In the ever-evolving world of concealed carry, pocket pistols have cut out a big niche, one that combines discretion with spontaneity for the prepared individual looking for a very practical carry solution. Having said this, due to the continued innovation in the firearms industry, this compact defensive tool fills the market with a multitude of choices, rightly called variation. It examines the balancing act involved in selecting a pocket pistol: capacity versus size versus weight, all against the ultimate factor, concealability.
Pocket pistols have undergone a remarkable evolution in the concealed carry market, from early variants like the Ruger LCP II and Beretta Pico to more modern variants like the Ruger LCP Max and Sig Sauer P238. As of early 2024, the Ruger LCP Max scores highly regarding its high capacity and lightweight, truly making it a leader in this segment. With a 10+1 round capacity in .380 ACP, the LCP Max offers users an unbeatable blend of firepower and discretion, all in a package that tips the scales at 10.6 ounces.
LCP Max? Great gun, but that doesn’t diminish strong competitors, such as the Sig Sauer P938, not in the least. Famously comfortable at the range and surprisingly fun to carry around, given its size, this 9mm chambered in 1911-inspired design with an easy trigger puts it on a lot of editor’s pick lists for “that which simply appears to be a traditional firearm but is an excellent carry gun.”
The Beretta 3032 Tomcat has a tip-up barrel design that takes the edge off for those who may struggle with the racking of a slide. The Tomcat is still a very serviceable piece, mainly because of its soft-shooting .32 ACP chambering that manages to combine comfortable shooting with easy manipulation.
Sure, they do stand out, but it would not be a review of pocket pistols without some other choices in the relative wheelhouse of a Sig P238. Satisfying .380 ACP aficionados who also like style points and low-recoil operation, it’s about the next best thing to having a miniaturized 1911 with all the benefits of carrying a micro-compact handgun.
As far as revolvers go, though, a Smith & Wesson J Frame M&P 340 is perennially in demand. Chambered for a .357 Magnum, normally a bit much for pocket carry because of significant recoil and a fireball of a muzzle flash, its hammerless configuration and stainless construction make the M&P 340 at least a solid choice for carrying should one be a wheel gun kind of guy.
For those who like their guns out of the ordinary, the Trailblazer LifeCard stretches the envelope on pocket pistol design. Its credit card-like folding scheme makes it one of the most concealable pistols ever designed; chambered either in .22 LR or .22 Magnum, it’s an option for a single shot when capacity takes a back seat to the ultimate in discretion.
Pocket pistols remain a pivotal category for personal defense as the landscape of concealed carry continues to evolve. Be it the Ruger LCP Max, balancing capacity with portability; the Sig Sauer P938 praised for shooting comfort; or the innovative LifeCard, the sky’s the limit. Carriers must weigh what they’re willing to compromise on, whether that be the trigger system, caliber, or ergonomics, all so that their pocket pistol choices make square with their defensive needs and lifestyle.