The "best handgun for women" question usually gets a bad answer: a tiny .380 with a stiff slide and a trigger nobody shoots well. The honest answer is that the best handgun for a woman is the best handgun for anyone who wants a gun that is easy to conceal, easy to rack, and easy to shoot, and in 2026 that is a short list of micro-compact 9mms and one purpose-built easy-slide pistol. This guide covers five, why, and the part most guides skip: how to carry each one, on the body and off.
The guns
Sig Sauer P365
The micro-compact that started it all: 10+1 of 9mm, an inch wide, and shootable. Carry it in the P365 IWB holster at appendix or on the hip.
Smith & Wesson Shield EZ 9mm
Built for people who find slides hard to rack: an easy-rack slide, a grip safety, and a mild recoil, at the cost of being larger than a P365. The best first gun for anyone with weaker hands. Shield EZ 9mm holster.
Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0
The .380 that is actually pleasant: 10+1 or 12+1, under an inch wide, a real trigger and sights, and light. For pocket, purse, or the smallest waistband carry. Bodyguard 2.0 holster.
Springfield Hellcat
The P365's rival: 11+1 or 13+1, excellent sights, a grip texture some prefer. Hellcat holster.
Glock 43X
Thin, 10+1, and a Glock, with the longest grip on this list for people with bigger hands. Glock 43X holster.
How to carry them
On the body, with a belt
A molded kydex IWB holster at appendix or on the hip, under an untucked top. Every gun above has one. Women's pants and belts are the obstacle; a sturdy belt and pants with a real waistband make it work, and a claw hides the grip.
On the body, without a belt
Leggings, dresses, scrubs: a belly band that holds the same kydex holster. The STRAPT-TAC covers the trigger with rigid kydex, which an elastic band with a pouch does not. See the belly band guide for women.
Off the body
A purse with a dedicated padded compartment and an included holster, worn crossbody and never set down. The Cameleon Darcy is the everyday size; the full line is in the purse collection. Purse carry is slower than a holster and is the right answer for some outfits and some days.
What to skip
Any gun you cannot rack. Any gun under 9mm unless recoil is the deciding factor. Any holster or purse that does not cover the trigger with something rigid.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best handgun for a woman?
A micro-compact 9mm like the P365 or Hellcat for most; the Shield EZ if racking a slide is hard; the Bodyguard 2.0 for the smallest carry.
Is a .380 enough?
With modern ammunition, it is a reasonable choice when the alternative is not carrying. 9mm is better if you can shoot it.
How do I carry with leggings or a dress?
A belly band holding a real kydex holster, or a crossbody purse with a compartment.
Is purse carry safe?
If the purse stays on you and the gun is alone in its compartment in a holster, yes.
Should I get a revolver?
A J-Frame is simple and reliable, with a heavy trigger and five rounds. Try one first.
The bottom line
Pick the gun you shoot best from the list, buy the molded holster for it, and add a belly band or a purse for the days a belt will not work.
Related reading
Best concealed carry purses for women
Belly band holster for women
Best holsters for the Sig P365
