Just because it's hot outside doesn't mean that you have to carry something unreliable!
When the weather gets cold, it's easy to break out full-size pistols like 1911s and double-stacked semi-autos. Let's face the facts: colder weather means bulkier clothing, and bulkier clothing allows us to holster much heavier sidearms.
However, when the weather turns and the heat of summer comes back to haunt us, you need a lightweight, easily concealable and rock-solid carry gun.
Don't let the warm weather keep you from carrying a reliable sidearm. Here are the six best pistols for summer carry when you have to wear shorts and a T-shirt.
Walther PPS M-2
When the weather heats up, the stellar team at Walther has you covered with their new version of the PPS, the PPS M-2. Recently released, this version of the PPS has some great new features that take an already-amazing pistol to the next level.
Equipped with a push-button magazine drop and unique stippling around the extremely ergonomic grip, the new version of the PPS is a great summertime carry option. Available in 9mm or .40 S&W, this pistol is an excellent choice.
Springfield XD-S
Big things can come in small packages, and the Springfield XD-S is living proof. Available in .45 ACP or 9mm, the XD-S is one of my very favorite choices to carry when lightweight clothing is the only option. Constructed with a 3.3-inch barrel, the XD-S single-stack has many of the same tremendous features of its big brother the XD(M), without the size and weight.
With a front fiber-optic sight, a trigger safety and the ability to mount a light underneath, this pistol will protect you throughout the summer months without weighing you down.
Beretta Px4 Storm SubCompact
If you're looking for a tactical single/double action pistol that's light enough to carry throughout the summer season with a customized feel, the Px4 Storm SubCompact from Beretta is everything you need. The Px4 Storm comes equipped with interchangeable back straps, which help give your pistol a true custom fit even though it's not full-size.
Weighing in at just over 26 ounces and standard with a 3-inch barrel, this pistol is also equipped with reversible and ambidextrous controls, making it a great choice for left-handed shooters.
Premium Series PM9 by Kahr
If you're looking for a superior shooting pistol that weighs in just around 1 pound (unloaded), the Premium Series PM9 from Kahr is the one. With a seriously compact and slim frame, the PM9 offers an extremely smooth trigger with quite a substantial pull, which definitely makes it a rare breed for a double-action pistol.
Available with a standard 6+1 magazine or the extended-grip 7+1 version, this pistol is an exceptional choice for carrying during the summer season.
Sig Sauer P290RS 380
When you think lightweight, concealed-carry calibers, it's no surprise that .380 comes to mind. The P290RS in .380 is perfect to carry during warm months and it's extremely easy to shoot. With a super-lightweight internal spring, the slide on the P290RS is easy to handle and doesn't take a whole lot of energy to rack.
Like so many of the pistols from Sig Sauer, this model also comes standard with night sights, making it ready for everyday carry right out of the box.
Smith & Wesson Model 637
If you're looking for a true pocket pistol, than you should check out the Smith & Wesson Model 637. Constructed on a lightweight aluminum alloy frame with a sturdy synthetic grip, this compact handgun practically disappears in most pockets. Capable of holding 5 rounds of .38 S&W Special +P, this tiny firearm allows you to protect yourself without being bogged down by the weight and size of larger guns.
Available in several sub models, some of which include wooden grips and lasers, there's definitely a version of this firearm for all types of shooters.
Whether you're looking for short revolver or a tactical striker fire pistol, these six options are ideal for everyday carry during the hot summer months. Also, don't forget to also consider a picking up a high-quality lightweight holster to carry your new pistol in, it will make all the difference!
NEXT: THE 5 BEST HOME DEFENSE SHOTGUNS