If you're carrying daily, your firearm isn't just a tool—it’s your lifeline. And in 2025, the world of concealed carry is loaded (pun intended) with powerful, compact, and highly capable pistols that make everyday carry more efficient than ever. Whether you're brand new to CCW or you're swapping out your old standby, this list will steer you toward the best in the business.
Here’s our take on the top 10 most popular carry guns in 2025—based on real-world use, customer requests, and what we’re seeing most holstered in Black Swamp Leather Company LLC’s custom retention holsters.
🇺🇸 1. Sig Sauer P365 XMacro
Capacity: 17+1
Why It Leads: The XMacro is what happens when a full-size capacity gets crammed into a slim, concealable frame. With a built-in comp, optic-ready slide, and killer ergonomics, it's hard to beat for modern carry.
Perfect For: Appendix carry, EDC warriors who demand high capacity without bulk.
2. Glock 43X MOS
Capacity: 10+1 (15+1 with Shield Arms mags)
Why It’s Popular: Glock’s proven reliability in a thinner, more concealable design. The MOS version adds red-dot capability, and the aftermarket options are endless.
Perfect For: Simplicity lovers, Glock fans, and anyone wanting a rock-solid IWB setup.
3. Springfield Hellcat Pro
Capacity: 15+1
Why It’s a Contender: Bigger grip and better control than the standard Hellcat, still easy to conceal. Optic-ready and aggressively textured for control in sweaty, high-stress moments.
Perfect For: OWB or IWB with more control. Pairs well with our double-stitched carry belts.
4. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus
Capacity: 13+1
Why It’s Trusted: S&W took the original Shield and gave it more ammo, better ergonomics, and a crisper trigger. Affordable and easy to shoot well.
Perfect For: First-time carriers and everyday folks who want American-made reliability.
5. Ruger MAX-9
Capacity: 12+1
Why It’s Popular: Budget-friendly, optics-ready, and surprisingly shootable. Ruger keeps improving its game in the CCW world.
Perfect For: Budget-conscious patriots who don’t want to sacrifice features.
6. Walther PDP Compact
Capacity: 15+1
Why It Stands Out: Known for its fantastic trigger and next-level ergonomics. Full-sized feel in a concealment-friendly package.
Perfect For: Shooters who prioritize comfort and control. Ideal for range-to-carry crossover.
7. Glock 19 Gen 5
Capacity: 15+1
Why It’s a Classic: The benchmark of concealed carry. Not the smallest, but you know it’ll run every time. Gen 5 brings smoother internals and better grip texture.
Perfect For: Serious defenders and Glock purists. Especially strong for OWB or winter carry.
8. Taurus GX4 XL
Capacity: 11+1 to 13+1
Why It’s On the List: Taurus hit a home run with this one—slim, optic-ready, and surprisingly good trigger for the price.
Perfect For: Entry-level carry with pro-level features. Good fit with a snug leather IWB rig.
9. Shadow Systems CR920
Capacity: 13+1
Why It’s Premium: Built like a custom Glock with upgrades already done—match barrel, optics cut, better frame, and excellent grip texture.
Perfect For: Shooters who want high performance and custom feel without building it themselves.
10. Canik Mete MC9
Capacity: 15+1
Why It’s Climbing Fast: Canik keeps punching above its weight. The Mete MC9 brings affordability, great features, and smooth shooting to the table.
Perfect For: Cost-effective carry that feels anything but cheap.
🔍 What's Fueling These Trends?
Optics-Ready Slides: Almost every top carry gun now comes cut for red dots—this isn’t just a trend, it’s the new standard.
Higher Capacity: 10+1 is the baseline now. If it doesn’t hold at least that, it's being left behind.
Modular Frames and Trigger Upgrades: People want to tweak and tune their EDC setup like they do their trucks. More grip options, better triggers, and configurable features win.
Comfort + Concealment: Slimmer profiles, rounder edges, and smarter design are making appendix and IWB carry more comfortable than ever.
🦅 Final Thoughts
The right carry gun is personal—but it should always be reliable, effective, and comfortable. And don’t forget: your holster is just as important as your firearm. At Black Swamp Leather Company LLC, we build rugged, handmade leather holsters specifically tailored to the guns listed above—so when you draw, it’s smooth, secure, and battle-ready.
Need help choosing a holster for one of these pistols? Shop our Retention Holsters here.
Carry with confidence. Stay sharp. And remember—the Second Amendment isn’t just a right. It’s a responsibility.
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