Discover the 8 Smallest Handguns You Can Own Today
- Bunker Firearms
- Feb 19
- 4 min read
When it comes to personal defense or concealed carry, size matters. Smaller handguns offer the advantage of easy concealment and lightweight handling, making them popular choices for everyday carry. However, choosing the right small handgun requires balancing size, reliability, and stopping power. This guide explores eight of the smallest handguns available on the market, highlighting their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
What Makes a Handgun Small?
Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand what defines a small handgun. Typically, these firearms have:
Barrel lengths under 3.5 inches
Overall length under 6 inches
Lightweight frames, often under 20 ounces
Designed for easy concealment in pockets, purses, or small holsters
Small handguns often sacrifice magazine capacity and sometimes recoil control for portability. The best models strike a balance between compactness and performance.
1. Ruger LCP II
The Ruger LCP II is a popular choice for those seeking a tiny, lightweight pistol. It weighs just 10.6 ounces and measures 5.17 inches in length with a 2.75-inch barrel. Chambered in .380 ACP, it offers manageable recoil and enough stopping power for close-range defense.
Key features:
Slim profile for pocket carry
Improved trigger over the original LCP
Easy to operate with one hand
6-round magazine capacity
The LCP II’s reliability and size make it a top contender for concealed carry beginners.
2. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ
Smith & Wesson designed the M&P Shield EZ for ease of use, especially for shooters with less hand strength. It weighs about 19.8 ounces and has a 3.675-inch barrel. Chambered in .380 ACP or 9mm, it offers a good balance of size and power.
Highlights:
Easy-to-rack slide
Thumb safety for added security
8-round magazine in 9mm version
Comfortable grip for small hands
This handgun is ideal for those who want a small gun without sacrificing ease of operation.
3. SIG Sauer P365
The SIG Sauer P365 revolutionized the micro-compact 9mm market. It fits in the palm but holds a 10+1 round capacity, which is impressive for its size. It weighs 17.8 ounces and has a 3.1-inch barrel.
Advantages:
High capacity in a small frame
Excellent ergonomics and grip texture
Night sights standard on many models
Reliable striker-fired action
The P365 is a favorite for concealed carry due to its combination of size, capacity, and performance.
4. Glock 43
Glock’s reputation for reliability extends to the Glock 43, a slim single-stack 9mm pistol. It weighs 17.95 ounces and measures 6.26 inches long with a 3.39-inch barrel.
Features include:
Simple, no-frills design
6+1 magazine capacity
Consistent trigger pull
Easy to conceal under clothing
The Glock 43 is a solid choice for those who want a trusted brand in a small package.
5. Kel-Tec P-3AT
The Kel-Tec P-3AT is one of the smallest and lightest pistols available, weighing only 9.6 ounces. It has a 2.75-inch barrel and is chambered in .380 ACP.
What stands out:
Ultra-lightweight aluminum frame
Very compact for pocket carry
6-round magazine capacity
Affordable price point
While it has a reputation for being less durable than some competitors, it remains a popular backup gun.
6. Taurus Spectrum
The Taurus Spectrum is a micro-compact pistol designed for comfort and concealment. It weighs 14.5 ounces and has a 2.8-inch barrel, chambered in .380 ACP.
Key points:
Rounded edges for snag-free draw
6-round magazine capacity
Lightweight polymer frame
Affordable and easy to find
Its smooth design makes it a good option for those new to concealed carry.
7. Walther PPS M2
The Walther PPS M2 is a slim, single-stack 9mm pistol with a 3.18-inch barrel. It weighs 21.1 ounces, slightly heavier but still easy to carry.
Benefits:
Excellent ergonomics with interchangeable backstraps
Crisp trigger with short reset
6+1 or 7+1 magazine options
Durable steel slide and polymer frame
The PPS M2 blends compact size with shootability and comfort.
8. Kahr CW380
The Kahr CW380 is a compact .380 ACP pistol weighing 13.2 ounces with a 2.6-inch barrel. It is known for smooth operation and reliability.
Highlights:
Slim design for easy concealment
6-round magazine capacity
Smooth double-action trigger
Stainless steel slide for durability
This handgun is a good choice for those wanting a simple, reliable pocket pistol.
Choosing the Right Small Handgun for You
When selecting a small handgun, consider these factors:
Caliber: Smaller calibers like .380 ACP offer less recoil but reduced stopping power compared to 9mm.
Capacity: Higher magazine capacity means more rounds but often a larger grip.
Ergonomics: Comfort and grip size affect accuracy and control.
Ease of use: Features like slide weight and safety mechanisms matter for quick deployment.
Legal restrictions: Check local laws regarding handgun size, caliber, and magazine capacity.
Testing different models at a range can help identify what fits your hand and shooting style best.
Final Thoughts on Small Handguns
Small handguns provide a practical solution for concealed carry and personal defense. The eight models covered here represent some of the smallest, most reliable options available today. Each offers unique advantages depending on your needs, from ultra-lightweight pocket pistols to compact 9mm carry guns with higher capacity.
Choosing the right small handgun means balancing size, power, and comfort. Take time to handle and test these pistols before making a purchase. With the right choice, you can carry confidently knowing your firearm fits your lifestyle and defense needs.
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