A compact pistol trims the slide and grip just enough to make carrying easier, while still giving you a full grip and plenty of capacity. For most people who want one pistol that can do everything, a compact is the best place to start.
Why choose a compact pistol?
Pros
- Small enough to carry, big enough to shoot well
- Full grip for most hands
- Good capacity, usually 12 to 15 rounds of 9mm
- Works for carry, home defense and the range
Cons
- Harder to hide than a subcompact in light clothing
- A little more recoil than a full-size gun
- Shorter sight radius
Popular compact pistols
| Model | Maker | Type | Why it is popular |
|---|---|---|---|
| G19 | Glock | Striker-fired 9mm | One of the most popular pistols ever made |
| P320 Compact | SIG Sauer | Striker-fired 9mm | Modular, same fire control as the M17 |
| M&P 2.0 Compact | Smith & Wesson | Striker-fired 9mm | Comfortable grip and good trigger |
| Security-9 | Ruger | Striker-fired 9mm | Reliable and budget friendly |
| G2C, G3C | Taurus | Striker-fired 9mm | Low price, solid starter pistol |
| P-10 C | CZ | Striker-fired 9mm | Basis of the German Army P13 |
| PX4 Storm Compact | Beretta | DA/SA 9mm | Soft-shooting rotating barrel |
| RXM | Ruger | Striker-fired 9mm | Takes Glock 19 magazines |
Carry tips
- A quality inside-the-waistband holster makes a compact easy to hide under a shirt. See Holster Buyers Guide.com.
- A sturdy gun belt keeps the pistol where you put it.
- Carry a spare magazine. See Magazine Buyers Guide.net.
- Check your state’s carry laws before you carry.
Gear for your compact pistol
- Holsters at OpticsPlanet
- Pistol magazines at OpticsPlanet
- Weapon lights at OpticsPlanet
- Red dot sights at OpticsPlanet
- 9mm ammo at OpticsPlanet
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Compare sizes: Full Size · Compact · Sub-Compact · All pistol sizes side by side
Specs are typical ranges. Always check the model you are buying.
