Choosing the Right EDC Handgun for You: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to everyday carry (EDC) handguns, selecting the right one can be an overwhelming task. With countless options available, how do you choose the best handgun to fit your needs? Whether you're looking for something for concealed carry or home-defense, picking the right handgun involves more than just choosing one that fits your hand or looks good at the gun store. It's about understanding your personal needs, comfort, and how you plan to carry your firearm.

In this blog, we will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing your ideal EDC handgun.

1. Purpose and Use

Before you even begin to think about specific models, you need to define the purpose of your handgun. The two main purposes for an EDC handgun are concealed carry and self-defense. While the two overlap, understanding what you prioritize most will help narrow down your choices.

• Concealed Carry: If you’re planning to carry your handgun concealed, it needs to be small, lightweight, and easy to carry without printing (the visible outline of your gun). In this case, a compact or subcompact handgun would be ideal.

• Self-Defense: Your handgun should be reliable in a self-defense situation. This means that beyond size, you’ll want to focus on its accuracy, ease of use, and stopping power.

Keep in mind that while smaller guns are easier to carry, they can sometimes be harder to shoot accurately due to reduced size and recoil management.

2. Size and Weight

The size and weight of your EDC handgun will directly impact how comfortable and convenient it is to carry. Here are a few key considerations:

• Compact vs. Subcompact: Most people opting for EDC go for compact or subcompact handguns. Compact models balance ease of carry and firepower. They are easier to handle than smaller subcompact models but still small enough for concealed carry.

• Weight: Lighter firearms are more comfortable for all-day carry, but they can produce more recoil, making them harder to control for follow-up shots. Heavier guns might be more comfortable to shoot but can be difficult to conceal in certain clothing or holsters.

Popular options like the Glock 19 or Smith & Wesson M&P Shield are considered excellent mid-sized choices for concealed carry. If you're seeking something more compact, you might look at the Sig Sauer P365 or Ruger LC9s.

3. Caliber

Choosing the right caliber for your EDC handgun is critical. A handgun’s caliber determines its recoil, accuracy, and stopping power. Here are some common calibers used for EDC:

• 9mm: The most popular caliber for self-defense handguns. It’s widely available, has manageable recoil, and offers a balance between stopping power and magazine capacity. Many experts recommend 9mm for first-time gun buyers due to its effectiveness and versatility.

• .40 S&W: Known for its stopping power, the .40 is slightly more powerful than the 9mm but comes with a stronger recoil, which might be more difficult for some shooters to manage.

• .45 ACP: This caliber has a reputation for delivering high stopping power and large projectiles. While it’s effective, it also comes with significant recoil and reduced magazine capacity.

• .380 ACP: Ideal for extremely small, ultra-concealed handguns, the .380 is lighter on recoil and offers decent performance at short ranges. However, it’s generally not as effective as larger calibers in terms of stopping power.

If you're new to handguns, starting with a 9mm is generally a good choice, as it provides a great mix of manageable recoil, performance, and availability of ammunition.

4. Ergonomics and Comfort

The way a handgun feels in your hand is critical when choosing an EDC. A gun that is uncomfortable to hold or difficult to shoot won’t serve you well in a self-defense situation. Here are a few things to consider:

• Grip: The grip should fit comfortably in your hand. Pay attention to the texture and feel of the grip, as a smooth grip may be slippery under pressure, while a more textured grip offers better control, especially in wet conditions.

• Controls: How accessible are the controls (magazine release, slide release, safety)? Can you easily operate the gun with your dominant hand or even with one hand? A good EDC handgun should be intuitive and easy to use.

• Trigger: The quality of the trigger plays a big role in how accurately you can shoot. Some guns have a smooth, light trigger pull, while others are heavier or gritty. Try the trigger before making your decision.

If possible, visit a shooting range with rental guns to get a feel for various models. Finding a handgun that fits comfortably in your hand and feels natural to operate is crucial for everyday carry.

5. Reliability

Your EDC handgun needs to be reliable and able to function when you need it most. You don’t want a firearm that jams or fails to fire in a self-defense situation. Look for handguns with a reputation for reliability and check reviews from other users.

• Brands: Popular and well-regarded brands like Glock, Smith & Wesson, Sig Sauer, Springfield Armory, and Walther are known for producing reliable handguns.

• Testing: A reliable handgun should run hundreds of rounds without failure. If you’re considering a handgun for EDC, make sure it has a history of functioning flawlessly with different types of ammunition.

6. Concealability and Holsters

Even the perfect handgun will not be effective if you can’t comfortably and securely carry it. Your EDC handgun needs to be easily concealable under your clothes, especially if you plan on carrying it every day.

• Holsters: Selecting a good-quality holster is just as important as choosing the right handgun. Consider inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters for discreet carry or outside-the-waistband (OWB) for easier access, depending on your preference and clothing.

• Clothing: Consider how your handgun will fit into your daily wardrobe. Are you wearing loose clothes or form-fitting attire? Will you need to adjust your clothing or make any sacrifices for concealment? Keep in mind the thickness and depth of the handgun and how it might print under certain clothing.

7. Budget

Your budget is a critical factor when selecting your EDC handgun. There are high-quality firearms at every price point, so it’s essential to set a budget that works for you while still ensuring the gun meets your needs. While it’s tempting to opt for a budget model, don’t compromise on quality when it comes to your safety. Invest in a reputable brand that offers reliability, durability, and support.

• Entry-Level Price Range: $200-$400 – Guns like the Ruger LCP Max, Springfield XD Line, and Taurus GX4 fall in this category.

• Mid-Range Price Range: $400-$700 – Popular options include the Glock 19, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, and Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro.

• Premium Price Range: $700 and above – If you're looking for a higher-end firearm, options like the Sig Sauer P365 Line, H&K VP9, or Walther PDP may appeal to you.

8. Training and Practice

Once you’ve chosen your ideal EDC handgun, it’s time to practice. Owning a firearm is a big responsibility, and training is key to ensuring you can use it effectively in a self-defense situation. Regular practice will improve your confidence, accuracy, and familiarity with your handgun, ensuring you’re prepared when it matters most.

Conclusion

Choosing the right EDC handgun is a personal decision that depends on factors like comfort, reliability, concealability, and budget. Remember that there’s no "one-size-fits-all" answer, so take your time and evaluate your needs carefully. Whether you choose a compact 9mm for everyday carry or a larger caliber for home defense, the right handgun will ensure that you’re equipped to protect yourself and loved ones when the need arises.

Above all, make sure to prioritize safety, practice regularly, and choose a firearm you feel confident carrying and using. Happy shooting!