Empowered Carry: The Best Handguns for Women in 2025

Let’s be honest—shopping for a handgun as a woman can feel like trying to find jeans that actually have functional pockets. The good news? Firearm manufacturers are finally getting the memo that women want more than just “pink and tiny.” They want performance, comfort, and reliability. In 2025, several handguns check all those boxes and then some. Whether you’re brand new to the shooting world or a seasoned carrier, these models are worth your attention.

Let’s start with the Palmetto State Armory Micro Dagger. This little powerhouse is compact, sleek, and shockingly affordable—usually floating under the $350 mark. It’s chambered in 9mm, making it practical for self-defense without punishing recoil. What really makes the Dagger Micro stand out is its ergonomic design and extended beavertail, which helps shooters maintain a solid grip without fear of slide bite. Compared to the Glock 43X, the Micro Dagger offers a smoother two-piece trigger pull and a more budget-friendly entry point. If you want Glock-ish reliability without Glock-ish prices, this is your ticket.

Next up is the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ—the name says it all. It’s EZ to rack, EZ to load, and EZ to shoot. This one was built specifically with new shooters and people with reduced hand strength in mind. The slide operates with minimal effort, making it a favorite among women, seniors, and anyone tired of fighting their gun just to load a round. The grip safety provides an added layer of security without requiring weird finger gymnastics. For those who prefer extra peace of mind, there’s even an optional manual thumb safety. The Shield EZ is a stellar blend of function and user-friendliness.

Of course, we can’t skip over the Springfield Armory Hellcat, which earned its spot on this list by being a micro-compact with some serious attitude. Don’t let the small size fool you—this pistol packs 11+1 or 13+1 rounds depending on the magazine, making it one of the highest-capacity options in its class. The grip texture is aggressive enough to keep the pistol firmly planted in your hand without chewing up your skin, and the U-Dot sight system makes rapid target acquisition a breeze. If you want something small enough to carry but large enough to trust with your life, the Hellcat checks all the boxes.

Another front-runner is the SIG Sauer P365, a pistol that changed the concealed carry landscape when it dropped and hasn’t let go of its dominance since. With a standard capacity of 10+1 in an ultra-slim frame, the P365 balances firepower and concealability like a pro. Its trigger is clean and predictable, and the grip feels tailor-made for a wide variety of hand sizes. If you want a little more grip length or performance perks, the P365XL and P365 SAS variants offer upgrades like integrated compensators or smoother snag-free profiles. No matter which version you choose, you’ll find it performs with the polish you expect from SIG.

And for those who like to keep it old school, don’t overlook the Ruger LCR or Smith & Wesson J-Frame revolvers. These wheelguns are lightweight, easy to carry, and dead simple to use—no slides, safeties, or magazines to fiddle with. The double-action trigger takes a little more effort to pull, but that actually adds a layer of safety by making accidental discharges less likely. Revolvers don’t jam, they’re easy to clean, and they make a fantastic backup gun or primary carry for those who prefer a straightforward experience.

At the end of the day, the “best handgun” for a woman isn’t one-size-fits-all. It comes down to how it feels in your hand, how it fits into your lifestyle, and how confidently you can use it. The firearms listed here consistently rank among the top choices for female gun owners because they’re practical, comfortable, and easy to trust in a high-stakes moment. Try before you buy, if you can—most ranges offer rentals—and see what feels right for you.

Ready to find the perfect handgun to carry with confidence?
Don’t waste time with big-box stores or overpriced gimmicks. Head over to PunisherBuilt.com to order the PSA Micro Dagger, Shield EZ, Springfield Hellcat, or other top-tier firearms and accessories. We stock the gear that actually works—because your safety shouldn’t come second to someone’s marketing gimmick. Whether you’re new to carrying or ready to upgrade, Punisher Built has your back. Carry smart. Carry strong. Carry Punisher.