#CarryPistols

Micro-compact carry pistols have become probably one of the most oversaturated parts of the firearms market right next to AR-15’s. While I used the term oversaturated, I don’t necessarily think that is such a bad thing, it just means we have lots of options and almost everyone (almost) can be satisfied with at least one of the options that are out there. No longer are sub-compact or micro-compact 9mm carry pistols relegated to being low-capacity pieces with triggers that require a dedicated personal trainer for your trigger finger. Most modern micro-compact carry pistols can be had with lots of great extra features, simple and pleasant ergonomics, and rivaling capacities only found in full-sized handguns. Today as part of TFB’s 12 Days of Christmas, we’ll take a look at some of the current lineup of micro-compact carry pistols available to you if you’re looking to pick up a new carry piece.

Taurus has just released what may very well be the most economical sub-compact 9mm pistol on the market so far. The Taurus GX4 is the company’s answer to similar pistols like the SIG P365, Springfield Hellcat, and Ruger MAX-9. I was sent a Taurus GX4 pistol a little over a month in advance of its official unveiling online and I got to put the pistol through its paces, carry it and really see how much value Taurus has put into this brand new pistol. So today I’ll be sharing my thoughts on the new carry piece and hopefully give you a good idea if this would be a viable option to add to your concealed carry rotation.

The micro-compact striker-fired pistol market just received its latest contender! Joining the ranks of Glock, SIG Sauer, and Springfield, the new Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus is the latest double-stack 9mm micro-compact pistol to put its name in the ring. Although Smith & Wesson is a little bit late to the game, I was more than excited when they sent me out one for testing and review as I have been impatiently anticipating the release of this pistol since the introduction of the M&P Shield 9EZ back in 2019. So is the M&P Shield Plus going to sink or swim in the waters of the micro-compact 9mm carry pistol arena? Let’s find out.

Bul Armory is a Tel Aviv, Israel based gun manufacturer that specializes in competition-ready 1911 style handguns. Since 1990, Bul Armory has been manufacturing and developing and innovating guns to suit their users and over time this has lead to them producing firearms for every day carry and even law enforcement and military applications.  I had a great time talking to the guys from BUL armory who are themselves, competitive shooters and I’m more than happy to share their SHOT 2020 offerings with you all here.