The Only 5 Handguns Worth Carrying This Summer (And 3 You Should Leave at Home)

Published on June 1, 2026
Duration: 8:57

This video provides expert advice on selecting handguns for summer concealed carry, differentiating between suitable options and those to avoid. It highlights how changing weather conditions and attire impact concealment, comfort, and firearm reliability. The instructor, with apparent deep knowledge of firearms and self-defense, breaks down specific models, detailing their pros and cons for hot-weather carry, focusing on factors like printing, sweat resistance, weight, and operational reliability under stress.

Quick Summary

Selecting a handgun for summer carry requires careful consideration of concealment, comfort, and reliability. Factors like weight, grip texture in sweat, and ignition system reliability are crucial. Models like the Heckler & Koch CC9 and Shadow Systems CR920XP are highlighted for their performance in hot weather, while rimfire options and heavy steel-framed guns are generally advised against.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Summer Carry Challenges
  2. 00:30Handguns to Leave at Home: Taurus 22TUC
  3. 01:34Handguns to Leave at Home: Walther PDP Compact Steel Frame
  4. 02:23Handguns to Leave at Home: Smith & Wesson CSX
  5. 03:22Top 5 Handguns for Summer Carry: S&W Bodyguard 2.0
  6. 04:18Top 5 Handguns for Summer Carry: Hellcat Pro
  7. 04:48Top 5 Handguns for Summer Carry: P365 X-Macro Comp
  8. 06:26Top 5 Handguns for Summer Carry: Shadow Systems CR920XP
  9. 07:03Top 5 Handguns for Summer Carry: Heckler & Koch CC9

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main challenges of carrying a handgun in the summer?

Summer carry presents challenges like reduced clothing layers increasing the risk of printing, sweat compromising grip and potentially affecting firearm reliability, and the discomfort of carrying a heavy firearm in hot weather. These factors necessitate careful handgun selection.

Why are rimfire firearms generally not recommended for summer self-defense carry?

Rimfire ammunition's ignition system is less reliable than centerfire, especially when exposed to moisture from sweat. The primer is in the rim, making it susceptible to failure if compromised by environmental factors, leading to a 'dead click' in critical situations.

What makes certain handguns better for summer concealed carry than others?

Ideal summer carry handguns are lightweight, have effective grip textures that enhance hold when wet, are compact enough to conceal easily under light clothing, and feature reliable ignition systems. Features like integrated compensators can also help manage recoil for faster follow-up shots.

Which specific handguns are recommended for summer carry, and which should be avoided?

Recommended for summer carry are the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0, Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro, Sig Sauer P365 X-Macro Comp, Shadow Systems CR920XP, and Heckler & Koch CC9. Avoid the Taurus 22TUC (rimfire unreliability), Walther PDP compact steel frame (weight/heat), and Smith & Wesson CSX (false trigger reset).

Related News

All News →

More EDC & Lifestyle Videos You Might Like

More from Guns You Can't Live Without

View all →