A Guide to Pistol Sizes: Full-Sized to Compact Options

On the hunt for the perfect handgun size? As you venture into the world of handguns, the size of your firearm can make all the difference (especially if you have a specific use case in mind like concealed carry). Your comfort and grip can significantly depend on the size you choose.

Whether you're eyeing a sub-compact pistol for discreet carry or a full-sized powerhouse for competitive shooting, understanding the diverse range of handgun sizes is essential! This guide provides an overview of the main handgun sizes and highlights popular firearms in each category.

Handguns come in a range of general sizes. Typically, you'll find four common sizes: standard full-size, compact, sub-compact, and micro-compact. However, there's no universal consensus among gun manufacturers.

Let’s say you opt for a sub-compact firearm. You might find a big size difference between models produced by different manufacturers. Beyond these core sizes, some manufacturers offer additional variations like crossover and slim — providing plenty of choices to suit your preferences.

Use the following table to get a general idea of different pistol sizes. To find the best size guns for your needs, consider visiting a store to physically handle the firearms you have in mind.

Full-sized handguns are the true workhorses of the firearm world — known for their substantial build and reliability. These pistols typically feature barrels ranging from 4.5 to 5.5 inches in length. Their height often exceeds 5.5 inches.

You'll find these firearms in the hands of military and law enforcement professionals — and for good reason. They offer generous magazine capacities: typically accommodating 15 to 20 rounds.

• Caliber Options: They are common in 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and 10mm — offering a wide range of caliber choices. The Glock 20 - G20 Gen4 10 mm Auto is a popular pistol.

• High Capacity: Full-size pistols can often hold 20 rounds or more in their magazines. This makes them suitable for self-defense.

• Double-Stacked Magazines: Many full-size handguns use double-stacked magazines — increasing their ammunition capacity. They can also be heavier.

• Ease of Use: Due to their larger frames and longer barrels, full-size handguns are typically easier to shoot accurately. They are great for anyone with larger hands.

Compact handguns occupy that sweet spot between full-sized firearms and their smaller sub-compact counterparts. These pistols are all about balance — they're easy to handle while still being highly concealable.

You'll typically find barrels ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 inches in length. Their height often exceeds 4.5 inches. Off-duty law enforcement officers and those looking for reliable self-defense options usually favor this handgun size.

• One Size Below Full-Size: Compact handguns are typically one size smaller than their full-size counterparts — which enhances their versatility. This smaller size is beneficial for both concealed carry and maneuverability in tight spaces.

• Comfortable Grip: Compact handguns provide a comfortable grip (even without a magazine inserted). This feature ensures ease of use and accuracy — especially for individuals with average-sized hands.

• Versatile Shooting: Compact handguns are useful in various scenarios: whether for self-defense or general shooting. Their balance between size and firepower makes them versatile tools for a range of purposes.

• Example Model: The Hi-Point Firearms Compact 9mm Luger Pistol serves as a top choice among compact handguns. Its compact size, ergonomic grip, and reliable performance make it a well-rounded choice for those seeking a versatile firearm.

Sub-compact pistols are the epitome of compact and lightweight design. They are also an excellent choice for those with smaller hands. This handgun size features barrel lengths between 3 to 3.5 inches and a height ranging from 4 to 4.5 inches.

Sub-compact calibers are perfect for deep concealed carry — ensuring your firearm remains discreetly hidden. The GLOCK 42 - G42 380 ACP Sub-Compact 6-Round Pistol is a popular choice for concealed carry and self-defense.

• Smaller Than Compacts: Sub-compact pistols are one size smaller than compact handguns, making them incredibly compact and easy to conceal. Their reduced dimensions enhance their portability.

• Height and Grip: These pistols have shorter height and grips. These dimensions contribute to their exceptional concealability which makes them perfect for discreet carry.

• Lightweight: Sub-compact pistols are lightweight. However, this lightness can result in increased felt recoil (potentially making them uncomfortable to shoot for extended periods).

• Grip Considerations: People with larger hands may find it more challenging to grip sub-compact pistols comfortably.

• Example Model: The GLOCK 42 - G42 380 ACP Sub-Compact 6-Round Pistol is a prime example of a sub-compact pistol. Its small size, lightweight design, and effective concealability make it a popular choice for concealed carry and personal defense.

Slim sizing is a new handgun sizing territory. Slim handguns are so small that they can fit the length of your hand. These handguns are only 27 to 28 mm wide.

Some slim handguns have higher magazines and are perfect for pocket pistols or concealed carry. Popular options include the H11 Pro pistol and the Glock 48.

Micro-compact pistols are the go-to choice for anyone with small hands. These pistols are characterized by their incredibly compact design. They boast a barrel length of less than 3 inches and a height that doesn't exceed 4 inches.

• Challenging to Shoot: Due to their tiny grips, micro-compact pistols can be challenging to shoot accurately. They are best suited for close-quarters self-defense scenarios.

• Smaller Calibers: These pistols often come chambered in smaller calibers such as .25 ACP, .32 ACP, and .380 ACP. These calibers are compact and provide moderate stopping power.

• Backup Guns: Micro-compact pistols are commonly used as backup firearms. Their small size allows them to be easily carried as secondary weapons.

• Example Model: The Kimber Micro 9 Rapide 9mm Pistol is an example of a micro-compact pistol. Its ultra-compact design, lightweight frame, and availability in 9mm make it a versatile choice.

Crossover handguns represent a unique category that bridges the gap between full-size and compact pistols. These pistols feature a barrel length of 3.5 to 4.5 and a height range of 5 to 5.5 inches.

Also referred to as slimline pistols, these versatile firearms offer a balance of size, capacity, and concealability. Crossover handguns are suitable for a range of purposes.

• Hybrid Design: Crossover handguns have a hybrid design that combines elements of full-size and compact pistols. They have a larger grip and often more rounds in the magazine than compact models. They maintain a slimmer profile for easier concealment.

• Growing Popularity: While crossover handguns were once primarily custom-made, an increasing number of manufacturers are producing these firearms to meet the demands of shooters seeking a versatile option.

• Notable Models: Notable options in the crossover category include the Glock 19X, 43X, and the Shadow Systems XR920. These firearms offer a compelling blend of size, capacity, and shootability.

The combination of the different handgun sizes and your body type affects your concealed carry positions. For example, larger handguns often have extended grip lengths that are usually not easily concealable — depending on your body's torso size.

Factors like comfort, accessibility, and the clothing you typically wear also influence your carry position. Experimenting with concealing different handgun sizes can help determine what's most discreet on your body. The right concealed carry holster can also make all the difference.

• Inside the Waistband (IWB): IWB offers excellent concealment.

• Outside the Waistband (OWB): OWB provides quicker access should you require your pistol.

• Small of Back: The small of the back offers excellent concealment. This can be uncomfortable if you’ll be sitting for long periods.

• Belly Band: A belly band is versatile and comfortable. It simply wraps around the midsection to holster your firearm.

• Shoulder Holster: The shoulder holster is suitable for jacket wearers. It allows you to draw your weapon from below your armpit.

• Ankle Holster: An ankle holster is great for concealing compact handguns. You should opt for a primary concealed carry option so you can draw your gun quickly in self-defense situations.

Looking for the perfect-sized handgun? Look no further than Academy! From full-sized to sub-compact pistols, we have everything you need to find a comfortable handgun. Shop top brands like Beretta, Ruger, and Stoeger today!