

These five-round 38 Special, +P-rated revolvers are extremely easy to use, and reliable, assuming the shooter is using quality ammunition. For starters, there’s a hammerless model, and that’s the one I’d call a true pocket pistol-there’s no hammer to hang up in a pocket during the draw. These classic “J frame” handguns have been around for many years, and there are many variations of them on the market, new and used. In the low to mid $200s, it’s accessible to most people and functions as well as any other 380. The LCP II is a reliable choice for self-defense. It’s one of the more economical choices on this list, and also one of the lightest at 10.6 ounces unloaded. Ruger has improved the appearance of this little gun, as well, and made it altogether easier and more enjoyable to fire. This is a disservice to owners who wish and should practice dry firing. Though I got to test the LCP II briefly, I didn’t check whether it can be dry fired. Gone are layers of confusing, impractical “safety” measures that made the original LCP a real punisher for anyone familiar with normal firearm function. The trigger has a long, but not too heavy, pull and long reset. This upgraded model of Ruger’s well-known LCP, chambered only in 380, has many improvements upon its predecessor. At the corporate level, Ruger has made a true effort to listen to customer suggestions. The company has yet to present any alternatives to the stock one.Įxpect to pay high $300s to low $400s for a Nano, or quite a bit less if you’re willing to wait for a used model. It’s cool to be modular in today’s gun industry, and Beretta designed the polymer grip and other aspects of the gun in shroud-like fashion. At least some models have proven ammo-sensitive practice with factory-new, American-made cartridges should prevent ammo-related malfunctions. The Nano is well-liked by its owners for its style, dependability, and +P rating. Although it looks a bit top-heavy, with the bore axis riding well above the shooter’s forearm line, its recoil is not any worse than other sub-compacts in this caliber. You Don’t Need A Firearms License For This Weapon!Īs on the Glock, the Nano has a reversible magazine release. A simple striker-fired system and slim profile, with every corner and edge rounded, lend a space age look to the Nano, as well as facilitating snag-free draws. This six-plus-one capacity 9mm is one of the few concept gun designs that’s made it to the pocket pistol market.

Probably the newest firearm on this list, followed by the Glock. With the suggested accessories, it’s closer to a $600 package.īeretta Nano. Better deals can be found if one shops for them. Though I’d like to pack a bigger caliber, I’ve yet to find one that equals the comfort of the small, but shootable, 380s.Īverage market price for a 42 is in the low to mid $400s. This enhancement, along with a set of tritium night sights, has created what for me is the ideal concealable firearm. Since the 42 has no rail, the device clamps, then is screwed onto, the front of the trigger guard. This is the first handgun for which Streamlight produced its TLR-6 laser/light combo. This is one gun I carry often, and I find it convenient to slide an extra mag into a front pocket just in case. Much consternation has arisen from the fact that its magazines only hold six rounds. This smallest of Glocks has all the same basic features and external design of its full-size brethren. 380 caliber made by a company whose reputation for dependable firearms is legendary. These can be a good option for someone new to concealed carry who wants to try a revolver without a huge financial commitment. There are currently new models for sale ranging from $100 to $800. LCR prices vary widely depending on options, like lasers and caliber. Upgrade to the stainless series, and choices include 357 magnum, 327 Federal magnum, and 9mm Luger. It comes in 22LR, 22WMR (those with a capacity of eight rounds), and 38 Special five-rounder that is +P rated. The best thing about the LCR is the choice of calibers. Newer models have a white insert to make the front sight more visible however, I have seen this little asset fall off more than one LCR. The fire-control group is polymer for weight reduction, and the cylinder is stainless steel. This frame of this double action-only, hammerless revolver is made from aircraft grade aluminum.

Here are five models of so-called pocket pistols I own or have tried, and feel confident in recommending: While carrying in a pants or jacket pocket is not without drawbacks-including serious safety risks if the gun is in the pocket with other objects and/or not inside a holster-it is convenient. These little guns are popular, and for good reason. The term refers to small, highly concealable guns, generally sporting a three-inch or smaller barrel, and a standard capacity of less than nine rounds including the chamber, often less.
