Top 5 Pocket Concealed Carry Handguns for 2023
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- čas přidán 29. 04. 2023
- In this episode of TFBTV, @JamesReeves is talking POCKET ROCKETS: If you're looking for the perfect pocket carry gun for concealed carry, then this video is for you. We'll be discussing the top 5 handguns that are ideal for concealing in your pocket. We'll be covering pistols like the Glock 42 and Glock 43, the Ruger LCP Max, the Kel-Tec P3AT, the Kahr CM9 and PM9, the Sig P365, Smith & Wesson 340 PD (and more), comparing their features to determine which ones offer the best balance of size, firepower, and reliability. Whether you're a seasoned gun owner or just starting out, this video will provide valuable insight into choosing the right handgun for your needs. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the top 5 handguns for pocket carry.
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#TFBTV - Sport
It was such a pleasure meeting the TFB and Neutral Ground crew yesterday! Thank you guys for the warm hospitality and for bringing together such a great crowd. Well worth the drive from “beautiful” Mississippi 😂 I’ll definitely see you guys again soon!
HOTTY TODDY!!!!!!
Why isnt the Taurus GX4 here?
Nice. I'm jealous
I had to watch this vid like ten times because my gf wouldn’t stfu, I started to think I was watching a video about attaining nirvana or something
My daily carry has 2 inch barrel. Been carrying it for 53 years
@@RT-ol4hh oh it is definitely on its last legs.
@@RT-ol4hh are you sure you’re picking up what OP is putting down?
😂
@@RT-ol4hh It is a joke... he was talking about his pee pee.
I carry the Ruger LCP Max in a kydex holster on my hip. It disappears. I sprawl out on my couch and forget it’s there.
My wife use to carry an LCP, she could place all 7 on an 8.5 x 11 paper at 21 feet in quick order, she like the weight, and size, I got the LCP Max, she tried it. Now I have to get a LCP Max. She smiled at the much easier to shoot LCP Max over the basic LCP. Oh, we are in our 70's but in good shape and active.
I bought the LCP Max about 6 months ago. Had horrible failure to feed problems at first so I sent it back to Ruger. Got it back in no more than a week with a whole new upper assembly:...slide, barrel, recoil spring, etc. No more feeding issues. It's a great gun. And Ruger's vaunted warranty dept. is no shit good to their word!
I had a similar issue.and also got Ruger to repair and replace. Excellent service.
I had to send mine back twice. Great customer service though. Wish I didn't have to send back at all. It really has the perfect stats
How was is the trigger? Hard to pull?
Sucks that you had to send it back at all especially for extensive work.
The S&W .380 Body Guard is an excellent choice. The sights suck, but for pocket carry at close distance it’s safe and reliable.
I've changed my sights with Williams orange fiber optic in the rear and a Night Fision yellow/green dot up front.
They are fine until the magazine starts falling out during use. Not cool.
@@anth5424had my bodyguard for about 10 years never not once has the the magazine fallen out! That’s a lot of pocket time
I have two of the Kel-Tec P32s, which is basically the P3AT but chambered in .32acp. I love them. They disappear in your pocket.
same here, my personal fave edc, in pocket carry, the P32 🤙
Agreed. P32 is my carry gun.
I carried a p32 for years... Then I got the LCP Max. Now the LCP Max is in my pocket and the p32 is on my ankle(I don't wear shorts).
I would love if Ruger made a LCP MAX in .32
@@nonopopo1985 that would be awesome. In .32acp it could probably hold 4 more rounds in the same size package.
I purchased my LCP MAX on New Years Day. I was happy to see that it was your #1 pocket rocket. Especially, after you kept mentioning it while speaking about your #4 "controversial" Kel-Tec pick. I love the LCP Max for its CCW capability. It does take a little adjustment when shooting it. But, worth it for when it's needed.
My pocket pistol is a Ruger 380 max love it for it's concealability
Proud owner of a first gen 340pd. My wrists hate every range visit but it's been my summer carry for years.
James, go back and watch your own video of the Kahr 380. Guess what? I bought one then after watching it. Fell in love with it.rated for Plus P or hot ammo rated. And shoots every thing so mild.
The Kahr is so much lighter than the Glock. So much smaller for the pocket. The Kahr rules. Forget the LCP's. If you shot them enough you would know they do not hold up long. Throw away guns. Sorry, James, you had it right the first time with the Kahr. James, weight matters. Huge difference in 10oz vs 18.
One of my favorite mouse guns I own is the LW Seecamp in .32 it’s so tiny but easy to shoot. It literally fits in a front tshirt pocket
Absolutely! Small yet extremely high quality and reliable.
I heard the slide can pop off, on a 380 version anyway.
I EDC a 3032 Tomcat. Totally concealable in my DeSantis pocket holster, and as Paul Harrell points out, while making a circular motion around his head, .32 ACP can be a very effective caliber given the correct shot placement. That Bond Arms Bullpup is no joke (watch a video on how it cycles - it'll blow your mind) but runs about $1100 new. There are a lot of mil-surp guns that are great for EDC. One of my EDC favorites is my Radom P-64 (9x18 Makarov). Comes pre-melted from the factory, is lightweight and the capacity is 6 plus 1. 9x18 Makarov being, of course, the Commie .380 ACP. Threw some sick French Walnut grips on it, and BAM!! A gun that'll get you laid. Or save your life. Both good.
I love my LCP Max. I added rubber talon grips, Galloway Precision steel guide rod and heavier spring, Lasermax Gripsense green laser, and M Carbo adjustable trigger.
Great choices, and agree with most of them. Carried a Colt Gov't Mk4 .380 for years so never had a problem with the caliber, replaced it with a S&W Bodyguard .380. I've carried it and shot it for so long now really don't consider anything else for pocket carry.
I really like my LCP MAX for what it is. I have about 400 rounds through mine with zero issues.
*Ruger LCP Max* nothing else comes close. 13shots, 15oz fully loaded and comes with factory night sights. I have Uploaded videos shooting 8 by 12 steel out to 20 yds no problem with an LCP Max.
100% agree. With the 12 rd mag I can shoot my max every bit as good as many full sized guns. And that capacity. Whoof. Your videos on the max are what caused me to buy mine. Thanks!
@@Followme556 Glad to help a fellow Grunt! :)
For nostalgia reasons, I’d included the Seecamp LWS 32.
I carried the Sig P938 for years, until I badly tore my right rotator cuff. I then switched to the Sig P365 w/ external safety, and have never looked back.
Tritium night sights are standard on both models. 9mm on both. No reason to compromise. I can hit clay pigeon targets at 25 yards if needed. A great everyday carry option, even though I sometimes carry a full-size sidearm as well.
To me, trigger quality, sights, and recoil are all significant factors, and I really like both of these Sigs for that reason, especially the P365.
Incidentally, I had never carried or shot southpaw, but was able to do this effectively with the P365, when I had no use of my right arm/hand.
Just bought a LCP max about a month ago. I love it for when I wear shorts at work as a HVAC Tech. The Hot Alabama summers while I’m working on a unit in the attic make wearing a larger pistol like my P365 macro or Shadow systems 920 very uncomfortable. Good Vid!
Hey speaking of Alabama, just a suggestion if you've never heard of Alabama Holsters they have awesome kydex holsters and had my Ruger LCP Custom in it for years. Hickok45 mentioned it years ago and I've never looked back.
Hot sweaty hvac guy in shorts AND he's armed? You're giving James a run for his gun shorts money.
Damn straight. Freaking weather here with 4 seasons in 2 days. Got tired of trying to pick a different gun for different clothes.
Just easier to grab the LCP Max then try to prepare an outfit, gun belt, holster, make sure shirt is long enough. Ask wife, can you see printing etc.
Or just grab the Max and go.
I am a pocket carry fan. My 2 faves are S+W Bodyguard .380 and Taurus 856 .38sp.. I didn`t notice any mention of a proper pocket holster. That said I have never had a hammer problem with a Remora pocket holster. All nice pistols there.
Have owned many of these guns, but chose the super cool Beretta Tomcat as my absolute favorite pocket gun.
Have you tried the Bersa thunder? I have a threaded version, 380, but if you ever want to step up in caliber you need to give it a go.
Hi, I bought my LCP MAX this year in February and it’s finally the gun I have been carrying on me all the time! Mostly in a kydex holster on my 3, but sometimes in the desantis holster in my pocket too. I have something over 500 rounds trough it, no cleaning at all, no malfunctions. And it’s relatively precise when one gets used to it. Works much better for me than both Glock 43 and 42 and I have tried both.
These are the most efficient guns, but they're a handful. These picks are excellent for experienced shooters who can handle the recoil. For less recoil, pick guns that are a little larger or shoot a less powerful cartridge. For the size and weight of the Kel-Tec P-380 without the heavy recoil, consider the Kel-Tec P-32. Instead of the S&W AirLite .38/.357, there's a (unfortunately discontinued) .32 H&R Magnum that's almost identical in construction (but holds an extra round in the cylinder). And when the LCP Max is too snappy, there's the Sig P365-380. Much easier to shoot while still pocket/microcompact size.
I think the inclusion of the G42 covers accessibility while still being petite. When I was starting shooting handguns around a decade ago, I jumped straight into range rental compact carry firearms (like an idiot) and the learning curve was incredibly steep. I couldn't hit shit with the LCPs, sw shields, p238s, etc. After cycling through the rental cabinet I landed on the fancy new pocket Glock and within 3 mags was punching a ragged hole whereas with the others I was struggling to stay on paper at all. I purchased a 42 almost immediately after and have used it as a teaching tool for girlfriends and family who I've taken shooting ever since.
@@FriENTlyFire sometimes I think it's better not to mess around with tiny subcompacts if you're a new shooter. Full sized or compact pistols are so much more forgiving, whereas a subcompact will increase any slight issues you might have with grip or trigger control. Plus, they can be painful to shoot. People ought to have a good time shooting so they'll keep going to the range and practicing.
@@samadams8355 a teaching tool, not the teaching tool. G42 is the first carry sized forearm I pull out after fundamentals are covered on more conventional platforms. Sorry if that was unclear.
You mention the discontinued S&W .32 H&R Magnum - just to say that Ruger still makes an LCR in .327 Federal Magnum that will happily shoot the .32 H&R Magnum, .32 Long, and .32 (Short). With the longer Hogue grip, .327 is manageable, but you'll prefer the .32 H&R Magnum with the boot grip. Great snubbies, these.
I have a p365 but I always come back to my Smith and Wesson 642. I just love that gun.
Hard to beat a S&W 642 for edc ( I love the shoot from a pocket revolver option if needed) ...it does not matter if you carry a double stacked 9mm semi auto if it never makes it out of your pocket because you have already been hit in the head with a pipe
@@timarrington2245 Wise words! The ergonomics of a small revolver are hard to beat.
I love my Bersa Thunder 380 extended mag. 10 rounds. Almost the same size as the ruger. Double action single action. It’s a bit heavier but so am I. Tack driver. 3000 rounds or so now and it still just works every time.
I have the old S+W airweight 38 with (wad cutters)hammer hump back frame. I've had it for 40 years probably . It will be with me tomorrow when I go into the city. Never had to use it thank God.
Kahr CW380, aftermarket fiber optic sights, and I'm one that loves that long, smooth, DAO trigger pull. Many rounds through it, I trust it.
Me, too. I put an Agrip wrap on it for best 2-finger 'traction', very thin and durable. And an Armalaser in 520nm/green that activates automatically. Hornady Critical Defense has been 100% reliable. Stay safe.
Kahrs have great triggers, people say that doesn’t matter for a carry gun but it’s the reason I shoot it so much.
I got the LCP II for a great price a few months ago. Would have preferred the max, but gun deals just got me that day. I've carried it a lot more than I thought I would, and even started carrying it in place of the Air Weight when going on jogs. Great little guns.
@@steezemilkshake how well does the Boraii holster work when drawing from the pocket? My Galco holster worked great until I added a hogue grip. Does the hook keep it in the pocket?
LCP😢TRASH
My dad has a LCP II , it's too small for me and hurts my hand. My first carry pistol was the LC9.
@@claudiaclaudia936 only if you don't know how to shoot 😋
@@918Mitchell I had to put a Hogue LCPII grip sleeve on my LCP Max to prevent it from hurting my hand.
Good list.
I used to carry a Keltec P32 as a backup gun (LEO) before the P380 came out. I then carried a S&W 380 Bodyguard for the last few years until retiring.
Today, my go-to pocket gun is the Sig P365-380.
My current pocket pistol and one that I actually enjoy is my s&w 637-2 .38 special very simple and reliable but only get 5 shots but I love it
LCP Max with the 12 round mags loaded with Underwood extreme defenders is an amazing combo. I carry in my work place and I cant conceal much easily. You run a J and J leather wallet holster. You dump it in your pocket and roll
Paul Harrell did a video on .380 ACP Underwood Extreme Defenders. It was impressive. I had counted out .380 ACP as a defensive round due to it's well deserved reputation of not being able to expand hollow points reliably. If I were to carry .380, it would have to be Underwood Extreme Defenders!
@@AverageJoe4063 nah, just carry some quality European FMJ. Much more reliable feeding in a quick react situation. You’re gonna need two hits, so let’s just stick with what feeds + easy to shoot.
@@macriggland6526 which european ammo and why european? Explain yourself.
@@AverageJoe4063 Paul does some great videos, but he’s also far from scientific. Shootingthebull410 has a great series on .380 ammunition testing. Check it out.
@@alm9951 It’s just better. Fiocchi ammo is decent. Needs to be a round nose so it tumbles.
I had a weird experience with my Ruger LCP Max. It couldn't hit paper at all at 3 yards until it was broke in. Took 150-200 rounds before it started to be accurate. So if anyone else thinks the gun is shit, just keep shooting it. I'm at about 500 rounds through it right now and hasn't had a single malfunction.
Nice job as usual!! Thanks
Never thought I'd carry a ruger, but the lcp max has become my "I don't want to carry today" carry. It's probably going to be my summer carry as well with shorts and a slim fitting shirt. It shoots great even with the heavier trigger, I've had nothing but reliability from it so far minus not locking back on the last round with the flush mag sometimes. Might take some more breaking in.
P
That's the perfect way to put it. The LCP Max has become my "I don't want to carry today" carry as well. I never thought I would carry a Ruger either!
@@ThomasKirouacP?
I find my LCP Max very easy to shoot accurately, that's what I love about it 👍
Same. Especially after I added a 13lb recoil spring and a Sigurd short stroke trigger. It’s less snappy now and even easier to shoot accurately(at least for me).
Super easy to carry, but maybe the worst "range gun" I ever shot. If you don't mind vibrations thru your fingers, then it's pretty sweet. Appears that trigger and spring upgrades are available.
@@jayp4114 There's worse out there. A Bodyguard .380 has probably the single worst trigger I've ever felt on a gun. A straight blowback PPK in .380 will recoil more and bite you with the slide if you're not careful.
I think the G42 shoots the best for pocket rockets, but it gives away some in capacity. The P365 shoots decently and has capacity, but it's larger and heavier. Pluses and minuses to everything.
@@jayp4114 I dunno, I find mine pleasant to shoot after adding the MCarbo trigger to it. I regularly shoot 200rnds a month at my range.
Same here. Oddly, I find it easier to point shoot quickly than trying to ADS. It's the only pistol I fire faster in a defense type situation than taking aim.
I feel the same about my Keltec. The small frame revolver in at least .38 cal has been always in my rotation. Love your list and reasoning.
Love my LCP Max .380! So far it's been 100% reliable and 'minute of man accurate! I appendix carry my Sig P365 with the Ruger as my Ace in the hole. Great video James!
Thx for the reviews, good info, no BS
Kimber micro 380. A bit heavy, but great sights, excellent trigger and very nice to shoot. Plus, you can use the safety if you want to to add a bit of protection from shooting yourself in the d+ck.
I had that happen. Thank God they were able to sew it back on but it's crooked now.
@@yongyea4147 you sure it isn’t Peyronie’s disease? They have treatments for that now…at least according to the commercial.
Living in FL I pocket carry a lot during the summer. LCP II is usually what I go to. I also have a LCP Max but there is a noticeable weight difference when its in something like swim trunks or exercise shorts. As a side note a couple of years ago I was hit my a truck at 60ish mph while on my motorcycle with a LCP II in my pocket in a sticky holster and it did not go off. My pelvis broke in 3 places along with 14 other bones so it definitely took an impact. Took it to the range a few months later after being able to walk again and put two boxes of ammo through it with no problems. I don't know if I would call that drop tested but I feel comfortable with it in my pocket in a pocket holster.
I am from FL and I totally agree about pocket holsters! Hope you are mending well after the accident!
I'd call it a drop test.
I have a Ruger LCP2 that ive had for almost five years and its not my only carry, but it has a lot of pocket miles on it. Slim, compact, light, fits any pocket i have, always works, even if it spends a little too much time in there in between shooting sessions. Love it.
Good list. Love the airwieghts. I’ve pocket carried an LCPII as a summer main or BUG for years. Going to have to look at the Max.
I conceal a S&W 640 Pro Series most of the time. I don't carry in pocket (any gun), but the j frames nearly disappear if you IWB appendix. Huge fan of the power/reliability a 357 j frame provides. And I believe it's enough gun for 'likely' scenarios.
I love my 649, which is basically the same gun with a different hammer
The LCP Max with two extra mags was my daily carry for quite the time until I got a P365. I still go back to the Max if my pockets turn out to be too shallow (switching to summer clothes here). I also have a Shield Plus (bit too big in the grip, but still fun) and an LCRx in 9mm (too inefficient, but still fun).
Thanks for the info. I also appreciate your humor
Another great video. Thank you for sharing
The lcp max is hands down my favorite edc in regards to comfort with athletic wear.
I have an Lcp 2 in 22LR and I love it. Great backup pistol and real nice training gun for my daughters when they get older.
I don't get a concept of a back up gun if you are civilian. If you are on a battlefield I get it. If you carrying extra mag o get it. But to carry two pistols.... you should live either in really really dangerous neighborhoods or just like the feeling that you can be sent to a Ukraine in a front line in any moment
@@valeriysyutkin4940 there is another concept perhaps you should consider. Live and let live. What he carries should be of no concern to you.
I have pocket carried daily since mid 1990s .. ALWAYS IN A POCKET HOLSTER THAT COVERS THE TRIGGER GUARD! First was my Beretta 950 BS Jetfire.... I then purchase and carried a Kel-Tec p-32.gen one .. in a DeSantis Nemesis pocket holster.. this is still the good I carry when I'm wearing lightweight shorts.. I installed Kel-Tec anti-rimlock kits in the magazines and carry Hornady xtp hollow points... Next pocket pistol purchase was a Taurus TCP 380.. mine is drop Dead reliable and accurate out to 50 ft.. first time at the range 400 rounds not one stoppage! Carry it in a DeSantis Superfly pocket holster with velcroed on flap to prevent printing in the pocket... It's loaded with corbon DPX All copper hollow points.... Next up is my Smith & Wesson 342 airlite ti (titanium cylinder) 38 centennial. 11 oz unloaded.. I carry Federal hst . Hollow points (lite recoil like a 22 magnum). and it's in a DeSantis Superfly pocket holster..... I occasionally pocket holster my micro 9mm Ruger lc9s pro.. again in a Superfly pocket holster.... To carry these in your pocket without a holster that covers the trigger guard is stupid just an accident waiting to happen I always carry my guns in a pocket holster
I carry a North American Arms mini revolver everytime I go check my mail (one of those communal boxes that's a bit of a walk away).
It's ridiculous and never the best choice but I've been shocked how consistently I've been able to hit a silhouette at 10-15 yards with that thing. 5 rounds of .22 magnum is nothing to scoff at either, even if it's out of a 1 inch barrel
Same here. NAA Black Widow in .22 mag. Never leave home without it.
I do as well great gun!
LCP Max has become my main edc. Sure, carrying it in the provided pocket holster probably isn't ideal but I always have it with me and that's better than leaving a different gun home.
Also I laughed pretty hard at "second degree murder distances" 😂
With a few cuts and some sewing the holster can be made much better
@@joshstocks6129 do you have any links to pictures of the mods?
Check out Robert Mika's hand made pocket holsters. Simply great. They allow for easy re-holstering without having to remove the holster. Seriously. For the price and quality they can't be beat. He makes them himself.
@@harperhellems3648 thanks, I will take a look!
I use either the Galco sticky or the Vedder pocket locker.
Great list. My favorite pocket guns are my S&W 442 and if that's too big in a non-permissive environment, my Kahr CW380 hides great in a pocket holster that looks like a wallet when pocketed. I have a tiny pocket holster that holds two spare mags for the .380, or I can tote speed loaders/speed strips easily for the .38 and even add a little discrete dump pouch for an extra quick 5 ... not that one is likely to have time to reload in a S-D situation, but it's nice having the option.
I was literally searching CZcams on Saturday for videos on pocketable pistols but noticed they were lacking. And now my favorite channel has made one. It's a miracle!
When someone says the Glock has the best trigger in the bunch you know you're in for a shooting treat
S&W 640 Pro. Most naturally pointing revolver I've ever fired, came with good tritium sights. Great little pistol.
Nice video. I had the Kel-Tec P3AT and PF-9, the Ruger LCP II .380 and shot them pretty well. None of them ever gave me a problem. Age, however, has given me some arthritis and I have trouble racking the slides. My pocket carry now is a S&W 638 Air Weight.
Thanks for the great video.
I love my lcp max, I think you did great with the list. Very respectable.
I carry the first model lcp with a viridian green laser in the viridian pocket holster. Works fantastic for me. I bought the lcp when it first came out.
Another great video from TFB. The LCP Max is my latest addition and I LOVE the gun for pocket carry in just about any situation. Now Ruger needs to level up and make an LCP Max in .32acp. THAT would be interesting. I also rock a S & W 442 snubby for winter pocket carry when i know that my jacket or flannel will cover the extra bulkiness. Anyone ever try Underwood 158 grain plus P hard cast outta one of those things? Yeah...
I'd guess if they do it. They'll go 30 SC over 32acp.
@@matthewbeaver5026 The 30 SC is a cool little round, but I'd personally like to see the 32 version. The shorter overall length of that cartridge might lend itself better to a smaller form factor and thus better pocket carry. I hope Ruger comes out with both lol
Yes. The ONLY way I'm ever buying an LCP is if it's a 32acp.
Do yourself a favor and get a Galco horsehide pocket holster for the 442.I think you will like it.
@@williamryan9195 thanks William; I’m gonna have to check it out
I've been carrying a Sig P238 in an alien gear pocket holster. Also got the MagGuts springs in my mags so I have 8+1 capacity. Really love how well it fires. I've put about 500 rounds of various ammo types through it and I get pretty tight groups. Expensive gun though. I still find myself tempted to pickup a Ruger LCP Max everytime I am in the gun store.
A word to the wise. When pocket carrying.. always use a pocket holster.. my two favorites are the DeSantis Nemesis and the DeSantis Superfly pocket holster with velcro on flap to prevent printing in the pocket.. also those little lcps.. Kel-Tec 380.. and Taurus TCP .. they have extremely snappy recoil.. you must use a death grip on them or they will muzzle up and bite you with the slide! Another useful accessory is the slip-on pachmeyer rubber sleeve grip.. this gives you a little more to grab onto and more traction and cushions your hand from the snappy recoil
Definitely use a pocket holster.
I carry my lcp max in a Vedder pocket locker. I also have the Vedder for my smith snubbie and glock 26. Great holsters.
I own the LCP Max, and it has been a great little pocket gun. Have a bunch of rounds through it with zero issues. Used to pocket S&W Bodyguard, hard trigger to master, and less capacity. Still useful, though.
I think I've seen you on Freedom by Me's LCP max vids. I have had great luck with the LCP Max too. So easy to shoot, and 13 shots!
A choice I like is the North American Arms 22 Magnum. I usually keep it as a backup to my daily carry, but for places like the movie theater or going out to eat, I love throwing it in my pocket and forgetting about it because of how small it is.
A 22 between the eyes is better than a 9 mm in the thigh. People always crap on 22’s for self defense but I don’t think anyone wants to catch the bullet.
@@markallen4001 22 mag isn't like any Ole 22
@@marksweetser6312 you are correct. I have a Ruger single six with a 22 lr and a 22 mag cylinder
NAA Wasp 22 magnum goes anywhere any time .... except the airport lol
@@marksweetser6312 thats only true in rifles. Out of those NAA mini revolvers, has the same muzzle energy of 22lr from a rifle
Great list! Thanks!
Excellent list, and I concur with your observations. The Maxx is obviously the best choice, and affordable to almost everyone.
Love the Ruger LCP Max. Best bang for the buck 380 gun out there. 😁
I have the #1 and #3 on your list, so pretty much agree. Of course, since both the LCP Max and my S&W J-frame are small, I can take one in each pocket and not have to choose.
Another excellent and entertaining video from James. He was seemingly born for this. My two go-to’s for daily carry are the Ruger LCP Max and Ruger LCP (original). Though they’re both very small for guns, the original feels decidedly slimmer than the Max, but only holds 6 instead of 10 rounds (plus 1 in the chamber). I love my Sig P365 but I really don’t consider it a pocket gun. Compared to the two Rugers, it’s bigger, thicker, and heavier. It’s awesome, but I usually end up leaving it at home. I also love my Glock 42 (it’s probably my favorite) but it’s also just slightly too big for my pant pockets. When I carry it in my back jeans pocket (in a pocket holster), the top sticks out just a bit. Since I want my EDC to be both comfortable AND comforting, I almost always go with the smaller choice. I make exceptions and go with something bigger when I venture out of my safe little town. I would add that probably my other “favorite” small gun is the Ruger LCR snub-nosed revolver chambered in 38 special, but how the heck am I supposed to fit that in my pant pocket. So that favorite gun usually stays at home too. These are the things I spend my downtime thinking about.
I'm 60,on disability due to back problems and bad knees. Total knee replacement on right knee, so size and weight are very important. I carry a P365 9 mm with a DeSantis pocket holster with no problems in my right front pocket. The 380 is much lighter, but as long as I can carry a 9 mm, I will a 380 is not a 9 mm. I care more about stopping the threat than comfort. I'm so used to carrying it, I don't even notice it.
I'm 5'5" and carry a Ruger 5.7 in my gym shorts, not in the pocket, but oh well.
You must wear skinny jeans with tight pockets.
Try Fort Scott.380 ammo(TUI) 95gr. at 1005fps. 300ft.lbs.of Knock down Energy,Great
Thanks for this comparison! I’ve been looking hard at a few of these, especially the Ruger. Way back when, for a pocket carry gun you could either have a .22 LR or a .25 auto. Now we’re up to .380!!! I think it’s funny when Glock came out with the 42 everyone laughed including people from Glock. What actually happened was ammo companies started making quality self defense ammo for the new 42 knowing that there would be a demand. We are so lucky to be in this day in age with almost unlimited choices!!
I felt like the Sig Sauer P238 is far easier to shoot than the Ruger LCP. The recoil in that little polymer pistol is rough
So do you pocket carry or iwb just curious cuz I have a sig p238
Sig P365-380 is probably the way to go if you want a .380 easier to shoot than the LCP Max. The new Glock 28 (the .380 version of the G26) is larger and the word is still out on it but I doubt it's very much easier to shoot than the P365-380.
@@Paelorian if we are leaving the door open for the G28, then there are many .380s of mid size which we now must include.
@@stevieweebee I have a Sig P238 and a S&W 442. I ONLY pocket or ankle carry these guns. If I am going to iwb, then I'll carry a bigger gun.
@@Paelorian Glock 28 is direct blowback and P365-380 is not so I bet the G28 does not shoot as nicely
Taurus 856 UL has been my go to for the past couple of years. Light and 6 rounds of 38 along with a couple of speed strips have been my companions.
I have the standard 856. Couldn't get my hands on the ul. Still like it
Thank y’all so very much for the coolest and most kick ass grand opening I’ve ever been to!! The New Glarus beer guy here. I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it. I look forward to enjoying the range more in the future and I promise to keep the New Glarus brews flowing as often as I can get up to see my folks up in Cheeseland.
DB9 gen 4 is my new pocket carry, retired the pf9 for a more compact pocket 9 with a much better finish, construction and trigger with a form factor that doesn't look like I'm packing a banana in my pocket. Reliability has been phenomenal, same as my pf9. No issues at all.
I was gonna mention that. I've heard the first 3 gens were very unreliable, but that the gen 4 is pretty good
I just wish Diamondback would put out a reliable extended magazine, one that makes use of that pinky rest space with another round or two...
I think there's two real options here if we're talking true pocket. 9mms in that subcompact/micro size shoot like shit so I'm relegating it down to .380s:
If you care about premium shootability at the sacrifice of extra rounds: G42.
If you care more about capacity at the sacrifice of snappiness: LCP MAX.
The 340PD is awesome, but is downright abusive with .357s as all snubbies are. 5 rounds of .38 is a tough sell for a little over a grand, which will buy you both the G42 and MAX and leave you a couple hundo for ammo. If you're gung-ho about a wheelgun, the 340 is still a tough sell at its price when you can grab a Taurus 605 for a little less than $400.
Anyone that says a 380 is snappy should really stop shooting and take up ballet or something. A 357 magnum J Frame is snappy.
@@nomorerainbows Easy everyone, we got a tough guy over here
@@stevem4783 i mean dude, wtf.
@@nomorerainbows A lot of .380s can easily be described as snappy. I'd rather fire hot .44mag loads out of my smooth-gripped Redhawk all day than put a couple mags through a first-gen LCP, which literally nobody would describe as pleasurable to shoot.
There's nothing worse than internet hardos. Take it somewhere else, nobody cares how cool you are.
@@stevem4783 Well i've owned a LCP for years, and consider it to be a very easy gun to shoot mr. "I shoot a smooth gripped 44 magnum".
Panzy.
Thanks for the video.
I have KelTec P32 and love it.
I really have two of the same pocket guns a Sig P938 in 9mm and a Sig P238 in .380 . Though I will say the P238 is easier to shoot accurately since it's not as snappy. But both have exceptional single action triggers and with thumb safety's, sticking one in your pocket isn't a concern either.
Do you carry one in each of your pockets?
I carry the P938 ands it’s probably my favorite handgun I own. Not sure why it’s always forgotten on videos like this.
I’ve kept up with all the new guns coming out and wondered about my purchase of the LCP Max right after it first came out. Your analysis vindicated my choice of pocket gun. Even though I have a Sig P938 and 3 Berettas I almost always carry the LCP Max just because of the light weight & capacity. Great review as always.
I still (lazy, yes) don't have my ccp, so funnily, my wish list carry has evolved to this. Flirted with the p365, but when the max came out went back to wanting Ruger.
@@emu314159why didn’t u like p365
Found a hard to find micro desert eagle 380 for pocket carry .... LOVE IT.
I love my LCP Max. Definitely glad to see it at the top of your list. Its just a solid little pistol.
In my pocket carry rotation I have the Keltec P32(8 rounds of 32acp) the NAA mini revolver(22mag 1-5/8" barrel), and the original gen 2 LCP. They all work extremely well for their intended purpose. Great list James!
Kinda shocked that the Sig P238 didn’t make the list. Hammer and single stack, sure, but also significantly better trigger and smaller than most of the guns on the list.
Hasent that and the 938 been pretty much discontinued?
I love my little beretta 950 jet fire. It's a wicked reliable little piece
Just bought my first snub revolver for edc. Best decision 👌
The secret is not putting anything else other than the gun in your pocket.
How have more ppl not liked this?
I would also consider the ruger lcr 357. I added a diamond pro grip to mine and its a super star.
Great review...your commentary is legendary!
Your only video I agree with 100%
Additional controversy picks: for double action non-revolvers we have the Kahr CW380 and S&W Bodyguard 380 (without the lazer and with replacement trigger). For the 1911 crowd, the Kimber Micro 380 (or 9). For 1911-loving big boys, the retired Colt Mustang was the king of pocket carrying micro babies. Then the SIG P238 (fickle reliability) and the short-lived Springfield 911provided copycat alternatives to the defunct colt. The Kimber micro is the only micro 1911 left in production I believe. On the plus side, they are as shootable - if not more so - than the Glock 42 and they have arguably better triggers, at least that is the case if you like 1911 triggers and you don't already prefer Glock-style triggers. I believe the Kimber micro 380 has a slight size advantage over the Glock 42, which makes it - I think - a reasonable controversy pick.
I carry a cw380. It’s only annoying feature is you have to drop the slide lock to chamber. If you try to rack it rounds typically jam up. Aside from that it’s a solid firearm.
SW BG.380 top EDC over 3 others, tho usually carry 2.
Those 4 calibers are .380- .38sp- 9mm- 40SW. About the order I carry them seems like as well. Oh yeah, Mossberg Shockwave 12ga in Scabbard for car, 3rd or 4th carry.
I pocket carry a Beretta 21a inox, it has been extremely reliable, and is a fun easy shooter with a great trigger that absolutely disappears into almost any pocket. 8 rounds of CCI Stinger seems completely adequate for use in a vehicle or store, definitely not the best choice but better than nothing. Plus if I have a belt on the little guy is just a backup for the Glock 22 that I almost always carry iwb at the 4 o’clock position. Good list TFB 👍🏻👍🏻
Great info!
Been browsing for a pocket carry for the past couple weeks. Seeing this pop up was awesome guess it’s time to order that ankle holster 👍🤙
SIG P365 with a manual safety and a sticky holster! All day every day! I love pocket carry. It's the most comfortable option for me! I even have the XL grip on my P365. It's so comfortable and small yet still 9mm!
What holster specifically or brand would you recommend?
@@ldope3904 The Sticky Holsters brand is perfect for a soft pocket carry holster. If you want a really comfortable IWB holster I would go with N8 Tactical.
I carry the p365 without the manual safety in an Alabama pocket holster. 10+1 baby
Totally agree!
@@ldope3904 I love the Versacarry Pocket holster for the p365. The leather makes it super comfortable, and I can reliably draw the gun from the holster (though I have put, and continue to put, a lot of practice into it).
Springfield 911 9mm Stainless is an awesome little pocket gun.
Thinnest, lightest, smallest 9mm I've ever shot and handled.
Slide to frame is fit is smooth, G10 trigger and grips, Ameriglo night sights from factory, and the recoil isn't bad at all either for its size and weight.
I’ve carried a beretta 21a in .22lr for 29 years. Bought it as a on duty back up gun in 1994. Looking to replace it now that I’ve retired because it has a huge amount of sentimental value and I want a little more UUMPH than a .22lr gives. Great video thanks.
Great as Always !!!!!
Some guns may fit in your pocket but pulling it out with your hand on the grip gets difficult. That, for me, means the really small guns for pocket carry. I love my BG380 but I also just bought a 3032 Tomcat.
It is possible to use a pocket carry holster also. I do always, because it covers the trigger up in pocket and doesn't affect in my finding the pull, if not improving it. One last thing is that it also helps to avoid printing since it's a smoother surface and looks more like a wallet. ;) I think the LCP max will be my next, because I love my LCP original, especially in workout shorts.
I use a CYA IWB holster for my Ruger LCP. Very comfortable, you almost forget it's there.
Go for the Ruger max I like mine
I carry a P365X 9mm in a Alabama pocket holster. Would never carry it without the holster.
Beretta 92FS. Love the Walther PDP, HKVP9-L, Kimber LW in 45ACP, and of course the MP 2.0C and Shield Plus. Beretta was my first and I can walk away from it for months and still shoot with very little adjustment when I come back to it.
I got the LCP max when it first came out, probably because you recommended it. It started rusting soon after. Lots of cleaning and oiling kept it at bay. But the thing that made me switch it was I hated shooting it. It pinched my hand and had recoil like my 44 mag. I sold it and bought a kimber micro 380 and haven’t looked back. I gave up 3 rounds but have a gun I love to shoot and isn’t rusting. Some say it’s not reliable but I’ve not had a malfunction and carry it every day.
Ruger will replace the slide, barrel and recoil assembly of LCP's that rust. I followed recommendations of others owner and put Hogue LCPII grip sleeve on it to prevent it from hurting my hand and I trimmed off the sharp edges on the trigger and trigger safety which eliminate most of the pinching that was hurting my trigger finger. Ruger need to fix their black oxide finish processing to eliminate rust issue.
my micro 380 is great (but TFB hates anything 1911 or 1911ish so I'm not surprised it didn't make his list).
I've shot really dirty ammo and gunked mine up like crazy, and yet it has never had any sort of malfunction at all. It shoots super soft, is light, and for a less than 3 inch barrel, it's reasonably accurate.
Too bad TFB hates 1911s more than 1911 fanboys love their 1911s haha
@@tyvandm hahaha you are right, it’s too 1911’ish to show up. Well said!
I still love the little LCP. I thought about getting the LCP Max when it came out but the original is just the perfect size and weight for pocket carry no matter what I'm wearing.
I have the LCP and it's great. I keep a 7rd magazine in it.
@@yongyea4147 same; 7 plus one in the weapon with a second 6 rd mag as backup. This weapon is so easy to carry even with a tank top and shorts no profile. brilliant design.
Love it.