Best Glock for Concealed Carry: Top Models for Discreet Protection

Glock remains one of the most popular and trusted brands worldwide among civilians and law enforcement agencies when considering a concealed-carry firearm. Renowned for reliability and durability, with a wide range of models to suit different needs, Glock pistols are often the go-to choice for those seeking an effective and concealable self-defense weapon. The selection process for the best Glock for concealed carry should involve evaluating several critical aspects, including size, caliber, capacity, and personal comfort.

Selecting the ideal Glock for concealed carry is a highly personal choice that involves balancing the need for a firearm that is easy to carry discreetly with one that has sufficient firepower and capacity. Various models offer advantages, such as the subcompact Glock 43, which is easy to conceal, or the larger Glock 19, which provides a higher round capacity. Understanding your requirements and carrying context is paramount in choosing the Glock that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle and provides the level of protection you seek.

Key Takeaways

• Glock offers a variety of models suitable for concealed carry, with choices catering to different preferences and needs.
• The best concealed carry Glock balances concealability, firepower, and capacity with personal comfort and handling.
• When selecting a Glock for concealed carry, consider personal factors such as body type, daily routine, and proficiency.

Understanding Glock Models

Glock pistols are renowned for their reliability, simplicity, and versatility. Choosing the right Glock for concealed carry involves understanding the different generations, sizes, and caliber options available.

Glock Generations

First Generation:

• Introduced in the 1980s.
• Textured grips without finger grooves.

Second Generation:

• Early 1990s production.
• Checkering was added to the front and rear grips.

Third Generation:

• Released around the late 1990s.
• Incorporated finger grooves and accessory rails.

Fourth Generation:

• Came out in 2010.
• Features interchangeable backstraps and a rough textured frame.

Fifth Generation:

• Launched in 2017.
• Improvements include a flared mag-well, no-finger grooves, and an ambidextrous slide-stop lever.

Size and Caliber Options

Subcompact:

• Ideal for concealed carry.
• Includes models like the Glock 26 in 9mm.

Compact:

• Balances concealability and handling.
• Models such as the Glock 19 offer a standard 15-round capacity of 9mm.

Standard:

• Full-sized pistols for various uses.
• The Glock 17 is a classic example, chambered in 9mm.

Calibers:

• Glocks are available in a range of calibers.
• Popular choices for concealed carry include 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP.

Features of a Good Concealed Carry Glock

When selecting a Glock for concealed carry, one should prioritize concealability, reliability, ergonomics, and safety. These features ensure the firearm performs efficiently when needed and remains discreet and comfortable to carry.

Concealability

A Glock ideal for concealed carry should have a compact form factor. For example, the Glock 19 and Glock 43X offer reduced barrel lengths of 4 inches and 3.41 inches, respectively, making them easier to conceal without significant imprinting under clothing.

Reliability

Glocks are renowned for their reliability. A concealed carry Glock must function flawlessly across various conditions. The Glock 19, for instance, is praised for its consistent performance and a standard 15-round capacity, ensuring dependability.

Ergonomics

Ergonomically, a Glock should fit comfortably in the hand and allow for a confident grip. Thanks to its slim profile, the Glock 48 offers a full-sized grip, enabling a sturdy hold without compromising concealability.

Safety

Safety mechanisms are vital in a concealed carry weapon. Glocks feature inherent safety features like the Safe Action System, including trigger safety, firing pin safety, and drop safety. This system ensures the gun will fire only when the trigger is deliberately pulled.

Top Picks for Concealed Carry

When choosing a Glock for concealed carry, one must consider the balance between size, capacity, and handling. Each model uniquely combines these factors to suit individual preferences and concealment needs.

Glock 19

The Glock 19 is renowned for its reliability and versatility. Chambered in 9mm, it provides a standard capacity of 15 rounds. Its dimensions, including a 4-inch barrel and an overall length of 7.28 inches, make it a compact choice that does not compromise firepower or ease of shooting.

Glock 26

Often called the "Baby Glock," the Glock 26 offers a more compact design with a shorter barrel and grip. This model is also chambered in 9mm but has a reduced standard capacity of 10 rounds. Its petite size is especially suitable for deep concealment or individuals with smaller hands.

Glock 43

The Glock 43 is one of Glock’s slimmest models, making it an excellent choice for ultra-concealability. It's a single-stack 9mm with a 6-round capacity, which benefits users looking for a lighter and thinner option for everyday carry without the bulk.

Glock 48

A newcomer to the Glock family, the Glock 48 blends concealability with a comfortable grip and improved sightline. It features a 10-round capacity and a slimline design, much like the Glock 43, but with a more extended slide to aid users in achieving better accuracy.

Carry Considerations

Choosing the right Glock for concealed carry involves more than just selecting a firearm. One must consider the complete ecosystem surrounding concealed carry, including how the gun will be carried, the type of ammunition used, adherence to legal requirements, and proficiency in firearm handling.

Holster Choices

The holster is critical for concealed carry, as it secures the firearm and can affect comfort and accessibility. A Glock 19, for example, may fit best in an IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster for concealment, while a Glock 43X, due to its slim profile, could be more suitable for an AIWB (Appendix Inside the Waistband) holster.

Ammunition Selection

Ammunition for concealed carry should balance stopping power with the risk of over-penetration. A 9mm Luger round is commonly used in models like the Glock 19 and 43X for its effectiveness. It's essential that the chosen ammo is reliable and functions well with the specific Glock model being carried.

Legal Implications

Concealed carry permit holders must understand and comply with state and federal laws governing the use of firearms. This includes knowing where a gun can legally be carried and the obligations one has in encounters with law enforcement.

Training and Handling

Regular training is essential for safe handling and accuracy. Regardless of the model, owners of a Glock should routinely practice drawing from their holster, aiming, shooting, and safely securing their firearm. Proficiency in these areas contributes to responsible concealed carry.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses questions commonly encountered by individuals seeking the best Glock for concealed carry, focusing on model-specific advantages, size, capacity, and comfort.

What are the advantages of the Glock 19 Gen 5 for daily concealed carry?

The Glock 19 Gen 5 stands out for concealed carry due to its balance between compact size and ample capacity. It offers a 15-round capacity with a frame designed for everyday comfort, making it reliable and practical for consistent use.

How does the Glock 43x compare to other concealed carry options in size and capacity?

The Glock 43x has a slim profile and a single-stack magazine, facilitating concealment. Despite its sleek frame, it boasts a capacity of 10+1 rounds, striking a balance between concealability and firepower that is often compared favorably against other subcompact options.

Can the Glock 45 ACP models be comfortably concealed for everyday carry?

Glock's 45 ACP models, like the Glock 30 and Glock 36, are engineered for concealability with a single-stack design and shorter frames. However, due to the larger cartridge, these models may be more challenging to conceal than their 9mm counterparts but remain a dependable choice for those who prefer .45 caliber.

What makes the smallest Glock 9mm an ideal choice for concealed carry?

The small frame of the Glock 43, Glock's most compact 9mm model, enhances its suitability for concealed carry. It offers manageable recoil and a six-round capacity, appealing to users who prioritize minimal imprinting without sacrificing the trusted 9mm caliber.

How does carrying a Glock 19 for CCW compare to other handguns regarding concealability and comfort?

Carrying a Glock 19 for concealed carry is favored for its intermediate size, which blends concealment with comfort. It is often compared to larger and smaller handguns, presenting an advantageous middle ground for those seeking a versatile and easily concealable firearm.

Between the Glock 43x and Glock 48, which offers better concealment and performance for everyday carry?

With their slim frames, both the Glock 43x and Glock 48 are tailored for concealed carry. The primary difference lies in barrel length; the Glock 48's longer barrel provides a slight advantage in precision without compromising concealability. The choice between them often hinges on the user's preference for barrel length relative to concealment needs.