BudsGunShop.com - Concealed Protection

That is kinda too general of a question. But for the most part it comes down to personal choices. Just pick a good reliable handgun that is small and light enough that you will carry it, but not so small and light it's tough to shoot accurately.

I can't believe some of these answers. Many beginners get caught in the "get something small" trap. First off small guns can be very difficult to shoot well. Some of the best known small autos have terrible triggers, small hard to hold grip frames and BB gun sights. Many small guns cost more due to the fact that the are harder to manufacture. Go to Bud's and shoot everything you can get your hands on. Find what fits you, has a short clean trigger and fast reset. Sights aren't quite as important in close combat ranges but a highly visible front sight will aid in fast sight pickup. Stay away from "mouse guns", that includes .22s and .32s. The.380 is marginal but with some of the newer self defense ammo it's better than a stick. The 9mm and.38 special are effect defense calibers and the recoil is manageable for most people. The .22 WMR (magnum) is gaining in popularity due to better ammo loaded for revolvers. Work your way up to .45s,.357 or .40s. The recoil and muzzle blast can be too much for beginners. I would always recommend a revolver to newbies. Easier to learn to shoot and are very reliable. Check out the Smith & Wesson "J" frames and new Ruger revolvers. They come in lots of variations, weights and calibers. They're concealable and easy to manage There are more loads in .38 special for practice and self defense than all other calibers combined. Don't go cheap, this is no place to cut corners. Get training and Practice, Practice, Practice.

I would go with the largest frame gun you can easily conceal. This depends on your frame size and carry method. Larger guns are easier to control and hold more ammo. For me a 9mm is more than adequate. Also the ammo is cheap which means you can practice more.
Remember too that steel frame guns are heavier if your carrying all day.
Rambling on here but you also got to
Consider safety if you need one with a safety or not. If you feel comfortable with not touching the trigger until your aiming at what you intend to shoot.

You want something small and lightweight that is easy to conceal but powerful enough to do the job. I have a glock 43. Holds 6 rounds shoots every time easy to clean with plenty of options to upgrade. You want a point and shoot gun that works. That's a glock

One that is reliable, accurate and delivers a suitable defense round. A proper gun belt and holster will make even full sized guns very concealable. I've had great luck with my G19 and Commander sized 1911's in Milt Sparks Criterion holsters.

Mine!

The best gun for concealed protection should be high quality and dependable. It should fit your style of carry/concealment. It must be simple and easy to operate and, most for all, be comfortable for you to shoot The more you practice, the more proficient and confident you will become. Remember, one well placed shot with a .22 is better than 6 misses with a .44 Magnum.

The one you are good at shooting and concealing. You probably want a double action smaller caliber that you can easily conceal. There are thousands of ways you can go. I wouldn't over think it. A gun for protection is just that. It's not a contest. You can kill a person with a .22 lr if you can aim. One of my favorite weapons is a .38 special. Charter Arms make some really affordable and reliable revolvers that are extremely easy to slip in a pocket or your waistband without anyone knowing you have a gun in your pocket. Dollar for Dollar Taurus or Rock Island revolvers can be really good options too. You don't need anything fancy. Whatever it is make sure you practice a lot.

The answer depends on the threat you may be facing. I carry a Springfield Loaded 1911 in 45 ACP when I hunt and travel in bear country or on the border (help will not be on the way if I get into trouble). I carry my SIG 238 when I'm in the city especially in hot weather when I'm wearing fewer clothes because it's easier to conceal and help will certainly be arriving soon.

I would recommend a subcompact single stack 9mm. I personally carry a Smith and Wesson Shield, but the Glock 43 is also a very solid choice. If you prefer Double action/single action guns, Springfield's new XD-E may appeal to you.

I always went by the best gun to have is the one you have with you. It does no good to have a real powerful or big gun if you are not comfortable carrying it or using it. Best gun is the one you like to use and carry and that varies for each person.