The demand for concealable handguns explicitly designed for women has seen a significant rise in recent years. In 2021, a Harvard University study found that women made up 42% of gun owners, a 14% increase over the previous five years. Browsing the aisle of SHOT SHOW 2025, I saw that some manufacturers have been taking notice and offering more concealable firearms marketed to women. Most lady shooters aren’t looking for a “pink and blinged edition.” Women are looking for firearms that provide security and ease of concealment, functionality, and ease of use.
When selecting the top handguns for women, the focus was on compact size features and lightweight designs, ensuring these firearms are easy to conceal whether carried on your person or in a purse. Grips tailored for smaller hands were prioritized for a secure and comfortable hold. Lastly, aesthetics and customization options were considered, reflecting the growing demand for firearms that blend functionality with personal style.
Newly Released, the Savage Stance XR refines the concept of a micro pistol into a sleek, thin firearm that excels in concealability and functionality. Taking in all the feedback from the previous version, Savage developed the new Stance XR. The Stance XR’s slim profile and lightweight build make it ideal for concealed carry, whether on your person or in a purse. I carry the Savage Stance every day. The updated features for the XR included the Picatinny rail for flashlight mounting option, upgraded trigger, optics-ready, night sight options, removable chassis for interchangeable grips, 10 and 13-round options, and an affordable price point starting at $469.
The Taurus 22 TUC is a sleek, lightweight micro-compact pistol designed for convenience and reliability. Chambered in .22 LR, with a 9-round capacity, it is an excellent option for women seeking a small firearm that works with changing wardrobes and small concealed carry purses. This handgun was the smallest of all I found, with a 2.50-inch barrel, a compact overall length of 5 inches, and an unloaded weight of just 10 ounces. The barrel’s 1:10-inch RH twist with six grooves contributes to consistent performance, making the Taurus 22 TUC a reliable choice for everyday carry or recreational use.
The Sig Sauer P938 is not a new edition to the firearm world but it stands out as a compact and stylish micro-compact pistol that can’t be overlooked. The P938 line has several color options for women to choose from. This gun is an eyecatcher with a durable workhorse-style design. Chambered in 9mm, the P938 combines power with compact portability. Sig can deliver a smooth shooting pistol by pairing a single-action-only trigger and comfortable Hogue G10 grips. The pistol comes equipped with SIGLITE night sights for low-light visibility, a 3-inch carbon steel barrel, and an overall length of just 5.9 inches. It is a great concealable option at only 16 ounces, unloaded with 6-round and 7-round steel magazine options.
The S&W Bodyguard 2.0 is a compact, lightweight pistol perfect for concealed carry without sacrificing performance. Chambered in .380 Auto, it packs a punch with 10+1 or 12+1 capacities. Its ergonomic grip and crisp flat-faced trigger make it comfortable to shoot, while the aggressive slide design ensures you can rack it quickly. Weighing just 9.8 ounces with a slim 0.88-inch width, it’s super easy to carry. Available with or without manual safety, the Bodyguard 2.0 is a dependable option for anyone looking for a reliable everyday carry.
The Ruger LCP MAX redefines pocket-sized personal protection with its compact, lightweight design and impressive features. Chambered in .380, it comes standard with a 10+1 capacity and offers an optional 12-round magazine for extended grip and firepower. This micro pistol is easy to carry and handle, weighing just 10.6 ounces and featuring a 2.80-inch alloy steel barrel. Engineered with Ruger’s patented barrel cam geometry, it minimizes felt recoil for superior control. The Secure Action fire-control system combines a protected internal hammer with a smooth, bladed safety trigger for reliable performance. With a reversible magazine release, a soft pocket holster and a magazine loader included, the Ruger LCP MAX delivers premium features in a highly concealable, everyday carry package.
Browsing the aisles of Shot Show 2025, it was refreshing to see the growing variety of reliable, concealable handguns that meet the specific needs of women. Each model brought something unique, leaving lady shooters with plenty of options to match their preferences. With so many quality options, women can now find a handgun that fits their preferences and lifestyle. - Bethany
Bethany Beathard
Bethany Beathard is an outdoor writer and content creator. She is an avid sportswoman who is passionate about conservation and hunting. She grew up on 55 acres in rural Oklahoma, with a family who fostered a love for hunting traditions. She is a military wife and homeschooling mother of five. She has written for several outdoor and hunting publications and websites. She has done several speaking events geared towards women in the outdoors and supporting hunting heritage programs. She loves the outdoors and takes every opportunity to get out there.
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