Choosing the best everyday carry gun is a personal decision that depends on various factors, including your experience level, preferences, and intended use. However, there are several popular and reliable options that are widely considered excellent choices for everyday carry. In this blog post, we will explore some of the top-rated EDC (Everyday Carry) guns, considering their features, performance, and suitability for different individuals.

Popular Everyday Carry Guns

1. Glock 19

The Glock 19 is a compact and versatile pistol that has gained immense popularity among gun enthusiasts and professionals alike. It offers a perfect balance between concealability and capacity, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry. Here's why the Glock 19 stands out:

• Reliability: Glocks are known for their exceptional reliability, and the Glock 19 is no exception. It has a simple design with minimal moving parts, reducing the chances of malfunctions.
• Ergonomics: With its ergonomic grip and well-placed controls, the Glock 19 provides a comfortable shooting experience. The reversible magazine release and ambidextrous slide stop lever cater to both left- and right-handed shooters.
• Capacity: This pistol typically comes with a standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds, offering ample firepower for self-defense situations.
• Aftermarket Support: The Glock 19 has an extensive aftermarket ecosystem, allowing you to customize your gun with various accessories, holsters, and grips to suit your preferences.

2. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield

The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is another highly regarded EDC pistol, known for its slim profile and excellent concealability. Here are some key features that make it a popular choice:

• Concealability: With its slim dimensions and lightweight design, the M&P Shield is easy to conceal, making it an excellent option for individuals who prioritize discretion.
• Safety: This pistol features multiple safety mechanisms, including a trigger safety, a manual thumb safety, and a loaded chamber indicator, ensuring responsible and safe handling.
• Comfortable Shooting: Despite its compact size, the M&P Shield offers a comfortable shooting experience thanks to its ergonomic grip and low recoil.
• Magazine Capacity: Depending on the model, the M&P Shield can accommodate different magazine capacities, ranging from 7 to 8 rounds, providing adequate firepower for self-defense.

3. Sig Sauer P365

The Sig Sauer P365 has gained a reputation as a game-changer in the micro-compact pistol market. Its impressive features and performance make it a top choice for everyday carry. Here's why:

• Concealability: The P365 is incredibly slim and lightweight, making it easy to conceal. Its compact size doesn't compromise on capacity, offering a standard magazine capacity of 10 rounds.
• Striker-Fired System: This pistol utilizes a striker-fired system, known for its reliability and crisp trigger pull, providing a smooth shooting experience.
• XSeries Models: Sig Sauer offers the P365 XSeries, which features an enhanced grip module and a larger capacity magazine, appealing to those seeking additional features.
• Sig Sauer ROMEO Zero Red Dot Sight: The P365 is compatible with the ROMEO Zero red dot sight, allowing for faster target acquisition and improved accuracy.

4. Springfield Armory XD-S

The Springfield Armory XD-S is a single-stack pistol designed for concealment and ease of carry. Here's why it's a popular choice for everyday carry:

• Slim Profile: With its single-stack design, the XD-S is incredibly slim, making it comfortable to carry all day. It's available in various calibers, including 9mm, .45 ACP, and .40 S&W.
• Grip Safety: The XD-S features a grip safety, ensuring the gun will not fire unless it is held properly, adding an extra layer of safety.
• Magazine Capacity: Depending on the caliber, the XD-S offers magazine capacities ranging from 5 to 7 rounds, providing a good balance between concealability and firepower.
• Aftermarket Options: Springfield Armory offers a wide range of aftermarket accessories for the XD-S, allowing customization to suit individual preferences.

5. Walther PPQ

The Walther PPQ is a striker-fired pistol known for its exceptional ergonomics and smooth trigger pull. It has gained a dedicated following among shooters and is a solid choice for everyday carry. Here's why:

• Ergonomics: The PPQ's ergonomic grip and well-designed controls make it comfortable to shoot, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
• Trigger Pull: The PPQ is renowned for its crisp and smooth trigger pull, offering a precise and controlled shooting experience.
• Magazine Capacity: With a standard capacity of 15 rounds, the PPQ provides ample firepower for self-defense situations.
• Walther QD Mount: Some PPQ models feature a QD (Quick Detach) mount, allowing for the attachment of a laser or flashlight, enhancing its versatility.

Choosing the Right Everyday Carry Gun

When selecting an everyday carry gun, consider the following factors to ensure you make an informed decision:

• Experience Level: If you're new to firearms, it's essential to choose a gun that is easy to handle and has a low recoil. Compact and lightweight pistols like the M&P Shield or XD-S can be great options for beginners.
• Concealability: Consider how you plan to carry your gun. If discretion is a priority, opt for slim and compact pistols like the P365 or M&P Shield.
• Magazine Capacity: Evaluate your needs and choose a gun with a magazine capacity that provides sufficient firepower for self-defense while still being comfortable to carry.
• Ergonomics: Look for a pistol with a comfortable grip and well-placed controls to ensure a pleasant shooting experience.
• Reliability: Opt for reputable brands known for their reliable firearms, such as Glock, Smith & Wesson, or Sig Sauer.

Remember, the best everyday carry gun is the one that you feel confident and comfortable with. It should suit your shooting style, fit your hand well, and be reliable in various situations.

Accessories and Holsters

Choosing the right holster is crucial for comfortable and secure everyday carry. Here are some popular holster options:

• IWB (Inside the Waistband) Holsters: IWB holsters are concealed carry holsters that are worn inside the waistband. They offer excellent concealment and are comfortable for everyday wear. Brands like Vedder Holsters and StealthGear USA are known for their high-quality IWB holsters.
• OWB (Outside the Waistband) Holsters: OWB holsters are worn outside the waistband and provide quick access to your firearm. They are suitable for open carry or when a faster draw is required. Brands like Safariland and Blackhawk! offer durable and reliable OWB holsters.
• Ankle Holsters: Ankle holsters are an alternative carry option, especially for individuals who prefer not to carry on their waist. They are discreet and comfortable, making them suitable for certain situations or as a backup carry option.

When selecting a holster, consider factors such as comfort, retention, and ease of draw. Ensure that the holster fits your specific gun model and provides adequate security.

Safety and Training

Regardless of the gun you choose, it's crucial to prioritize safety and proper training. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always treat your firearm as if it were loaded, even when you believe it's not.
• Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
• Be mindful of your surroundings and never point your firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy.
• Regularly practice at a shooting range to maintain and improve your skills.
• Seek professional training to learn proper firearm handling, safety protocols, and defensive tactics.

Remember, the responsibility of owning a firearm extends beyond carrying it. Stay informed about local laws and regulations regarding firearms and ensure you have the necessary permits and licenses.

Conclusion

Choosing the best everyday carry gun is a personal decision, and the options mentioned above are some of the most popular and reliable choices in the market. Consider your experience level, concealability needs, magazine capacity, and ergonomics when making your selection. Remember to prioritize safety, seek professional training, and regularly practice to become a responsible gun owner. With the right gun and proper training, you can confidently carry your everyday carry firearm, knowing you are prepared for any situation.