Life doesn't end when you hit 65 - So why should carrying a gun? Despite what many younger people may believe, concealed carry, and gun ownership, are commonplace among individuals over 65. In fact, more than 17 million seniors in the United States currently own a firearm. However, the best concealed carry for senior citizens is going to be different than the one for younger individuals. Here is our take on the factors that make a weapon a good choice for a seasoned adult.

The Importance of Concealed Carry For Seniors

There is a reason for the interest many senior citizens have in carrying a personal firearm: Concerns about safety and security become even more important as we age. Age brings wisdom, but it also often leads to physical limitations that can make it harder for individuals to defend themselves in dangerous situations. Choosing an effective means of personal defense can provide peace of mind, and make even senior citizens a less appealing target for bad actors.

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Gun For Seniors

The weapon that works for a middle-aged man or a college-aged woman may not work for a senior citizen. There are several factors, including ease of use, comfort, and effectiveness, that are important to get right. You don't just want a weapon that you can carry with you. You want one that is comfortable, easy to use, and that reliably hits its target every time you pull the trigger, even if you are under stress. Here are some of the most important factors to consider for anyone over the age of 65.

Size and Weight

Sometimes, manual dexterity diminishes with age. So can strength. A firearm that may have been easy to handle in your 40s may be uncomfortable or awkward in your 60s or 70s. Even carrying a slightly heavier gun on your person all day can add what feels like weights to your body, causing pain and taking away any desire to carry your gun regularly. For senior citizens, small, lightweight powerhouses are the best choice for concealed carry. Here are some of the best on the market for striking this balance:

• Glock 43
• Sig Sauer P365
• Ruger LCR
• Nighthawk 1911

Recoil is never fun, particularly in guns such as many Glocks or the Shield 45, where muzzle rise exceeds the average. For senior citizens looking for the best concealed carry, however, recoil can be a deal breaker. Too much recoil can be physically painful while also reducing the accuracy of the shot. As strength diminishes over time, managing the recoil can become more difficult. As a result, many individuals who have crested 65 may want to consider a weapon that has a lower recoil and is therefore easier to manage. Some of these include the following:

• Walther P22
• Taurus G2C
• Sig 365
• Some Smith & Wessons
• Some Brownings
• Supportive holster
• Ankle carry

In order to successfully achieve one of these positions, you should purchase a handgun that is compact enough to slip inside a purse or pocket. The smaller your weapon, the more options you have for keeping it hidden without having to leave it at home, because leaving it at home defeats the purpose of concealed carry.

Safety Features

Every single person who carries a handgun needs to consider the safety features of the weapon they purchase. The best concealed carry for senior citizens is no exception. Here are some safety features to look for:

• Manual safety
• Trigger safety
• Magazine safety
• Loaded chamber indicator

Ultimately, the best concealed carry for senior citizens is the one that they can carry and use with ease. Take your time finding the right firearm so you can carry and enjoy it for many years to come.