Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 2.0
Efficient and reliable pistol that won’t break the bank.
- Trigger: 4.45/5
- Accuracy: 3.5/5
- Quality: 4/5
Best Budget
Walther PPS M2
Excellent ergonomics and comfortable to shoot.
- Trigger: 4/5
- Accuracy: 4/5
- Quality: 4.5/5
Best for Beginners
Sig Sauer P938
Accurate with no harsh recoil.
- Trigger: 4/5
- Accuracy: 4/5
- Quality: 4.5/5
There are plenty of reasons why we love the single stack 9mm as our CCW. It’s a slim, light-recoiling gun that’s easily concealable and affordable to shoot! What’s not to love, right? If you don’t have one yet (or you just want to get another), we’ve got just what you need! The best single stack 9mm coming right up!
Table of Contents
Features to Consider When Choosing the Best 1911 Pistol
Now, we’ll reveal how we choose the best of the best. Here are the things we considered before picking our recommendations.
Category | Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 2.0 | Walther PPS M2 | Sig Sauer P938 | Beretta APX Carry 9mm | Glock G43X | Category Average |
Overall Score | 3.4 | 3.4 | 3.26 | 3.3 | 4.1 | 3.49 |
Trigger | 4.45 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 3.69 |
Accuracy | 3.5 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3.7 |
Quality | 4 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 4.5 | 4.2 |
Ergonomics | 2.55 | 2 | 2.82 | 4 | 4 | 3.07 |
Value | 2.48 | 2.5 | 1 | 4 | 4 | 2.8 |
Trigger
A 9mm pistol’s trigger quality is crucial for precision and comfort. A well-designed trigger provides a smooth, consistent pull with a clean break, allowing for better control and more accurate shooting. Look for an adjustable or finely-tuned trigger model to suit your shooting style and preferences.
How do we rate it?
We rate the trigger based on factors like pull weight, smoothness, and reset. A top-rated trigger will have a light yet crisp pull, minimal creep, and a short, tactile reset, enhancing the shooter’s ability to deliver accurate follow-up shots.
Accuracy
Accuracy in 9mm pistols is often enhanced by features like high-quality barrel construction and precise sight systems. The inherent design of a hammer-fired mechanism can contribute to a more predictable recoil pattern, aiding in consistent shot placement. Consider pistols with a good reputation for out-of-the-box accuracy and those with aftermarket support for sights and barrels.
How do we rate it?
We assess accuracy by evaluating the pistol’s consistency in delivering tight groupings at various distances. We also consider the quality of the sights and the overall balance of the gun, which can influence the shooter’s ability to maintain a steady aim.
Quality
The overall quality of a hammer-fired 9mm pistol is determined by the materials used, the craftsmanship, and the attention to detail in manufacturing. High-quality pistols often feature durable materials like stainless steel or high-grade polymer, and they exhibit excellent fit and finish. Brands with a strong reputation for quality control typically produce reliable and long-lasting firearms.
How do we rate it?
Quality is rated based on the durability of materials, the precision of manufacturing, and the attention to detail in the pistol’s construction. A high-quality rating is given to pistols that exhibit minimal wear and tear after extensive use and maintain their performance over time.
Value
Value in a hammer-fired 9mm pistol isn’t just about the initial cost; it’s also about the long-term benefits. A pistol that offers a combination of reliability, durability, and performance at a reasonable price provides the best value. Consider factors like the availability of aftermarket parts, ease of maintenance, and resale value when assessing the overall value of a pistol.
How do we rate it?
Value is rated by comparing the pistol’s price to its features, performance, and durability. A pistol that offers exceptional performance, a robust feature set, and longevity at a competitive price point receive a high-value rating.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics play a significant role in the comfort and ease of use of a hammer-fired 9mm pistol. A well-designed pistol will have a comfortable grip, intuitive controls, and a balance that feels natural in the hand. Customizable grip panels and adjustable backstraps can enhance ergonomics, allowing shooters to tailor the pistol to their hand size and shooting style.
How do we rate it?
Ergonomics are rated by evaluating the comfort and ease of handling the pistol. This includes assessing the grip texture, the shape and size of the controls, and the overall balance and weight distribution. A pistol with excellent ergonomics will fit naturally in the hand and allow for easy, intuitive operation.
Reliability
If you’re looking for a home or self-defense gun, your life will depend on your weapon’s efficiency and reliability. The manufacturer says a lot about the quality of the handgun. These companies are known for producing high-quality and reliable firearms – Smith & Wesson, Glock, Sig Sauer, Beretta, and Walther Arms.
Speaking of reliable guns, the best hammer-fired 9mm is another excellent option.
Magazine Options
It’s essential that you have extra mags ready to save time when at the range or during an emergency. Also, make sure you can easily purchase additional magazines when needed. How easy to find are they? How expensive are they? All of these go into the overall cost of ownership of the gun and factor into its value.
Size and Weight
All single-stack guns are compact and are mostly designed for concealed carry but each has different profiles. Some have longer and more textured grips than others, some are heavier, and some have a lighter trigger pull. And every shooter has different preferences, so determine what yours are and that will narrow your options.
Aftermarket Support
If you purchase a handgun from a well-established manufacturer (or pick from our list below), it’s important to be able to get all of the accessories that you’ll need to use it day to day. So ideally, you’ll have no problem with aftermarket support – you can easily get holsters, magazine accessories, and magazine pouches online or in your local gun shops.
Warranty
The length of a product’s warranty also says a lot about its quality. Make sure your gun comes with a good warranty and the manufacturer’s customer service representatives are always available and have a positive response rate.
Related article: Best DA/SA Pistols
5 Best Single Stack 9mm Pistols
Best Overall: Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 2.0
Category | Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 2.0 | Category Average |
Trigger | 4.45 | 3.69 |
Accuracy | 3.5 | 3.7 |
Quality | 4 | 4.2 |
Ergonomics | 2.55 | 3.07 |
Value | 2.48 | 2.8 |
Score: 3.4/5
Unlike the original version, the Shield 2.0 features a more aggressive grip texture that also covers more of the grip, providing better recoil control even with sweaty hands. For those that have experienced a really aggressive texture that feels like it removes 2 layers of skin after running through two magazines through a gun, don’t worry. The stippling is effective, but not overly harsh. Its Armornite® durable finish also guarantees long-lasting protection against corrosion.
The S&W Gen 1 Shield had a long-ish, sort of mushy trigger that ran a little over 5 lbs of pull weight. So, one of the biggest improvements for this version is the lighter trigger pull with a cleaner and crisper break.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Easy takedown
- Light trigger pull
- Expanded grip texture
- Distinct trigger reset
- Great recoil control
Cons
- Some shooters won’t like the hinged trigger
What Customers Say
“Very good shooting gun. The grip texture is much better compared to the 1.0. Gun has a little bit better of a trigger from the 1.0 shield as well. Overall I’m very pleased with the quality of the gun and its finish.”
Seth
Best Budget: Walther PPS M2
Category | Walther PPS M2 | Category Average |
Trigger | 4 | 3.69 |
Accuracy | 4 | 3.7 |
Quality | 4.5 | 4.2 |
Ergonomics | 2 | 3.07 |
Value | 2.5 | 2.8 |
Score: 3.4/5
The Walther PPS M2 is purpose-built for concealed carry. We also love how it ships with two magazines – one 6-rounder and one 7-rounder. The slide features front and rear cocking serrations for easier grasp. It also has a reversible magazine release, so it’s great for left-handed shooters. Plus it comes with a shallow checkered grip so it’s very easy to hold.
Pros
- Slim design
- Very accurate
- Great ergonomics
- Reversible magazine release
Cons
- Slide stop isn’t ambidextrous
What Customers Say
This is my favorite carry pistol. Very thin and comfortable grip and a great trigger.
Nathan E.
Perfect fit for my hand. So far no issue after three hundred-plus rounds. Easy to disassemble and clean.
Thannh N.
Best for Glock Fanboys: Glock G43X
Category | Glock G43X | Category Average |
Trigger | 4 | 3.69 |
Accuracy | 4 | 3.7 |
Quality | 4.5 | 4.2 |
Ergonomics | 4 | 3.07 |
Value | 4 | 2.8 |
Score: 4.1/5
We know that some of you are sold and never want anything but a Glock. That’s not us, but we recognize a good candidate that you’d love. The Glock G43X is a popular concealed carry pistol because of its easily concealable profile. It ejects and feeds smoothly like most Glocks. And it features a well-textured grip, a built-in beaver tail, and a subcompact-slim slide so you can shoot comfortably and efficiently.
The G43X also comes with precision-milled front serrations and a match-grade GLOCK Marksman Barrel for accuracy.
Pros
- Slim profile
- Lightweight
- Solid and comfortable grip
- 10-round capacity
Cons
- Heavy trigger pull
What Customers Say
This has been one of the best firearms I have bought, Perfect for everyday concealed carry yet powerful enough to get the job done. and it looks awesome with my light/Laser.
Robinson V.
Excellent concealed carry pistol. Thin, light, and accurate out of the box. Highly recommend.
Chris W.
Best for Beginners: Sig Sauer P938
Category | Sig Sauer P938 | Category Average |
Trigger | 4 | 3.69 |
Accuracy | 4 | 3.7 |
Quality | 4.5 | 4.2 |
Ergonomics | 2.82 | 3.07 |
Value | 1 | 2.8 |
Score: 3.26/5
The Sig Sauer P938 comes with aggressively textured grips that cover more of the grip and provide better recoil control even with sweaty hands. For those that have experienced a really aggressive texture that feels like it removes 2 layers of skin after running through two magazines through a gun, don’t worry. The stippling is effective, but not overly harsh.
The Sig Sauer P938 is very accurate and feeds smoothly. The front of the slide has serrations that make press checks easier to do. The manual thumb safety also works smoothly – you can easily drop it with a flick and fire away.
Pros
- Compact and thin
- Ambidextrous safety
- Solid grip
Cons
- It’s pretty heavy (16 ounces unloaded)
What Customers Say
I’ve had mine for a few years now and have never had any issues with it. It carries well in a Crossbreed IWB holster and I barely notice it’s there. It also shoots very well despite its small size. I highly recommend this Sig for CCW and casual shooting – it’s one of my favorites!
Jim E.
I bought this last week for a carry gun and I love it! Great shooter everything you’d expect from Sig Sauer.
Hammer
Glock G43X
Beretta APX Carry 9mm
Category | Beretta APX Carry 9mm | Category Average |
Trigger | 2 | 3.69 |
Accuracy | 3 | 3.7 |
Quality | 3.5 | 4.2 |
Ergonomics | 4 | 3.07 |
Value | 4 | 2.8 |
Score: 3.3/5
The Beretta APX Carry features the APX’s handling characteristics and controls but is designed for deep concealment. And its aggressive slide serrations offer an improved grasp if you want to do a fast press check before and after firing.
It comes with two magazines – one standard magazine with a 6-round capacity, and an extended mag that holds 8 rounds of ammo. This pistol is also compatible with Beretta Nano’s magazine. It features a blacked-out rear, a white dot out front, and nice anti-glare serrations.
Pros
- Very accurate
- Slim and compact
- Rugged design
- Great ergonomics
- Reversible mag release
Cons
- Long trigger pull
What Customers Say
It’s a great carry gun. Long pull on trigger but other then that It shoots very well.
M.B
This is my practice and dry fire weapon. Its quality at a great price.
Jarrod M.
FAQs
What is the smallest single stack 9mm pistol?
One of the smallest single-stack 9mm pistols is the Sig Sauer P938. It’s perfect for concealed carry and is also very reliable. Check out our detailed review above if you wanna know more.
What is the best 9mm subcompact pistol?
For us, the best 9mm subcompact pistol is the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 2.0. It comes at a reasonable price and has features that make everything easier. Check out our detailed review above if you wanna know more.
Conclusion
That’s it! The best single-stack 9mm pistols -signed, sealed, and delivered! If you’ve already decided which handgun to buy, don’t waste time and go to the nearest FFL so you can order it right away!