But fast forward to today, and modern firearms manufacturing has allowed the concealed carry community to shift its attention from safety to practicality. Modern gun owners are far more concerned with how quickly and effectively they can deploy their weapon in a high-stress situation. The shift in focus from safety to speed and size means shorter barrels and more compact designs are now the gold standard for concealed carry. If you take a look around, it’s clear that striker-fired handguns like the eponymous handguns of Gaston Glock, with their compact size and shorter barrels, are dominating the market. Glocks and other modern striker fired pistols like the M&P Shield, Springfield XD, and Sig 365 XMacro strike a balance between concealability and the ability to quickly draw, aim, and fire—traits that are critical when seconds count.
Compact Carry: Smaller Pistols for Faster Draws
Concealed carriers today favor smaller pistols for a reason. Shorter barrels mean less printing (the visible outline of a gun under clothing), making it easier to carry discreetly without sacrificing firepower. Plus, with improvements in ammunition and gun design, you don’t need a long barrel to achieve the accuracy or stopping power needed for self-defense, since most self defense shootings occur within 3 to 7 yards. Today’s concealed carriers prioritize efficiency, and that means choosing firearms that are easy to handle and fast to deploy in a pinch.
This Glock 19's INFORCE WILD1 is flush with the muzzle, facilitating a fast, ergonomic draw. (Credit: Teflon Customs)
Magazines
Another key consideration in the evolution of concealed carry is the choice between single and double stack magazines. Traditionally, single stack magazines have been the go-to for concealed carriers who prioritize a slim, low-profile firearm that’s easy to hide under light clothing. The smaller profile of a single stack magazine makes the overall width of the pistol thinner and more comfortable for inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry. However, this design comes with a trade-off: limited capacity.
On the other hand, double stack magazines offer a significant advantage in terms of firepower. By stacking the rounds in a staggered, double column configuration, these magazines can nearly double the capacity while only marginally increasing the width of the pistol. For instance, a compact double stack pistol like the Glock G19 can carry up to 15 9mm rounds in a standard magazine, compared to the typical 6-8 rounds of a single stack counterpart like the Glock 43.
This slight increase in size is often a worthwhile trade-off for many concealed carriers, especially when the extra rounds could make all the difference in a defensive situation. The modern trend has been leaning towards double stack magazines, as advancements in pistol design have made them more comfortable to carry and shoot, even in compact models. The additional capacity provides peace of mind and a tactical advantage without significantly compromising concealability. Even traditionally single stack pistols such as the 1911 are shifting towards double stack designs, eliminating one of the few major drawbacks of Colt’s longstanding platform.
The Rise of Weapon-Mounted Lights
But there’s another trend that's been steadily rising in the concealed carry world: the use of weapon-mounted lights. It makes sense when you consider that most self-defense engagements happen in low-light conditions, whether that’s in a dark alley, a poorly lit parking garage, or the middle of the night in your own home. Being able to see your target clearly is just as important as being able to draw quickly, and that’s where weapon-mounted lights come into play.
When choosing a weapon light, it’s important to select one that fits the profile of your pistol, maintaining that sleek and compact setup that concealed carriers love. A perfect example would be mounting something like the INFORCE WILD1 to your Glock G19. The WILD1 is a compact, high-intensity light designed specifically for handguns like the G19. It’s lightweight and easy to activate, which means you’re not adding unnecessary bulk or complexity to your setup.
Why the WILD1 Is a Great Choice for Concealed Carry
INFORCE’s WILD1 has everything you’d want in a weapon light for concealed carry. With a two-hour run time and a high-output beam that blends throw and spill perfectly, it’s ideal for identifying threats quickly. The paddle activation allows for easy operation—just press laterally on the paddle from either side, and you’re good to go. This kind of intuitive design is crucial in high-stress situations where fumbling around for a button could make all the difference.
Plus, it’s built tough. Made from 6061-T6 aluminum with a Type III MIL-SPEC hard anodized finish, the WILD1 is ready to handle the bumps and bruises of everyday carry. It attaches securely to any 1913 or universal rail in seconds, so you can quickly mount or remove it as needed. Whether you prefer constant or momentary light modes, the WILD1 offers both, giving you full control over your lighting strategy.
The Modern Concealed Carry Setup
If you’re just stepping into the concealed carry world, or even if you’re a seasoned veteran looking to upgrade your gear, it’s worth considering the current trends. Compact, striker-fired pistols like the Glock G19 have proven themselves as reliable choices that offer the speed and ease of carry that modern concealed carriers crave. And by adding a weapon light like the WILD1, you’re enhancing your ability to defend yourself when visibility is low, without sacrificing the compact profile that makes concealed carry so effective.
In today’s world, carrying a firearm is about being prepared for anything, and that means keeping up with the latest advancements in gear and tactics. Regardless of what you choose to carry, the goal remains the same: to carry with confidence, stay discreet, and be ready to protect yourself and those around you.