Some guns stick around for a reason. In a market constantly chasing the next big thing, there are a handful of pistols that keep showing up on belts, in trucks, and inside waistbands because they flat-out work. Whether it’s proven reliability, easy concealment, or shootability that just feels right—these are the pistols folks are still reaching for in 2025.
Glock 19
The Glock 19 isn’t going anywhere. It’s still the go-to for folks who want one gun to do just about everything. Compact enough to carry, big enough to shoot well, and it just runs.
Even with flashier options out now, the G19’s simplicity still wins. The aftermarket support is huge, mags are everywhere, and it’s the definition of no-nonsense. If you’re not sure what to carry, this one still makes a strong case.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus
The Shield Plus added capacity without making the gun feel chunky, and that’s exactly why it’s stuck around. It’s easy to conceal and shoots better than it has any right to.
The flat-faced trigger upgrade made a real difference, and the grip texture is just aggressive enough. Whether you’re new to carry or have been doing it for years, it still checks all the right boxes.
Sig Sauer P365
When the P365 came out, it kind of changed the game. Now in 2025, it’s still one of the most practical choices for everyday carry—small gun, big capacity, and solid reliability.
There are fancier versions now, sure, but the original flavor still hits that sweet spot. If you’re after something easy to carry that doesn’t feel like a pea shooter, this one’s still tough to beat.
Ruger LCP Max
Pocket pistols haven’t gone extinct, and the LCP Max is proof. It brought .380 carry into the modern era with more rounds, better sights, and just enough grip to matter.
It’s not what you take to the range for fun, but it disappears in a pocket and still packs a punch. For deep concealment or backup, this little guy keeps earning its spot.
Springfield Hellcat
The Hellcat came out swinging and has kept its spot in the micro-compact lineup. It’s got great capacity, decent sights, and a grip that feels just right for most hands.
Even with competition from newer models, the Hellcat’s balance of size and firepower holds up. If you’re looking for something that disappears under a T-shirt but doesn’t feel too snappy, it still gets the job done.
CZ P-01
Not everyone wants striker-fired, and the CZ P-01 is still a favorite for hammer-fired fans. It’s got that old-school reliability with modern ergonomics and shoots like a dream.
It’s a little chunky by today’s standards, but for folks who prefer a DA/SA with serious track records—including military use—it’s still a great carry gun. Plus, it just feels good in the hand.
Glock 26
Even with all the new micro compacts, the Glock 26 still holds its own. It’s a little blocky, sure, but it runs like a tank and takes Glock 19 and 17 mags.
Some folks just prefer a subcompact that feels like a “real” gun. If you’re already invested in the Glock platform, the 26 still makes a ton of sense for carry.
Walther PPS M2
The PPS M2 flies under the radar, but it’s quietly one of the best slim single-stacks out there. The trigger’s excellent, it’s easy to shoot, and it carries like a dream.
Even with newer double-stacks out now, some folks still prefer the flatter profile of a single-stack. If that’s your style, the PPS M2 still earns a spot in the rotation.
Beretta PX4 Storm Compact
This one’s a bit of a sleeper pick. The PX4 Compact has a smooth trigger, rotary barrel, and solid reliability, but it doesn’t get talked about as much these days.
That said, for folks who like a hammer-fired gun with great ergos and low recoil, it’s a surprisingly good carry option. Especially if you don’t mind carrying something a little off the beaten path.
Taurus GX4
Taurus really stepped it up with the GX4. It’s affordable, but it doesn’t feel cheap. The trigger’s good, the grip’s solid, and it holds its own next to more expensive options.
If budget is a factor—and it is for a lot of folks—this gun proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to carry something reliable. It’s still turning heads in 2025.
Kahr PM9
The PM9 isn’t flashy, but it’s been quietly doing its job for years. It’s small, lightweight, and has a nice trigger pull for a carry gun.
Some folks still prefer the simplicity and size of a true single-stack 9mm. It’s not going to win any capacity contests, but it disappears in a pocket and goes bang when you need it to.
Sig Sauer P229
The P229 isn’t what most would call modern, but it’s still on the hips of folks who like metal guns and hammer-fired triggers. It’s built solid and shoots smooth.
It’s heavier than your average polymer gun, but that weight soaks up recoil. For those who don’t mind a little extra bulk, it’s still a reliable carry piece that’s stood the test of time.
Glock 43X
The Glock 43X stuck the landing between the 43’s slim frame and the 48’s longer grip. Pair it with a Shield Arms mag and you’ve got 15 rounds in a surprisingly slim package.
It’s still one of the most balanced options for appendix carry—slim enough to hide but easy to shoot well. In 2025, it’s still one of Glock’s best for EDC.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
