Pocket pistols — those little handguns with a barrel of 3.5 inches or less, a round capacity of 7+1 or less, that can fit in a pocket and often make perfect concealed carry guns. While these guns may require extra practice to manipulate and achieve acceptable accuracy, their light weight and portability keep them at the top of many shopping lists as a first, or next, firearm.
Here are seven choices of pocket pistol — the “Seven Dwarves” — that have stood the test of time and dependability either as my own carry guns, or as the choice of respected friends in the gun industry.
1. Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380
This little semi-auto has some available factory options including color, Crimson Trace laser and thumb safety. The 2.75 inch barrel contributes little to an overall length of 5 inches. It only weighs 12.5 ounces unloaded. Capacity is 6+1. A good deal with a great name behind it, starting around $250.
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This Bodyguard features an external safety.
2. Ruger LCR
The Lightweight Compact Revolver is made with a no-snag but chunky shape, perfect for jacket pocket carry. Features like the white tape on the front sight and an optional Lasermax laser are cheap and disposable, but this is a dependable little double action-only wheelgun. It’s also chambered in virtually whatever you want it to be: 22LR, 22WMR, .327, 9mm Luger, .38 with +P rating, and .357. The tiny barrel is less than 2 inches. Weights vary from 13.5 to 17 ounces depending on caliber. Pick one up for under $400.
The LCR comes in several chamberings.
3. Glock 42
This smallest of all Glocks, chambered in .380, is one I’ve spent the most time wearing and firing of the guns on this list. It’s not the easiest to shoot well and the…