Compact vs Full-Size Firearms! Which is Best for You?

Choosing the right firearm can feel overwhelming with so many options available. One of the most debated topics among firearm owners is whether to go for a compact vs full-size firearms. Each type has distinct advantages, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and how you intend to carry. In this blog post, we’ll compare compact and full-size firearms to help you make an informed decision.

Compact Firearms: Built for Convenience

Compact firearms are specifically designed with size and portability in mind, making them a popular choice for those who carry daily. Models like the Glock 43X, Sig Sauer P365, and Smith & Wesson M&P Shield are prime examples of compact guns that excel in this category. Here’s why they might be the right fit for you:

1. Ease of Concealment
2. Compact firearms are smaller and lighter, making them easier to conceal under everyday clothing. This is particularly important for those who prioritize discreet carry or live in warmer climates, such as Texas, where light clothing is common.
3. Weight and Comfort
4. The reduced weight of compact guns enhances comfort during extended carry. A lighter gun won’t dig into your hip or strain your shoulder if you use a holster.
5. Versatility in Carrying Methods
6. Compact firearms work well with various holster types, including inside-the-waistband (IWB), appendix carry, or ankle holsters. Their smaller footprint makes them adaptable to different carry preferences.
7. Reduced Capacity
8. One tradeoff of compact guns is the reduced magazine capacity compared to full-size firearms. While many compact models hold 10 to 15 rounds, this may be a limitation for those who prioritize higher capacity.
9. Recoil Management
10. Smaller frames often mean more noticeable recoil. This can affect accuracy, especially for new shooters, but with proper training, this challenge can be mitigated.

Full-Size Firearms: Optimized for Performance

Full-size firearms, such as the Glock 17, Sig Sauer P320, and CZ 75, are the go-to option for those who value enhanced performance and comfort during shooting. Here’s what sets them apart:

1. Higher Magazine Capacity
2. Full-size guns generally hold more rounds, often exceeding 17 rounds per magazine. This can provide peace of mind in self-defense situations or when traveling to areas where extra capacity may be crucial.
3. Improved Accuracy
4. The longer barrel and sight radius of full-size guns contribute to greater precision, especially at extended ranges. For shooters who want reliability in accuracy, this is a standout feature.
5. Better Recoil Control
6. The larger frame and heavier weight of full-size guns help absorb recoil, making them easier to shoot and faster to get back on target after each shot.
7. Comfort for Larger Hands
8. Full-size firearms offer a more substantial grip, which can be advantageous for those with larger hands. A secure grip translates to better control and confidence during use.
9. Challenging to Conceal
10. While full-size guns excel at the range or in open-carry scenarios, they can be challenging to conceal for everyday carry. Their size and weight require careful consideration of holster choice and wardrobe.

Key Factors to Consider

When deciding between a compact or full-size firearm for your LTC, keep these factors in mind:

1. Your Carry Method
2. If you plan to carry concealed daily, a compact gun will likely be more practical. However, if you have no problem dressing around a larger firearm, a full-size gun might work just as well.
3. Comfort and Lifestyle
4. Think about how much time you’ll spend carrying your firearm. If you’re carrying all day, a lighter compact gun might be more comfortable. For those who only carry occasionally, the added weight of a full-size gun may not be a dealbreaker.
5. Shooting Preferences
6. Visit a shooting range and test different models. A full-size gun might feel more stable, while a compact gun could feel more agile and easier to handle for close-quarters defense.
7. Training and Experience
8. For beginners, starting with a compact firearm might be less intimidating due to its smaller size. Experienced shooters, however, might prefer the performance edge of a full-size gun.
9. Legal and Practical Considerations
10. In Texas, LTC holders can carry either type of firearm, but the choice affects where and how comfortably you can carry. Consider the legal restrictions and carrying environments specific to your needs.

Here’s a detailed look at the Glock 43X, Sig Sauer P365, and Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, three of the most popular compact firearms for concealed carry:

1. Glock 43X

Overview:

The Glock 43X is a slimline, single-stack pistol designed for concealed carry. Part of Glock’s Slimline series, it combines the compact size of the Glock 43 with an extended grip for better handling.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 10+1 rounds of 9mm
• Dimensions: 6.5” overall length, 1.10” width
• Weight: 18.7 oz (unloaded)
• Grip and Comfort: The extended grip provides better ergonomics, especially for shooters with larger hands, while maintaining a slim profile.
• Reliability: True to Glock’s reputation, the 43X offers excellent reliability and simplicity of operation, making it ideal for self-defense.
• Aftermarket Options: It has extensive aftermarket support for holsters, sights, and accessories like extended magazines.

Pros:

• Comfortable and natural to shoot despite its compact size
• Durable construction with Glock’s nDLC finish
• Easy to clean and maintain

Cons:

• Limited to 10+1 capacity without aftermarket magazines
• Basic factory sights

2. Sig Sauer P365

Overview:

The Sig Sauer P365 revolutionized the concealed carry market with its high capacity in a micro-compact frame. It’s a striker-fired, polymer-framed pistol that feels surprisingly substantial for its size.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 10+1, 12+1, or 15+1 rounds of 9mm (depending on the magazine)
• Dimensions: 5.8” overall length, 1.0” width
• Weight: 17.8 oz (unloaded)
• Trigger: Smooth, consistent pull with a crisp break
• Night Sights: Equipped with Sig’s X-Ray3 day/night sights, making it highly usable in low-light conditions.
• Grip Module Options: Sig offers grip modules and accessory rails to customize your firearm.

Pros:

• High capacity for its size
• Excellent stock sights and modular options
• Compact but still user-friendly for shooters with medium to large hands

Cons:

• Shorter barrel may slightly reduce accuracy at longer distances
• Higher price point compared to competitors

3. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield

Overview:

The M&P Shield series from Smith & Wesson is a reliable and versatile option for concealed carry, offering models in various calibers including 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. The Shield Plus, an updated version, improves on the original Shield by increasing capacity without significant size changes.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 7+1 or 8+1 (original Shield), 10+1 or 13+1 (Shield Plus)
• Dimensions: 6.1” overall length, 0.95” width (original Shield), or 1.1” (Shield Plus)
• Weight: 20.2 oz (unloaded)
• Trigger: The Shield Plus features an upgraded flat-face trigger for a crisper break and improved accuracy.
• Safety Options: Available with or without a manual thumb safety, catering to user preference.

Pros:

• Slim profile makes it easy to conceal
• Highly accurate for its size, especially with the updated Shield Plus trigger
• Budget-friendly compared to other options

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than competitors in its class
• Original Shield models have a lower capacity than newer competitors

Choosing Between Them

• For capacity and innovation: The Sig Sauer P365 is the our choice, with the highest round count and advanced features.
• For simplicity and reliability: The Glock 43X excels as a no-frills, reliable option for concealed carry.
• For affordability and versatility: The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus offers great value with modern enhancements.

Each firearm is an excellent choice, and your decision will depend on personal preferences, ergonomics, and how the firearm fits into your lifestyle. For optimal selection, testing these models at a local shooting range is highly recommended.

Here’s a deeper look at the Glock 17, Sig Sauer P320, and CZ 75, three popular full-size firearms known for their reliability, performance, and versatility:

1. Glock 17

Overview:
The Glock 17 is one of the most iconic full-size pistols in the world, widely used by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters. Known for its reliability, simplicity, and durability, the Glock 17 is a cornerstone of modern polymer-frame pistols.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 17+1 rounds of 9mm
• Dimensions: 8.03” overall length, 1.26” width
• Weight: 24.87 oz (unloaded)
• Trigger: The Glock Safe Action system ensures consistent pull (5.5 lbs) and built-in safety features.
• Durability: Glock’s nDLC coating on the slide and barrel provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability under harsh conditions.

Pros:

• Proven reliability under extreme conditions, including military field testing
• Wide availability of aftermarket parts for customization (grips, triggers, sights, etc.)
• Simple and user-friendly design for shooters of all skill levels

Cons:

• Factory sights are basic and often replaced by users
• The grip angle can feel awkward to some shooters

Best For:

• Law enforcement and home defense due to its high capacity and ease of use

2. Sig Sauer P320

Overview:
The Sig Sauer P320 is a modular, striker-fired pistol that gained fame after being adopted by the U.S. military as the M17/M18. It is a versatile platform offering interchangeable grip modules, slides, and barrels, allowing users to customize it to their preferences.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 17+1 rounds of 9mm (standard full-size)
• Dimensions: 8.0” overall length, 1.3” width
• Weight: 29.5 oz (unloaded)
• Trigger: The P320 features a smooth, crisp trigger that enhances accuracy and ease of shooting.
• Modularity: The serialized fire control unit (FCU) can be swapped into different grip sizes and calibers, making it one of the most adaptable pistols available.
• Safety Features: Lacks a manual safety, but the internal striker safety system ensures safe handling.

Pros:

• Exceptional modularity for customization and adaptability
• Smooth trigger with a clean break for accurate shooting
• High-quality construction with a focus on durability

Cons:

• Heavier compared to some competitors in the same category
• Some users report a higher bore axis, leading to slightly more muzzle flip

Best For:

• Shooters who want a highly customizable platform for range, competition, or defense

3. CZ 75

Overview:
The CZ 75 is a full-size, steel-frame pistol with a rich history of performance and reliability. Introduced in 1975, it is one of the most copied pistol designs globally, known for its ergonomics and smooth operation. The CZ 75 is popular among competitive shooters and is revered for its accuracy and balance.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 16+1 rounds of 9mm (standard magazine)
• Dimensions: 8.1” overall length, 1.4” width
• Weight: 35.3 oz (unloaded)
• Trigger: Double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system, offering versatility for various shooting scenarios
• Construction: Full steel frame for stability and recoil control
• Ergonomics: The CZ 75’s design offers one of the most natural grips in the industry, contributing to exceptional handling.

Pros:

• Excellent accuracy due to its full steel frame and slide design
• Natural ergonomics with a high grip that reduces muzzle flip
• Long-standing reputation for reliability

Cons:

• Heavier than polymer-frame competitors, which can be less ideal for extended carry
• Limited aftermarket customization compared to Glock or Sig Sauer

Best For:

• Competitive shooting and range use, where stability and accuracy are paramount

Choosing Between Them

• For simplicity and reliability: The Glock 17 stands out as a straightforward, no-nonsense pistol ideal for defense or duty and is our choice for full-size handgun.
• For versatility and customization: The Sig Sauer P320 offers unmatched modularity, allowing users to tailor it to their specific needs.
• For precision and heritage: The CZ 75 delivers a refined shooting experience with its steel frame and ergonomic design, making it perfect for range or competition use.

Each of these firearms brings something unique to the table. Testing them at a range is the best way to decide which suits your preferences, grip, and intended use.

Question: How can I decide between a compact and full-size gun if I want to carry daily but also practice at the range?

Answer: If you want a balance between everyday carry and range performance, consider a mid-size firearm like the Glock 19 or Sig Sauer P320 Compact. These models combine the portability of a compact gun with some of the performance benefits of full-size firearms, such as increased magazine capacity and reduced recoil. Visiting a range to test-fire these options can help you make the best choice for both scenarios.

Conclusion: Personal Preference is Key

Choosing between a compact vs full-size handgun ultimately comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use your LTC. Compact firearms excel in portability and ease of concealment, while full-size guns shine in performance and comfort during shooting. By weighing the pros and cons of each and testing a few models, you can find the perfect firearm to suit your needs.

Whether you’re new to carrying or a seasoned shooter, the right firearm should empower you to feel confident, secure, and prepared every day.