6 Best Concealed Carry CCW Guns Under $400

Quick Answer

Looking for a carry pistol under $400? Focus on fit, concealability, and control before extras. This list covers six proven budget picks across various sizes. You'll see which one hides easiest, which feels best in bigger hands, and which gives you the most rounds for your money. Use the comparison table below to match a gun to your carry style and training plan.

Key Takeaways

• A gun that fits your hand beats a higher round count.
• Compact guns hide well and stay easier to shoot well.
• Micro-compacts carry easily, yet take more practice to run fast.
• Pocket-capable (holster and clothing dependent) is easy to hide, yet recoil and grip can bite.
• Budget guns can run great if you vet mags and ammo.
• Spend money on a holster and training, not only the gun.

Buying the right carry gun means balancing several needs. Size matters a lot! Too small? Good luck hitting targets or handling recoil. Too big? You might leave it at home on hot days. Money matters too. 

This guide looks at the sweet spot: guns under $400 that feel good in hand, hide well under clothes, and shoot straight when needed. Many people start with tiny guns then trade up later. Let's skip that step and find your right-sized budget carry partner from day one.

How This List Was Built

What We Looked For

When putting together this list, we focused on guns that deliver real value under $400. Not just cheap guns, but ones that work for everyday carry. We looked for solid fundamentals: decent triggers, good sights, and ergonomics that help you shoot straight. We also wanted guns that come ready to carry without needing immediate upgrades.

Street price was a big factor too. Some guns list higher MSRPs but regularly sell for under $400, so we included those deals you can actually find. Size variety mattered as well – people have different body types and clothing styles, so we included options from pocket-sized to compact.

How We Selected Through Research

When we built this list, we pulled details from long-form reviews, owner feedback, and expert notes from firearm publications. We looked for reports that match how you would use a carry gun day to day. So we focused on performance in common defensive settings, not just range talk. We also relied on sources that describe what happens after long use.

Next, we used clear selection rules. We leaned toward models that earned strong feedback across many ammo types. We also looked for steady accuracy in defensive drills and practice tests, as described by several reviewers. Comfort mattered too. If a handgun feels harsh to carry, you stop carrying it, even if it shoots well.

Pricing reflects typical U.S. street prices at the time of writing. Availability, rebates, and regional demand can move prices above or below $400.

Quick Comparison Table

Model	Caliber	Capacity	Barrel Length	Weight	Street Price	Best Use Case
Ruger LCP Max	.380 ACP	10+1	2.8"	10.6 oz	$309–$365	Deep concealment
PSA Dagger Micro	9mm	15+1	3.41"	15.9 oz	~$300	Slim carry
Taurus GX4	9mm	11+1	3.0"	18.7 oz	~$240	Budget micro-compact
CZ P-10 C	9mm	15+1	4.0"	26 oz	$369–$394	Larger hands
Canik TP9 Elite SC	9mm	12+1 / 15+1	3.6"	24.8 oz	$380–$399	Best trigger feel
Ruger RXM	9mm	15+1	4.0"	23 oz	~$349	All-around use

Best Concealed Carry CCW Guns Under $400

Ruger LCP Max - Best for Deep Concealment

The LCP Max takes the popular pocket .380 concept and solves its biggest problem: capacity. This tiny pistol packs 10+1 rounds in a package barely larger than the original LCP. That's a major upgrade for a gun so small it disappears in a pocket or ankle holster.

What makes the Max special is its improved usability over typical pocket pistols. The sights are much better than the tiny nubs found on most guns this size, with models available that include a tritium front sight for low light use. The grip, though still small, offers more texture and control during firing.

Recoil is snappy as expected from any sub-11-ounce pistol, but the improved grip and decent trigger make follow-up shots manageable with practice. This isn't a range toy by any means, but for maximum concealment with decent firepower, the LCP Max delivers impressive performance for its size class. The retail pricing around $309 at Classic Firearms puts it firmly in the budget-friendly category for deep concealment needs. 

Price: $309-365

Specs

• Caliber: .380 ACP
• Capacity: 10+1 standard, 12+1 extended
• Barrel: 2.80"
• Overall Length: 5.17"
• Width: 0.81"
• Weight: 10.6 oz

Features

• Compact frame built for deep concealment
• Tritium front sight for better low-light aiming
• Textured grip for better control despite small size

Pros

• Easy to carry all day in virtually any clothing
• Good capacity for a true pocket pistol
• Better sights than most guns this small

Cons

• Snappy recoil needs practice to manage
• Short grip challenges shooters with larger hands
• Limited accessory options compared to larger pistols

PSA Dagger Micro - Best Value 9mm Micro

The PSA Dagger Micro delivers serious value for budget-conscious carriers who want a modern micro-compact 9mm. With street prices often hovering around $300, this pistol packs features typically found on guns costing much more. The slide comes optics-ready on most models, accepting popular red dot sights.

What sets the Dagger Micro apart is its impressive 15-round capacity in such a slim package. Most competitors in this size class max out around 10-12 rounds, giving the Dagger a meaningful advantage in potential firepower. The grip texturing strikes a nice balance between traction during firing and comfort against the body during all-day carry.

For new carriers, the Dagger Micro offers an accessible entry point to quality 9mm carry guns without breaking the bank. The controls are straightforward, and the gun handles predictably. For experienced shooters, it provides a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on the essentials.

Price: $300

Specs

• Caliber: 9mm
• Action: striker-fired
• Capacity: 15+1
• Barrel: 3.41"
• Overall Length: 6.5"
• Width: 1.1"
• Height: 4.7"
• Weight: 15.9 oz unloaded

Features

• Shield/RMSc-style optic cut for popular red dots
• Aggressive cocking serrations for easy manipulation
• Modern grip texture for secure handling

Pros

• High capacity for a slim carry pistol
• Excellent price-to-feature ratio
• Optics-ready without paying premium prices

Cons

• Ships with only one magazine
• Holster support has improved, but selection is still smaller than Glock or Sig
• Can be harder to find in stock due to popularity

Taurus GX4 - Best Budget Micro-Compact

The Taurus GX4 is one of the lowest-cost picks in today’s micro-compact lineup. At around $240 retail, it costs far less than options like the Sig P365 or Springfield Hellcat. Even so, it still gives you the kind of features most people expect from this class. That’s why it fits so well if you are new to carry or you want to keep spending low.

And the GX4 does not feel like a bargain-bin pistol. The grip texture has enough bite to help you stay steady during fast strings. The frame and slide also feel firm and well put together. You also get an 11-round standard magazine, which keeps it in the same capacity lane as other micro-compacts. So you get a compact carry size without giving up too much capacity.

Also, the GX4 is easier to run than many pistols its size. The trigger breaks cleanly at around 5.5 pounds. Recoil stays more controlled than you may expect from such a small build. Follow-up shots still take practice, because that is part of the micro-compact deal. But this one stays manageable as you learn.

Price: $239-279

Specs

• Caliber: 9mm Luger
• Action: striker-fired (SAO-style trigger)
• Capacity: 11+1 standard, 13+1 extended
• Barrel: 3.06"
• Overall Length: 5.8" with small backstrap
• Width: 1.08"
• Height: 4.4"
• Weight: 18.7 oz

Features

• Aggressive grip texturing for positive control
• Quality Mec-Gar magazines included
• Front sight with white dot for fast acquisition

Pros

• Extremely affordable for a modern micro-compact
• Good ergonomics for a wide range of hand sizes
• Simple takedown for cleaning and maintenance

Cons

• Trigger feel varies by shooter preference
• Recoil can feel sharp to new shooters
• Limited aftermarket support compared to larger brands

CZ P-10 C - Best for Larger Hands

The CZ P-10 C is a strong pick if you want more room in your grip. You can often find it just under $400 at retailers like BattleHawk Armory. It is a striker-fired 9mm with a shape that fits many hands well. It also brings a trigger that tends to feel cleaner than other pistols in the same size band. That mix matters if tiny micro-compacts feel cramped to you.

So the first thing you may notice is how it shoots. The trigger breaks clean at around 4.5-5 pounds. It has little wasted movement, and the reset feels sharp. The grip texture can look intense. In use, it helps you keep control during faster strings. The pistol also points in a natural way for many people, which helps with quick sight alignment.

Also, the P-10 C works well with many ammo types. That makes it a good option for duty use, home defense, and concealed carry. It is a bit larger than most micro-compacts. In return, you get better control and a full firing grip. With a good holster and a strong gun belt, it can still conceal well, even with 15+1 capacity.

Price: $369-394

Specs

• Caliber: 9mm
• Action: striker-fired
• Capacity: 15+1
• Barrel: 4.0"
• Overall Length: 7.3"
• Width: 1.26"
• Height: 5.2"
• Weight: 26 oz

Features

• Aggressive grip texture for secure handling
• Metal sights with tritium front option on some models
• Interchangeable backstraps for fit customization

Pros

• Excellent ergonomics fit many hand sizes
• Crisp trigger with positive reset
• Durable metal magazines included

Cons

• Larger than micro-compacts
• Aggressive texture may wear clothing
• Limited aftermarket compared to Glock

Canik TP9 Elite SC - Best Trigger Under $400

The Canik TP9 Elite SC is a trigger-focused carry gun under $400. You get a crisp break around 4.5 pounds and a short, tactile reset. That can help you press the trigger with less effort and less drift. It also comes optics-ready from the factory. Shield RMSc pattern red dots fit without extra plates or slide work, which can save time and money.

Also, the included gear adds to the value. Around $380 often gets you an optics cut, two magazine sizes that hold 12 and 15 rounds, and a holster that is ready to use. You also get an accessory rail for lights. Many pistols in this size range skip that, so it is a helpful feature if you want a light option.

The Elite SC measures 1.45 inches wide. That makes it thicker than true micro-compacts. That extra width can give you a more stable grip. It can also help you control the gun during rapid fire, especially if you have medium to large hands. The pistol also delivers strong accuracy for its size. The trigger makes that easier, because clean breaks lead to cleaner hits.

Price: $380-399

Specs

• Caliber: 9mm
• Action: striker-fired
• Capacity: 12+1, 15+1 with extended magazine
• Barrel: 3.6"
• Overall Length: 6.7"
• Width: 1.45"
• Height: 4.6"
• Weight: 24.8 oz

Features

• Industry-leading trigger in its price class
• Optics cut for Shield RMSc footprint red dots
• Accessory rail for weapon lights

Pros

• Exceptional trigger improves accuracy
• Complete package includes holster and two magazines
• Optics-ready without additional cost

Cons

• Wider than true micro-compacts
• Slightly heavier than competitors
• Higher bore axis affects recoil management

Ruger RXM - Best All-Around Value

The Ruger RXM gives you a strong mix of features for carry. It fits people who want a compact 9mm with solid capacity and easy control. At street prices near $349, it brings upgrades you often see on higher-priced models. The direct optics mounting system lets you mount many red dots without adapter plates. That helps the sight sit lower and keeps the setup simple.

What helps the RXM stand out is how the key details work together. The flared magazine well helps you guide mags in faster. The tritium front sight gives you a clear aiming point in dim light. And the modular trigger system lets you adjust the feel without a gunsmith. Those touches are often saved for pistols that cost a lot more.

For everyday carry, the RXM balances size and ability in a clean way. The 4-inch barrel supports solid velocity with defensive ammo. The grip also gives most hands a full and stable hold. At around 23 ounces unloaded, it has enough weight to tame recoil. And it still carries well all day with a good belt and holster.

Price: $349-375

Specs

• Caliber: 9mm
• Action: striker-fired
• Capacity: 15+1
• Barrel: 4.0"
• Overall Length: 7.2"
• Width: 1.00"
• Weight: 23.2 oz

Features

• Direct optics mounting system for red dots
• Tritium front sight for low-light use
• Flared magazine well for faster reloads
• Modular trigger group for customization

Pros

• Excellent feature set for the price
• Good balance of capacity and concealability
• Factory upgrades that would cost extra on other guns

Cons

• Trigger feel similar to standard Glock
• Slightly larger than micro-compacts
• Newer model with fewer holster options

How To Pick the Right CCW Under $400

Choose your budget carry gun in 10 steps

1. Choose your carry method first

Before buying any gun, decide how you'll carry it. IWB, appendix, pocket, or ankle all work best with different gun sizes and shapes.

2. Pick a size class that matches your daily clothes

Be honest about what you wear most days. Tight shirts and shorts? You need something smaller. Loose clothing? You have more options.

3. Confirm you can get a full grip on the gun

Try before you buy if possible. Your entire firing hand should fit on the grip without hanging off the bottom.

4. Check sight visibility in indoor light

Many budget guns come with basic sights. Make sure you can see them clearly in various lighting conditions.

5. Decide if you plan to add an optic

If red dots interest you, buying an optics-ready pistol now saves money over getting a slide milled later.

6. Confirm magazine cost and availability

Extra magazines are essential. Check their price and availability before committing to a gun.

7. Confirm holster options exist for your carry style

Popular models like Glocks have hundreds of holster options. Newer or less common guns might limit your choices.

8. Test with the ammo type you plan to use

If possible, test fire with your intended carry ammunition. Some guns prefer certain bullet weights or designs.

9. Run basic drills at common carry distances

Practice drawing, firing, and reloading at 3-7 yards. These skills matter more than tiny groups on paper.

10. Set a practice plan before you carry daily

Budget for training and range time. A $300 gun with $500 in training beats a $800 gun that's never practiced with.

Carry Setup That Makes Budget Guns Work Better

Holster basics that matter

Good holsters can change how a budget pistol carries day to day. First, the holster must fully cover the trigger guard. That step helps prevent accidental discharges. This part is not optional.

Next, look for firm retention that keeps the gun secure during movement. At the same time, you still want a clean draw when you need it. A loose holster creates risk. A holster that grips too hard can slow your draw.

A stiff gun belt also matters more than many people expect. Even a $300 pistol can carry badly on a flimsy $10 department store belt. Pick a purpose-built gun belt that spreads the weight across your waist. That makes concealment easier and comfort better.

Finally, put comfort near the top of your list. An uncomfortable setup often stays at home. And that defeats the goal of carrying. Test a few carry spots on your body and settle on what fits your frame and daily routine.

Training and practice priorities

Safe draw and reholster habits matter most. They form the base of your carry skill. Practice slow and steady until the motions feel natural. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.

Dry fire practice at home costs nothing. It also pays off fast. Ten minutes a day of drawing, aiming, and trigger presses builds strong habits. It can do more than rare range trips. Still, follow safety rules every time and use an empty gun.

When you go to the range, keep your live fire tight and focused. Work on control and clean hits. Do not waste time only making noise. In this area, quality beats volume.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a budget carry gun comes down to an honest look at your needs, body type, and carry method. The guns on this list show you can get a solid firearm for self-defense without spending a fortune.

Match the gun to your hand size and your daily clothing. A gun that fits your hand and carries well is one you will practice with. It is also the one you will carry more often. Focus on the basics over bonus features. Control and consistency matter most.

Budget gear can serve you well when you pair it with good support gear and steady practice. Put money into a proper holster, a stiff gun belt, and training. That brings out the best in almost any firearm, even at a lower price.

If you’re new to concealed carry, selecting the right ammo can feel just as overwhelming as choosing the pistol itself. To simplify that decision — especially when running a budget-friendly handgun — 6 Best 9mm Ammo for Range and Self-Defense Purposes breaks down reliable 9mm loads for common carry scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What size CCW is easiest to carry every day?

Micro-compacts [like the Taurus GX4] or pocket pistols [like the LCP Max] are often the easiest to carry daily. They hide under light clothing and usually feel less bulky. The tradeoff is control. Smaller guns often need more practice than larger options.

Is a compact easier to shoot than a micro-compact?

Yes. Compact pistols like the CZ P-10 C give you more grip area, a longer sight radius, and more weight. Those factors help soak up recoil. They also make clean hits easier, mainly for newer shooters. The tradeoff is concealment, which can take more effort.

How many rounds is enough for a carry gun?

Many defensive events end after a few shots. Still, extra rounds give you more room for error under stress. A magazine with 10 or more rounds can help if you face more than one threat. It also helps if you miss during a fast moment. Many micro-compacts now offer strong capacity in small frames, so you do not have to give up as much.

Can you carry a pocket pistol as your main gun?

Yes, but you need to respect its limits. Pocket pistols like the LCP Max work best at close range. They also need more practice for fast and clean hits. They shine for deep concealment when larger guns do not fit the situation. But the smaller sights and grips can make them harder to run well.

Should you buy an optics-ready pistol under $400?

If you plan to add a red dot later, yes. A factory optics cut can save money. It also saves time compared to slide work later. Models like the Canik TP9 Elite SC and Ruger RXM can offer that under budget.

What matters more, gun cost or holster and training?

Training and a good holster matter more than paying extra for a high-end gun. A $300 pistol with a solid holster and steady practice can serve you better than a $1,000 pistol in a cheap holster. Skill and safe carry habits win in the long run.

About the Author

This article was written by the Pro Armory writing team based on current research, including studies from reputable sources like the Journal of Military Science, Firearms News, and the National Shooting Sports Foundation. We also referenced trusted information from official defense publications and respected firearm authorities such as the ATF, NRA, and manufacturer manuals.

Disclaimer: This review is for education only. Laws vary by state and city and can change. Follow safe handling at all times. Read your owner's manual. Verify local rules before you buy or train.