I recently searched for a definition of what a compact pistol is and was surprised at how little information there was on the subject. So I thought I’d write a short article on it.
So what is a compact pistol? A compact pistol is a handheld, semi-automatic gun that is small enough that it can be concealed, but large enough that it can be used as a fighting weapon. It usually has a barrel length from 3.5 inches to 4.5 inches and can hold anywhere from 13 to 15 rounds in a magazine.
That definition is just the absolute core of what a compact pistol is. For a deeper and more nuanced understanding, check out the details we’ve listed below.
Detailed Explanation
Barrel Length
The length of the barrel, and therefore the length of the overall gun, isn’t a standard length when it comes to compact pistols. Some have very short barrels and others approach the length of a full-size handgun. The main idea though, is that compact pistols’ barrels are generally shorter than barrels of full-size handguns, when comparing many different manufacturers. When looking at what is probably the most common compact pistol in the world–the Glock 19–we see that the barrel is 4.02 inches. Other manufacturers are slightly larger or slightly shorter than that.
Round Count
Just like barrel length, round counts in compact pistols vary depending on the manufacturer. Generally speaking, compact pistols hold between 13-15 rounds, plus one in the chamber. This allows for enough rounds (if that’s ever possible) to feel comfortable, if you got into a scenario where having more than just a few rounds is necessary.
The number of rounds in compact pistols varies only slightly from full-size pistols that generally hold from 16-19 rounds, but it creates a meaningful impact. The smaller number of rounds in each magazine allows for a shorter gun–when measured from the top to the bottom. And a shorter gun is easier to conceal. The actual distance from top to bottom isn’t huge, but every fraction of an inch makes a gun easier to conceal and more comfortable to carry.
Weight
The weight of compact guns is all over the map but is generally from 21oz-29oz. This is only slightly lighter than the full-size counterparts for each manufacturer. Using our previous Glock example again, we see that the Glock 19 comes in on the lighter end of the compact gun range at 21.16oz with an empty magazine in the gun. Others, like the Canik TP9SF Elite, for example, come in on the other side of the range at 28.32oz.
Purpose of a compact pistol
The purpose of a compact pistol is really to be the perfect all-around gun. They tend to not be too big, or too small, but just right! Basically if Goldie Locks had been carrying a gun, it would be a compact pistol. Qualities people give up in one direction, or the other, are made up by how the gun feels and shoots.
What makes compact pistols some of the best all-around guns? They are more concealable than a full-size handgun without giving too much up in capacity and shootability. Full-size handguns aren’t really meant to be carried concealed. The are generally meant to be open carried, like police officers and those in the military do. Consequently they are bulky because they carry more rounds and have longer barrels.
Compact pistols are just small enough that many people prefer them as their choice for concealed carry weapons (though I am not one of them). These tend to shave off just enough on each dimension to make this possible. When shooting, though, there is almost no difference in feel. They are smaller and lighter, which makes them a little less controllable. But the difference really is so small most people wouldn’t notice.
Strengths of a compact pistol
High capacity- when compared to other concealed carry guns, compact pistols have very high capacity. For example, when comparing the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield (a subcompact gun) that holds only 7+1, a compact gun like the Glock 19 that holds 15+1 blows the Shield out of the water. It doubles the amount of lead you can send in the bad guy’s direction.
Concealable- Being smaller than the full-size pistols, compact pistols have a slight advantage when using them for concealed carry purposes. Though they aren’t easy to carry, they certainly aren’t as difficult as a full-size pistol.
Not too small- Compact guns seem to be just the right size. They aren’t too small, allowing most peoples’ hands to fit on them comfortably, resulting in a very controllable and comfortable gun to shoot.
Not too big- Though still relatively large guns, they don’t make you feel like you’re dragging around a rifle on your hip all the time.
Weaknesses of a compact pistol
Lose a few rounds of capacity- Along with the smaller size comes fewer rounds. Most people don’t see this as a problem, but every round you lose in capacity, is one less there, when you need it. I don’t see this as a problem, but it is a deal breaker for some people.
More expensive than other carry options- Because compact pistols are larger than many other potential carry guns, they tend to be more expensive as well. There are budget offerings, but you will still pay more for these pistols than smaller counterparts.
Harder to conceal- Because they are almost full-size pistols, they are hard to conceal when wearing normal clothing. If you’re not trying to conceal it, then this isn’t an issue. For those that are concealing, finding the right clothing can be tough.
Popular compact pistols
Glock 19
- Length: 4.02” Barrel, 7.28” Overall Length
- Height: 5.04”
- Rounds: 15+1
- Weight: 21.16oz
The Glock 19 is not only the most popular compact pistol made today, but it’s probably the most popular pistol period. It was released in 1988 and has dominated the market for decades due to its proven track record for reliability and durability. There are many other options today, but several of them were released only a few years ago.
People tend to be either Glock lovers or Glock haters. I generally sit on the side of Glock haters, but cannot deny the incredible guns Glock makes. You cannot go wrong buying a Glock, especially a Glock 19. Had I “grown up” in the gun world using Glocks, I would probably like them more than I do. But because so many other guns solve what I see as problems with Glocks, I gravitate toward them instead.
CZ P10-C
- Length: 4.02” barrel, and 7.3” Overall Length
- Height: 5.2 inches
- Rounds: 15+1
- Weight: 26oz
The CZ P10-C was introduced in 2017 and seemed to take the gun world by storm. CZ makes great guns and finally decided to take a crack at a compact polymer pistol. It is praised for its ergonomic feel, as well as its excellent trigger. Though it hasn’t been out long, it has begun to build a reputation for reliability.
I have shot many rounds through P10-C’s at this point and I have to say, I love these guns! The trigger is one of the best polymer tiggers that comes from the factory (or any after-market trigger for that matter), and the gun itself shoots beautifully. I love the way it feels in my hand and how controllable it feels. I highly recommend this gun, if you’re looking for a solid, compact pistol.
Canik TP9SF Elite
- Length: 4.19” Barrel, 7.28” Overall
- Height: 5.27”
- Rounds: 15+1
- Weight: 28.32oz
Canik has only been around in a major way for a few years, and they have had many successful guns already. The TP9SF Elite was released in 2017 as well and has already been widely accepted in the gun world. Canik has gained a reputation for having great, reliable guns that are quite a bit cheaper than their competitors.
I absolutely love Canik pistols. I initially bought the TP9SF and couldn’t get enough. So I went back a year later and bought the TP9SF Elite. They have both proven to be extremely reliable, all while being significantly cheaper than other guns in the same category. If you’re looking for a great gun for a great price, look into the TP9SF Elite.
M&P 9 Compact 2.0
- Length: 4” Barrel, 7.3” Overall
- Height: 5”
- Rounds: 15+1
- Weight: 27oz
Yet another compact pistol that came out in 2017. The M&P compact 2.0 was released in an attempt for Smith and Wesson to finally compete with the Glock 19. It’s basically identical to the Glock 19, but looks a whole lot prettier and feels a whole lot better in hand. The M&P line had pistols that fit pretty much every category for a long time, but this one. Many of us wondered why it took so long for Smith and Wesson to finally get on the ball.
I have a soft spot in my heart for all guns Smith and Wesson, especially anything M&P. The first pistol I ever bought was the M&P 9 and I loved it. This pistol however, takes it to another level. It just fits in hand so perfectly and shoots smoothly. I highly recommend this pistol to anyone who not only wants a reliable and durable pistol, but one that feels like it was actually made to fit into your hand–and not patterned after a 2×4.
Related Questions
What is a Subcompact gun? A subcompact gun is a very small, low-capacity pistol that is primarily designed to be easily carried, concealed. Some take single stack magazines, while others use double stack magazines. It is usually carried IWB (inside the waistband) or in a pocket with a pocket holster. They tend to have heavier triggers, meant for deliberate and unmistakable pulls. They usually have short barrels and small hand grips, and have more recoil because they are smaller and lighter.
What is a full-size/duty pistol? Full-size or duty pistols are large handguns used primarily as fighting weapons. They are often used by military and police–though they are used heavily by the civilian population as well. They are usually carried OWB (outside the waistband) with no attempt to conceal them. They usually have long barrels around 4.5” and can carry anywhere from 16-20 rounds in each magazine. The grip is usually as long or longer than a person’s hand, so the shooter can easily get a firm grip on the gun.
What is the difference between a compact pistol and a subcompact pistol? The differences between compact pistols and subcompact pistols all stem from the size of the gun. Compact pistols are slightly smaller than full-size pistols, with barrels around 4” and capacities of roughly 13-15 rounds in each magazine. They are meant to be small enough to conceal if needed but large enough to use as a primary fighting weapon. Subcompact pistols, however, usually have barrels around 3.5” and magazine capacities of 7-10 rounds. They are primarily meant to be always concealed and used in defensive scenarios.
