Staying protected and discreet shouldn’t feel impossible, but it often is. Fortunately, we’re covering 10 micro pistols under $300, perfect for pocket carry. We’ve updated our list to include new options that are still effective and affordable, as well as remove picks that have drifted out of the $300 price range. Each of these firearms combines affordability with performance, ensuring you can protect yourself without sacrificing quality and portability.
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10. Bersa Thunder 380
The Bersa Thunder 380 is, as the name suggests, a .380 ACP pistol retailing at around $300 (depending on your retailer.) This model is known for its sleek design and ergonomic grip, making it comfortable for extended use. The double-action/single-action trigger system allows for precise shot placement, while the fixed sights facilitate quick target acquisition. Its compact size and lightweight frame make it an ideal choice for concealed carry, ensuring you can carry it comfortably throughout your day.
It also features a de-cocking lever and a combat-style trigger guard, enhancing its usability. With a lifetime service contract for the original owner, the Thunder offers outstanding value for its price point.
9. Taurus G2C
Next up is the Taurus G2C, priced at between $230 and 300 (and even less if a rebate is running!) This compact semi-automatic pistol is designed for concealed carry, boasting a sleek and ergonomic design that fits comfortably in your hand. Available in both 9mm and .40 SW, the G2C offers a capacity of 12+1 (or 10+1 if you have to meet local state restrictions), which provides effective firepower for its size. Its dimensions make it easy to conceal, with an overall length of 6.3 inches and a height of 5.1 inches.
The G2C uses adjustable rear sights for elevation and features a stainless-steel barrel. Safety features include a manual thumb safety, loaded chamber indicator, and a striker block. This pistol is an unbeatable option for those seeking a dependable handgun for personal defense, offering exceptional performance at an accessible price.
8. Rock Island Armory Model 206
The Rock Island Armory Model 206 is a no-frills revolver priced at $259. It’s solid steel, parkerized frame is no-nonsense – your money goes to performance, not aesthetics. Its fixed front sight and squared-off ejector shroud contribute to its straightforward design. Featuring a six-shot cylinder, this SA/DA revolver is designed for durability and consistent performance with effective shot placement at typical self-defense ranges. With a compact length of 6.75 inches and a weight of 25.4 ounces, it’ll work for pocket carry, even if it’s a little bit heavy.
The Model 206 features checkered wood grips for a secure hold that can be swapped for polymer grips, which some shooters prefer to reduce the chances of biting the webbing of your hand when pulling the hammer back. Above all, this revolver offers excellent reliability and performance at a price point that makes it accessible at nearly any budget.
7. Kahr Arms CT380
The Kahr Arms CT380, priced at around $270, is a compact .380 semi-auto, striker-fired pistol. Its polymer frame, reinforced with steel inserts, keeps the weight down to just 11.5 ounces, making it easy to carry. The grip fits a seven-round magazine, and the design prioritizes slimness, measuring just 0.75 inches in width. The tiny footprint and low weight of the CT380 means it disappears into your pocket with ease and doesn’t make itself known with its weight over the course of the day.
The trigger is surprisingly good for the price point, and the choice of cartridge for the gun (.380 ACP) means that recoil is manageable despite the pistol’s low weight, and shots are easy to keep on target.
6. Ruger LCP
The Ruger LCP, available for $259, is a compact and reliable option for pocket carry. Its lightweight design makes it easy to conceal, while still delivering effective firepower. Chambered in .380 ACP, the LCP has a 6+1 capacity, ensuring you have enough rounds for self-defense situations. With a barrel length of just 2.75 inches and an overall length of 5.16 inches, it’s among the smallest of the pistols on our list.
The LCP features a glass-filled nylon frame and a textured grip for a secure hold. Its integral sights are designed for snag-free draws, making it user-friendly in high-pressure situations. This pistol is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable firearm that’s easy to carry and operate.
5. KelTec PF9
The KelTec PF9, is now discontinued but can be had across the web for various price points that generally fall under $250. It’s one of the smallest 9mm handguns on the list and was more or less purpose-built for pocket carry . Weighing just 12.6 ounces, it’s incredibly lightweight – though that translates to uncharacteristically sharp recoil from the 9mm round it fires. The PF9 features a double-action-only design with a factory-set 5lb trigger.
Equipped with a short section of Picatinny rail, the PF9 allows for the attachment of lights or lasers, enhancing its versatility. The adjustable rear sights for windage and elevation are also a rare feature in such a small gun. With a magazine capacity of seven rounds, the PF9 is (for better and for worse) a true pocket pistol designed for self-defense.
4. Hi-Point C9
We know: the C9 is anything but micro. But hear us out: the Hi-Point C9 is designed for one thing: affordability. Retailing for around $160, it’s big (so it’s more for your overcoat pocket) and it’s not particularly nice looking, but it does the job it’s supposed to: shoot. The C9 features a 3.5-inch barrel and weighs 29 ounces, which means it’s going to be heavier than most of the options on this list.
Despite its bulkier design, the C9 is known for the fact that it performs despite the price point. The large magazine release and decent enough trigger make it user-friendly, and the pistol is accurate enough for situations you’d be using a pocket pistol to begin with. This pistol is a great option for those looking to exercise their Second Amendment rights without spending a fortune.
3. North American Arms NAA-22LR
The North American Arms (NAA) NAA-22LR is an ultra-compact, single-action revolver chambered in .22LR and designed for extreme concealment. Retailing for around $255, it has an overall length of just 4 inches and a weight of 4.5 ounces, it’s small enough to fit into virtually any pocket. Constructed from stainless steel, the NAA-22LR offers durability in a micro-sized package, and its five-shot capacity ensures you have some kind of firepower in emergencies.
Granted, the .22LR cartridge is not ideal for self-defense due to its limited stopping power, but opting for a gun this small and this light means typically means you’re willing to make this trade-off for the sake of unmatched concealability and ease of carry. Shot placement will matter with this pistol if you use it for self-defense – fortunately, .22LR is cheap to practice with.
2. SCCY CPX-3 .380 ACP Pistol
The SCCY CPX-3 is a compact, double-action-only semi-automatic pistol chambered in .380 ACP available for as little as $200. designed for concealed carry while offering a more substantial grip and capacity than many pocket pistols. Featuring a polymer frame with finger grooves and an ergonomic design, it provides better control and comfort for users with larger hands. The CPX-3 has a capacity of 10+1 rounds, giving it an edge in firepower over typical single-stack .380 pistols while maintaining a manageable size and weight at 15 ounces unloaded.
This pistol’s DAO trigger system is deliberately designed with a longer, consistent pull for enhanced safety in concealed carry scenarios, minimizing the likelihood of accidental discharge. Its recoil-reducing rotating barrel system improves shootability, making it more manageable for follow-up shots compared to other lightweight .380 ACP options. It isn’t without compromises though – the CPX-3 is a little bulkier than other .380 pistols it’s competing against, but not by much.
1. Diamondback DB380 Gen 4
The Diamondback DB380 Gen 4 is a compact, striker-fired semi-automatic pistol designed specifically for deep concealment and pocket carry and retails for around $220. Chambered in .380 ACP, it measures only 5.26 inches in length and weighs 8.8 ounces unloaded, making it an excellent choice for users prioritizing discretion and lightweight daily carry. However, with a capacity of 6+1 rounds, the DB380 Gen 4 does noticeably compromise on available firepower to maintain its low profile.
This pistol is engineered for close quarters use, focusing on reliability and ease of draw from tight spaces such as a pocket or ankle holster. This is furthered by the absence of external safeties, whic help reduce the risk of snagging during deployment. The Gen 4 brings improved ergonomics and enhanced slide serrations, and a steel magazine catch for improved usability.
