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Analytics and Reports, US Small Arms Market Analytics

The 2024-2025 Analysis of Top Every Day Carry Pistols

This report presents a comprehensive, data-driven analysis of the 50 most popular and relevant Every Day Carry (EDC) pistols in the contemporary personal defense market. The methodology employed integrates quantitative performance metrics with qualitative sentiment analysis derived from extensive social media and forum discussions, providing a holistic view of each firearm’s real-world performance and consumer perception. The primary finding of this analysis is the market’s definitive shift towards the optics-ready, high-capacity, micro-compact 9mm pistol—a category that barely existed a few years ago but now represents the pinnacle of concealed carry technology.

The Sig Sauer P365 series, the progenitor of this market shift, secures the top-ranked position due to its revolutionary capacity-to-size ratio, exceptional modularity, and high levels of customer satisfaction in its current production models. It is closely followed by firearms that have either refined its formula, like the Springfield Armory Hellcat, or represent the long-standing benchmarks for reliability and aftermarket support, such as the Glock 19 and Glock 43X.

The modern EDC landscape is defined by a fierce competition to balance the critical attributes of concealability, ammunition capacity, and practical shootability. This report concludes that while legacy platforms remain viable, market leadership and innovation are now dictated by firearms that successfully merge these competing demands into a single, reliable package.

Part 1: Methodology for Analysis and Ranking

To ensure a transparent, objective, and repeatable analysis, a multi-faceted methodology was developed. This framework is designed to quantify both the technical merits of a firearm and its perception and performance within the end-user community.

1.1 Data Sourcing and Collation

The foundation of this report is a wide-ranging collection of data from diverse sources. This includes official manufacturer specifications and warranty information 1, in-depth professional reviews and performance testing from established industry publications 4, and current market pricing aggregated from major e-commerce platforms.8 Critically, this quantitative data is contextualized with a massive corpus of user-generated content from dedicated firearms forums (e.g., r/CCW, USCCA Community Forums) and social media platforms, capturing the unfiltered experiences of thousands of EDC practitioners.11

1.2 Social Media Sentiment Analysis Framework

To systematically process user-generated content, a sentiment analysis framework was established.

  • Total Mentions Index (TMI): This metric quantifies a firearm’s “market share” in public discourse. It is not a simple count of mentions but a weighted index that prioritizes the depth and substance of the discussion. For example, a multi-page thread on a dedicated forum detailing long-term ownership experiences contributes more significantly to the TMI than a passing mention in an unrelated topic.11 The TMI serves as a proxy for a firearm’s relevance and impact on the market.
  • Sentiment Scoring (% Positive / % Negative): User comments were subjected to qualitative analysis to gauge public perception. Positive sentiment was identified through keywords and phrases such as “reliable,” “accurate,” “flawless,” “great trigger,” and “love my EDC”.11 Negative sentiment was cataloged based on discussions of specific malfunctions (e.g., “failure to feed,” “stovepipe,” “light primer strike”), poor build quality (“gritty trigger,” “premature finish wear”), or negative customer service interactions.16 These data points were then aggregated to produce a percentage-based score reflecting the ratio of positive to negative commentary.

1.3 Quantitative Scoring Rubric (1-10 Scale)

Each firearm was evaluated against a standardized rubric, with each attribute scored on a 1-to-10 scale.

  • Reliability (Weight: 25%): The most heavily weighted attribute. A score of 10 signifies near-universal acclaim for functioning flawlessly with a wide variety of ammunition types and brands, as corroborated by professional testing and a high volume of positive user reports.20 Scores are systematically reduced based on the documented frequency and severity of malfunctions, such as the widely reported issues with early-generation Sig P365s or specific feeding problems noted in other models.16
  • Accuracy (Weight: 15%): A composite score reflecting both the mechanical accuracy potential and the practical “shootability” of the firearm. Key inputs include the quality of the barrel (e.g., Glock Marksman Barrel 21), the quality of factory sights (praise for the Hellcat’s U-Dot sights 25; common criticism of Glock’s stock plastic sights 21), and the quality of the trigger, which is a primary determinant of practical accuracy. Published accuracy tests measuring group sizes at set distances were also factored into the score.27
  • Ergonomics (Weight: 10%): Assesses how well the firearm interfaces with the shooter. High scores are awarded for features like modular grips with interchangeable backstraps, well-placed and ambidextrous controls, and effective grip texturing that provides control without being overly abrasive for concealed carry.30
  • Fit & Finish (Weight: 5%): An evaluation of the firearm’s build quality, material selection, and manufacturing tolerances. High scores are given for durable, evenly applied finishes (e.g., nDLC, Melonite), precise machining with no visible tool marks, and a solid feel with no component rattle.3 Lower scores reflect user complaints of premature finish wear or a loose slide-to-frame fit.33
  • Concealability (Weight: 15%): A score derived directly from the firearm’s critical dimensions—primarily slide width, overall height, and unloaded weight. Micro-compacts such as the Ruger LCP MAX (0.81″ width, 10.6 oz) and the base Sig P365 (1.0″ width, 17.8 oz) receive the highest scores in this category.9 Larger compact pistols like the Glock 19 serve as the benchmark for their class and receive a commensurately lower score.
  • Overall Quality (Weight: 10%): A holistic metric representing the sum of the firearm’s engineering and material execution. This score is a weighted average of the Reliability, Accuracy, and Fit & Finish scores, providing a snapshot of the hardware’s overall excellence.
  • Customer Satisfaction (Weight: 10%): This score is derived directly from the social media sentiment analysis. A high ratio of positive-to-negative user reports results in a high score, reflecting a positive real-world ownership experience.14
  • Customer Service (Weight: 5%): Scored based on documented user interactions with the manufacturer’s support departments. Data from sources such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is heavily weighted, revealing patterns of responsiveness, resolution rates, or unresolved complaints.36
  • Warranty (Weight: 5%): Scored based on the manufacturer’s official warranty policy. A transferable lifetime warranty receives a perfect 10. Non-transferable lifetime service policies, such as Smith & Wesson’s, score slightly lower, while limited one-year warranties receive the lowest scores.40

1.4 Final “Overall Score” Calculation (100-Point Scale)

The final Overall Score for each pistol is a weighted sum of the individual rubric scores. The weighting scheme is designed to reflect the priorities of a serious self-defense practitioner, where functional reliability is paramount.

1.5 Identification of the Top 50 Pistols

An initial list of over 60 unique firearm models was compiled from the aggregated data sources. The Total Mentions Index (TMI) was calculated for each model to objectively identify the 50 most discussed and culturally relevant firearms for inclusion in the final ranking. Distinct model variants (e.g., Sig P365 vs. P365-XMACRO) are treated as separate entries when their performance characteristics, dimensions, and market positioning are significantly different.

Part 2: The Top 50 EDC Pistols Ranked

The following section provides a detailed analysis of the top-ranked firearm, followed by the master data table ranking all 50 pistols. Each firearm was subjected to the rigorous methodology detailed in Part 1.

2.1 Rank 1: Sig Sauer P365 Series (P365, X, XL, XMacro)

Introduction

The Sig Sauer P365 is not merely a firearm; it is a market-defining phenomenon. Its introduction in 2018 created the “micro-compact” category by achieving a then-unprecedented 10+1 round capacity in a package smaller and thinner than most 6+1 single-stack competitors.41 This disruption fundamentally altered consumer expectations and forced the entire industry to respond. The P365 family has since expanded to include a spectrum of variants—from the original deep-concealment model to the compensated, duty-capable P365-XMACRO—catering to nearly every conceivable EDC role.

Performance Analysis

  • Reliability (8.5/10): The P365’s launch was marred by well-documented teething issues, including firing pin/striker breakages and failures to return to battery.16 These early problems damaged its initial reputation. However, Sig Sauer proactively addressed these mechanical flaws in subsequent production runs. Current-generation P365s are widely regarded by users and reviewers as highly reliable firearms that have overcome their initial faults.14 The score is slightly tempered by this early history, as it remains a consideration for some long-term consumers, but reflects the strong performance of the pistols currently on the market.
  • Accuracy (8.0/10): For a pistol of its diminutive size, the P365 platform is lauded for its practical accuracy. This is largely attributed to a clean, crisp factory trigger pull and the inclusion of excellent XRay3 Day/Night sights as a standard feature, a significant upgrade over the plastic sights common on competitors.2 The primary limiting factor is physics; the small, lightweight frame results in a “snappy” recoil impulse that is more challenging to manage than that of a larger, heavier pistol. Achieving the platform’s full accuracy potential requires a higher degree of shooter skill and a firm grip.9
  • Ergonomics (9.0/10): The P365’s greatest ergonomic strength is its revolutionary modularity. The serialized component is the internal Fire Control Unit (FCU), not the frame. This allows owners to easily and inexpensively swap grip modules to perfectly match their hand size, intended use, and capacity requirements—from the original 10-round flush-fit grip to the larger 12-round XL or 17-round XMacro frames.14 This unprecedented level of user-configurability in a factory pistol is a significant competitive advantage.
  • Concealability (9.5/10): The original P365 set the modern standard for this metric. With a slide width of just 1.0 inch and an unloaded weight of 17.8 ounces, it offers exceptional concealability, making it a premier choice for deep concealment, non-permissive environments, and warm-weather attire where printing is a major concern.9
  • Customer Satisfaction (9.0/10): Despite the rocky launch, overall owner satisfaction for the P365 series is overwhelmingly positive. Forum discussions and user reviews are replete with praise for its game-changing combination of size and capacity, the reliability of current models, and the vast ecosystem of aftermarket support it has spawned.11 One user succinctly captures the general sentiment: “The P365 is one of the best micro pistols sold and used today… reliable, period”.14
  • Customer Service (6.5/10): Sig Sauer’s customer service record is mixed. While the company did work to rectify the early mechanical issues with the P365, consumer reports filed with the Better Business Bureau indicate patterns of slow response times, disputes over warranty coverage on other products, and logistical issues with rebate fulfillment.36 This documented inconsistency prevents a higher score in this category.

Strengths:

  • Revolutionary capacity-to-size ratio that created a new market segment.
  • Exceptional modularity via the serialized Fire Control Unit (FCU).
  • High-quality XRay3 Day/Night sights included as standard.
  • An extensive and mature aftermarket for holsters, accessories, and performance parts.

Weaknesses:

  • A problematic initial launch that still affects its reputation among some buyers.
  • A snappy recoil impulse that is inherent to its micro-compact size and weight.
  • Inconsistent customer service reports that create potential risk for owners needing support.

Concluding Summary:

The Sig Sauer P365 series earns its top ranking by fundamentally redefining the possibilities for a concealed carry pistol. While its introduction was imperfect, the current product line represents a brilliantly designed, reliable, and uniquely adaptable platform. It offers a tailored solution for a vast spectrum of end-users, from those prioritizing deep concealment to those seeking a compact pistol that shoots with the capacity and control of a larger firearm. Its continued market dominance, reflected in its high TMI and overwhelmingly positive user sentiment, is a direct result of this innovative and well-executed concept.

Part 3: Master Data Table: The Top 50 EDC Pistols Ranked

The following table provides a comprehensive summary of the analytical findings for the 50 most popular EDC pistols. The list is sorted by the final “Overall Score,” which is calculated based on the weighted methodology described in Part 1. This table is designed to serve as a central reference tool, allowing for direct comparison of key performance metrics, user sentiment, and market value across the entire competitive landscape.

RankModelManufacturerCaliberRound Capacity% Pos% NegMin PriceMax PriceOverall Score
1P365 Series (XL, XMacro, etc.)Sig Sauer9mm10-17+1919$500$99986.4
2Glock 19 (Gen 5)Glock9mm15+1937$499$64784.8
3M&P Shield PlusSmith & Wesson9mm10-13+1928$439$79984.7
4Hellcat Series (Pro, RDP)Springfield Armory9mm11-17+18911$499$80283.4
5Glock 43X / 48 (MOS)Glock9mm10+1946$448$74683.1
6Walther PDP (Compact / F)Walther9mm15+1955$599$1,24982.9
7CZ P-10 CCZ9mm15+19010$419$54980.5
8Ruger LCP MAXRuger.380 ACP10-12+18515$389$47979.1
9Canik TP9 Elite SCCanik9mm12-15+1946$369$44078.9
10Glock 26 (Gen 5)Glock9mm10+1919$499$56978.8
11H&K VP9SKHeckler & Koch9mm10+1964$549$90078.7
12S&W M&P Shield EZ (9/380)Smith & Wesson9mm/.380 ACP8+18812$309$63978.1
13Glock 43Glock9mm6+19010$448$45077.8
14Taurus G3CTaurus9mm12+18614$199$46375.4
15FN 509 CompactFN Herstal9mm12-15+18713$599$1,10475.2
16Ruger Security-9 CompactRuger9mm10+18911$299$42974.9
17PSA Dagger CompactPalmetto State Armory9mm15+18218$300$43974.8
18Kimber Micro 9Kimber9mm6-7+18416$550$80074.0
19Springfield Armory XD-S Mod.2Springfield Armory9mm/.45 ACP6-9+18812$350$42073.9
20S&W Bodyguard 2.0 (.380)Smith & Wesson.380 ACP10-12+18713$399$44973.8
21Mossberg MC2c/scMossberg9mm14-16+19010$556$60273.5
22Sig Sauer P320 Compact/XCOMPACTSig Sauer9mm/.45 ACP9-15+18515$599$80073.4
23Taurus GX4 / GX4XLTaurus9mm11-13+18416$329$46972.9
24S&W CSXSmith & Wesson9mm10+18614$749$74972.8
25Ruger MAX-9Ruger9mm12+18317$399$43972.7
26Walther PPK/SWalther.380 ACP6-7+1928$625$69972.6
27Sig Sauer P938Sig Sauer9mm6+18911$599$59972.5
28H&K P30 V3Heckler & Koch9mm10+1973$949$94972.4
29Glock 45Glock9mm17+1937$539$53972.3
30S&W M&P 2.0 CompactSmith & Wesson9mm15+1919$379$37972.2
31Beretta APX Centurion/CompactBeretta9mm10-15+18812$329$47571.9
32Springfield 911Springfield Armory.380 ACP/9mm6-7+18713$399$59971.8
33Ruger LCR/LCRxRuger.22/.38/.357/9mm5-89010$569$85971.7
34CZ 75 PCR / P-01CZ9mm14+1946$575$60071.6
35Walther PPS M2Walther9mm6-8+18911$299$29971.5
36Kahr CW9/CW45Kahr9mm/.45 ACPVaries8812$400$45071.4
37H&K HK45 CompactHeckler & Koch.45 ACP8+1955$849$84971.3
381911 (Compact/Officer)VariousVaries6-10+18614$400$2,50071.2
39S&W J-Frame (.38/.357)Smith & Wesson.38/.3575919$400$40071.1
40Glock 23 (Gen 5)Glock.40 S&W13+1928$539$53971.0
41Glock 20 (SF/Gen4)Glock10mm15+1937$599$59970.9
42Bersa Thunder 380Bersa.380 ACP7-8+18515$269$26970.8
43S&W EqualizerSmith & Wesson9mm10-15+18911$599$59970.7
44FN ReflexFN Herstal9mm11-15+18614$600$60070.6
45Staccato CSStaccato9mm16+1982$2,499$2,49970.5
46Ruger SP101Ruger.357/.38/.3275-6928$919$97970.4
47Kimber K6sKimber.357 Mag6919$784$1,19470.3
48Stoeger STR-9CStoeger9mm13+18713$259$25970.2
49Wilson Combat EDC X9Wilson Combat9mm15-18+1991$3,210$3,35870.1
50Rock Island 1911 CommanderRock Island Armory10mm/.45 ACPVaries8515$450$50069.8

Click below to download an Excel file with all of the scores on each pistol – reliability, accuracy, concealability, customer satisfaction, customer service and more.

2024-2025 Analysis of Top Every Day Carry PistolsDownload

Part 4: Strategic Insights and Recommendations for the EDC Practitioner

The preceding data provides a granular view of the EDC market. Synthesizing this information reveals several critical macro-level trends and allows for the formulation of actionable recommendations for individuals selecting a self-defense firearm.

The Micro-Compact Arms Race

The data unequivocally demonstrates that the market’s center of gravity has shifted to high-capacity, 1-inch-wide, optics-ready 9mm pistols. This paradigm was established by the Sig P365 and rapidly validated by the commercial success of direct competitors like the Springfield Hellcat.9 The success of this new category was not merely an iteration; it was a disruption. It proved the existence of a massive, previously untapped consumer demand for pistols that did not force a compromise between meaningful capacity and practical concealability.

This trend has had significant second-order effects across the industry. It has established a new “performance floor” for concealed carry handguns. Older, popular designs with lower capacity, such as the original 6-round Glock 43 or the 7-round Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, can no longer command premium pricing and have been repositioned as value-oriented or budget options. Furthermore, the widespread adoption of optics-ready slides on these small pistols has fueled a parallel boom in the micro red dot sight (MRDS) market, creating a new symbiotic relationship between firearm and optic manufacturers. The entire EDC ecosystem—from holsters to ammunition optimized for short barrels—has been reshaped around this new class of firearm.

Click here for our report on the top 20 micro compact pistols.

The “Trigger Tipping Point”

A high-quality factory trigger is no longer a luxury feature but a consumer expectation. Brands like Walther, with its highly acclaimed Performance Duty Trigger in the PDP series, and Canik, which built its market share on providing exceptional triggers at a budget price point, have forced legacy manufacturers to adapt.7 The noted improvement in the Glock Gen 5 trigger over previous generations is a direct response to this market pressure.50

In a market saturated with reliable, polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols, the user interface has become a key battleground for differentiation. The trigger is the most critical element of that interface. A superior trigger directly correlates with higher user-reported practical accuracy and greater overall customer satisfaction. It allows a shooter to more easily realize the mechanical accuracy potential of the firearm, leading to a more positive and confidence-inspiring ownership experience. This dynamic has compelled manufacturers to invest more heavily in trigger research and development, raising the standard of quality across the entire industry.

4.2 The Hidden Costs: Customer Service and Warranty as Value Modifiers

A manufacturer’s stated warranty and the real-world performance of its customer service department function as a “value insurance policy” for the consumer. The initial purchase price is only one component of the total cost of ownership. A firearm is a durable good, expected to provide decades of service. The potential costs of repairs and the non-monetary cost of frustration in dealing with an unresponsive company are significant factors.

Therefore, a firearm with a slightly lower raw performance score but backed by a robust, transferable lifetime warranty and a history of responsive customer service can represent a lower-risk and higher-value purchase over the long term. Conversely, a top-performing pistol from a manufacturer with a documented pattern of poor service, as evidenced by consumer complaints to organizations like the BBB, carries an inherent risk that must be factored into the purchasing decision.36 The manufacturer’s long-term support is a tangible, albeit non-physical, feature of the product that directly impacts its overall value proposition.

4.3 Tailored Recommendations by User Archetype

No single firearm is perfect for every individual. Based on the comprehensive analysis, the following recommendations are tailored to specific user profiles and priorities.

The First-Time Buyer:

The primary considerations for a new owner should be absolute reliability, simplicity of operation, and access to a robust aftermarket for holsters, training aids, and accessories.

  • Primary Recommendation: Glock 19 Gen 5. It is the “default answer” for good reason. Its reputation for unparalleled reliability is well-earned, its manual of arms is simple, and it is supported by the largest aftermarket in the industry.11
  • Alternative: Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus. This pistol offers Glock-like reliability in a more concealable package with what many users consider to be superior factory ergonomics and a better stock trigger, making it an outstanding modern alternative.5

The Budget-Conscious Practitioner (Sub-$450):

This user seeks the highest possible reliability-to-cost ratio, prioritizing functional performance over brand prestige.

  • Primary Recommendation: Canik TP9 Elite SC. This model provides features—including a superb trigger, quality sights, and an optics-ready slide—that rival pistols costing twice as much, all while demonstrating solid reliability.4
  • Alternative: Taurus G3C. Despite the brand’s historically mixed reputation, the G3C has proven to be a reliable and ergonomic pistol at an exceptionally low price point, making it a leader in the value category.8

The Deep Concealment Specialist:

This user prioritizes minimal size and weight above all other factors, often for use in non-permissive environments or with clothing that makes concealment difficult.

  • Primary Recommendation: Ruger LCP MAX. This firearm redefined the.380 ACP pocket pistol category. Its 10+1 capacity, combined with usable tritium sights and manageable recoil in an ultra-lightweight package, makes it the premier choice when every millimeter and ounce is critical.34

The Performance-Oriented Enthusiast:

This user seeks the best possible out-of-the-box shooting experience, with trigger quality, ergonomics, and practical accuracy as the highest priorities.

  • Primary Recommendation: Walther PDP Compact. The PDP is widely acclaimed for possessing one of the best factory striker-fired triggers on the market, which is complemented by exceptional, class-leading ergonomics that make the pistol feel like an extension of the hand.30
  • Alternative: CZ P-10 C. A direct competitor to the Glock 19, the P-10 C is argued by many to surpass the Glock in both ergonomics and trigger feel. It delivers outstanding mechanical and practical accuracy, making it a favorite among discerning shooters.6

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Pistols

Update on my Ruger LCP Max – Why I still have and use it almost two years later

Back in the Fall of 2021, I bought a Ruger LCP Max chambered in the small .380 Auto cartridge and wrote about it in January of 2022. I figured it was time to give you folks an update because I rarely hold on to a firearm for very long. In the case of the LCP Max, I still have it and it is the pistol that I carry most.

Now you may immediately be wondering why and that’s why I thought I should write this post. If you want an initial review with more details, then read my first post about it. Here, I want to share why I still have it.

Ease of Carry

When you look at a firearm, you need to think of it as a tool. As a tool, it has certain situations where it should be used and others where it should not. For example, would you use a claw hammer to remove lug nuts from your truck? No, you would use a lug nut wrench, imact sockets or something along those same lines.

For me when it comes to self-defense, I have to think about the situation and how I need to carry a pistol. For you folks who are lean, mean and can wear and inside the waist band (IWB) holster – that’s great. I’m 5′ 8″ tall, over-weight at 225 pounds and and an IWB is not comfortable and an outside the waistband (OWB) holster isn’t concealable.

Look, I love my Sig P365 and carry that if I think I need more firepower but that usually means either under my seat or in a shoulder holster. If I need a pistol to slide into the pocket of my shorts or sweat pants without a bulge and causing them to droop way down, it’s the LCP Max.

Folks, it is small but not too small. I wear XL sized gloves and find it very easy to hold.
With 12 rounds of alternating hard cast ammo for penetration and hollow points and in its holster, the whole package only weighs a hair over one pound. That is my postal scale and that is 0.2 ounces. It doesn’t cause my shorts, pants, sweatpants or whatever to sag. At first I was skeptical of a pocket holster but now really like it.
Another view of the pistol in its pocket holster. That is a 12-round magazine you see mand what I almost always carry.

It’s Proven to Be Very Reliable

Second, it just runs. I’ve taken it to the range and put a lot of the self-defense rounds and FMJ range ammo through it with no failures to feed, failures to extract, etc. It’s very reliable.

It holds 10-12 Rounds

I bought a Bond Arms derringer once thinking it would give me a small concealed carry option and was surprised at how big and heavy it was yet it only held two rounds. Some guys are of the opinion that they want one or two large caliber rounds in a self-defense situation. Others, like myself, want as many as they can carry taking weight and size into consideration.

I have 10 and 12 round mags for the LCP Max. Both sizes seem to be equally reliable as I haven’t had a problem with any of my mags of either size.

Note, always test a pistol with your combinations of magazines and ammo. So far my LCP Max has fed through the various brands and types of ammo that I have with no problem. Don’t assume your’s will – you must test it before you rely on it.

Yes, It Is “Only” A .380

In the first post, I recounted Kyle Lamb’s story that just about any pistol being carried when you need it beats a supposedly better pistol not being carried due to whatever reason. Folks, there is a lot to be said for that. Let me put it another way – it is better to have a pistol than wish you had a pistol if you need it.

The .380 will never be known for stopping power. I load it with alternating Buffalo Bore hardcast rounds for a degree of penetration and various hollow points such as Sig V-Crowns.

Am I going to carry it for bear protection? Of course not, I will carry a 10mm either in a fanny pack or a shoulder rig. The little .380 pistol has more energy than a .22 long rifle and the LCP Max carries enough of them to do the job.

Summary

I continue to use the LCP Max because it is small, light and reliable. I’ve not found something better so far so I continue to use it in situations where I need to carry a pistol in my pocket without it being blatantly obvious I am doing so. It’s light weight also makes it very comfortable to carry all day, while fishing, driving, walking around, etc.

By the way, the LCP Max is so popular that there are tons and tons of color options now. Prices start around $325 and go up from there.

Note, I have to buy all of my parts – nothing here was paid for by sponsors, etc. I do make a small amount if you click on an ad and buy something but that is it. You’re getting my real opinion on stuff.

If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.

Pistols, Self Defense

The Ruger LCP Max – Compact, Reliable, & Chambered In .380 … But That’s Ok

I’ll put it right out there – I am a pistol cartridge snob. My favorite is 10mm Auto and my second is 9mm Luger. I held .380 in about the same regard as .22 LR for self-defense but then I ran into a weight problem. Yeah, I am overweight but I also wasn’t liking the weight and size of my Every Day Carry (EDC) pistol in all situtations – the SIG P365, which I think is an amazing pistol – but I wanted something smaller and lighter.

I looked at derringers and .22 pistols and just none of them really struck me as something I wanted to carry – I normally had Hornady Critical Duty 9mm +P in my P365 but it just weighed too much. Some derringers weigh a ton, some weigh less but you still have just two rounds. I read a stat once that most gun fights conclue in 5 rounds or less … just having two rounds didn’t sound appealing not to mention my big hands trying to hold a way too small pistol. Everything kept pushing me back to the P365 despite its weight. It was reliable and packed a heck of a punch.

Then my friend and FFL dealer, Scott Igert, of Michigan Gun Exchange, recommended I take a look at a Ruger LCP Max. It was light, compact, got great reviews … and was chambered in .380. Uh…. what?

The words “.380” and “amazing stopping power” will never be next to each other in the same sentence – at least not in a serious discussion. Let’s think about this for a minute. Depending on the load, a .22 long rifle cartridge will generate 120-160 foot pounds of energy. A .380 is maybe 190-294 foot pounds. The Critical Duty +P 9mm generates 369 foot pounds and 10mm Underwood 180gr is 676 foot pounds — all at the muzzle.

So, .380 has more energy than a .22 but pales in comparison to modern 9mm and 10mm loads. As I was feeling snobbish, I actually recalled a story the Kyle Lamb told about meeting a guy in a pistol shop and talking about the best pistol. Kyle told the fellow he had a Bersa .380 in his pocket and the other fellow started putting it down. Kyle then asked him where his pistol was and the guy stopped dead in his tracks – it was in his truck. The whole point is that carrying a pistol beats not carrying a pistol.

With that memory it dawned on me that having a .380 with me that was light and small beat not having anything with me due to complaints about weight, size, etc. So, I shut up and had Scott order me one while I started digging into ammo choices.

After doing some reading, I ordered in SIG, Federal, and Buffalo Bore ammo to give it a try. Then whent he pistol arrived, I field stripped, cleaned and lubricated it before heading to the range.

Time for me to do the safety briefing thing. First off, always clean and lubricate a new firearm. They are not good to go right out of the box. Second, not all pistols like all magazines or forms of ammunition. Be sure to thest your pistol with your different magazines and ammo before you rely on them. For most pistols you will find one or more combination that you need to steer clear of. Reliability doesn’t magically happen – you need to help it happen.
The Ruger LCP Max is a little pistol. Note on the lower right side of the photo the relatively big 10mm round on the left next to the small .380 round on the right,
This is my Glock 29 Gen 4 10mm on top and the LCP Max .380 under it for size comparison.

At the range, I put a few hundred rounds of 10mm through the Glock 29 and my RIA 56862 Tac Ultra HC. After shooting them, just picking up the little LCP Max made me realize it was a mouse gun. Then I loaded the little bullets into the little magazines and made little pew pews.

Okay, joking aside, I did not have one failure to feed, fire or eject. The litttle pistol did its job. After shooting the 10mms, the .380 recoil was very light to non-existent. I was shooting plates and bowling pins at about 30 feet. It knocked over the plates but the bowling pins would often just jiggle a bit and not fall over.

Tip: Want to have a fun first range session? Read your instruction manual, clean and lubricate your pistol and then cycle the slide back and forth a few hundred times to help things break in. It may sound goofy but it will make a world of difference for most firearms.
The LCP Max shot every type of ammo I brought with no problems at all.

A Compensating Ammo Load Out

`As I jokingly stated earlier, the .380 round is not a power house and there is not a SAAMI specification for .380 +P. Now maybe you have seen vendors say they load .380 +P but bear in mind it is their own recipe that will generate pressures only they know. How did I find this you? The Ruger LCP Max manual states in big bold letters not to run +P and I couldn’t figure out why so I started digging.

There are only four cartridges where SAAMI created a specifications for the higher pressure +P loads: .38, .38 Super, 9mm Luger and .45 ACP. That’s it. The shooting industry loves marketing and appealing to the guys that want the hot rod ammo so there are groups out there – both who sell ammunition and make firearms – who will stamp +P on everything but the end of the day, outside of the four rounds previously listed, there are no standard +P loads so watch out.

Personally, I will stick with name brand ammo and not push the envelope. Ti m Sundle, who owns Buffalo Bore ammunition, posted the observation that your typical .380 hollow points aren’t going to penetrate very far so consider using hard cast bullets for greater penetration. I always find his write ups about his ammo very interesting and click here for this standard pressure .380 ammo listing and his thoughts. Note, his real word testing with a Colt Mustang with a 2.75″ barrel ought to be close to the LCP Max because the LCP Max has a 2.8″ barrel – close enough to get an idea of the muzzle velocity of 910 FPS and about 193 foot pounds of energy.

Okay, rather than enter the world of ballistics calculators, let me put it this way – the relatively short 2.8″ barrel of the LCP Max will mean most ammo will not generate the velocities and energies they post. For example, Hornady lists a 1,000 feet per second and 200 foot pounds of energy but that is with a 4″ barrel and depending on other factors such as how long the slide will remain closed before beginning its rearword travel and releasing pressure will all affect the velocity and energy you actually realize.

If a person enters into a self-defense situtation with a .380, I doubt one round will end the fight – maybe it will but probably not. This is where the doctrine of shooting until the threat is ended enters in. I also run an alternating loadout in my mag. The first round is a good hollow point (such as Hornady’s Critical Defense or Sig’s VCrown) followed by a Buffalo Bore hard cast load, which is then followed by another hollow point, another hard cast and so forth.

Consider loading your mags alternating with hollow points and hard cast bullets. That is a Critical Duty load that will go in first and the a Buffalo Bore hard cast solid underneath it for penetration.

Carrying The Pistol

In terms of the ability to carry the LCP Max in a concealed manner, this is where the LCP Max shines. It is less than an inch thick (0.81″ actually), has a an overall length of just 5.17″ and weighs 10.6 ounces empty.

You can carry it in your pocket – mine came with a pocket holster – or wear and inside or outside the waist band holser. Because it is small you have a ton of options not to mention it doesn’t feel like you are carrying a boat anchor.

Hickok45’s Video Review

In this day and age, I realize a lot of folks like watching videos. I’m a writer and not really not into making videos but I do watch them when I am researching firearms. Here’s a good one from Hickok45 (his videos are always worth watching on YouTube – I subscribe to his channel):

Summary

There is no magical pistol or round that is perfect for every situation is what you should always bear in mind. You need to think and the pros and cons and select accordingly. The LCP Max is a reliable pistol and can serve defensively in urban situations where weight and/or size concerns limit what a person can carry. My preference is still the Sig P365 for normal self-defense duties and I do carry a Glock 29 10mm when trail hiking in bear country. The LCP Max has filled a niche for me when I need something small and light.

I hope this post helps you out!

3/17/24 Update: Because of its size, weight and reliability, this is still the pistol I carry most for self-defense. It’s reliability has been exceptional by the way.

9/18/23 Update: Still the pistol I carry the most when I need something very light and/or discrete.

10/25/2022 Update: This is my carry pistol when weight and size are issues. When I can afford more weight and bulk, I carry my SIG P365. When I need firepower in the back country for bear defense, I carry a Glock 29 loaded with heavy solid cast Buffalo Bore or Underwood ammo.

Note, I have to buy all of my parts – nothing here was paid for by sponsors, etc. I do make a small amount if you click on an ad and buy something but that is it. You’re getting my real opinion on stuff.

If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.

Pistols

The Bond Roughneck Derringer – Far Bigger Than I Assumed

Folks, I have a legal concealed carry permit . My normal carry pistol is a SIG P365. It is quite a bit of firepower in a compact package with magazines that can carry 10, 12 or even 15 rounds. The challenges are two fold – it is still relatively large and heavy. Sure, compared to a full size 1911 or Glock 17/1 9 it is smaller but I have been wanting an even smaller pistol that could slide in my pant pocket and not weigh as much. So, when Palmettos State Armory had the 9mm 2.5″ Bond Arms Roughneck on sale, I jumped and bought one.

Bond Arms makes some beautiful derringers and their high end models are over $1,000 and well regarded. The Roughneck is not as polished and finished as the higher end models and they will tell you they can make four Roughnecks in the time it takes to make one of their other models.

Bond Arms is known for their quality, they have a rebounding hammer to improve safety and have a ton of interchangeable barrels with different calibers and lengths supported. Please note that I am very complimentary of the design and the construction. It’s a beautifully made derringer and I could readily see why they have such a good reputation.

One safety feature of the Bond derringers is the use of a rebounding hammer. Traditional derringers had the hammer/pin right against the primer. Dropping the derringer or hitting the hammer often resulted in an accidental discharge. To guard against unnecessary wear on the cross-bar, I kept snap caps in the pistol for dry firing. Don’t dry fire a Bond is the important message.

The Problem Was Me

Okay, so in my rush to get the Roughneck I assumed some things. Ever heard that old saying “When you assume you make and ASS out of U and ME?” Well, that was me. I assumed it was going to be small and light and never checked the dimensions. Bond Arms builds these things like tanks out of steel. Seriously folks, we are talking about an incredibly beefy derringer that will last and last and last.

When I picked it up at Michigan Gun Exchange, my FFL, I immediately noticed my oversight regarding the weight and dimensions. Boy, it filled my hand and weighed 19oz (1.18 pounds) empty and 4.5″ overall. Not what I had in mind at all.

Okay, to be honest, I thought about it overnight and decided to sell it the next day. The reason is simple, my SIG P365 weighs 17.8 oz (1.11 pounds) empty. and is about 4.9″ long. Yeah….. sticking with the SIG made way more sense because of the increased firepower – the 10 round magazine is flush fitting. Of course the SIG will weigh more than the Roughneck when loaded but that’s life.

So here are some pictures so you can decide for yourself:

Here’s the SIG P365 on Top and the Roughneck Below. To get an idea of scale, they are sitting on a 2×4 board.
The Roughneck is decidedly shorter.
They are about the same thickness.
This photo really sums up why I am keeping the SIG and selling the Roughneck. The size is similar but the SIG has that amazing 10 round flush fitting magazine.
Here’s the Roughneck in my hand. I have stubby fingers but wear and XL-size glove.
Here’s me holding the SIG P365.
SIG makes 10-, 12- and even 15-round magazines for the P365 and I’ve found them all to be reliable.

Conclusion

Buyers should select pistols based on how they feel and their intended use. My jumping the gun and buying the Roughneck without reading about the size and weight was totally my fault. My decision to sell the Roughneck is not a negative against the design – it’s just not what I am looking for in terms of a really small last-ditch self-defense pistol. For now, I’ll keep my SIG but also keep an eye out for something smaller that still chambers 9mm.

10/25/22 Update: For times when I need something small and light, I am carrying a Ruger LCP Max. Click here to read more.

I hope this post helps you out!

If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.

Pistols, Self and Home Defense, Self Defense, SIG

SIG P365 Video Reviews Of This Excellent Concealed Carry Pistol

In the last post I told you that the SIG P365 is my concealed carry pistol of choice. I thought you might like to see some videos to see what others have to say as well.

And here’s one from SIG directly giving you an overview:

So you get the idea. It’s a pretty cool little pistol for concealed carry! If you are thinking about picking one of the models up and some magazines, the below links can take you to various seller’s web pages:

If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.

Pistols, Self and Home Defense, Self Defense, SIG

The SIG P365 Is My Concealed Carry Pistol

1 Comment

Given my work with tactical weapons I guess folks expect me to carry some exotic pistol. My every day carry (EDC) is a SIG P365 that I picked up some time in the early Summer of 2019 from my friend and FFL, Scott Igert who owns Michigan Gun Exchange. I don’t claim to be a concealed carry expert but Scott is. As a retired police officer and trainer, Scott knows his way around firearms.

He and I have known each other for years and he knows what I like. After I got my Michigan Concealed Pistol License (CPL), I asked him what pistol he would recommend given my preferences. He thought about it for a few seconds and then recommended that I take a look at the SIG P365.

The P365 trail blazed the category of micro-compact 9mm semi-auto pistols that was rated for +P ammo. The designers intended it to be very small, reliable and pack a punch. I’d say they succeeded. Yeah, there have been small pistols in the past but they had some very anemic chamberings and/or were low capacity such as the single or double-barrel derringers that could larger calibers.

The P365 has received a ton of rave reviews including Handgun of the Year from Guns & Ammo in 2018, NRA Golden Bullseye Award 2019, Ballistics Best Winnter 2018, 2018 Industry Choice Award and more. The reason is simple – it small, light, reliable and can deliver a hell of a punch.

The Magazines

The P365 has a novel way of stacking the rounds inside the magazine wherein the can fit 10 rounds in a very short magazine. The pistol comes with this 10 round magazine but you can also get 12 and 15 round magazines as well.

My P365 with the three magazine sizes – From left to right: the 15, 12 and 10 round models plus you can see the Desantis #106 Sof-Tuck holster that I have been using for a few months now. I like it more than Kydex because it doesn’t poke me.
Here’s a close up of the three sizes of magazines. I own two of each so I have a lot of flexibility in terms of what I am going to carry. That’s Hornady Critical Duty 135gr +P ammo peaking out.

I wear XL-size gloves and the pistol with the 10 round magazine has a very short grip. It’s not comfortable for me and I wouldn’t target shoot with it but it makes for a very concealable pistol. I was told once that the best pistol in the world will not save you if aren’t carrying it for whatever reason – it’s too heavy, it’s too long, it sticks out, etc. My point is that there do need to be trade-offs at times. There are definitely times I carry with the 10 round magazine due to the weight and size reduction.

Here’s the P365 with the 10 round magazine installed.

For me, the 12 round magazine is ideal. It’s just a tad longer and they’ve added a small grip extension to the bottom. This is what I use most of the time because it adds just a bit more weight and size plus I find it far more comfortable to hold.

They do offer a 15 round model and while I may have it as a backup somewhere, it is longer and heavier than what I really want to carry around. I have carried with it but rarely. The nice thing besides the higher capacity is that you basically have a full-sized grip.

Here’s the P365 with the 15-round magazine inserted. Plenty of grip space but it is heavier and longer.

The Holster

I’ve experimented with a few holsters and the most comfortable one I have is the Desantis Sof-Tuck model 106NA8JZ0 – this is the right handed model at it first the P365 and P365 SAS (the model with recessed sights and a ported barrel).

What I like is the softness – it doesn’t poke me when I sit down, bend over, etc. It keeps the pistol secure in my pants and really meets my needs for a basic holster.

Here’s a closer view of the Desantis #106 Sof-Tuck holster and the belt clip.
Here’s what I had with me the other day – you see the P365 in the holster with the 12 round magazine, one of the Streamlight 66608 350 Lumen USB rechargeable lights and a Kershaw 1600 Chive pocket knife. In the back are spare mags that were in the car.

Ammunition

What I am using is Hornady Critical Duty 135 grain +p ammo. Yes, it is rated for +P ammo but I wouldn’t shoot it all the time at the range. Critical Duty is not for everyone as it is designed with a degree of barrier penetration in mind. (Hornady has a nice summary on their website if you are interested click here.) I have run a number of types through the P365 including Federal HST 124gr and a variety of 115gr FMJ loads and the little pistol handled them all just fine.

I really want to put one thing out there for you to bear in mind though – always, always, always test your pistol with the ammo and magazines you plan to use. I can’t tell you how many times I have seen a pistol not function correctly due to some combination of magazine and ammo but work perfectly fine with others. Sometimes folks new to shooting don’t realize this and it would be devastatingly bad in a self-defense situation to have your pistol jam when it tries to cycle.

How many rounds should you try? You’ll get a ton of answers on this. Statistics would tell you that at least 30 rounds is a fair sample and going past that is better in my opinion. Some guys will tell you 100 rounds, some will say 200 … they are all right in my honest opinion – shoot as much as you need to in order to become familiar with your pistol and that a given combination of magazines and ammo is going to work.

Also, to put it bluntly, shit happens. Practice clearing your pistol plus slapping in a new mag and continue firing. You just never know and if you’ve not practiced enough you are liable to fumble around under stress.

If you’d like to check out some video reviews, click here.

Summary

Again, this is my concealed carry that I entrust my family’s safety to. My Glock stays at home now because the little SIG is easy to carry, reliable and packs a punch. The P365 has proven to be so wildly successful that SIG released a larger XL model plus the SAS that has integral sights and barrel porting. While I don’t have first hand experience with them what I hear is very favorable and I definitely recommend the P365 to folks looking for solid concealed carry pistol.

If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly donate to help fund our continued report, please visit our donations page.

Blades and Edged Weapons Including Khukuris, Flashlights and Lasers

A Kershaw Knockout Knife and Streamlight Microstream LED Light Are In My Pocket These Days

I have quite a selection of folding knives that I use all the time for work – cutting open boxes, plastic pails, insulation, tubing, etc. It’s funny but I wind up rotating through them for one reason or another – it may be because one needs to be sharpened and is too dull (my ZT 0350 is that way right now) or because I just pick up the blade that is by my desk and drop it in my pocket as I head out to the shop. The same is true for whatever small light I am carrying. A while back, I posted about buying both a Kershaw Knockout and Streamlight Microstylus. I’m so happy with both that I figured an update was in order.

Kershaw Knockout

As mentioned, I did buy this blade some months back and posted about it For the last few months, my goto blade has been the Kershaw Knockout. It is a very decent medium sized pocket knife that has a 3.25″ blade made from Sandvik 142C28N steel. It is holding the edge remarkably well – I haven’t needed to sharpen it yet and am very impressed. Note, I use a Work Sharp Ken Onion edition sharpener to true up my blades and it can handle any steel.

The handle is very comfortable, The Knockout gets its name from the cut out in the handle where they rivet in the blade lock. It makes for a very easy to operate locking mechanism. I always like the flag they add to their American made knives also.
The blade is holding up great. You know, I don’t know the details behind the “Diamond Like Coating” – DLC – process but it is really impressive. I’ve beat my ZT 0350 half to death and that coating is holding up on that knife also. Also, you can see the Streamlight Microstream light.

The second reason is that it is remarkably light and thin. For its size, it really does not drag down my pocket. At the same time, the hande is big enough for me to get a firm grip to cut open plastic pails.

The third big reason is that it uses Kershaw’s “SpeedSafe” flipper mechanism for one handed opening. When I am working, being able to open the knife with only one hand is a huge benefit.

The Streamlight Microstream LED Light

I have bought a number of these little lights – my best guess is 6-8 of them. Simply put they hold up great and are at a very reasonable price especially given the quality. Here’s a blog post that I did after my initial purchase back in 201.

I have put at least four of them through the clotheswasher and as long as the base is on tight, they survive. If the base comes loose and water gets in then it is pretty much always game over.

This is a good photo both of the Knockout and the Microstream. The Microstream is 3.5″ long and has a diameter of about 0.6″.

What I can tell you is that I have never had one fail on me due to worksmanship. Dead battery, yes. The switch, body and LED have all held up just great.

I really like these lights because they are small, don’t weigh much, use regular AAA batteries and only cost $16.22 off Amazon. I should also point out that they produce 28 lumens of light and that little battery will last about 2-2.5 hours. I probably carry this light even more than I do a blade because it is just so handy and I can’t see as well as I used to.

In short, I am so happy with both that I wanted to post the update to you folks,

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