{"id":19662,"date":"2026-09-11T16:22:36","date_gmt":"2026-09-11T16:22:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/?p=19662"},"modified":"2026-09-11T16:22:36","modified_gmt":"2026-09-11T16:22:36","slug":"best-edc-handgun","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/best-edc-handgun\/","title":{"rendered":"Best EDC Handgun"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask ten concealed carriers what the &#8220;best EDC handgun&#8221; is, and you&#8217;ll probably get ten different answers. Some swear by a compact striker-fired pistol. Others won&#8217;t carry anything but a revolver. Some prioritize magazine capacity, while others focus on comfort and concealability.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The truth is, the best EDC handgun isn&#8217;t a specific make or model. The best EDC handgun is the one you can:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carry comfortably<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conceal effectively<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shoot accurately<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Deploy confidently when your life is on the line.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are so many handgun choices precisely because no gun is perfect for everyone.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But it\u2019s also more than that. A reliable handgun is only one piece of the equation. Often referred to as an \u201cEDC loadout,\u201d your belt, holster, ammunition, training, clothing choices, and understanding of local laws all play a role in creating an effective everyday carry setup.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you&#8217;re carrying a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/us.glock.com\/en\/products\/commercial-firearms\/pistols\/g43\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Glock 43<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sigsauer.com\/firearms\/pistols\/p365.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SIG P365<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smith-wesson.com\/products\/shield-plus\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smith &amp; Wesson Shield Plus<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or another proven defensive handgun, the gun is only one piece of your important gear. You also need other equipment and several intangibles.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>The Best EDC Handgun Setup Starts with Reliability<\/strong> <\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_19852\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19852\" class=\"wp-image-19852 size-full\" title=\"glock 43 best edc handgun\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-Glock-43.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of the glock 43 best edc handgun\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-Glock-43.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-Glock-43-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-Glock-43-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-Glock-43-790x451.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-19852\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Glock 43: Chambered in 9x19mm, striker-fired, with standard 6-round magazines. No optic-ready options.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before worrying about accessories or carry methods, choose a handgun that meets the most important criteria for defensive use: reliability. Your life depends on it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A carry gun must function every time you press the trigger. That means selecting a firearm with a proven track record and thoroughly testing it before trusting it for self-defense.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/glock-42-vs-43\/\">Glock 43<\/a> is a great example. While it isn&#8217;t the newest or highest-capacity micro-compact on the market, it\u2019s earned a reputation for reliability, simplicity, and concealability. Its slim profile makes it easy to carry throughout the day, which is one reason it remains a popular choice among concealed carriers. Glock is certainly not the only good gun brand out there, but the company has built its reputation on working reliability. It\u2019s informally what all other handguns are matched against.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When evaluating a potential EDC handgun, reliability should always come first. A firearm that malfunctions regularly has no place in a defensive role.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Beyond reliability, consider:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How\u00a0 easily you can conceal it<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How comfortable it is to shoot<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether the capacity meets your needs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How readily available <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">magazines<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, holsters, and replacement parts are.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most importantly, choose a handgun that fits your hand and one you&#8217;ll actually enjoy training with. The best handgun is ultimately the one you will consistently carry and practice with.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Choose the Right Holster<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_19847\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19847\" class=\"wp-image-19847 size-full\" title=\"IWB concealed carry holster\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0290-Web.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of a IWB concealed carry holster\" width=\"1024\" height=\"678\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0290-Web.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0290-Web-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0290-Web-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0290-Web-790x523.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-19847\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Always carry your gun in a comfortable, quality holster. Always.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the handgun is the heart of your carry setup, the holster is the component that keeps everything secure and accessible. Always carry your gun in <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">a quality holster<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Always. Let me say it again. Always carry your gun in a holster. Don\u2019t make me say it a third time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tucking the gun inside your waistband looks cool in the movies, but it could end up getting you killed because it exposes the trigger to a potential accidental discharge right down your leg. Prevent that dangerous situation by carrying in a high-quality holster that covers the trigger and guard to prevent an accidental trigger pull. If you <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">carry y<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">o<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ur gun in a bag<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or purse, still use a holster.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Today&#8217;s concealed carriers have more holster options than ever before. A moldable plastic called <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kydex<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> remains one of the most popular choices because it offers excellent retention, durability, and consistency. Hybrid designs combine a Kydex shell with a softer backing material, such as leather or polypropylene, to increase comfort. Traditional all-leather holsters continue appealing to those who appreciate their classic look and feel.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regardless of material, avoid bargain-bin holsters that fail to hold their shape or adequately secure the firearm. A quality holster should securely retain the firearm while allowing a smooth, efficient draw. A good holster should also provide reliable retention, maintain a consistent position on the body, and remain comfortable enough for all-day wear.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Don&#8217;t Overlook the Gun Belt<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many new concealed carriers spend hundreds of dollars on a handgun and holster, only to support it all with an ordinary department store belt. Unfortunately, that&#8217;s often where comfort and concealment problems begin.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A dedicated gun belt provides the foundation for your whole carry setup. Unlike standard belts, gun belts are specifically designed to support the weight of a firearm and holster without sagging, twisting, or shifting throughout the day. This added stability helps distribute weight more evenly around the waist, improving both comfort and concealment. It also keeps the handgun positioned consistently, which contributes to a more reliable draw stroke.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you prefer leather or reinforced nylon, investing in a purpose-built gun belt is one of the easiest ways to create the best EDC handgun experience. Even lightweight handguns benefit from the added support and stability a quality belt provides.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Good quality gun belts often cost a little more than traditional belts, but they are worth it in the long run.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>The Best EDC Handgun Carry Position<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_19855\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19855\" class=\"wp-image-19855 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-Smith-Wesson-Shield-Plus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-Smith-Wesson-Shield-Plus.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-Smith-Wesson-Shield-Plus-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-Smith-Wesson-Shield-Plus-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-Smith-Wesson-Shield-Plus-790x451.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-19855\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">S&amp;W Shield Plus: Chambered in 9x19mm, striker-fired, with 10, 13, or 17-round magazines. Optic-ready options.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most hotly debated topics in the concealed carry community is exactly where to carry your handgun. Front, back, side, other? There\u2019s no universal answer because body type, wardrobe, daily activities, and personal preference all play a role.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Appendix inside-the-waistband (AIWB) carry has become <a href=\"https:\/\/www.phlsterholsters.com\/phlster-guided-holster-choice\">increasingly popular<\/a> in recent years because it offers excellent concealment and rapid access to the firearm. Many carriers find that a slim handgun virtually disappears when carried in the appendix position. The location also makes it easier to protect the firearm during a physical confrontation because it remains directly in front of the body.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Strong-side carry remains another popular option and is often recommended for newer concealed carriers. Positioning the handgun around the three- to five-o&#8217;clock position tends to feel natural for many shooters and can be particularly comfortable during long periods of wear.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other carry methods, including pocket carry, ankle carry, shoulder holsters, and off-body carry, all have legitimate applications. However, each involves trade-offs in accessibility, concealment, or comfort. Regardless of the method you choose, consistency matters. Carrying your handgun in the same location every day helps build muscle memory and ensures a more efficient draw when seconds count.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Carefully Select Defensive Ammunition\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_19848\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19848\" class=\"wp-image-19848 size-full\" title=\"defensive carry ammo\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0288-Web.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of defensive carry ammo\" width=\"1024\" height=\"678\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0288-Web.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0288-Web-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0288-Web-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0288-Web-790x523.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-19848\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Be sure to test-fire your defensive carry ammo in your EDC gun before you carry it.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ammunition you choose for self-defense deserves as much attention as the firearm itself. While <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/catalogsearch\/result?q=FMJ\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">full metal jacket ammunition<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (also called ball ammunition) is ideal for training and range use, most concealed carriers rely on modern <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/catalogsearch\/result?q=jacketed+hollow+point\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">jacketed hollow point<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> ammunition for defensive purposes. Quality defensive loads are engineered to expand reliably upon impact, reducing the risk of overpenetration while maximizing effectiveness.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Manufacturers such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/brands\/federal-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Federal<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Speer, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/brands\/hornady-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hornady<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/brands\/winchester-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Winchester<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/brands\/remington-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remington<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> all produce respected defensive ammunition options. Regardless of which load you select, it is important to verify that it functions reliably in your firearm. Before carrying any defensive ammunition, spend time at the range confirming that your handgun feeds, fires, and cycles the chosen load without issue.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We could talk all day about what caliber to pick (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/handgun\/9mm-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9mm<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> vs. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/handgun\/10mm-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10mm<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> vs. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/handgun\/45-acp-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.45<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> vs. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/handgun\/380-auto-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.380<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, etc.). Yet one place where caliber and reliability conflict is .22LR. It\u2019s known as a terrible self-defense round for two reasons: it lacks the power to quickly stop most threats, and .22LR ammunition is notoriously unreliable because it\u2019s a rimfire round. Instead of \u201cbang,\u201d you might get \u201cclick,\u201d not a sound you want to hear from your gun in the middle of a gunfight.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Carry a Spare Magazine<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Magazine capacity often dominates conversations about concealed carry because you want to start with as many rounds as possible and don\u2019t want to carry a spare magazine. This strategy makes sense. Why change magazines if you don\u2019t have to? However, that\u2019s only half the issue. The main reason for carrying another magazine has very little to do with capacity and more to do with malfunctions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your gun malfunctions in the heat of battle, you might accidentally drop the main magazine and not be able to pick it up off the floor. Fortunately, most concealed-carry gun magazines are easy to carry discreetly in a pocket or a dedicated magazine carrier. Grab your spare magazine from your belt or pocket and get back in the fight.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Dress Around the Gun<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best EDC handgun setup often requires small adjustments to your wardrobe rather than a complete overhaul of your closet. The goal is to carry discreetly without constantly adjusting your clothing or worrying about the firearm becoming visible. When your carry setup is comfortable and concealable, you&#8217;re far more likely to carry consistently.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many experienced carriers find that slightly looser-fitting shirts, untucked button-downs, or layered clothing help conceal a handgun more effectively. Darker colors and patterned fabrics can also help break up outlines and minimize printing. Likewise, choosing pants with enough room for an inside-the-waistband holster can significantly improve your comfort.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For the ladies in the audience, this poses a unique challenge. You probably don\u2019t wear belts very often, which means you have to find another way to conceal carry. Perhaps there\u2019s a whole other article in there somewhere. If you\u2019d like us to write one, leave a comment below.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For now, just understand that you might need to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/9mmmagazines.com\/mission-first-tactical-cypher-3l-edc-waist-pack\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">use a fanny pack<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or another bag-carry method most of the time. There\u2019s an ever-growing range of options for you out there. Whichever one you choose, remember to keep the gun in a holster to avoid accidental discharge.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Training Matters More Than Equipment<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_19853\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19853\" class=\"wp-image-19853 size-full\" title=\" sig p365 best edc handgun\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-SIG-P365.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of the sig p365 best edc handgun\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-SIG-P365.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-SIG-P365-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-SIG-P365-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/WRS-Best-EDC-Handgun-Art-SIG-P365-790x451.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-19853\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Sig Sauer P365: Chambered in 9x19mm, striker-fired, with 10, 12, 15, or 17-round magazines. Optic-ready options.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It&#8217;s easy to become distracted by gear. Gear is cool. The latest optic, upgraded trigger, or newest micro-compact handgun can spark endless online discussion. However, training contributes far more to defensive effectiveness than accessories ever will.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A skilled shooter carrying a basic handgun will almost always outperform an untrained shooter carrying a far more expensive firearm. Developing safe gun-handling habits, mastering your draw stroke, improving trigger control, and learning to perform reloads and clear malfunctions should all take priority over equipment upgrades.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular dry-fire practice can dramatically improve proficiency without costing a single round of ammunition. Combined with live-fire range sessions and professional instruction, training builds confidence and competence that no accessory can replace.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Understand Your Local Carry Laws<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carrying a concealed firearm comes with significant responsibility. Part of that is understanding the laws that apply where you live and travel. The most responsible carriers don&#8217;t simply carry a firearm. They also make an effort to understand the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/stand-your-ground-laws\/\">legal framework<\/a> surrounding its use.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Concealed carry regulations vary widely between states and may govern permit requirements, reciprocity agreements, prohibited locations, interactions with law enforcement, and use-of-force standards. Staying informed about current laws is every gun owner&#8217;s responsibility, particularly because regulations can change over time.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Parting Shot: Build the Best EDC Handgun Setup for YOU<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_19850\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19850\" class=\"wp-image-19850 size-full\" title=\"EDC defensive setup\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0303-Web.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of an EDC defensive setup\" width=\"1024\" height=\"678\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0303-Web.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0303-Web-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0303-Web-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/JDL0303-Web-790x523.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-19850\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">EDC Success: a reliable handgun, quality holster, a sturdy gun belt, proven defensive ammunition, and consistent training.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A concealed carry firearm is only one component of a complete defensive system. The most effective setup combines a reliable handgun, a quality holster, a sturdy gun belt, proven defensive ammunition, consistent training, appropriate clothing, and a solid understanding of applicable laws. Whatever gun you\u2019re carrying, success depends less on the logo stamped on the slide and more on the system and lifestyle you&#8217;ve built around it.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ask ten concealed carriers what the &#8220;best EDC handgun&#8221; is, and you&#8217;ll probably get ten different answers. Some swear by a compact striker-fired pistol. Others won&#8217;t carry anything but a revolver. Some prioritize magazine capacity, while others focus on comfort and concealability. The truth is, the best EDC handgun isn&#8217;t a specific make or model. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":19856,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10,395],"tags":[3655,3648,3652,3651,405,3656,2898,3647,2906,209,398,3653,2908,494,3654,3649,3650],"class_list":["post-19662","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-history","category-self-defense","tag-aiwb","tag-best-edc-handgun","tag-carry-setup","tag-conceal-effectively","tag-concealed-carry","tag-defensive-system","tag-edc","tag-edc-handgun","tag-every-day-carry","tag-full-metal-jacket","tag-glock-43","tag-gun-belt","tag-holster","tag-jacketed-hollow-point","tag-kydex","tag-sig-p365","tag-smith-wesson-shield-plus"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Best EDC Handgun - Wideners Shooting, Hunting &amp; Gun Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The best EDC handgun isn\u2019t the same for everyone. 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