Concealed carrying is not like it used to be. Back in the day, in a compact pistol, you might get ten rounds if you were lucky, and if you wanted more than that, then you had to go up in size with your magazines. Or add extended baseplates.
Either way, it always resulted in you printing far more than you would like to. The whole idea of carrying concealed is to not broadcast the fact that you’re carrying a gun.
Nowadays, that’s easy, as you can find many pistols with a solid capacity that are also easy to conceal. Flush-fit magazines are often the way to go when it comes to concealed carry, and we’re going to dive into the best ones, both OEM and aftermarket. Plus, we’ll add a few magazines that add some capacity without bumping you into the “extended” footprint.
But remember that when it comes to magazines or any other gear you’ll be relying on, you should test them extensively before you bet your life on them.
Glock 43X
Factory magazines are consistently the most reliable option. And when you’re carrying for protection, reliability is what you need most. This single-stack 10-round magazine is what you get from the factory, which I consider to be the best option for your 43X.
Ten rounds are not a lot nowadays, especially when you consider every other pistol on this list comes with more than 10 rounds from the factory. But, it’ll do the trick, as 9mm has enough power to get the job done with less.
So, unless you’re going up against multiple targets, then this will do you just fine, especially in the summer when your attacker is wearing fewer clothes.
If you want a few more rounds, within the smae footprint, consider the Shield Arms S15 magazine. They are easily are the most common aftermarket magazines you’ll find with a Glock 43X. Instead of the single-stack magazine that comes from the factory, this one staggers the rounds similar to a double-stack mag, making room for five extra rounds.
But like every aftermarket magazine, there have been issues. Particularly with the feed ramp trajectory on the 43X being too extreme for the S15 magazines to feed reliably. It’s hit or miss, too, and some never have issues with them while others cannot use the magazine with their Glock at all.
This is why we test every magazine before trusting it. They are great magazines; this is more of a Glock issue.
Sig Sauer P365

It adds just enough space without adding bulk. Source
Capacity is one key area where Sig has Glock beat. While this 12-round magazine may be slightly extended, it’s still extremely easy to conceal, and it gives you room for your pinky to rest so the poor thing isn’t floating in the wind.
The two extra rounds are a treat. Pistols this small typically limit themselves to 10 rounds, which just sounds horrible, although it is perfectly fine as long as you know what you’re doing.
We’ll just call the two extra rounds an insurance policy.
The issue with magazines is that some of us live in states with restrictions. For example, I live in Washington, which does not allow for the purchase of any magazine with more than 10 rounds. You can OWN them, and carry them, just not buy them.
Many shooters cannot obtain a firm purchase with the flush-fit 10-round magazine and need the extra space for their pinky finger. Enter the 10-round mag with finger rest.
If you can, I’d still opt for the 12-round magazine. Having two extra rounds is just enough to give you some peace of mind. But, if you live in a state that does not allow you to do so, these will do the trick.
Just train with it. Ten good rounds are better than 20 poorly placed rounds.
This is the factory magazine you’ll get with your P365. Two of them, to be exact. These are the most concealable because they don’t add any extra size to your firearm.
If you need to be extra careful with the size of your magazines, this is the way to go. Those who wear suits to work or size small t-shirts that they outgrew 10 years ago, this is also for you. Either way, if you’re after ultimate concealment, here you go.
Springfield Hellcat Pro
Completely leaving the first to pistols on the list in the dust, we have the Hellcat Pro with its 15-round flush magazine. For those who enjoy the peace of mind with having those extra rounds. This one is for you.
Oddly enough, the difference between the 43X and Hellcat Pro is fractions of an inch, with the Pro being slightly smaller. This means you get 50% more capacity in a similarly sized package.
For a bit more size, you can get 17 rounds in a tight and compact package. These extend slightly past the base and are just as easy to conceal as the flush-fit magazine. It does not significantly add to the size.
And what’s really nice about these is that they act as a small extension, giving your hands extra space. It may not be necessary since the Hellcat Pro already has a generous amount of space, but if you prefer to have as much space as possible, this is it.
Smith & Wesson Shield Plus
A 10-round magazine and 13-round magazine comes standard with every Shield Plus. The former sits flush with the base and is the best magazine option if concealment is your top priority.
For these, especially when new, I recommend a speed loader, as loading the last round can be tough. That’s typically every magazine, but I’ve noticed S&W magazines are a bit tougher.
The 13-round magazine is also easy to conceal, but it does give you more real estate for your hands and three extra rounds. All without adding too much space. None that you couldn’t conceal, anyway.
Glock 19
The Glock 19 is one of the most carried pistols and boasts 15 rounds of 9mm in a flush magazine. It is the perfect amount of ammo for concealed carry. Well, unless you don’t mind carrying a spare magazine. Which I always recommend.
The 15-round magazine will come standard with your Glock 19. Three of them, to be exact. And it makes the Gen 5 Glock the perfect gun for concealed carry.
Walther PDP Compact

More of a surgical tool than a hammer. Source
The PDP is one of the best firearms on the market right now. It has an amazing trigger (compared to most striker fired pistols) and is ready for the task out of the box. The 15 round magazine is similar to the Glock, which is perfect for concealed carry.
Not too heavy that it will make your pants look funny, and still enough to handle tasks involving multiple threats. The steel construction helps balance the pistol in a way that makes it super easy to shoot.
H&K VP9K

Now that is a good looking pistol! Source
If there’s one thing for sure, the Germans know how to make a firearm. The VP9K is, and I say this with all the confidence in the world, one of the best concealed carry firearms on the market. Period.
Just like the previous two pistols, you’ll get a 15-round magazine standard. They are more costly than others, but that’s the price for premium. It’s the tie on the bespoke suit. A beautiful piece.
Conclusion
Carrying concealed can be easy with the right gear, clothing, and attitude. While these magazines are easy to conceal, you still don’t want to wear super restrictive clothing, as that will potentially cause you to print and make this whole read a waste of your time.
None of these magazines will cause you to print on their own, though. Heck, I carry a Glock 19X and I don’t print, even with the 19-round magazines, but that’s because I wear the proper clothing. Loose, especially around the waist area, is crucial to concealing your firearm successfully.
Keep this in mind if you ever wonder why you’re printing or having a tough time concealing your firearm.
Be good and take care.






