7 Best & Worst Carry Guns On Any Budget

[@MinnesotaCouchpotato]

Timestamps 01:10 - Springfield Hellcat Pro 05:05 - Glock 43-X 08:05 - Stoeger STR-9C 12:05 - Taurus GX4XL 14:15 - Keltec P15 19:15 - M&P Shield Plus 23:05 - Sig Sauer P365

[@PaintedBlack-mi6wn]

@@MinnesotaCouchpotato shadow systems cr920x/p/xp Hellcat/rdp/pro/pro comp Phenomenal options.

[@zappur]

Thanks bro

[@jasonpotter274]

The correct answer to the best ccw is the one you know, are comfortable with and that you practice with.

[@gk5891]

@jasonpotter274 I shoot G30S better than the G26. My little sister shoots the P365 .380 better than anything else that conceals well with her wardrobe (reducing temptation to purse carry). Those are ideal for us, they may not be Ideal for someone else.

[@bastianc.717]

@@jasonpotter274 i see what you’re trying to say, but there are some things that make that not fully hold up. There are objectively bad options.

[@michaelbuck8884]

Bruh, I am so tired of these thumbnails. Don’t put the Equalizer as a “not good” gun on the thumbnail when you don’t even review it. I have one, and from smith and Wesson it’s a fantastic gun.

[@AzrockOmegaMan]

I support this comment. I hope the dude putting up the video also see and can agree.

[@anthonykozar9172]

@michaelbuck8884 my wife has it- she absolutely loves it. I like it a lot too. Well built, shoots well, over 1000 rds and not one malfunction

[@radf-zf7ev]

I only clicked because I didn't recognize the Equalizer. Thank you for saving me time. I hate lying thumbnails.

[@RepentorPerish77]

Why are grown men getting bent out of shape b/c someone says their gun isnt good. If you know it’s good that’s all that matters…people talk crap about all guns…build a bridge and get over it

[@Tetrumo]

I was hoping it was an image of a taurus, I was disappointed

[@ChargerusPrime]

I daily carry a Smith and Wesson m&p9 m2.0 compact optics ready with a thumb safety and flat face trigger. BEST pistol I've ever owned, comfortable to shoot, LIGHTS OUT accurate provided I do my part and it's not too heavy. I carry it in an urban carry G3 below the waistband holster and it functions FLAWLESSLY!! I will say after about 200 rounds, my hands were sore to a point but nothing to write home about at all.

[@gk5891]

@ChargerusPrime I own the 2.0 .40C 4" + 9mm 1.0 4.25" barrel. Really soft shooter with 180 or 9mm 147.

[@Kaiserland111]

I've been carrying the original Shield for awhile, and last year I bought the Shield Plus. That gun is amazing in the hand, completely reliable, shoots well (partly because of the weight), has a durable finish, and is optics ready. Buy it when there is either a rebate or magazine special from S&W and you've got an incredible concealed carry gun for a low price. I also would recommend the Ruger LCP Max if you want to carry while in gym shorts or other clothes that don't include a belt. It fits nicely in a pocket with a pocket holster and doesn't weigh much, allowing you to be armed when others would never suspect it.

[@34dawgsgo]

We are a like. Shield Plus for IWB appendix. Yeah I know controversial but feels best to me. LCP Max in a Vedder pocket locker when dress calls for a tuckable shirt. "Pocket Carry" Best of both worlds IMO.

[@rondobrondo]

Those are two of the first guns I got haha. I really like both of them, but the LCP Max requires you to aim it very strangely, you have to aim a lot higher than you think

[@matthewbeaver5026]

​@@rondobrondomy max is the same way. Though it's so easy to keep with me. I deal with it.

[@deebee4575]

I've had the Shield Plus for almost 2 years and have almost 6000 rounds through it. Out of my three pistols, it feels best in my hand and my hands are not small. The thing is just flawless. No frills, good price, and flawless. If it broke or got stolen, etc., I just buy the same one again.

[@professored7169]

Yo did you see sw bodyguard 2.0?

[@TheHappyburro13]

I love my 365x macro...I have the base version. Carry this thing everyday. I was carrying my xdm elite, but now it is only the macro!

[@clintonnichols4379]

I carry a sig 365 x macro every day as a back up primary fn 509 tatical great gun both loaded with rip rounds

[@kevinrtres]

Sorry to hear about your health issue - hope you get better soon. Just a suggestion re. the back surgery - might help a lot to lose the extras around the midriff by cutting completely any sugar and wheat intake and then start low intensity, high repetition leg lifts to strengthen the abdominals when the injuries have healed sufficiently. Just a thought.

[@josephmcbrien7646]

Great advice! Even just starting with simple, consistent cardio, then focus on the diet (drink your water!!)

[@1804Defender]

Excellent advice 👍🏾👍🏾

[@deejayimm]

100% JUST losing weight can stop lower back issues. I injured my back delivering sub zero refrigerators in my 20s. I was 50lbs overweight, and dealt with pain everyday for years. Lost 30lbs and ZERO back pain for years. I have put most of that back on again, and the pains are becoming regular again. I eat pretty clean, but I wish I didn't LOOOOOOVE beer. Ehh.

[@Nerotique]

Traction also can help with low back pain.

[@MichaelGolpe]

Yes, but with a strong focus on maintaining good posture!

[@darke0311]

I carry my PSA Dagger Micro every day, excellent trigger, 15 rds, didn’t think I’d love it as much as I do

[@SomeGuy.with.a.Beard93]

I loved mine so much that I’m going back to buy the full size Dagger. PSA is killing it!! Got my eyes on the new Jakl. Gonna get a suppressor stamp and have it pinned and welded on their 14” barrel so I don’t have to get a SBR stamp

[@michaelharwood3857]

I love my daggers i currently have 6 and trying to get my hands on a micro dragger. I’d even trade my canik for one.

[@darke0311]

@ save some money buying it in pieces, barrel, complete slide, and lower

[@HVSJR-n5q]

Have a 365 XL. Shot my first 32 shots at the range at 20 yards. All center mass and would have done the job. It soon convinced me that it was my carry. Recently I bought a Shadow 2 compact. While a bit heavier it’s all metal but shoots like a dream. It’s become my backup. All are 15 plus one.

[@bobjones-bt9bh]

how do you know it would have done the job? have you used those cartridges from that firearm on a living target and judged the outcome?

[@wesmccage]

@@HVSJR-n5q S2C shoots awesome for me as well. Too heavy for daily carry, hunting excluded, but amazing accuracy.

[@HVSJR-n5q]

@@bobjones-bt9bh ok all we’re in the chest area. Does that sound better to you? I’m not an expert I admit that but anyone who gets shot in the chest is probably going to think again about continuing on.

[@thejazzpreacher]

I have a full size STR-9 in my edc rotation. I get what you’re saying about the serrations with sweaty hands, but the accuracy is right up there with my PDP.

[@ciaramikics9284]

The 43x fits perfectly in my hands, and the 10-round capacity is the most my state allows. I will, however, agree that the sights must be replaced instantly. The trigger on the 43x is as good as the G3C that I also own.

[@chrisbiro1]

I carry a Hellcat pro inside the waistband. The 18 round capacity and red dot ready makes this one hell of a choice for EDC. This gun is exactly the same size as my M&P Shield with only 8 rounds.

[@skchen83]

Thanks for this video. I've always liked your videos with well thought-out opinions. That said, I recently got a surprise after conceal carrying for 7 years. My situation is that I'm a bit of a slim build (6', 155lbs), so I don't have a lot of room/padding to 3:30-4 O'Clock carry. So, I've stuck with a small single-stack. In my case, it's been a Walther PPS/M1 since I'm a paddle-release guy. This has been the case for 5 plus years and I've been happy. Recently I ran across a PPQ/SC at price I couldn't refuse, despite me not thinking I could CC it given it's Glock 26 profile plus the button mag release. When I got home with it, I decided to give it a try and was shocked at how well it fit me! I ordered a pinkie extension mag and now, it's my everyday carry. So, you never know!

[@wreckinball11]

I've carried the PPS for 10 years but capacity these days worries me. Just ordered a H&K VP9.

[@matthewbeaver5026]

Look at the vp9sk or p30sk. If you don't mind the width have paddle mag release.

[@lancemateer6342]

I carry the 43x and I absolutely love it

[@heavycoughin6665]

me too, and a 45, both are awesome guns. Never jam, never fails.

[@mongrelrogers9642]

Me too...either a G48 or G43x. Polished connector. Lots of rounds, great combat trigger. I haven't had a jam in over 3000 rounds. Cheap enough that if I ever need to use it (God forbid) and they confiscate it? Who cares. lol

[@phfay7]

Oh the humanity! How dare you say a Glock works!

[@josephpepe2607]

@@mongrelrogers9642G48 💯

[@RonaldRoy-nb2lm]

Thank you, my wife and I both love our 365 xl w/red dot...excellent EDC

[@EJMOZ]

@RonaldRoy-nb2lm I think im gunna do the same. Debating on the comped. Ersion

[@curmudgeon76]

​@EJMOZ I've tried the comped slide with a romeo 0 dot on the regular 365 frame. Ran a mixed bag of sh!t ammo through it (500 rounds, steel, aluminum, brass, fmj, variety of hollow points. Bought cheap at a LGS). Nothing negative to say about it. It ate and put it all on target. Obviously the accuracy varied due to the ammo, but I was Impressed

[@vironpayne3405]

In general a great assessment. I personally ended up going with a M&P 2.0 Compact with a 4in barrel. The main deciding factors were a thumb safety and reviews with a good price point. For me the thumb safety was a must for an appendix carry. I do have a bit of a gut so I don't necessarily have a good view to make sure I haven't gotten the trigger hung up on something as I am holstering the gun. A thumb safety is additional peace of mind. I only use it when holsters. The trigger is the newer first gen flat trigger. It did feel a little grungy but now with about 500 rounds its feeling much better. The one thing I didn't hear you talk about much was choosing a gun that is as large as you can comfortably carry. You did talk about weight, but I am thinking about sight radius. As I am 61yo and getting to be far sighted I realized I should probably switch to a dot sight. I ended up with a Holosun green dot and an Olight laser and light. I realize for safety I need to utilize sights that allow me to focus on the threat and larger environment. Focusing on the front sight was not allowing me to do that effectively. The laser and green dot allow me to do that much more effectively. Shooting 15ft-20ft is mere point and shoot in most instances, but for me 25ft-30ft is about where I need to start aiming. I haven even practiced beyond 15m. 90% of my practice is 7m and 10m. That seems to be within the most common threat distances. I may purchase a full size M&P 2.0 with a 5in barrel and try it on the compact lower with a different holster for appendix carry. Its all about comfort and confidence to shoot accurately with reasonable speed. For this OG 1sec splits are fine. I just prayer our nation gets back to God before it blows apart or falls into a socialist dictorship. We've already seen TWO soft coup de etat. One on Trump and one on Biden.

[@RecklessRayDinero]

0:14 yoooo! That intro just landed you a sub!!! Well played sir 🤣🫡

[@gearmonkey5904]

Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge with all of the firearms you showed to us in your video. Great job to you and your team. Looking forward to seeing more of your work ie videos.

[@sidekickz2180]

With the 43x, I can tell you EXACTLY what happened in Glock's board room: someone suggested a P365-sized, G43 upgrade. Then someone mentioned "Hey, we can make a slim version of the 19, call it the 48, and use ITS grip on a 43! We'll save MONEY!!!" And when the word "money" was uttered, all the directors came at the same time. It was a mess

[@BiggRoscoe]

😂😂😂

[@RecycledSoul]

Then, the guy heading up the design team called in super excited to show them all the fruits of his months of hard work. The new, more pleasing aesthetics, ergos, and up-to-date features, and...

[@Jarrow13]

The Glock 48 as a pistol for draconian states with the 10 round mag cap limit, has a valid place in those states. But out of the box for the rest, it's over shadowed by other non Glock brands like Sig and Springfield. I wish I was able to CC a longer slide and barrel easy as these sub 3.5 inch barrel lengths of the micro 9's is a big drawback, due to what it was meant for... self defense and we all know when you start going into the realm of sub 3.5 inch barrels, you really become limited in SD ammo choices.

[@danielburnham1502]

I carry the smith and wesson m&p 2.0 9mm, no thumb safety, 4.25-inch optics ready. 17. The ability to change the back strap for comfort and plenty of holsters

[@darkedge117]

For anyone buying a gun for conceal carry or duty. I recommend buying trusted brands like Glock, S&W, Sig (hammer, not striker), CZ, Beretta. Dont cheap out to protect your life. You can even find these used, or police trade ins if you cant afford one brand new. For range guns, have at it. Buy and try whatever you want.

[@fenrisgaming8982]

If it's comfortable to carry, comfortable to shoot, goes bang every time you pull the trigger and hits what you're aiming at, why not also have at it? Even trusted brands have a lemon pass through from time to time and can let you down when you need it most. I think a better thing to do is get out there and practice alot with whatever you intend to carry so you can gauge its reliability for yourself.

[@mikegray8164]

Gx4 for edc and gx4 carry in the nightstand. Works very well!

[@codys4863]

Bought the Gx4 for my wife when measure 114 started rolling around in Oregon. Thought I made a big mistake after hearing micro 9’s are hard to shoot and are snappier, I was new to guns. We both love shooting it. Trigger is great, recoil is very manageable and it’s fun to shoot.

[@mikegray8164]

@@codys4863 I would suggest sticking to the 13 round mags. It makes it much more controllable.

[@codys4863]

@@mikegray8164 We have the 13 round and the pinky extensions for the 11 round magazines. I have large hands and still no problems with control over it. Enjoy shooting it almost as much as my cz P10 C.

[@jasonlawrence2568]

I have a GX4 Carry well north of 2,500 rounds through it. Runs everything like a champ. I've shot about every compact to mid sided pistol and it's my favorite by far. Even over my PX4 compact...

[@hosscartwright5322]

Love your work. Keep it up. Agree my P365 XL is a great balance of concealment and shootability. I did upgrade mine with a Ram Tactical trigger which is absolutely amazing. I was a little surprised not to see the H&K VP9 SK or the Walther PPQ on the list. The H&K VP9 SK is an amazing gun out of the box. The trigger and ergonomics make it perhaps my favorite out of the box shooter. Of course, it comes at a higher price point than any of the guns in this video.

[@Hegshot87]

Thanks man

[@steven3379]

I went with the Sig P365xl TacPac version, 4 weeks ago, 100 rounds thru it and I really like this pistol. Good video!

[@bradwhite4827]

Dude I’m glad to see how your channel has grown over the years! Good luck with the balcony brutha!

[@BingeymanIG]

Had a ruger security 9 and it had its issues but was very accurate. I EDC a Canik Mete MC9 now and it’s so comfortable and such a great shooter

[@darwinbrown8750]

I'd like to upgrade my M&P the APEX trigger

[@dtps_champion6016]

Mete is incredibly unreliable

[@BingeymanIG]

@@dtps_champion6016 I haven’t had a single issue. Not a failure to feed, extract, or fire at all even shooting out of white box Winchester ammo😂 I’ve switched up between aluminum and brass and hollows and FMJs and can’t report a single issue other than running out of ammo🤷🏾‍♂️ if I have one I’ll come back

[@dtps_champion6016]

@@BingeymanIG If you look around on KZbin there's plenty of out of battery, dead trigger in light rain, etc. Not saying your particular gun is unreliable but I don't purchase weapons that have a bad track record. My buddy owns a Canik and it shoots great. Love the triggers. I do own a Security-9. Underrated gun. Finish is ass, though.

[@Zenfuzz21]

Any update on your Canik Mete MC9? I keep seeing everywhere that issues arise around 600+ rounds fired.

[@Melstaylit]

As a new yorker we can only have 10 round mags, so mag capacity isn’t an issue so long as the gun holds 10+1

[@mongrelrogers9642]

Jersey here, same issue. All this talk of capacity is moot if you live in a restricted state. Why carry a larger pistol if you are stuck with 10 rounds?

[@Melstaylit]

@ well I do want some larger pistols, i do plan to leave NY so whenever I move to a free state i can always get the regular magazines. Some full sized pistols are really dope

[@HennessyyNCigarz]

Yall are limited to capacity. Glad I live in Texas

[@tinyt6330]

Love my 365's!

[@GrowLLLTigeRRR]

I've carried a Colt .45 ACP, Charter Arms .44 Special Bulldog, CZ 75 Compact, GLOCK 33, Ruger SP101, and a SIG 938 legion. My favorite is the SIG 938 in a Mika pocket holster. Perfect for me.

[@kentuckyjustice1408]

I've had a G-26 Gen 3 for years. I bought a G-43 when they came out, just because I wanted to play with a single stack. I never "bit" on the 43X. My preference is still the G-26/27 (yes, I'm a 40 cal holdover). Note: police departments went to 9mm's because of - • cost • "weaker" qualifiers • available grants because the FBI went 9mm. Leaving the 40 was NEVER a performance issue. I applaud the gentleman who still rock a 357 Magnum. I appreciate your thoughts. Thanks for the video. 👍

[@awkwardme5375]

I'm one of those guys who carries a G43X everyday, and I'll be honest, I ADORE it. Now, the 43X was my first handgun, and the tool I learned to shoot and conceal-carry, so I'm particularly comfortable with it. If I carried a 43 or a 19 first, maybe I'd feel differently. I went in expecting to buy a G23, but the 43X just felt so right in my hand, and a few thousand rounds later (over 1k through a PSA 15rd mag, zero malfunctions, plus upgraded tritium combat sights), it just feels like my most trustworthy EDC firearm. I can totally understand how one's impressions and opinions of it could be influenced by when they tried it, and *what* they had tried before. For me, trying it as a blank slate concealed carrier, I've found it to be a phenomenonal choice - way more accurate and controllable than a 43, way easier to carry and conceal than a 19, and with a 15rd mag **that you've PROVEN to be reliable to carry**, it just seems like the premiere concealed carry firearm. Of course, your mileage may vary. For me, it's definitely "it".

[@SombraPiloto]

Does your 43X lock open when empty with the PSA mags? Mine doesn't and the only other PSA mag user I've encountered at the range I work at had the same issue.

[@awkwardme5375]

@@SombraPiloto Hey, so yes - I only have one Dagger Micro 15rd mag, but it runs *flawlessly* in my 43X. Not a single malfunction or failure to achieve slide lock-back. And I DUMP that thing when I'm at the range, and also test my two carry ammos in it.. It seems I got a good one, but I know this is an issue for some. I know precisely why the FTF and slide lock issues happen, but it's a lot to explain. My first recommendation, if you decide to carry it, is file down the front steel lip. I did this to mine, not because I had an issue, but because I could feel the case rim wanting to hang up on it when sliding rounds out of the mag. This is not a good thing. Filing it down allows the rounds to smoothly chamber. Now, for your issue, disassemble your Glock and slowly seat the mag into the lower. See how it's pushing your slide release assembly up before dropping it down? That's not good. Now seat your OEM mag. See how it doesn't do that? Look where the PSA mag is causing the hangup (it'll be a section of the polymer partial overmold), and file that down just enough to where it isn't hanging up. And only *just*. For filing the lip down, there's an excellent video here. I'll try to find it and link it here. Personally, I wouldn't care TOO too much about slide lock, as I have to actively avoid riding the slide release in order to achieve lock-back, but you absolutely want to make sure it cycles reliably. All the PSA mag issues seem to be points that simply need to be filed down slightly. I didn't have issues before I filed mine, but I ended up doing it anyway, as I decided to devote it to my primary EDC mag. Also, I only load 15 ("14+1"), just to keep some extra pressure off the spring, as it's darn tight. I always load 16 at the range without issue, but I'm just being cautious. 15 certainly beats 11! Good luck!

[@awkwardme5375]

@@SombraPiloto I'll also add - don't be discouraged by any lack of tools. I honestly just used one of my girlfriend's nail files (starting with the coarse side, finishing with the fine side), and achieved a satisfactory result with that.

[@marinelaw]

​@@SombraPiloto My PSA micro dagger slide doesn't always lock on final round, but with me I think it's my hand placement that prevents it from proper function. I live with it. It's not my EDC.

[@silentzorah]

I run a G43X with a PSA Dagger Micro comped slide, and PSA Dagger Micro mags. Phenomenal gun, once I upgraded it. Same profile as the G19, same mag capacity but thinner and lighter. Love it.

[@Flyingtiger1726]

SAR9 SC. Just got the platinum version. The Sar9 SC is perfect for EDC, functionally excellent and fits my hand like it was custom made for it.

[@justinmcwilliams6759]

My carry is a G2C with an optic and super aggressive stippling, and it doesn't create any issues when carried appendix inside waist because of the holster. Also, Glocks are just not comfortable in my hand. My G2C and my Springfield XD9 fit much better.

[@RecklessRayDinero]

1:24 hole you heal up fast! look into box-157 & TB-500 to help speed up your recovery. I did a couple of cycles to help assure my Achilles surgery.

[@American-BadAss732]

Id say basically a sig p365 is the ultimate, a Taurus g3c g2c is a good budget option and awesome for the price.. or a PSA micro dagger if they ever come back

[@3rdRangerBN]

I brought my wife to get her her first carry gun and I was set on that taurus for her but she fell in love with the new S&W bodyguard 2.0 380 I’ve never been a fan of S&W semi auto pistol but this little gun is incredible! I’m a bigger guy and couldn’t believe it was pretty comfortable for me! Your hand goes up higher on the back strap and I was really impressed by how little recoil is has, a lot less recoil then the Shield and as tiny as it is it comes with a 10 and 12 mag I have a few small carry guns but this is only a little bigger than the Kel tec 380 but it shoots like a bigger gun and I don’t get hit in the forehead by ejecting shells like the Kel Tec ! I bought one for myself and is my new go to! If you’re looking don’t let the small size fool you, they did it right with this one! It’s about $450 and I still haven’t seen any cheaper yet because it’s new and they fly off the shelf The Honest Outlaw did a short review on it Check it out, I love it

[@AleisterCrowly2]

When you mentioned that Stoger used to make Lugers a buddy of mine back in the 70's had a Stoger Baby Luger made in 380. It actually shot really well. As far as my conceal favorite I carry the Shield Plus, for normal carry I still carry my Sig 229.

[@wissn2112]

Went from original mellinium pt140 and glock 23 gen2 to pt140 pro. Now my favorite is 365XL. Hands down. Added magguts +2. Making 14+1.

[@jhky9611]

I agree 100% I have 365x out of my several carry guns 365x with maggot Springs 15 rounds in that small of a gun with a Holosun Green Dot 407k sight is my favorite .

[@WazowskiPHX]

Thanks for the review. I have a regular Hellcat. I want to get a comp version. I do have Sig P365-XL Rose Comp. I know it was tagging for the ladies, but I don’t care - I love the pistol; it’s my EDC. I enjoy your reviews. I wish you the best with your surgery.

[@StevenWilliams-i1c]

I guess I can be the odd-ball. I normally carry a Tisas PX-9 Carry. I've carried the CZ p-10 F and C. I've carried the M&P Shield Plus. For some reason, I got this new gun and I shoot it so well, that I started to carry it. So now I carry the S&W M&P 2.0 10mm. The recoil doesn't seem to bother me at all and I shoot it really well.

[@JasonSimon-yy1im]

I have the CZ P10C and truly love it. I’d do my S&W M&P 2.0 10MM if it wasn’t acting up.

[@LaserWrks]

I have the 365, the 365XL and the 365AXG Legion. Best shooting handguns I’ve ever owned. I was LE for just under 30 years and we carried Sig P220’s. Love the product.

[@JHavro]

I'm a Sig man through and through since 1983, I now conceal carry the Sig Sauer P320 XTen 10mm...

[@EricQuinn]

My Hellcat OSP is amazing. I shoot 1" at 10 yards, 1.5" at 15 yards. I can not complain. Then again I have been shooting handguns for 35 years now, and I know how to control recoil. Perhaps it is not a "beginners" gun, but a person could grow into it. The groups have been unreal tight. That grip...the tighter you hold on, the more it grips, but when it's inside the waistband it does not rub on my skin aggressively at all. The Hellcat OSP is the best concealed carry pistol I have ever owned. I was originally gonna get the 365, but here in CA we are limited to 10 rounds no matter what the gun was originally designed to hold. So I finally decided to go with the Hellcat. I am not disappointed.

[@user-ef1wb6bt8h]

I think you did a good and fair eval. I do have the hellcat and x macro. Love both. If I had to keep just one, it would be my macro. I have others, but not on your list. I couldn't find anything wrong or even worth discussing on your list. I'm a new viewer, but will definitely keep watching. Thank you

[@SuperPukebucket]

I carried a a CZ 75-SP01 appendix for a while, decided it was a little bit much since I'm 6' and 150lbs so I am fairly board shaped. So I downsized to a Shadow 2 compact

[@wesmccage]

Mine is a little heavy for dc but I have. Planning on upgrading the safety spring with the cgw spring for a better, more positive safety feel. Out of the many many carry size pistols I’ve shot it has the most impressive accuracy. I was amazed the first time I shot it. Just crazy accurate.

[@tomrkba4685]

It is super easy. Ed McGivern covered this in “Fast and Fancy Revolver Shooting”, published in 1935. The real issue is the American habit of premature optimization. The vast majority of people cannot shoot well and a red dot is a waste of money. If they cannot hit the 7 ring on a B27 consistently, all the bells and whistles are not important. The attributes that most shooters need, in addition to reliability, are: 1) Service size, Glock 19 or larger, 2) 4” barrel or longer for a decent sight radius, 3) Grip that fills and fits the shooter’s hand, 4) Sights thenshooter can see and 5) A decent trigger. Notice “convenience” is not on the list. The micro 9’s do not qualify. Shooters who are not proficient in handgun shooting should avoid small guns.

[@dtps_champion6016]

Apparently you haven't shot modern micro 9s. The shield plus is absolutely as smooth as a full-size gun with just as good of a purchase. I fail to see the downside.

[@ianstradian]

I bought a used PSA dagger compact with an upgraded trigger. It works. I have only had one issue and it was a brand of magazine, it doesn’t like Pro-mag magazines. The pistol has been super reliable with any ammunition or any other magazines ( that aren’t pro-mag) It has become my daily carry. I have a Ruger Max 9 that has been super reliable also and I carry it when I need a smaller firearm for concealed carry.

[@cameronrautmann2761]

I agree that the Shield Plus is one of the best I've ever shot. Don't know if you've tried it, but I also highly suggest the Kimber Mako. I cannot choose between the two! Serious questions that I hope you'll (or others) will respond to: the original Hellcat had way too much recoil for me. Does the pro have less recoil? I might consider going back to it if so. Also, I absolutely hate Taurus from my experience, but that was quite a few years ago. Have they improved that much that they're better nowadays? Might consider trying one again if so. Thanks for your videos and hope you recover soon!

[@kurtstewart4638]

Im 61 years young ,arthritic hands from many years of repatriations work ,getting near sighted,and small hands looked at spring field armory,smith &wesson mp and sig 365 fits my hands well any suggestion what might be good choice to purchase for me out of. All the hundreds and hundreds of pistols out there .ps looked at some revolvers too.😊

[@DougMcDave]

The Shield Plus, optics ready, is the one with Tru Glow sights.

[@theangrybanana07]

I’m still rocking my Glock 26 and love it, but I’ve been giving some serious consideration to the shield plus.

[@jaceprovo]

I like the video. I have several different concealed carry weapons. My main one is a Wilson SFX 93.25 inch 15+ one. I also have a nighthawk counselor which is 9+1. They are a little bigger but they are 1911/2011 platforms and shoot really well. If I want to go deep concealed, I carry a Zev 365 XL with a holosun EPS carry. I use a trigger guard holster and it really disappears IWB. I agree that the XL shoots better than the straight 365 in terms of handling characteristics The biggest challenge is transitioning from a 1911 to a striker fire trigger. Last, and probably least, is my LCP max. That’s for the pocket when you have no other options. Thank goodness there are lots of options in every price category and style nowadays.

[@davidbennett5905]

The Sig P365X has been my favorite EDC for a few years now. I got the Shield+ and was going to make it my new edc but I ended up going back to the P365X.

[@SomeGuy.with.a.Beard93]

What do you think of the PSA Micro Dagger vs the Glock 43x? IMHO the PSA grip and dovetail are better, 15 rounds in a compact is nice too.

[@aarongreenfield9038]

My best when it comes to budget is my Tarus millennium G2, it Reminds me a lot of my Canik, And cost around the same. I go to the range with it quite often, and it's my carry, and it hasn't Let me down. The only failure I have ever had with it, is I didn't get one sooner. Oh, and they look pretty damn cool too. In that industrial utilitarian boxy glock kind of way, which I love.

[@billmorgan5589]

I have lots of pistols the G2 is one of my favorites.

[@rhino67]

100% agree M&P Shield Plus

[@wizardofahhhs759]

I have two and carry both. One in .380 and the other in .45 auto. The Shield 2.0 is the most comfortable sub compact I've ever carried in that it shoots like a full sized handgun as far as accuracy is concerned.

[@brooksr4013]

I really love my M&P Shield Plus Perfomance Center I been carrying for only 5 years this is the best that I’ve used

[@stevephipps8870]

Do you guys get sore on thumb from the slide lock button? It's only thing I don't like about the gun. It hurts. I love everything else about it above my p365x. But it hurts to shoot it ugh

[@wizardofahhhs759]

@@stevephipps8870 I don't, but I have a later model, S&W supposedly fixed the issue with the hard to press slide lock. It's possible that you have an older model where that was an issue. I would contact S&W and see if it can't be corrected under warranty.

[@andreyababakov]

Agreed, got the shield plus and the 10mm compact from s&w, love them both great triggers especially if you drop in the apex striker block

[@StormbornJKU]

I carry a 43 with a 2 round mag extension for a 8+1, but I honestly don’t love it. I do love the simplicity. Glock is just very user friendly. It’s a simple design. It’s tried a true, functions great every time, etc. But I don’t love the way it shoots. Way too snappy, much more difficult to control and stay on target compared to what I’ve seen from a lot others. Really eyeing a Sig P365x!

[@jesseard3960]

I'm from south Carolina to. Been watching you for a year and some change now

[@jacobianmail]

I carry the og hellcat osp with a holosun eps, a tlr7sub light, a Harrington arms comp, an apex trigger, and a 15rd mag. Carry it appendix every day. Amazing rig.

[@rodneymoore7270]

Had my back surgery at the age of 30 right after serving in the military. Tender for a while and no real permanent problems after that (68 now). Do your self a favor and lose some weight and that will help.

[@davidr7333]

My friends and I drooled over the Springfield - until we shot it. For most of us, it felt too "snappy" compared to some others on your list.

[@jacobianmail]

The og base model is snappy, especially if it's not a awesome fit for your hands. I have one with a tlr7 light and a Harrington arms comp. So mine shoots pretty flat.

[@colinsmith5222]

I really hear you with light 9mm. I had a Diamond back DB9 and it was a super tiny super light 9mm and I didn’t enjoy shooting it. I had MANY people try it and have it fail to feed another round because it recoiled so hard many people who were not experienced shooters would limp wrist it.

[@jamesk9939]

I currently have the ruger security 9. Along with price, the 15 round mag is nice and it fits good in my hand and I have big hands. But also my girlfriend likes it because of it's size. Shoots nice.

[@dtps_champion6016]

It's a bit underrated. Finish isn't so great but overall a good gun

[@cheftorpedo33]

Been using the FN509 compact with compensator, really happy with it

[@BooDamnHoo]

In like my Taurus G3. No problems, comfortable appendix carry, not a budget buster.

[@bradenclark8505]

I love taurus they make great pistols for good pricing, got the G2C and had the G2S, however I've moved on to hellcat and will be getting the 365xl and glock 19 gen 5

[@ciaramikics9284]

Love my g3c, the g-series has vastly improved in quality, with the exception of the finish on the slide.

[@aquafreesh9219]

@@ciaramikics9284 I got the G2c swapped the trigger to single action, barrel to gold, recoil spring, back plate, switched the plastic guide for the upper to a metal one and lubed the F out of it, swapped the sights to tru glo all the upgrades combined were about 130$ on a 250$ gun and it’s run smooth as butter ever since, granted it’s the ship of Theseus at this point but it was a fun project gun to learn how to disassemble and rebuild firearms

[@desynchonosisdragon9108]

Just picked up the Shield Plus Performance Center with the optics and ported barrel. Really love it.

[@kahunaal1631]

Good review. Well done.

[@RustyShackIef0rd]

I gotta say, the p365 with the comp makes it to where I dont lose the dot on my 407k when i shoot.

[@flounderpounder2640]

43x mos guy here still love you hahaha its my only glock out of many handgun and its my edc i get what your saying about it only having a 10 round Capacity With a little bit of extra money you can get a metal mag release and use Shield magazines they are 15 round metal mags so there double stack haven't had any issues with them ... I'd be a liar if I didn't say it. I swapped out the sites for trudium Night sites also still love the hellcat

[@XxMrBossxX29]

Hellcat Pro: "Look what they need to mimic a fraction of our power!" Forreal though I'd love to go 43x when I get a carry 9. However I'm worried I'll get screwed by the magazines and get some unreliable ones.

[@nightcat87]

43X edc for years now and tried multiple versions gens of SA15 magazine and yeah they work but not good enough for me to trust them. My Glock magazines always run but the other magazines seems to have some hiccups. I don't like hiccups on my edc. Glock mags is what I trust from my experience. Yeah its only 10 rounds but its a reliable 10 and not a maybe 15.

[@ericborden281]

I carry a Mossberg MC2sc and love it. It’s light to carry and it is a great and reliable shooter. I’ve tried the hellcat and found it to snappy for my taste and the G43x just doesn’t feel right to me not a fan of it. I do own a G17 gen 1 and absolutely love it but a little too big for concealed carry.

[@davidr7333]

GX4XL, very nice gun. Just too bad replacement parts are not available - as such a "throw-away" once a part such as an extractor fails.

[@robertfarrow4256]

Nice report. I've fired most of these and agee with you thoughts. Unfortunately, there is no free lunch: small guns are snappy and require more practice, which is unplesant.

[@-HAYABUSA-]

Your definitely one of the few honest reviewers out there. I started out with the p320 .45 cal, which I still have but now I carry the xten 10mm which is weird to most but we take walks regularly so I wanted more of a bear gun with high capacity. I've just got used to carrying it everyday.

[@Hegshot87]

Thanks man

[@mikegraham8653]

Im soon to be a first time cc. Im a large guy at nearly 300 pounds. Ive only looked at guns online and right now its either the M18 or the Equalizer TS. Thoughts? I do know that I prefer IWB.

[@newenglandrider3189]

I CCW an inexpensive Ruger MAX-9 with their Ready-dot Site and a Hogue grip. I upgraded the trigger and recoil spring to both by MCarbo and it runs like any expensive gun. You can do this with any inexpensive gun - a couple of simple upgrades like a new trigger or recoil spring will get it running fine.

[@homelessman3483]

Lowkey junk

[@jason200912]

Isn't that max 380 better in all measurements

[@BingeymanIG]

Had a ruger security 9 and it had its issues but was very accurate. I EDC a Canik Mete MC9 now and it’s so comfortable and such a great shooter

[@whomagoose6897]

You said one thing that always needs to be said. Carry your gun in a good holster. Not every holster is worth your consideration. Many people prefer polymer holsters. Others get leather holsters. Those cheap cloth holsters should be left on the store shelves. Those neoprene holsters being the worst. I really like leather holsters, OWB and shoulder styles. Leather holsters with a thumb snap to retain the gun. All leather holsters must be broken in to match the gun your choice. Takes about a week or maybe two. You spent a lot of money for a gun. Spend the coin to get a holster that's good enough to do the job.

[@FKohler-km4fq]

I'm from SC and shoot at the same range you do. Excellent range choice. I went through the whole compact carry collection, many on your review. I've found CZ P07, DA/SA, budget friendly, not optic ready, but CZ customs or Cajun gun works can fix that. Good review Bo. Hell cat, sig, or any of the small polymer 9mm are a bit snappy. Something about that CZ P07 just shoots better for me. Also, while the magazines are proprietary to the firearm, it will accept all CZ mags, just can't put P07 mags in a CZ 75 Compact (another amazing carry option).

[@Grant6243]

I went from a CZ P-01 EDC > Hellcat. Sure it's snappier than the CZ (I love the P01 with a passion), but there is a huge difference in comfortability when carrying, especially appendix. I haven't had a chance to run a P07 so can't compare, but boy as much as I love my P01, carrying the Hellcat is 100x easier - I also tossed a Holosun EPS Carry on it, I needed to order a base plate cause the milled slide uses a different pattern, but was cheaper than having to send my slide on my P01 out to get milled.

[@AnthonyFryman]

I still love my Glock 43X and carry it all the time. The gun is extremely accurate with just minor tweaks out of the box.

[@007Chancellor]

Taurus and Kel-Tec's QC reminds me of the little girl who had a little curl, right in the middle of her forehead. When they are good, they are very very good. But when they are bad they are horrid! 🤣And I absolutely agree about the 365 series of Sigs. I turned my 365 into a 365X by adding he Wilson Combat grip module and I LOVE it. What a difference that little bit of palmswell and extra length makes to its shootability - not to mention going from 10 round flush fits to 12! Around my ranch and little rural AZ town, I generally EDC an Ed Brown Kobra Carry .45AARP 1911 (I'm sure you're appalled by that). But when I go into the city and need better concealment, I usually pack my P365.

[@brandonzanzig3200]

Canik TP9 Elite SC all day for me. Great trigger, 12 rounds or 15 with the included extended mag for a full grip. It feels great to shoot and groups amazing for its size. The slide is a bit wider than the hellcat, but the recoil isnt as snappy. I think it comes in 3oz heavier, so its not the lightest, but like you said, it feels much better to shoot because of that. The slide is also super smooth and tight with no play. I have an m&p 2.0 subcompact, a hellcat pro, and the canik. I carry the canik 80% of the time. Almost 1000 rounds and 0 malfunctions. Also, its $400 compared to $600 for the other two. Its just a no brainer for me.

[@isaiahmascarenas1209]

I currently open carry a tp9 elite combat and I wanna look for something I can conceal. The elite sc definitely looks like a good option especially cause parts are exchangable with my elite combat

[@stevephipps8870]

Bad thing is where it's made

[@isaiahmascarenas1209]

@@stevephipps8870 Why is that?

[@Asidebar]

I love my HELLCAT PRO. It's an excellent pistol.

[@D-A-1776]

Love the hellcat series, I carry a hellcat for a backup to my glock 19. Gen 5 g19 is still my top carry I've tried dozens of other but always come back to the 19 it's 100% reliable and accurate.

[@whatsup24_7]

Anyone that carries 2 firearms is goofy.

[@D-A-1776]

@@whatsup24_7 . No their not, there's nothing wrong with having a backup.

[@patriotpreacher43]

@@whatsup24_7you are right. Three minimum!

[@ajalvarez3111]

@@whatsup24_7 Anyone that thinks everyone should do everything the way you FEEL is correct is well beyond stupid.

[@rhyswilliam8146]

What is your reasoning for carrying 2 guns rather than a spare mag? Not hating just genuinely curious. Have a friend that does the same and trying to see if it’s for me.

[@damaribrackett1159]

Hey if you could do a video on best budget ARs it would be greatly appreciated new to firearms and want to get an AR soon I’ve been looking at the Smith and Wesson m&p 15 sport 2 but need more options

[@seaocean4868]

Decent video Hedgehog

[@DiscoFever1970]

Great video...but I don't EDC any of these. Why? I am: 1. Small 2. Modest means. 3. High crime area. Concealabity, carriability, and economy are priority. Top options: 1. Kel-Tec pocket carry. 2. " Baby Browning" .25 acp clones. 3. Derringer in .22. All of these weapons can be comfortably carried 24/7, affordable, not sought after by thieves. Throw in a steel stylus flashlight ( kubaton type), a Keychain can of pepperspray, and a belt worn CAT tourniquet...ready for the day or a late evening dog walk. Small people simply can't use these guns daily, imo. .380, .22, 25 acp. An option for the small and poor. Great vid.

[@gaarxeriss9692]

If you dont mind me asking. How small are you ?

[@dylanholbrook6239]

Ruger lcp

[@DiscoFever1970]

@@gaarxeriss9692 >5'6", 155 lbs, exercise moderately (150 minute cardio, 100 kb swings daily, push-ups, sit ups, bw squats, within military standards over 45), prior quals on M-9 Beretta, M-16 A1. Old with small hands, small frame. Was difficult to get a good grouping on M9 due to huge grips, still qualed. Any attempt to conceal anything larger than a Browning .25 acp looks like I have a tumor or priapus, lol.

[@DiscoFever1970]

@@gaarxeriss9692 👍. >5'6", 150 ishy exercises moderately (150 min cardio, pu, su, pup, 100kb swings daily. Small handssmall frame, old, poor.

[@DiscoFever1970]

@@dylanholbrook6239 👍

[@thepatriotsrock2]

No ❤ for the HK VP9 ?

[@Leothelion357]

Was that a S&W PC1911 full size that you were holding in the beginning? If so, did you polish or have it polished? It looks awesome! I bout one of those a few months ago and have it stock I love that firearm. Did you have any issues with the extractor pin coming out?

[@stickfighter1038]

My EDC is a Hellcat Pro because the grip works well with my wide hands. Middle aged and not a huge guy but have wide hands and workout so the IWB carry works for me. Use this in local two gun so many thousands of rounds ran without issues.

[@erice4611]

I love my Sig P365XL witha Wilson Comabt Grip and MagGuts 14rd mag capacity upgrade.

[@rlan3677]

I would put my Ruger Max 9 pro up against the Taurus, Keltec, Shield and the P365 as a small format conceal carry. Spent several hours picking up and handling all of the above and the Ruger just fits my hand better, your results may vary. As far as Glock goes I hated them for years then finally bought one because a friend was selling it cheap. Most reliable pistol I have ever had, never jammed on any ammo, unlike my S/W model 39 that I finally traded to get a Browning Hi Power.

[@Joeww]

I love my stoegers I own 2 i have the regular full size stoeger and the stoeger combat 9s which comes with 3 20 round mags which fit in the compact idk about the micro combat

[@duncanidaho2130]

American National living in Guatemala. I carry different guns, depending on the outing and outfit. From a Glock 22 all the way down to a five shot revolver.

[@naffin249]

You’re completely wrong about str-9. But yeah the serrations are its biggest flaw. I would still recommend it ESPECIALLY for the price.

[@Bikerdad03]

Shield arms makes great mags for the original 43, the g48, and the 43x that hold 15+1. I loved my 48 never cared for the snappy nature of the 43 but I have big mitts can’t really get a good grip on the wife’s 43

[@justaguy1253]

After a lot of trial and error I find myself rotating a 1911 9mm, 320 M17 and G19. I did have a 43X and while it was a bit easier to carry being tall makes it so much easier to carry a wide variety of things. The trade offs didnt seem worth it at the end of the day especially since the ones mentioned shoot so much nicer and have better mag/accessories.

[@therccelebrityspeedfresh5393]

I was about the get the new Glock 43X MOS with the sight. Super snappy to shot it I saw it on a video from classic fire arms

[@Thomas-yw9eo]

I Love the GX4 Carry except for it's height. If their 15 rnd mags were shorter like the Hellcat Pro's it would be less likely to print. I like it's grip shape Better than the Hellcat Pro's.

[@mikehoffman1019]

I’m guessing you never fired a IWI MASADA Slim 9? Low recoil, optic ready, 13 +1 with an amazing trigger. Down falls: no light rail and almost impossible to find. You won’t be disappointed!

[@SombraPiloto]

The Hellcat and Hellcat Pro are easily my 2 biggest purchase regrets of the past 5 years. They're both quite snappy when compared to the G43, G43X, or P365XL so it's just not worth the trouble to bother with them. If I'm gonna deal with unpleasant recoil I'll just shoot 10mm and get better ballistics. The 43X is another regret. I'm a Glock guy so I bought one with the intention of replacing my EDC P365XL with it but the trigger just isn't good and it also comes up 2 rounds short when compared to the Sig despite being longer in the grip which makes it less concealable.