6 Best Used Handguns for Concealed Carry

You’re three days into the backcountry, miles from the nearest road, when you hear the sharp crack of a large branch just beyond your campsite’s firelight. Your heart jumps into your throat as you try to decide if the sound came from two legs or four. In moments like these, having a reliable sidearm can transform fear into readiness, providing a crucial layer of security in an unpredictable environment.

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Key Factors for a Used Backcountry Sidearm

When you’re counting every ounce for a multi-day trek, the decision to carry a firearm isn’t taken lightly. The central challenge is balancing sufficient power against manageable weight. A heavy, full-sized pistol will feel like an anchor by day three, yet a tiny pocket gun might not offer the performance you need if a serious threat emerges. Your choice must be a deliberate compromise, tailored to the specific environment you’ll be in.

Reliability in harsh conditions is non-negotiable. Your backcountry handgun will be exposed to dust on a dry trail, condensation in a cold tent, and rain on an exposed ridgeline. It needs to function flawlessly despite the elements. This is where simple, proven designs often outshine complex ones; under stress, you need a tool that works every single time without complicated controls.

Opting for a used firearm is a savvy move for any adventurer. It allows you to acquire a high-quality, proven tool for significantly less than retail, freeing up budget for other critical gear like a good shelter or water filter. When inspecting a used handgun, look for signs of abuse, not just use. A little holster wear is fine, but excessive rust, a damaged barrel crown, or a modified trigger should be red flags.

Glock 19 Gen 3/4: The Gold Standard of Reliability

If you could only pick one handgun to do everything, many would choose the Glock 19. It’s the quintessential jack-of-all-trades, large enough to shoot accurately and hold 15 rounds of 9mm, yet compact enough to carry without excessive burden. Its polymer frame is impervious to the moisture and temperature swings you’ll encounter from the Appalachians to the Sierras.

The Glock 19’s legendary reliability is its greatest asset for a backpacker. It’s a simple machine built to run in dirty, adverse conditions. This isn’t a delicate instrument; it’s a rugged tool designed for hard use. For most backcountry scenarios in the lower 48, from deterring aggressive coyotes to handling a human threat, its 9mm chambering provides a capable and controllable solution.

On the used market, the Gen 3 and Gen 4 models are abundant and represent an incredible value. Their track record is beyond question, and the vast aftermarket support means holsters and accessories are easy to find. For the backpacker who wants a no-nonsense, do-it-all sidearm that will never let them down, a used G19 is arguably the smartest choice on the trail.

S&W M&P Shield 9mm: An Ultra-Slim Carry Option

For the ultralight backpacker or the day-hiker who wants peace of mind without the penalty, the original M&P Shield is a superb option. Its single-stack design makes it incredibly slim and light, disappearing into a pack or holster. When you’re trying to keep your base weight under 15 pounds for a weekend trip, the Shield’s feathery 20-ounce weight is a massive advantage over heavier pistols.

Of course, this weight savings comes with tradeoffs. The Shield’s capacity is lower, typically 7 or 8 rounds, and its smaller grip can be more challenging to shoot well compared to a larger compact. It requires more practice to achieve proficiency. However, for many situations where the primary concern is a deterrent, its presence is more important than its firepower.

The first-generation M&P Shield is one of the best deals on the used handgun market today. Millions were sold, and with newer versions available, you can often find them in excellent condition for a very low price. It’s the perfect choice for those who believe in being prepared but prioritize mobility and minimalism above all else.

Ruger LCR in .357: Lightweight Revolver Power

Sometimes, the ultimate in simplicity is the ultimate in reliability. The Ruger LCR (Lightweight Compact Revolver) has no external safety to manipulate and no slide to rack—you just pull the trigger. Its polymer fire control housing and aluminum frame make it one of the lightest .357 Magnum revolvers ever produced.

The LCR’s true genius is its versatility. You can load it with potent, deep-penetrating .357 Magnum rounds for trips into black bear country, or you can load it with mild .38 Special ammunition for less recoil around camp. Its enclosed hammer design is a critical feature for backcountry use, as it’s completely snag-free and won’t get caught on pack straps or a rain jacket when you need to draw it.

The recoil with full-power magnum loads is stout and demands respect and practice. But for the backpacker who values absolute operational simplicity and the power of a magnum cartridge, a used LCR is a fantastic and surprisingly lightweight companion. Its rugged construction ensures it will handle the bumps and scrapes of trail life with ease.

SIG Sauer P365: High Capacity in a Tiny Package

The SIG P365 was a true game-changer, and its arrival on the used market makes it a compelling option for the modern backpacker. It packs 10 or more rounds of 9mm into a frame that is nearly as small and light as the single-stack M&P Shield. This gives you the capacity of a much larger pistol without the associated weight and bulk.

This firearm is for the adventurer who doesn’t want to compromise. You get the easy-to-carry nature of a micro-compact with the confidence that comes from a higher round count. Many shooters also find the P365’s trigger and sights to be a step up, making it easier to shoot accurately—a key consideration when adrenaline is pumping.

Because it’s a more recent design, you’ll want to be a bit more discerning when shopping for a used P365, ensuring it’s a later-production model to avoid any early teething issues. For the tech-forward hiker who wants the latest in performance and efficiency, a lightly used P365 offers an unbeatable combination of size, capacity, and modern features.

Glock 29 SF 10mm: Big Bore Power in a Small Frame

When your trail takes you into areas where the fauna is measured in hundreds of pounds, the 10mm Auto cartridge is a significant step up in power. The Glock 29 SF (Short Frame) delivers this potent round in a subcompact package that is remarkably easy to carry. This is the choice for serious backcountry travel in places like Montana, Wyoming, or Idaho where you might share the trail with a mountain lion or black bear.

The G29 is pure Glock: brutally simple, tough as nails, and utterly reliable. The "SF" designation means it has a slightly smaller grip circumference, making it more manageable for a wider range of hand sizes. The primary tradeoff is recoil. Taming the 10mm in a small, lightweight polymer frame requires a firm grip and dedicated practice.

A used Glock 29 is a smart purchase, as these powerful subcompacts are often carried frequently but shot infrequently. This means you can often find a well-maintained example that provides access to serious wilderness defense at a fraction of the new cost. If your primary concern is defense against large animals, the G29 is a proven and powerful tool for the job.

S&W 329PD .44 Mag: Featherweight Bear Defense

For the ultimate in lightweight, big-bore power, the Smith & Wesson 329PD stands in a class of its own. Chambered in the legendary .44 Magnum, this revolver uses a scandium alloy frame and a titanium cylinder to achieve an astonishingly low weight of just 25 ounces. This is the firearm for those venturing deep into grizzly country where every ounce is scrutinized, but maximum defensive power is required.

Let’s be perfectly clear: this is an expert’s tool. The recoil from full-power .44 Magnum loads in a firearm this light is ferocious. It is not pleasant to shoot and requires significant training to control effectively for follow-up shots. This is not a casual plinker; it is a specialized piece of life-saving equipment for the most serious wilderness adventures.

The 329PD is an expensive firearm, which makes the used market particularly attractive. Finding a pre-owned model can save you hundreds of dollars. For the Alaskan bush pilot, the Rocky Mountain elk hunter, or the thru-hiker on the Continental Divide Trail, a used 329PD offers an unparalleled combination of power and portability for true wilderness peace of mind.

Holster and Ammunition Considerations for the Trail

Your handgun is useless if you can’t access it quickly and safely. For backpackers, a chest holster is often the best solution, as it keeps the firearm clear of your pack’s hip belt and shoulder straps and is readily accessible. Another option is a sturdy OWB (Outside the Waistband) holster attached directly to your pack’s hip belt. Whichever you choose, ensure it has excellent retention to prevent the gun from being lost on a fall or a scramble.

Ammunition selection is just as critical as the firearm itself. Your choice should be dictated by the most likely threat.

• For two-legged threats: A quality jacketed hollow point (JHP) from a reputable manufacturer is the standard for personal defense.
• For four-legged threats (especially large game): You need penetration. Look for hardcast lead, solid copper, or other non-expanding bullets designed to break through thick hide and bone.

Finally, carrying a firearm in the backcountry comes with immense responsibility. You must be proficient with your chosen handgun. Practice drawing from your trail holster while wearing your pack. Spend time at the range shooting the powerful defensive ammunition you plan to carry, not just light target loads. Your skill is the most important component of your defensive system.

Remember, a firearm is a tool, not a magic charm. The best safety tool you have is your brain—staying aware of your surroundings and making smart decisions will prevent most bad situations before they start. Choose the gear that fits your adventure, get comfortable with it, and then focus on what really matters: the incredible experience of spending time on the trail.