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Modern Handguns: Capacity and Carrying Essentials
As an experienced competitive shooter and everyday concealed carrier, I know the importance of striking the right balance when it comes to the amount of ammunition you carry. Modern handguns offer impressive magazine capacities, with models like the Glock 43X and Glock 48 touting 15+1 rounds in a flush-fitting mag and up to 20 in an extended version. With this level of on-board firepower, the need for a spare magazine may seem less critical.The 20-Round Rule of Thumb
My general recommendation is to strive for around 20 total rounds on your person. This provides a healthy buffer, even in a worst-case scenario involving multiple assailants. While the average self-defense shooting involves far fewer rounds expended, it's better to err on the side of preparedness. That said, I caution against the mindset of needing to carry every piece of tactical gear imaginable. A handgun and single spare magazine is often more than sufficient to safely extricate yourself from danger. Eschew the fantasy of societal collapse and focus on the practical realities of personal protection.Single-Stacks and Revolvers: Balancing Capacity
When it comes to slimmer, single-stack handguns or classic revolvers, the ammunition capacity equation becomes a bit trickier. A full-size 1911 in .45 ACP may only hold 8+1 rounds, while a typical revolver is limited to 5 or 6 cartridges.Spare Magazines for Semi-Autos
For single-stack semi-autos, I recommend carrying a spare magazine to supplement the on-board capacity. This brings the total up to around 17 rounds, close enough to that 20-round target. If traveling across state lines with a 1911, I may even pack 2-3 extra mags, but never to the point of weighing myself down unnecessarily.Speed Strips for Revolvers
Revolvers present a unique challenge, as reloading is inherently slower than simply swapping magazines. Speed reload strips, which hold 6 additional rounds, are a practical solution. Carrying one of these strips, along with the 5 or 6 in the cylinder, provides a reasonable 11-12 rounds total.While speed reloads with a strip can be mastered with practice, the reality is that the average shooter won't invest the time required to make this a seamless operation. This further highlights the advantages of a semi-automatic pistol for everyday carry.
Best Practices for Concealed Carry Ammo
In the end, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how much ammunition to carry. It ultimately comes down to your specific firearm, skill level, and lifestyle factors. The key is finding a balance that provides a reasonable level of preparedness without being cumbersome or overwhelming. Whatever you carry, make sure it's quality defensive 9mm hollow point ammo designed for reliable expansion and terminal performance.The Middle Ground
I know passionate voices will argue for either extreme: those who say a single magazine is sufficient, and those who want to strap on a bandolier of mags. The pragmatic middle ground is to carry your weapon plus a single spare magazine. This adds negligible weight and bulk, while significantly boosting your ammunition capacity.Resist the temptation to go overboard with ancillary gear like handcuffs, pepper spray, and the like. These items may seem like good "just in case" additions, but in reality, a handgun and spare mag is often all you need to safely extricate yourself from a dangerous situation.
