The Taurus GX4XL builds on the standard GX4 micro-compact by adding length to the slide, providing a longer sight radius and increased velocity. Features include a DLC-coated barrel, flat-faced trigger, 11 or 13-round (extended) capacity, and a 3.7-inch barrel. At only one inch wide, the GX4XL combines capacity, accuracy, reliability, and concealability to make for a great EDC pistol.
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal builds on the previous M&P line with the addition of a lightweight, rigid metal frame that pushes the performance of that platform. A 4.25-inch barrel and 17-round capacity make for a balanced pistol that distributes the weight well for a low-recoil shooting experience. Excellent ergonomics and a good flat-faced trigger help shooters reach the accuracy and speed potential of the gun.
The IWI Masada is a 9mm polymer, striker-fired pistol that provides a low bore axis, improved and adaptable ergonomics, fully ambidextrous controls, and an optics-ready slide, all at a reasonable price point. Its 4.1-inch button-rifled barrel and 17-round capacity make it an ideal size for those seeking a reliable duty weapon.
“Named after an ancient fortification, the Masada is everything you would expect from a modern carry/duty firearm. Roughly the same size profile as the Glock 19, this gun is good to go right from the box.” – David Lane
The PSA Dagger is a striker-fired handgun that is designed for self-defense and concealed carry. It features a 3.8-inch barrel and a 15-round capacity, and is available in 9mm. The Dagger has a smooth trigger pull and a comfortable grip, and best part about this gun works with standard Glock parts. It is also highly affordable (just under $300), making it an excellent choice for those on a budget. Overall, the PSA Dagger is a solid entry into the crowded market of polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols, with a number of features that make it stand out from the competition.
“The PDP F-Series is an evolution of a very fine handgun into something much more palatable for smaller-handed shooters. All the great features of the original PDP have been carried over into a reduced circumference grip and reduced length of pull.” – Sean Curtis
“With a competitive price, a comfortable yet diminutive frame, and stellar accuracy, the Springfield Hellcat is a winner. It provides stiff competition for the Sig Sauer P365, as well as the other micro compacts on the market. It’s a solid concealed carry pistol with varying capacities, optional accessories, and an actual Picatinny rail.” – Travis Pike
The VP9 is HK’s entry into striker-fired pistols. It’s reliable with great ergonomics and an incredibly clean trigger. The VP9 features a light, premium trigger, customizable grips, ambidextrous controls, an extended Picatinny rail, and an advanced striker-fired slide. Price on the VP9 is also quite reasonable – competitive with Glocks. The VP9 comes with different configurations, available in multiple colors and mag counts. The recent variants of the gun features optics-ready slides, a normal mag release button, and 17-round mags.
“The Walther PDP is extremely well done. Whether you are a concealed carrier, home defender, or officer on the street, it is an excellent option. Its grip is superlative, the accuracy is very good, and I’ve only experienced a couple of issues I likely caused. In short, the gun is highly reliable in my mind. The controls are well-placed, and the trigger is superb for a striker-fired weapon.” – Sean Curtis
“The Shield 9 Plus is about as small as you can go and still have an easily useable platform with ergonomic controls across a range of hand sizes…any smaller and compromises begin to occur. That said, Smith did an excellent job with this pistol, making it accurate, easy to use, and wholly concealable.” – Sean Curtis
The Beretta APX A1 was created by taking feedback from various professional and recreational shooters and applying it to their already successful APX platform. Improved ergonomics, aggressive slide serrations, and an upgraded trigger provide a better hand feel and shooting experience than its predecessor. The low bore axis helps reduce muzzle flip and recoil, improving accuracy. Additionally, it features a blacked-out rear sight and tritium front sight combo and is also optics-ready out of the box. Ambidextrous capable controls and interchangeable backstraps round out the feature set and ensure that the APX A1 is a fit for any hand.
The Taurus G3X is the evolution of G3 platform but in a hybrid configuration with a compact barrel and a longer grip. The 3.2-inch barrel allows for easier concealment, while the full-size aggressively textured grip allows for controllability. A Picatinny rail allows for the mounting of accessories, and the lack of thumb safety ensures that the gun will always be ready to go whenever you need it.
