glock, so you know it will run, no matter what.

 3. Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro

For those who like their carry guns with a little more umph, the Springfield Hellcat Pro is the way to go. This micro-compact packs 15+1 rounds of 9mm into a size that you can still carry discreetly.

- Capacity: 15+1 rounds of 9mm

- Size: 6.0 inches in length, 1.0 inches wide

- Weight: 21 ounces (unloaded)

Why we love it: The Hellcat Pro takes Springfield’s popular Hellcat and ups the ante with a longer grip, better ergonomics, and, of course, more ammo. The slightly extended magazine makes this a bit more comfortable to shoot, especially if you have larger hands. The Adaptive Grip Texture ensures a solid hold, whether you’re carrying in hot weather or during a tense moment. Plus, its accuracy is impressive for a gun this small, and it features the U-Dot sight system, which makes target acquisition a breeze                                                   

 4. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm

The M&P Shield is often considered the gold standard for concealed carry. It’s been around for years, and Smith & Wesson continues to refine it. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, reliable carry gun, the M&P Shield 9mm still ticks all the boxes in 2024.

- Capacity: 8+1 rounds of 9mm (with extended mag options)

- Size: 6.1 inches in length, 0.95 inches wide

- Weight: 20.8 ounces (unloaded)

Why we love it: This is the quintessential CCW handgun, with a great balance of size, weight, and power. It’s not the most high-capacity option on this list, but for many, 8+1 is more than enough. The M&P Shield feels like an extension of your hand, making it very easy to shoot accurately. If you’re new to concealed carry or just want a simple, reliable gun, the Shield is a fantastic choice.                                                    

 5. Ruger Max-9

For those on a budget but still looking for a solid 9mm, the **Ruger Max-9** delivers a ton of value. Ruger has earned a reputation for making rugged, dependable firearms that don’t break the bank—and the Max-9 is no exception.

- Capacity: 12+1 rounds of 9mm

- Size: 6.0 inches in length, 1.0 inches wide

- Weight: 18.4 ounces (unloaded)

Why we love it: The Max-9 is one of the most affordable concealed carry pistols that doesn’t sacrifice performance. It’s got a great magazine capacity for its size, and while it's not quite as refined as some of the others on this list, it offers solid accuracy and reliability. It’s optics-ready and features a smooth trigger, making it a great option for anyone who wants a reliable gun without spending a fortune.                                   

 The Final Verdict: What’s the Best for You?

So, what’s the absolute best CCW handgun in 2024? The answer depends on your needs. If you want the most firepower in the smallest package, the Sig P365 XMacro might be your winner. If you’re a Glock fan and want something that’s both reliable and adaptable, the Glock 43X MOS should be on your radar. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Ruger Max-9 brings value without compromise.

At the end of the day, the best CCW handgun is the one that fits you—and that you feel confident with. Take the time to hold them, shoot them, and figure out what works for your unique needs. Because when the time comes, you want to know you’re carrying the right tool for the journey Your CCW Journey Begins Here

Your concealed carry handgun is more than just a tool; it’s your lifeline. Whether you choose a cutting-edge P365 XMacro or a tried-and-true M&P Shield, don’t forget: it’s not just about the firearm—it’s about your commitment to training and preparedness. Carry responsibly, train often, and stay sharp. 2024 is the year you take control of your safety—one shot at a time.

Stay safe, stay armed, and keep training.