Best 5 Carry Guns for Women: Top Picks for Safety and Comfort

Choosing the right carry gun is not just a practical decision; it's an empowering one. Especially for women considering self-defense, the right firearm can provide a profound sense of control and confidence. This article explores the top options, emphasizing ease of use, safety, and comfort. A suitable handgun can make women feel more secure and confident in their protection, enhancing their peace of mind.

The variety of concealed carry handguns available today is a testament to the empowerment of women in the firearms industry. Each option offers different features to suit different lifestyles and preferences, ensuring every woman can find a firearm that meets her needs. Whether prioritizing concealability, control, or ease of use, this list highlights the best models on the market, giving women a wide range of choices.

1) Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ

The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ is designed to be exceptionally user-friendly, instilling a sense of comfort and confidence in those who may find traditional pistol operations challenging. Its easy-to-rack slide makes it appealing to individuals with limited hand strength, ensuring they can handle the firearm with ease.

This pistol is available in .380 ACP and 9mm calibers, providing versatility for personal preference. Its lightweight and compact design makes it well-suited for concealed carry, and the grip safety feature enhances security and peace of mind when handling the firearm.

Thanks to its lasignificanteasily visible sights, the M&P Shield EZ series provides a clear sight picture. Its straightforward disassembly makes cleaning and maintenance more accessible for new shooters or those seeking reliability. These user-friendly details define the M&P Shield EZ as a practical choice.

Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, promoting better shooting control and accuracy. The handgun's reputation for reliability and ease of use is supported by its durable construction, offering lasting performance. These aspects make the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ a top choice for personal defense.

2) Sig Sauer P365

The Sig Sauer P365 is a highly regarded choice for a reliable and compact carry gun. It is often favored for its balance between size and capacity.

With its slender profile, it is easy to conceal without sacrificing performance. The design makes it ideal for both new shooters and experienced gun enthusiasts.

The P365 is praised for its 10+1 round capacity, which is impressive for its small frame. High ergonomic standards make it comfortable to hold and shoot, contributing to its popularity.

Furthermore, this handgun features a smooth trigger pull and solid build quality. Both men and women appreciate its manageable recoil, making practice more enjoyable.

The P365 is also customizable, allowing users to add sights or lights to suit personal preferences. This adds to its versatility and allows for a personalized experience.

Offering reliable performance in a compact package, the Sig Sauer P365 is a top contender in concealed carry options.

3) Glock 43X

The Glock 43X is perfect for women seeking a reliable concealed-carry handgun. It is known for its slim, compact design, which makes it comfortable to wear and easy to conceal. With a single-stack magazine, the Glock 43X offers ten rounds, balancing capacity with a narrow profile.

This model features a short slide and barrel totaling 6.5 inches in length. It weighs 18.7 ounces when empty, so it is lightweight. Its grip has a textured surface, providing a firm hold. This helps shooters manage recoil and maintain control during firing.

The Glock 43X is praised for its durability and consistent performance. It is often recommended for personal defense due to its simple and intuitive operation. Those new to shooting find it easy to operate, as it has fewer controls than other models.

The Glock 43X is not just a reliable choice; it's also customizable. Many users appreciate options like different sight configurations or grip enhancements, which can improve shooting accuracy and comfort. This level of personalization allows women to tailor their shooting experience to their preferences, enhancing their sense of control and confidence.

4) Ruger LCP II

The Ruger LCP II is in the sweet spot  for those needing a small, lightweight handgun. It is chambered in .380 ACP and designed for easy concealment, making it ideal for women who carry it.

Its compact size allows it to fit comfortably in a pocket or small purse. Despite its small frame, the Ruger LCP II delivers reliable performance. This makes it suitable for personal protection.

The gun is also known for its ease of use. Its improved trigger system is often praised for providing a smoother shooting experience. The grip is designed to offer better control, which is important for maintaining accuracy.

Though it lacks advanced customization options, the Ruger LCP II is appreciated for its straightforward design and, most importantly, its reliability. Its focus on reliability and simplicity makes it a reliable pick among pocket pistols, giving women a sense of security and trust in their firearms.

5) Taurus GX4

The Taurus GX4 is a popular choice for a compact and powerful handgun. This model stands out with its micro-compact size, making it easy to carry discreetly. Its dimensions, measuring about 6.05 inches in length and 4.25 inches in height, ensure it fits comfortably in most hands.

Weighing 18.5 ounces when unloaded, the GX4 remains light enough for daily carry. Its grip width of around 1.00 inches provides a solid hold, which can boost confidence during use. Its slim profile makes it easy to conceal under clothing, a key feature for anyone prioritizing discreet carry.

The 9mm caliber of the Taurus GX4 offers sufficient stopping power, making it ideal for personal defense. With an 11-round magazine capacity, it provides more rounds than many other models. This can be crucial in situations where multiple shots may be necessary.

The Taurus GX4 combines ease of use with the power and features for practical concealed carry. Its design reflects thoughtful attention to both form and function, ensuring it meets the needs of many users.

Choosing the Right Carry Gun

Selecting a carry gun involves considering various factors like size, weight, and ease of use. Comfort and fit are crucial to ensure the weapon can be handled effectively in different situations.

Factors to Consider

The size and weight of a carry gun are essential. A weapon that is too heavy might be uncomfortable for everyday carry. Concealability is crucial, especially for those looking for discreet options. Smaller guns are often easier to conceal.

Safety features and how they operate should also be evaluated. Some prefer guns with manual safeties, while others might choose simpler designs without external safeties. The caliber of the weapon affects both recoil and stopping power, so it's essential to match this with personal requirements.

The capacity or number of rounds a gun can hold impacts how often it needs reloading. While high-capacity guns might seem appealing, they can be heavier and bulkier. Deciding on the balance between capacity and size is vital.

Personal Comfort and Fit

The most effective carry gun is one that fits comfortably in the hand. A good fit can improve accuracy and control. Handles and grips come in different sizes and materials; trying several models can help find the right match.

Recoil sensitivity should also be considered. Smaller calibers often have less recoil, making practice more enjoyable. It's important for the shooter to feel confident and in control. If possible, test-firing different guns can show how they perform in real life.

Clothing style and lifestyle can affect the choice of carrying method. Options range from belt holsters to purse holsters. Finding a system that feels natural ensures that carrying a gun becomes a seamless part of daily life.

Holster and Carry Methods

Women have various options for holsters and carry methods when carrying a firearm. Finding the right combination of comfort, safety, and accessibility is crucial.

Concealed Carry Options

Women have several concealed carry options, each offering unique benefits. Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are a popular choice. These are positioned inside the pants, making the firearm less visible. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Women often seek to carry guns that offer a blend of safety, ease of use, and performance. Popular models in 2024 feature reliable brands well-suited for different needs, including self-defense, ease of concealment, and beginner-friendliness.

What are the top concealed carry pistols for women in 2024?

In 2024, the leading concealed carry pistols for women include the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ, Sig Sauer P365, and Glock 43X. These models are praised for their reliability, compactness, and ease of handling, making them well-suited for everyday carry.

What are the best self-defense firearms for women to carry?

Women may prefer firearms like the Sig Sauer P365 and Ruger LCP II for self-defense. These options provide a balance of power and concealability. Their design offers quick deployment and firm performance, ensuring safety in potentially dangerous situations.

How does hand size affect a woman’s choice to carry guns?

Hand size is crucial in gun selection, influencing grip comfort and trigger reach. Models like the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ are designed to accommodate smaller hands, enhancing control and confidence in handling. Each woman needs to try out different models to find the best fit.

What is the most suitable gun for a woman living alone?

A woman living alone might prioritize a reliable and easy-to-use gun. The Glock 43X is often recommended for its simplicity and trusted performance. Its features facilitate quick and efficient use, which is ideal for ensuring home security and personal protection.

What are the optimal handgun choices for female beginners?

The Taurus GX4 and Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ are favored for beginners due to their user-friendly designs. These firearms typically have manageable recoil and straightforward mechanisms, helping newcomers build confidence and skill more quickly as they learn.

What concealed carry clothing options are available for women?

Women have several clothing options specifically designed for concealed carry. These include specially made holster shirts, leggings with built-in holsters, and belly bands. These clothing pieces help ensure women can keep their guns discreet and comfortable. This allows them to integrate carrying into everyday life seamlessly.