Comparing Ruger, Glock, Smith & Wesson, and Springfield Handguns

There are lots of handguns on the market, and lots of models to choose from. Some of the most popular and well-known gun manufacturers include Ruger, Glock, Smith & Wesson, and Springfield Armory. Their guns are consistently manufactured to stand up to the elements and fire consistently and accurately every time. Any one of these handguns slides nicely into a kydex holster for easy concealed carry.

Many people who purchase a handgun are looking for something that will protect them in the home or on the go. While each of these manufacturers offers several models of handguns, some are better for concealed carry than others. 

Some models also come with features that gun owners find they can't live without. It's important to research each one and then head down to your local gun range to try them out. Whichever model feels most comfortable for you is the one to add to your collection.

Concealed Carry Considerations

There are many considerations to keep in mind when searching for the perfect concealed carry handgun, although certain aspects may be more important to one gun owner than they are to another. 

These considerations include factors such as caliber, capacity, the dimensions of the gun, and the price. For concealed carry purposes, you don't necessarily want a gun that will have a large caliber because of the increased recoil; however, you don't want a caliber that is too small. A 9mm is about the right amount of stopping power, although there are arguments for .380s and .45s as well.

As for dimensions, you'll want something that fits comfortably in your hands and is also easy to carry around in your kydex holster for long hours. A slim, lightweight, compact frame may be your choice, while others may be comfortable with something larger. Capacity and caliber come into play in this category, too.

Ruger

Ruger has consistently seen its way to the top of the concealed carry popularity list with their LCP and EC9 series. The LCP stands for "lightweight compact pistol," and it was specifically designed for concealed carry use. Ruger is also immensely popular because of their prices: Their guns are priced to move. Even their 1911 series is much cheaper than other manufacturers. 

The following is a quick break-down of the stats of the most popular Ruger pistols for concealed carry:

1. LCP

• Caliber: .380
• Capacity: 6+1
• Length: 6"
• Loaded Weight: 23oz
• Width: .95"

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 7+1
• Length: 6"
• Loaded Weight: 17.2oz
• Width: .90"

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 17+1
• Length: 7.50"
• Loaded Weight: 30oz
• Width: 1.05"

Glock

Well-known for its reliability and durability, Glock has long been the number-one choice of law enforcement officers across the country. The Glock is designed for concealed carry and home defense, and these guns hold up under any condition or climate. They rarely jam or misfire, and they handle the abuse of everyday carry. 

These are some of the most popular Glock handguns on the market and their specifications:

1. G19

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 15+1, 17, 19, 24, 31, 33
• Length: 7.36"
• Loaded Weight: 21.16oz
• Width: 1.26"

2. G43

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 6+1
• Length: 6.26"
• Loaded Weight: 17.99oz
• Width: 1.06"

3. G26

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 10+1, 12, 17, 19
• Length: 6.50"
• Loaded Weight: 25.75oz
• Width: 1.26"

Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson broke the mold for concealed carry when they introduced the M&P Shield in 2012. The M&P series is lauded for its lightweight concealability and its quality craftsmanship. Smith & Wesson handguns are some of the most long-lasting, durable guns manufactured today. 

Here are some of our favorite Smith and Wesson 9mm handguns for carrying concealed:

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 7+1, 8+1
• Length: 6.1"
• Loaded Weight: 18.3oz
• Width: .99"

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 8+1
• Length: 6.9"
• Loaded Weight: 26.2oz
• Width: 1.05"

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 16+1
• Length: 7.2"
• Loaded Weight: 22.3oz
• Width: 1.30"

Springfield Armory

The Springfield Armory name takes its inspiration from the original Springfield Armory in Springfield, Massachusetts, which became the primary weapons arsenal of the colonies during the American Revolution. When Robert Reese founded the company in 1974, he chose the name to herald back to the history and motivation behind the original armory. Springfield handguns are some of the best on the market today.

Here are some of our favorite Springfield handguns:

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 13
• Length: 6.25"
• Loaded Weight: 26oz
• Width: 1.20"

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 16
• Length: 7.3"
• Loaded Weight: 27.5oz
• Width: 1.20"

• Caliber: .45ACP
• Capacity: 5+1
• Length: 6.5"
• Loaded Weight: 21.5oz
• Width: .975"