Top 11 Compact Pistols Of 2023
The Top 11 Compact Pistols Of 2023 according to the professionals. I was never one to play around with guns or carry a pistol just for the sake of carrying a pistol. Thant always seemed corny as hell and me & most of the people I hung around with looked at the other folks that just carried guns for no reason like they were clowns & suckers.
They say it’s better to get caught with one than without one but I don’t think whoever made the saying up had violent felonies in their criminal history. That was the main thing that kept me from carrying a pistol. That automatic 5 years just for “getting caught with one” was a bit much for me to accept, especially because I knew what jail was already like. They can keep them 5 years.
But for the law-abiding citizens that want/need to protect themselves and their families, drug boys who want/need to protect their drugs & money, and the other cats who just want a gun because their mans has one, here’s the list of the top 11 compact pistols ff 2023 according to the “professionals”.
01: FN 503
As a leading global firearms manufacturer, FN promises exceptional quality, and the FN 503 pistol delivers exactly that. This micro-compact 9mm firearm provides effortless concealment without compromising the grip for adult users.
Equipped with a standard 6+1 round magazine and an extended eight-round magazine, the FN 503 offers increased firepower and enhanced pistol control.
Despite its compact size, the pistol maintains remarkable accuracy. The 3.1-inch barrel features a recessed target crown, and both the feed ramp and chamber undergo meticulous factory polishing. The top of the slide showcases low-profile three-dot sights, ensuring they remain inconspicuous in attire while remaining sufficiently large for effective use.
Customization is easy, as the FN 503 shares the same dovetail size as the full-size 509 pistol, allowing users to upgrade to larger sights if desired.
For additional details, please visit FNAmerica.com.
02: Glock 43
Undoubtedly, Glock stands out as one of the foremost brands that comes to mind when individuals contemplate self-defense pistols. This reputation is well-founded, given the brand’s renowned reliability and widespread adoption by numerous global police agencies and military forces.
Within the realm of micro-compact pistols, Glock presents a range of options, among which is the G43. This single-stack 9mm pistol is adept at discreet concealment when holstered properly. Its design accommodates individuals of varying sizes and body types, empowering them to defend against larger and stronger assailants.
Having subjected this pistol to thorough testing, I can attest to its ease of use within its category. My personally owned G43 has demonstrated commendable accuracy and a flawless record of reliability with various defensive ammunition types.
For additional details, please visit US.Glock.com.
03: Kahr CM9
Setting itself apart from many competitors with its early market presence, the Kahr CM9 stands as a proven choice in the micro-compact pistol category. Engineered for the 9mm cartridge, this pistol accommodates six rounds in a flush-fitting magazine. Notably light, reliable, and remarkably affordable, it has earned its place in the market.
A distinctive feature of the Kahr CM9, setting it apart from others in this discussion, is its exceptionally smooth double-action-only trigger pull. Personally carrying my CM9 as a police backup gun for several years, I found the qualification process to be seamless. The combination of sights and a smooth trigger facilitated quick and accurate shot placement at various distances.
Manufactured in the U.S.A. as part of the company’s value line, the Kahr CM9 may lack some of the intricate machining found in other Kahr pistols. However, the functional disparities are minimal. What an owner gains is a highly effective pistol that offers great shooting performance, capable of safeguarding one’s life without a hefty financial investment.
For additional details, please visit Kahr.com.
04: Kimber R7 Mako
Renowned for its rifles and 1911-style pistols, Kimber generated excitement with the introduction of the R7 Mako into the micro-compact market. This polymer-framed, striker-fired pistol stands out by accommodating 11 rounds of 9mm in a standard magazine and an additional two rounds in an extended magazine.
Recognizing the challenge of controlling recoil with the short grip length typical of small guns, Kimber addresses this with an aggressive texture covering most of the frame, enhancing the shooter’s grip.
In the pursuit of enhanced accuracy, Kimber equips the R7 Mako with TruGlo Tritium Pro night sights as a standard feature. Additionally, users have the option of an optional Crimson Trace CTS-1500 red-dot sight directly from the factory. If a different optic is preferred, the base model pistol readily accepts any red-dot sight with an RMSc-type footprint.
For further details, please visit KimberAmerica.com.
05: Mossberg MC2sc
Mossberg’s newest pistol proves to be a standout choice, offering a plethora of features tailored to meet concealed carry needs. In the realm of firepower, this 9mm pistol impressively accommodates 11 cartridges in the standard magazine, with an extended mag providing an additional three rounds—delivering substantial firepower in a compact design. However, the MC2sc doesn’t just rely on capacity; its features contribute to its modern appeal.
Crafted with a glass-reinforced polymer frame, the MC2sc boasts a flat-faced trigger and introduces an innovative field stripping method that allows the removal of the striker assembly without the need to pull the trigger.
Keeping up with contemporary trends, this pistol is designed to seamlessly integrate with any RMSc-type red-dot optic. For added safety, all models include an integral trigger safety, with Mossberg offering an optional manual safety model featuring a cross-bolt safety, more commonly found in long guns. For those seeking enhanced sight options, a variant with TruGlo Tritium Pro sights is available for an additional $100.
For comprehensive details, please visit Mossberg.com.
06: Ruger LCP MAX
Undoubtedly, one of the most successful micro-compact pistols in the past two decades has been the Ruger LCP. Taking it up a notch to 11, Ruger introduces the LCP MAX.
While slightly larger than the original, the LCP MAX maintains remarkable compactness—measuring less than an inch in width and weighing less than 11 ounces when unloaded. Despite its diminutive size, this pistol accommodates ten rounds in a flush-fitting magazine, with the option for extended magazines carrying 12 rounds.
Adding to its defensive capabilities, the LCP MAX comes standard with a front night sight. Featuring a tritium vial surrounded by a bright white outline, this sight aids accurate shot placement in low-light conditions when the stakes are high. The rear sight is designed with a wide notch for quick front sight acquisition.
Moreover, the leading edge of the pistol has a hard edge for one-handed slide manipulation in emergencies, while still maintaining pocket-friendly dimensions.
For additional details, please visit Ruger.com.
07: Sig Sauer P365-380
Sig Sauer’s P365 line of pistols garners significant attention, and rightfully so, given their feature-rich design and substantial ammunition capacity relative to their size. Recently, Sig Sauer expanded this line to include the .380 ACP cartridge.
The P365-380, promising reduced recoil compared to its 9mm counterparts, maintains many features characteristic of the P365 line. Notably, the lower half of the pistol employs the same grip module and trigger group, ensuring a consistent feel in the shooter’s hands.
Enhancing its versatility, Sig includes night sights on the P365-380, and all slides in this model are cut for an optic. Not immediately visible is the lighter recoil spring, designed to require less force for operation. This adjustment benefits individuals with reduced hand strength, making it easier to manipulate the slide when clearing malfunctions.
For comprehensive details, please visit SigSauer.com.
08: Smith & Wesson CSX
Contrary to the assumption that micro-compact pistols only come with plastic frames, let me introduce you to the Smith & Wesson CSX. This single-action pistol operates with a hammer and features a manual thumb safety, distinguishing itself with an aluminum alloy frame paired with a stainless steel barrel and slide. This combination results in a finely balanced, enjoyable firearm that challenges conventional notions of concealed carry.
The CSX’s single-action trigger is both light and crisp, ensuring ease of shooting. Enhancing the shooting experience are metal three-dot sights that provide a sight picture in line with the preferences of many shooters. Dispelling any notion of being a conventional or outdated pistol, the CSX is a modern gem.
Chambered for the 9mm cartridge, the CSX incorporates interchangeable backstraps to accommodate the shooter’s hand, a feature not commonly found in metal-framed pistols. Despite its compact size, this pistol offers substantial firepower, with a flush-fitting magazine holding ten rounds and a slightly longer magazine adding a couple more.
For additional details, please visit Smith-Wesson.com.
09: Springfield Armory Hellcat OSP
Without a doubt, the Hellcat OSP stands out as one of the premier choices for a micro-compact defensive pistol. Chambered in the formidable 9mm cartridge, it impressively holds 11 rounds in a standard magazine, with an included extended magazine adding two more. For those seeking even greater capacity, optional 15-round magazines are also available. Personal experience has confirmed the Hellcat’s unwavering reliability with various defensive ammunition, a crucial aspect for any defensive firearm.
What distinguishes the Hellcat OSP is its implementation of U-Dot sights, setting it apart from similar weapons. Springfield Armory employs a large photoluminescent front sight with a tritium insert, ensuring a bright aiming point in all lighting conditions. The rear sight features a sizable U-notch, facilitating rapid front sight acquisition.
Adding to its versatility, the Hellcat OSP allows for the direct mounting of any RMSc-type red-dot optic, eliminating the need for a mounting plate and bringing the optic closer in line with the bore of the barrel.
For comprehensive details, please visit Springfield-Armory.com.
10: Taurus GX4 T.O.R.O.
Taurus continues to push the boundaries of innovation, and the GX4 is a prime example of the company’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge firearms. This micro-compact pistol, chambered in 9mm, exudes a sense of seriousness and is crafted for substantial tasks.
Equipped with flush-fitting magazines that hold 11 rounds (with 10-round versions available for states with restrictions), the GX4 doesn’t compromise on firepower. Additionally, extended 13-round magazines are offered for those seeking even greater capacity.
Among the various GX4 models, the T.O.R.O. variant stands out, capturing particular interest. Taurus designed the slide to facilitate the easy direct mounting of RMSc-type optics, making it accessible for users without gunsmith training.
Taurus has demonstrated careful consideration in the GX4’s design, evident in features such as the recessed areas on the magazine and grip that enhance the ease of stripping the mag in the event of a malfunction. While malfunctions may not be a common occurrence with the GX4, the provision for easier problem resolution in real-life combat scenarios underscores the thoughtful design of this pistol.
For further details, please visit TaurusUSA.com.
11: Walther PPS M2
While Walther handguns have enjoyed a longstanding reputation, the company’s modern pistols sometimes don’t receive the attention they truly deserve. A prime example is the Walther PPS M2, a compact 9mm pistol that stands out for its exceptional ergonomics.
Even with a flush-fitting magazine, the PPS M2 feels remarkably comfortable in the hand. The inclusion of an extended magazine enhances the grip, transforming the gun into a delightful and enjoyable firearm to shoot.
Walther’s commitment to quality triggers is evident in the PPS M2, which boasts one of the finest triggers in this selection. Smooth with a clean break and a reasonably short reset, it contributes to the overall shooting experience. Personally owning one for years and carrying it extensively, I can vouch for its incredible reliability and accuracy. Whether using hollow-point or FMJ ammo, the PPS M2 performs reliably, even with cheap reloads and a loose grip.
For additional details, please visit WaltherArms.com.
