Choosing the best Glock for concealed carry is more than just a matter of aesthetics or brand loyalty. It's about finding a reliable, comfortable, and effective firearm. And while Glock has long been the go-to choice for many, determining which model stands out for concealed carry can be challenging.

That's why we turned to the experts, tapping into the insights of gun enthusiasts who understand these firearms inside and out. Through their insights, we will unravel the attributes that define the best Glock for concealed carry, shedding light on the unique advantages of various models.

Note: Choosing the best Glock for concealed carry also involves understanding state-specific concealed carry permits to ensure you’re compliant with local laws and regulations.

Best Glock for Concealed Carry - Expert Insights

To offer clarity and direction for navigating the world of concealed carry firearms, we've reached out to seasoned professionals in the field. Drawing from years of hands-on experience and technical know-how, they've distilled their wisdom into key points for us.

Here are the top 4 insights from our experts to guide your decision-making process:

1. Liam Lucas, CEO of Off Road Genius

As the CEO and Founder of Off Road Genius, I have extensive experience with various firearms, including Glocks, for personal defense and outdoor activities. My years of dealing with firearms have given me a wealth of knowledge and understanding on the subject.

In my opinion, the best Glock for concealed carry would be the Glock 26. This compact model is often called the Baby Glock due to its small size, making it ideal for concealed carry. Despite its compact size, it still offers a good capacity with a standard 10-round magazine and can also accept larger-capacity magazines.

There was an instance when I was on a hunting trip and had to rely on my Glock 26 for personal defense. Despite its compact size, it gave me a sense of security and was easy to handle. The Glock 26 proved to be reliable, accurate, and most importantly - discreetly concealed.

Another good option would be the Glock 19. It's a bit larger than the Glock 26, but it offers a higher standard capacity of 15 rounds and provides a good balance between concealability and firepower. Its larger size also makes it easier to control, especially for those with larger hands.

Remember, the best Glock for concealed carry can vary depending on personal preferences, hand size, and comfort level. It's always best to try various models to see which one suits you the best.

2. Mike Millerson, Owner of Survive Nature

I'm Mike Millerson, the owner of survivenature.com, a comprehensive online platform focused on teaching proven survival techniques, homesteading, and Prepping.

Beyond my keen interest in the outdoors and survival skills, I have the honor of having served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army. This military experience provided me with rigorous training and an acute understanding of firearms, their applications, and the practical nuances of Self-defense.

Drawing from my military background, emergency survival training, and wilderness experiences, here's my perspective on the best Glock for concealed carry:

Glock 19 (9mm)
Without a doubt, the Glock 19 stands out as a top choice for many concealed carry enthusiasts. Its compact size strikes a fine balance, making it large enough to handle comfortably and effectively, yet small enough to conceal.

Its 15+1 capacity ensures ample rounds for self-defense, and being a 9mm, ammunition is not only widely available but also more affordable. The Glock 19's reliability is legendary, and its widespread use by law enforcement worldwide is a testament to its effectiveness.

Glock 43 (9mm)
For those looking for something even more compact, the Glock 43 is hard to overlook. It's a single-stack 9mm that offers a slimmer profile, making it an ideal choice for deeper concealment or for individuals with a smaller Frame.

With a 6+1 capacity, it may not hold as many rounds as the Glock 19, but its size advantage can be a deciding factor for many.

In survival situations, especially in the wilderness, weight and space are at a premium. Glocks, known for their durability and low maintenance, can withstand adverse conditions, making them a reliable choice for survivalists like me.

Their ease of disassembly and reassembly ensures I can maintain my firearm even in challenging environments. Moreover, in a survival scenario, the threat isn't always wildlife - sometimes, it's other desperate humans. Having a reliable concealed-carry firearm like a Glock provides an added layer of security.

In conclusion, the best Glock for concealed carry often comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Both the Glock 19 and Glock 43 have their merits, and I'd advise potential users to test both to see which feels better in their hands and meets their concealment requirements.

3. Jason Hitchcock, SurvivalStoic.com

I am a competitive shooter, gun range safety officer, concealed carry enthusiast and the founder of Survivalstoic.com. One pillar of our website is self-defense.

The two best Glocks for Concealed Carry are the Glock 19 and the Glock 48 MOS.

The Glock 19 is the tried and true concealed carry gun. It is a great size that allows both concealability and control for positive recoil management.

The 15+1 capacity is more than enough, but I like that it will also accept larger capacity magazines from the Glock 17. The interchangeable backstraps are also a plus for customizing it to your hand size.

But what really sets the Glock 19 apart is the huge amount of aftermarket support. Nearly every holster manufacturer makes a holster for the Glock 19. There are also many different aftermarket sights to choose from.

The Glock 48 MOS is a thinner version of the Glock 19. The thinner size makes it more comfortable to carry IWB and in the appendix position. It also weighs less, and still has a respectable capacity of 10 +1.

It comes optics-ready, so you can easily add a red dot sight. The only downside of this model is the slide release is not ambidextrous like the Glock 19.

4. Matt Rice, Ozark Armament

For concealed carry, I highly recommend Glock 19. Its compact size, reliability, and firepower make it ideal. It strikes the right balance between being concealable and providing enough grip for firm control. Additionally, it uses 9mm ammunition, which is inexpensive and readily available.

The Glock 43, a slimline subcompact, is another top pick. It’s excellent for deep concealment, sacrificing some firepower for its svelte profile. Ultimately, the best Glock for concealed carry boils down to personal comfort and preference.

Tactical Backpack for Gun Range Sessions

For the moments when you're not opting for concealed carry but are gearing up for a day at the gun range, having a high-quality backpack tailored to your shooting needs can significantly elevate your experience. The TradeSmart Tactical Backpack stands as a testament to this, seamlessly blending form and function for gun enthusiasts.

It boasts multiple compartments and specialized pockets, offering ample storage space for all your shooting range necessities and ensuring each item has a dedicated spot. The middle pocket is reinforced with a 5mm thick padding, which protects fragile items.

When considering security, the backpack doesn’t disappoint; it's equipped with 3 separate TSA locks to ward off unauthorized access from children or potential thieves.

Despite its robustness, it’s designed to hold over 50 pounds without losing shape. Measuring a substantial 12 inches across, 19 inches high, and 8.5 inches wide, it’s spacious but not unwieldy.

TradeSmart hasn't compromised on quality, integrating branded YKK heavy-duty zippers to avoid unexpected breakages.

The backpack is crafted from the durable Cordura™ Fabric, renowned for its resistance to wear and tear. It promises a comfortable fit, courtesy of its adjustable shoulder straps and a movable chest strap. Adding a touch of personalization, the front area of the bag has added Velcro.

An essential feature, especially for those conscious about safety, is the 'Anti-Theft' pocket—a concealed nook designed for safely storing handguns away from ammunition and out of sight.

And to top it all off, TradeSmart offers a 10-year warranty, ensuring the users a decade-long peace of mind.

In essence, the TradeSmart Tactical Backpack is more than just a gear carrier; it's an embodiment of safety, efficiency, and style designed for both seasoned shooters and novices.

Finding the Right Handgun Size

When it comes to concealed carry, the size of your handgun is a critical factor that can affect not only comfort but also your confidence and ability to use it effectively. The same stands for handgun fit as well - the gun should fit your hand perfectly.

The basic approach to finding the right handgun size is to ensure that it feels like a natural extension of your hand. This means that when you grip the handgun, you should be able to easily reach and operate all the controls, such as the trigger, safety, and magazine release, without having to adjust your grip or hand position.

For those new to firearms or looking to refine their selection process, it's advisable to seek guidance from someone experienced. Visiting a well-stocked gun store, or better yet, a range that offers rentals, can provide the opportunity to handle and test various models.

This hands-on experience is invaluable. For instance, a larger handgun like the Cool Python may fit someone with bigger hands perfectly, allowing full control and easy operation. However, for someone with smaller hands, the same firearm might prove unwieldy, leading to difficulty reaching the trigger or managing the weight.

Manufacturers like CZ and Dan Wesson understand this and offer a range of sizes to accommodate different hand sizes. The CZ SP-01 tactical, for example, might be a favorite for those with larger hands, offering excellent grip and control.

On the flip side, smaller handguns, such as micros and subcompacts, are often more suitable for individuals with smaller hands. It's beneficial to consider exploring concealed carry firearm options for women, ensuring a comfortable and effective carry. Models like the Dan Wesson ECO, Glock 42, and Springfield 911 not only provide a better fit but also come with features like magazine extenders that enhance grip for smaller hands.

Ultimately, the goal is to find a handgun that not only fits your hand but also suits the intended function, like concealed carry. A well-fitted handgun should allow you to perform all necessary functions effortlessly, which is crucial in a self-defense scenario.

For those looking to delve deeper into the nuances of gun fitting and make an informed decision, our Online Firearm Confidence Course offers a comprehensive Module on Gun Fitting. Our gun safety instructors Candy and Hunter will guide you through the process of selecting the right handgun size, ensuring that your choice for concealed carry offers both comfort and confidence.

Conclusion

The journey of discovering the best Glock for concealed carry is both complex and personal. Through the insights shared by our seasoned experts, it's clear that the perfect model varies depending on one's individual needs and comfort.

Once you select your Glock model, the next step will be finding the ideal holster for your Glock, which enhances comfort and accessibility.

As you tread this path, let expert opinions guide your choices, but always trust your instincts and preferences. After all, when it comes to concealed carry, comfort, reliability, and confidence are paramount.