Selecting the right Glock model for your concealed carry needs is hugely important. It's important that the weapon you choose to protect yourself and your loved ones should fit your lifestyle, body type and be quick and comfortable to draw.

Glock handguns are renowned for their durability, reliability and popularity among recreational shooters, law enforcement, military units and concealed carriers alike. Their simple operation, rugged construction and consistent performance have made them a go-to choice for personal defense.

This guide dives into the top Glock picks that offer an ideal balance of firepower, concealability and usability for discreet and everyday carry self-defense.

Why Choose a Glock for Concealed Carry?

Glock pistols have earned a sterling reputation for being exceptionally durable and reliable. Their polymer frames withstand harsh conditions that would damage a metal-framed pistol. Internally, the simple trigger mechanism and striker-fired operation mean fewer parts that could potentially fail.

This tried-and-tested reliability makes Glock a trusted choice for personal defense. When your life depends on it, you need a pistol that will go bang every time you pull the trigger.

Beyond rock-solid reliability, Glock handguns are hugely versatile. Their modular design means swapping parts and customizing your weapon is simple. This adaptability means a Glock can serve as an everyday concealed carry weapon, home defense pistol and even a duty sidearm.

Their widespread popularity also means accessories and holsters are abundantly available to meet any need. For a versatile and dependable semi-auto pistol, Glock can’t be beaten.

How We Chose the Best Glocks for Concealed Carry

To select the best Glock models for carrying discreetly, we focused on three vital criteria:

Concealability : The pistol must be compact and slimline enough to keep hidden beneath clothing. Smaller guns that don’t print are ideal.

Shootability & Comfort : Despite the compact size, the pistol still needs to be controllable and comfortable to shoot accurately. A slim, tiny pistol is no good if you can’t hit your target.

Value : With a huge array of Glock models available, we favored picks that offer the best balance of features and affordability.

Our selections were based on extensive testing, training experiences, time in military services, evaluation by experts and research from reliable sources online.

With hundreds of hours of range experience between them, they assessed numerous Glock models head-to-head for ease of carry, shootability and suitability for self-defense.

Top Picks for Best Glocks for Concealed Carry

After thorough testing and analysis, these Glock models stood out from the pack as ideal concealed carry pistols:

1. Glock 19 Gen 5 : Best General Purpose Glock

Specs:

• Caliber: 9mm
• Barrel Length: 4.02′′
• Overall Length: 7.28′′
• Height: 5.04′′
• Width: 1.34′′
• Weight: 23.81 oz
• Capacity: 15 rounds

Features:

• Modular Optic System (MOS) – easy mounting of optics
• Suitable for both concealed carry and as a larger duty pistol
• Excellent balance of compact size vs ammo capacity
• Enhanced grip ergonomics with no finger grooves

Pros:

• Huge range of accessories and customization options
• Proven design that’s easy to shoot fast and accurately
• Versatile for beginners through to professionals
• Reliable performance across varied conditions

Cons:

• Not as easily concealed as smaller single-stack models
• Heavier than ultra-compact pistols

The G19 Gen 5 is Glock’s do-it-all handgun, bridging the gap between concealed carry and tactical use. It packs an impressive 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition into a balanced compact package.

While not as tiny and slim as single-stack subcompacts, the G19 is still versatile enough for everyday concealed carry. Equipped with a purpose-built inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster and a sturdy belt, it conceals comfortably without overly printing or weighing you down. Regarding the grip length, careful consideration is necessary depending on your body type and typical attire, as it may affect the overall concealment and comfort.

Where the G19 truly shines is shootability. Drawing from concealment and firing accurately under duress is crucial for effective self-defense. The G19 gives you a secure, full-length grip and mild recoil impulse that make placing fast follow-up shots easy. The enhanced Gen 5 grip with no finger grooves adapts naturally to more hand sizes as well.

The Gen 5 updates also introduce a durable nDLC finish protecting against corrosion and scratches. Moreover, a flared magwell facilitates smoother reloads, while the latest marksman barrel delivers consistent precision through thousands of rounds.

With abundant accessories like weapon lights, optics or extended magazines, the G19 readily transforms into a highly capable home defense pistol or tactical sidearm. This adaptability, coupled with Glock’s renowned reliability, makes the G19 one of the most popular and trusted handguns worldwide.

2. Glock G48 MOS : Best Single-Stack

Specs:

• Caliber: 9mm
• Barrel Length: 4.17′′
• Overall Length: 7.28′′
• Height: 5.04′′
• Width: 1.10′′
• Weight: 20.6 oz
• Capacity: 10 rounds

Features:

• Slimline frame ideal for easier IWB concealment
• MOS configuration readily accepts miniature optics
• Balanced handling despite its slimline grip

Pros:

• Easier to conceal thanks to slim, compact design
• Maintains enough grip length for shooting control
• Highly accurate with responsive sight radius

Cons:

• Reduced ammo capacity versus double-stack models
• Lacks accessory rail for adding weapon lights

The G48 MOS brings an outstanding balance of concealability and shootability with its slim yet ergonomic design. It takes Glock’s popular mid-size G19 frame and trims the width drastically to a svelte 1-inch.

This slimline design allows exceptionally comfortable inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry. In addition to maintaining a sleek profile, the single-stack magazine minimizes bulk, enhancing the concealment without compromising capacity. The streamlined slide further aids in reducing printing against clothing.

Despite the slender frame, the G48 retains enough grip length for a secure, controllable hold. This gives you sufficient leverage over the pistol to manage recoil effectively for faster follow-up shots. The 4.17-inch barrel also provides a lengthy, responsive sight radius for enhanced precision on target.

While the slim 10-round magazines reduce ammo capacity, extended options are available offering 13-15 rounds nearly flush with the frame.

The MOS configuration on the G48 does not remove the fixed sights; instead, it includes a plate that can be removed to interface a miniature red dot optic. . This allows fast sight acquisition and accuracy at speed. Combined with the easy concealment, the G48 MOS is one of the best balanced Glock for discreet everyday carry.

3. Glock G43X MOS : Best Overall CCW

Specs:

• Caliber: 9mm
• Barrel Length: 3.41′′
• Overall Length: 6.5′′
• Height: 5.04′′
• Width: 1.1′′
• Weight: 18.7 oz
• Capacity: 10 rounds

Features:

• Compact design with enhanced ergonomics
• Hybrid magazine capacity balances size and firepower
• MOS feature enables optic compatibility

Pros:

• Great for everyday carry due to compact size and weight
• Highly shootable and easy to control

Cons:

• Longer grip may be harder to conceal for some users

The G43X brings a perfect balance of shootability and carry comfort to make it one of the best overall choices for concealed carry.

This pistol combines the handy midsize grip of the G48 for shooting control with the shorter slide and barrel of the smaller G43. This hybrid design creates an eminently concealable yet very controllable pistol.

The longer grip fills your hand securely to help tame recoil, while the short slide doesn’t jab you when carrying appendix. The minimal weight also makes the G43X comfortable for extended wear when out and about.

While the grip may prove tricky concealing beneath tighter clothing, it does allow a 10 round capacity in the flush-fit magazine. This gives you more shots on tap compared to a smaller subcompact.

The MOS configuration also enables adding miniature red dots if desired. Overall the G43X hits a sweet spot between comfort, shootability and concealment. The longer midsize grip promotes proper hand placement for recoil control. It also avoids small grip issues that negatively impact trigger operation. The short slide and barrel maintain concealability while preserving enough sight radius for defensive accuracy at typical self-defense distances.

With the advent of micro red dot sights, the MOS configuration provides an optics mounting platform for faster sight acquisition. For those able to conceal the grip frame comfortably, the G43X MOS brings excellent rounded performance.

4. Glock G42 : Best for Pocket Carry

Specs:

• Caliber: .380 ACP
• Barrel Length: 3.25′′
• Overall Length: 5.94′′
• Height: 4.13′′
• Width: 0.98′′
• Weight: 13.76 oz
• Capacity: 6 rounds

Features:

• Ultra-compact and lightweight, ideal for pocket carry
• Simplified controls for easy operation

Pros:

• Extremely easy to conceal due to tiny size

Cons:

• Limited capacity and smaller caliber less preferred by some users

The G42 carved out a niche as an easily concealable and reliable .380 ACP pistol. While a 9mm offers more power, there’s still a place for an ultra-compact .380 backup gun.

The G42’s diminutive size makes it a natural fit for pocket carry in particular. It avoids unnecessary bulk, allowing very discreet carry in pockets or ankle holsters. At just 13.76oz empty, the G42 all but disappears in pockets or purses.

Simple, reliable controls, including quality sights and a decent trigger, enhance the G42’s shootability for its tiny size. This helps make it more viable for serious practice and self-defense use, compared to cheaper .380 pistols. The Glock branding also inspires confidence in long-term durability and reliability.

While the limited 6+1 capacity and sharpish recoil may dissuade some, the G42 still makes an excellent deep concealment or backup gun for those needing absolute discretion. When avoiding printing or absolute concealment is the top priority, the tiny G42 delivers that without sacrificing shooting competency.

5. Glock G36 : Best .45 ACP Carry

Specs:

• Caliber: .45 ACP
• Barrel Length: 3.78′′
• Overall Length: 6.97′′
• Height: 4.72′′
• Width: 1.18′′
• Weight: 22.4 oz
• Capacity: 6 rounds

Features:

• Single stack magazine allows a slimmer .45 ACP pistol
• Compact yet powerful design provides serious stopping power

Pros:

• Large caliber round in a very compact and concealable frame
• Well suited for .45 ACP enthusiasts prioritizing power

Cons:

• Sharper perceived recoil than full-size .45 ACP pistols
• Reduced ammunition capacity

The G36 gives .45 ACP fans a slim, easily concealed single-stack pistol without compromising on raw stopping power.

Glock cleverly took their small G30 .45 frame and narrowed the grip to create the slimline 6-round G36. The single-stack magazine allows for a slide almost as slim as many 9mm pistols on the market. This further trims the size of an already compact .45 for simpler, deeper concealment.

Despite its miniature size, the G36 still packs a serious punch with .45 ACP ballistics in a soft shooting platform. The slimmer slide's reduced mass helps mitigate felt recoil for faster follow-up shots. The G36 retains the Glock hallmarks of reliability and accuracy as well.

Concealed carriers who value the substantial stopping power of .45 ACP will find the G36's combination of potency and portability hard to resist.

6. Glock G29 Gen 5 : Most Powerful

Specs:

• Caliber: 10mm
• Barrel Length: 3.78′′
• Overall Length: 6.97′′
• Height: 4.53′′
• Width: 1.38′′
• Weight: 26.81 oz
• Capacity: 10 rounds

Features:

• Packs high-pressure 10mm Auto in a concealable subcompact pistol
• Robust Gen 5 design handles stout loads

Pros:

• Provides tremendous stopping power from a compact platform
• Suitable for both concealed defense and outdoor activities

Cons:

• Large caliber produces more felt recoil
• Lower capacity than full-size 10mm pistols

The G29 Gen 5 packs awesome 10mm power into a surprisingly compact and concealable package.

Among the most powerful semi-auto pistol cartridges available, the “one inch magnum” drops assailants easily and penetrates barriers that lesser calibers cannot. This makes the G29 a fantastically effective concealed carry and home defense weapon.

Glock managed to shrink the overall size of their larger 10mm pistols to create the G29. The subcompact frame significantly trims bulk for comfortable IWB carry, while the 10+1 capacity provides plenty of firepower on tap.

Make no mistake, managing the stout 10mm recoil requires some dedicated practice to control properly. But for those seeking maximum power from a versatile personal defense pistol, the G29 Gen 5 delivers the goods.

7. Glock G43 : Smallest 9mm

Specs:

• Caliber: 9mm
• Barrel Length: 3.41′′
• Overall Length: 6.26′′
• Height: 4.25′′
• Width: 1.06′′
• Weight: 17.99 oz
• Capacity: 6 rounds

Features:

• Extremely compact design enables very deep concealment
• Straightforward operation under stress

Pros:

• Easy to conceal thanks to tiny size and dimensions
• Simple manual of arms

Cons:

• Low round capacity
• Compact grip reduces shooter control and comfort

The G43 stakes its claim as Glock’s most discreet and concealable 9mm pistol. It uses a single-stack slimline magazine to pare the pistol down to the absolute minimum size possible.

At just over 1-inch wide and 0.5 pounds lighter than the G19, the G43 all but vanishes under concealing garments. The flush magazine and rounded edges avoid unnecessary printing against clothing too.

Operation focuses on utter simplicity to stay functional under pressure. A light, smooth trigger break, high visibility sights and intuitive controls enable the G43 to serve capably for personal defense, even with its diminutive proportions.

The limited 6+1 capacity and short grip do negatively impact shootability and comfort though. However, for those prioritizing absolute concealment and ease of carry over all else, the G43 delivers this in spades.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Glock for Concealed Carry

While the Glock pistols provide versatile proven concealed carry options, personal tastes vary. Your individual needs should dictate the best Glock to trust your life with.

Factors like your body size, usual style of dress and intended use all influence the ideal model. Smaller shooters can often conceal full-size pistols that larger folks couldn’t hide discreetly. If you frequently wear tight or revealing clothing, a single-stack subcompact allows deeper concealment too.

Your anticipated needs are also vital. If you want just a simple concealed carry weapon, a smaller pistol like the G43 suffices. Those needing to defend against four-legged threats in the wilderness may prefer the more powerful G29 10mm.

Ultimately finding the right balance of firepower, carry comfort and capability comes down to testing different models personally. Visit shooting ranges that rent handguns to compare options hands-on before buying. This lets you experience first-hand which Glock suits both your needs and your body type best.

Conclusion

Glock handguns enjoy immense popularity as concealed carry weapons and for good reason. Their blend of simplicity, ruggedness, affordability and reliability is hard to beat.

Choosing which Glock model to carry discreetly comes down to your intended use and carry style. The G19 brings versatility and shootability for an easy to use all-rounder. The G48 and G43X offer slimline builds perfect for IWB carry. And micro-compacts like the G42 and G43 prioritize utter concealment and deep cover capabilities.

Whichever you choose, Glock’s reputation for dependability means you can trust your life to it. Just be sure to test options personally to find the best fit. Your concealed carry pistol should comfortably disappear beneath clothing while remaining comfortable and controllable to shoot at a moment’s notice.

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FAQs

Which Glock is the easiest to conceal carry?

The Glock G43 is the easiest to conceal carry. At just over 1-inch wide and 17.9oz, it's extremely compact and lightweight. The minimal dimensions and single-stack magazine allow very discreet carry.

What is the best Glock for home defense?

The Glock 19 Gen 5 is arguably the best for home defense. It has sufficient firepower with its 15+1 capacity of 9mm ammo. It's also compact enough to maneuver through tight home spaces easily. The availability of accessories like weapon lights and optics also aid defensive use.

Is the Glock 48 good for concealed carry?

Yes, the G48 is an excellent concealed carry pistol. It shares the same compact frame as the G19 but with a slimmer single-stack grip making it perfect for IWB carry. The reduced width avoids printing while the 4-inch barrel maintains shootability.

How accurate are Glocks out of the box?

Glocks are very accurate out of the box, capable of hitting torso-sized targets out to 50+ yards. Their polygonal rifling and fixed barrel lockup create reliable precision. They may not match tuned target pistols but Glocks are combat accurate by design.

What is the most powerful Glock?

The most powerful Glock currently is the G40 Gen 4 chambered in 10mm Auto. The potent 10mm round offers excellent stopping power and penetration ideal for hunting and defense against large predators. In a concealable package, the subcompact G29 in 10mm also packs serious power.

What is better, Glock 43 X or 48?

The choice between the G43X and G48 comes down to your carry position and priorities. The G48 is slimmer for easier IWB concealment but has a lower capacity. The G43X has a longer grip and higher capacity but may be trickier to conceal appendix carry depending on body shape.

Should I get a Glock 19 or 43 for my first gun?

For a first handgun, the G19 is arguably a better choice than the G43. The longer grip and milder recoil aid shooting fundamentals like stance, grip, sight alignment and trigger control. The higher capacity and larger caliber also make it more versatile. The G43 is better suited for a secondary