Choosing the best EDC (Every Day Carry) 9mm pistol is a deeply personal decision, heavily influenced by individual hand size, shooting style, and intended use. There's no single "best" gun, but rather a range of excellent options that excel in different areas. This guide will help you navigate the options and find the perfect 9mm EDC for your needs. We'll examine key features, popular models, and crucial factors to consider before making your purchase.
Key Considerations for Choosing Your EDC 9mm
Before diving into specific models, let's lay the groundwork by outlining the crucial aspects to consider:
1. Size and Weight:
- Concealability: For EDC, a smaller, lighter pistol is generally preferable for comfortable all-day carry. Consider your body type and clothing choices when assessing concealability.
- Shootability: While smaller guns are easier to conceal, they can be harder to shoot accurately, especially for those with smaller hands. Find a balance between concealability and shootability that works for you.
2. Capacity:
- Magazine Size: More rounds mean more defensive potential. Look for pistols with high-capacity magazines, but remember that increased capacity often means increased size and weight.
- Reliability: Ensure the magazines are reliable and feed flawlessly. Test different magazines extensively before relying on them for self-defense.
3. Ergonomics:
- Grip: A comfortable and secure grip is paramount for accuracy and control. Consider the texture, size, and shape of the grip. Different manufacturers offer varying grip styles.
- Trigger: The trigger pull should be smooth, consistent, and predictable. A crisp trigger improves accuracy and reduces the likelihood of unintended discharges.
4. Reliability:
- Function: Your EDC pistol must function flawlessly under stress. Choose a well-established model with a proven track record of reliability.
- Maintenance: Consider the ease of maintenance and cleaning. A gun that's easy to clean and maintain is more likely to stay reliable.
5. Features:
- Sights: Night sights are highly beneficial for low-light situations. Consider the type of sights (e.g., fiber optic, tritium) and their visibility.
- Safety Features: Many pistols offer manual safeties, while others rely on trigger safety mechanisms. Choose a safety system that you are comfortable and proficient with.
- Ambidextrous Controls: If you are left-handed or prefer ambidextrous controls, ensure the pistol offers them.
Popular EDC 9mm Pistol Models:
While countless 9mm pistols are available, some consistently rank among the top choices for EDC:
- Glock 19: A classic and highly popular choice known for its reliability, affordability, and wide range of aftermarket accessories. Its moderate size offers a good balance between concealability and shootability.
- Sig Sauer P365: A smaller and lighter option, ideal for deep concealment. Despite its size, it offers a surprisingly high capacity.
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus: Another compact option with a good balance of size, capacity, and shootability.
- Springfield Armory Hellcat: Known for its high capacity in a compact package. It's a strong contender for deep concealment.
- CZ P-10S: This pistol offers a balance of size, features and a great trigger for its price.
Beyond the Pistol: Holsters and Training
The choice of pistol is only part of the equation. Proper training and a high-quality holster are equally crucial:
- Holster Selection: Choose a holster that's comfortable, secure, and allows for a quick and smooth draw. Consider different holster types (e.g., IWB, OWB, AIWB) and find one that suits your needs and body type.
- Professional Training: Invest in professional firearms training. Proper training is essential for safe and effective handling of your EDC pistol.
Conclusion:
Selecting the best EDC 9mm gun is a crucial decision requiring careful consideration of individual needs and preferences. Prioritize reliability, ergonomics, and concealability. Remember to handle and shoot various models before making your final choice. Above all, invest in professional training to ensure safe and proficient use of your firearm. This comprehensive guide provides a strong foundation for your research, but always consult with experienced firearms professionals and conduct thorough research before making any purchase.
