7 Best Pocket Pistol Choices [2024 Updated]: Are They Right for You?

Size matters, and it goes in both directions. Sometimes you need a big gun. Sometimes you need a small gun. Small guns come in various sizes, and we have subcompacts, pocket pistols, and mouse guns. Today we are going to be talking all about pocket pistols. We’ve gathered the very best pocket pistols, and we are going to break down what a pocket pistol is and leave you with a little advice on how to best use your pocket pistol. 

What is a Pocket Pistol?

The name explains it, right? A pocket pistol is small enough to fit in your pocket! As such it has to be very small, relatively lightweight, and thin. If it’s hard to draw from your pocket, it’s going to be tough to call it a pocket pistol. Pocket pistols can be found in calibers like 25 ACP, 22LR, 32 ACP, 380 ACP, and 9mm. 

What’s A Pocket Pistol Good For?

Why would you ever want such a small gun? If you’ve handled firearms before, you know that small guns are often more challenging than large guns. However, there is a time and a place for everything, and small guns fill a certain niche. 

• Deep Concealment: When hiding the gun is the most important consideration, then a small gun is the best option possible. Pocket pistols print less and are easier to conceal in tuckable holsters, belly bands, on the ankle, and of course, in the pocket. 
• A Backup: Some people carry more than one gun. Carrying one decent-sized firearm can be tough to do. Carrying two is a major hassle. Choosing a pocket pistol as your backup gun ensures you have a spare rod, but you don’t need to be weighed down by a second Glock 19. 
• Convenience Carry Guns: Let’s admit, sometimes you have to run a quick errand, and you don’t want to strap on a proper-sized holster and gun. A pocket pistol allows for the convenient carry of a small gun for those quick errands. 

How I Chose The Best Pocket Pistols

When it comes to choosing the best pocket pistols, I bring more than just a passing interest to the table. I’ve clocked in hours at the range, scrutinizing and testing these compact guns, ensuring they pack a punch in performance while fitting snugly in your pocket.

My journey in selecting these pistols didn’t start at the counter. It began with an understanding—having a reliable, easily concealed firearm matters. I’ve handled a variety of models, delving into their features, ergonomics, and most importantly, their reliability when it counts the most.

But expertise doesn’t flourish in isolation. I didn’t just rely on my own experiences. I sought insights from my peers in the field, tapping into their preferences and putting their recommendations to the test. Anything I hadn’t laid my hands on, I made sure to acquire, because a comprehensive review demands no stone left unturned.

After meticulously examining and firing these pistols, I’ve distilled the top contenders. These aren’t just numbers on a spec sheet; they’re the ones that impressed me with their accuracy, ease of use, and ability to maintain precision in critical moments.

So, rest assured, this list isn’t a shot in the dark. It’s a result of hands-on experience and collaboration, ensuring that when it comes to selecting a pocket pistol, you’re getting the insights of someone who’s walked the talk in the world of concealed firearms.

Best Pocket Pistols

• Glock 42
• Ruger LCP 2 380
• S&W Bodyguard 380 
• SIG P938 SAS 
• Kahr PM9 
• Ruger LCR 327 Magnum 
• NAA Guardian 380 ACP

Best Pocket Pistols

1. Glock 42		Glock Brand Glock Reliability Full-Size Sights Easy to Find	Check Price
2. Ruger LCP 2 380		Great Improved LCP Affordable Teeny-Tiny	Check Price
3. S&W Bodyguard 380		Optional Integrated Laser Manual Safety DAO Trigger	Check Price
4. SIG P938 SAS		Snag Free SAO Trigger 1911-like Design	Check Price
5. Kahr PM9		Super Small 9mm Big Sights Smooth DAO Trigger	Check Price
6. Ruger LCR 327 Magnum		Powerful Cartridge Smooth Trigger Modern Revolver Option	Check Price
7. NAA Guardian 380 ACP		All Metal Frame Smooth Design DAO Trigger	Check Price

Best Pocket Pistol Specs

Best Pocket Pistol Reviews

In the following section I will be reviewing each individual product listed above and discussing the pros, cons and pricing of each pocket pistol.

Glock 42 Review

When Glock finally released the 42, I knew I had to get my hands on it. This was their first single-stack .380 ACP, and as a die-hard Glock fan, I couldn’t wait to try it out. The Glock 42 takes everything I love about their pistols and shrinks it down into one of the best pocket rockets for self-defense.

The Glock 42 is the smallest Glock out there, just 5.94 inches long and .98 inches wide. It’s lightweight too, weighing only 15.87 ounces when loaded. Its compact size and light weight make it ideal for pocket carry.

One of the things I appreciate most about the Glock 42 is its safe action system. It doesn’t have a manual thumb safety, which means fewer steps when you need to draw it quickly. I’ve found it incredibly easy to carry in a Kydex pocket holster, even with a small red dot sight attached.

Glock took their time with this single-stack .380 ACP, but they got it right. It’s one of the few pocket rockets that doesn’t sting or hurt when you shoot it. It’s comfortable to fire, though I do get some slide bite with my larger hands. Even with that minor issue, the Glock 42 is a fantastic pocket rocket that I trust for self-defense. You can read my full review here.

Pros and Cons

Ruger LCP2 380 Review

When I first got my hands on the Ruger LCP 2, I could see why the original sold millions. Ruger really nailed it with this pocket pistol. I prefer the .380 ACP version; it’s more reliable and packs a punch with deeper penetration and wider expansion.

One of the first things I noticed was the improved trigger—it’s light and crisp, making follow-up shots a lot easier. The bigger sights also help me aim better, which is a huge plus. The grip has a more aggressive texture, keeping the gun secure in my hand, and the slide serrations make racking it smooth, even for those with weaker hands.

At just 10.6 ounces, the LCP 2 is lightweight and easy to carry. But I won’t lie; you definitely feel the recoil with the .380 ACP. It gives a nice little hand slap with each shot, reminding you that it’s a serious tool. Overall, the LCP 2 is ultra-reliable and compact, making it a top choice if you want a lightweight pocket pistol that gets the job done. Read my full Ruger LCP II review here.

Pros and Cons

S&W Bodyguard 380 Review

The S&W Bodyguard 380 was my introduction to pocket pistols, and to be honest, I wasn’t sold on it at first. The recoil felt rough, the sights were small, and the long trigger pull took some getting used to. However, over time, I really started to appreciate this little gun. Its ultra-smooth design makes it easy to draw, which is crucial for a pocket gun, as snagging can be a real hassle.

What I love about the Bodyguard is its snag-free design and integrated red laser, making it quick to get on target. Unlike many pocket pistols that have minimal sights, the Bodyguard features proper sights that really help with aiming. With a capacity of six rounds of 380 ACP and a weight of just 12.3 ounces, it’s a lightweight yet effective choice for concealed carry.

For those who prefer a manual safety, the Bodyguard has a frame-mounted safety similar to a 1911, just much smaller. While the thin grip can punch back and isn’t the most comfortable, the Bodyguard remains impressively reliable. It’s not picky about ammo, and the restrike capability of the DAO trigger is a comforting feature. Priced around $400, it’s a solid choice, though there are alternatives that might offer more comfort.

Overall, the Bodyguard 380 has become a dependable companion that I’ve grown to trust for everyday carry. Read my full review here.

S&W Bodyguard 380 Pros and Cons

SIG P938 SAS Review

I’ve always had a soft spot for SIG firearms, and the P938 is a solid contender among little guns. This micro 1911 is great for carry, but it does have some snag points that can make pocketing it tricky during self-defense situations. That’s where the SAS variant comes in. SAS stands for SIG Anti Snag, and it really works to minimize those snag points, making it much easier to draw.

The design on the P938 SAS is impressive. SIG has trimmed and melted the edges, giving it a smooth profile. The FT Bullseye sights sit flush with the slide, cutting down on potential snags. They do take some practice to master, but once you get the hang of them, they’re pretty effective for quick shots.

I’ve put over 500 rounds through the P938 SAS without a hitch, whether using FMJ or Hornady Critical Duty 9mm. It’s reliable and accurate, but I do find the grip a bit narrow for a 9mm, which can be uncomfortable. The thumb safety’s placement also raises some eyebrows, especially for those not used to it.

As much as I want to love the P938 SAS, I can’t fully recommend it. It nails reliability and accuracy, but those ergonomic quirks keep it from being the perfect pocket pistol among little guns for me.

SIG P938 SAS Pros and Cons

Kahr PM9 Review

Sadly the Kahr PM9 is criminally underrated. It’s a great little gun that packs 9mm performance into a pocket pistol-sized platform. It’s a simple polymer frame pistol that holds 6 or 7 rounds of 9mm, depending on the magazine size. Admittedly, the shorter 6 round magazine is much more pocket-friendly at only 5.42 inches long, which makes it shorter than the 380 caliber Glock 42. 

The Kahr PM9 uses a very smooth double action only trigger. The trigger pull is long, but to be fair, it’s very smooth. It’s almost like a really well-done revolver trigger. The trigger guard is spacious, making it easy to use even with gloved hands. Admittedly, it’s not for everyone, especially if you’ve come to appreciate the light and crisp striker-fired triggers most of us are accustomed to.

One big factor why I included this gun is that it’s very easy to handle. It has some snap to it and some muzzle rise to look out for, but it’s not painful. It doesn’t slam into your hand and cause any pain. At 14 ounces, it’s not the lightest gun on the market, but that little extra weight does provide some real and noticeable recoil reduction. 

It’s a smooth shooting gun with great sights, a good trigger, and soft recoil for its size. Kahr needs to get more love in the modern marketplace because they are producing high-quality firearms. 

Kahr PM9 Pros and Cons

Ruger LCR 327 Magnum Review

Revolvers aren’t technically pistols, I know, but pocket handguns are nowhere near as fun of a title as pocket pistols. Leave me and my alliterations alone! J frame, or snub nose revolvers, are the old school pocket pistol and have learned to serve in that role. The LCR might be old school as a revolver, but it’s the most modern revolver on the market. The polymer frame trims weight down to about 17 ounces. 

It’s a little heavy as a pocket pistol but too bad. I chose the 327 Federal Magnum cartridge because it’s superbly efficient in size and power. It hits hard and penetrates deeply. It expands well and delivers excellent terminal ballistics. The 327 Federal Magnum also allows you to fit six shots into a five-shot revolver. An extra round is always nice to have. 

The Ruger LCR in 327 Magnum provides you the most modern revolver combination for pocket pistol applications. It sports the best stock double-action trigger on the market and pairs with it a good front sight for rapid target acquisition. Ruger’s little six-shot revolver packs a lot of power in a pocket-sized platform. The 327 Federal Magnum outperforms 9mm with little issue and doesn’t provide harsh recoil. 

That being said, the 9mm variant of the LCR might give you a more common and affordable round, and I wouldn’t shy away from it as a pocket pistol either. 

Ruger LCR 327 Magnum Pros and Cons

NAA Guardian 380 ACP Review

You want it small, snag-free, and all-metal? Well, the NAA Guardian 380 ACP is the pocket pistol for you. The Guardian 380 ACP measures 4.81 inches long, is 3.69 inches tall, and .94 inches wide. You best count your blessings that the little Guardian weighs 20.4 ounces. That extra weight of the all-metal frame eats up recoil and makes it manageable to handle without your palm getting a slap with every shot. 

The Guardian 380 ACP packs six rounds of 380 ACP, making it competitive with every other pocket pistol on the market. The NAA Guardian does have a long double-action trigger which will detract from the gun’s accuracy with most shooters. The tiny nubs for sights won’t help much either. Like most pocket pistols, it’s best inside ten yards or so. 

When it comes to reliability, the NAA Guardian seems to eat whatever you throw at it. The little gun doesn’t suffer issues from limp writing, likely due to the weight, and this makes it easy to handle if your grip is compromised. As a pocket pistol, it’s snag-free and super smooth for a quick and efficient one-handed draw. 

NAA Guardian 380 ACP Pros and Cons

Pocket Pistol – Buyers Guide

Below I want to unpack some thoughts on what to consider when you’re looking for a pocket pistol, the benefits, and what else you might want to pick up. I’ll also cover why you need a holster in a separate section.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Pocket Pistol

Size and Weight: A pocket pistol needs to be compact and lightweight for easy carry. You want something that fits comfortably in your pocket without adding bulk. If you can carry it every day without hassle, that’s a win.

Caliber: Pocket pistols usually come in smaller calibers like .22 LR, .380 ACP, and 9mm. It’s crucial to choose a caliber that balances stopping power with manageable recoil. Think about what you’re comfortable shooting and what you might need for self-defense.

Reliability: Trust is key in a pocket pistol. Look for models known for reliability and positive reviews. A firearm you can depend on is essential in critical situations.

Ease of Use: The pistol should be easy to operate under pressure. Consider the controls, trigger type, and safety features. Simplicity can lead to faster access and better handling when it matters most.

Comfort and Ergonomics: Comfort plays a significant role, especially if you plan to carry regularly. A pistol that feels good in your hand will enhance your shooting experience. Ensure the grip is secure and feels natural during use.

Holster Options: A pocket pistol should fit well in various holsters for effective carry. Look for options that accommodate different methods, allowing you to choose what suits your lifestyle best.

You Still Need a Holster

Oh yeah, your pocket isn’t a holster. Do not trust your pocket to safely carry a firearm. You need a holster for pocket carry to ensure the pistol is safe. A holster envelopes your weapon, including the trigger. A covered trigger is a must-have. An exposed trigger could lead to a negligent discharge when your pants, or any object, gets caught against the trigger. 

Also, if you want to ensure your handgun functions when you draw it, you need a holster. Pockets are natural points of collection for all sorts of stuff. It can be lint, dirt, and lord knows what else. If you toss a gun in that same pocket, it’s now exposed to all that gunk and grime. It’s a quick way to make sure your gun doesn’t go bang more than once. 

Finally, a holster makes drawing a handgun much easier. A dedicated pocket holster will allow you to grab the grip consistently each and every time. It allows you to draw your firearm with ease and to do so quickly and smoothly. 

A good pocket holster ensures your gun is protected, you are safe, and you can draw it with ease. Which holsters, you may ask? Check out my list of the best pocket holsters here.

Pocket it!

Pocket pistols provide you with an ultra-small and lightweight firearm. It’s amazing how small guns have gotten and how they remain a reliable option for concealed carry. They aren’t perfect, but when your option is to pack a small gun or no gun at all, then they make a lot of sense. Just keep in mind the increased training they require. If you can do that, then you’re golden. 

Best Pocket Pistol – FAQs

How many rounds can a pocket pistol hold?

Most pocket pistols hold between six to eight rounds, depending on the model and caliber. While some offer a standard capacity, others may have options for extended magazines to increase ammunition availability.

Can I carry a pocket pistol in my jacket pocket?

Yes, pocket pistols are specifically designed for convenient carry, including in a jacket pocket. However, it’s crucial to use a proper holster to ensure safe handling and prevent accidental discharges.

Are pocket pistols semi-auto?

Many pocket pistols are semi-automatic, meaning they automatically cycle the action to chamber the next round after firing. This feature allows for quicker follow-up shots compared to revolvers, making them a popular choice for concealed carry.

How do you safely carry a pocket gun?

Always use a suitable holster designed for pocket carry. The holster should cover the trigger guard to prevent accidental discharges and protect the gun from lint or debris that can affect its function.

What should you do with an empty magazine after use?

After using an empty magazine, it’s essential to properly store it for reloading or maintenance. Avoid leaving magazines exposed to moisture or dirt that could affect their function.