Firearm: SIG Sauer P365 (MSRP: $599)
SIG Sauer’s P365 took the firearm world by storm when it was released in 2018. While tiny, double-stack 9mm pistols existed prior to the P365, SIG’s creation brought a reliable, familiar system to the table. Since launching, the P365 has pretty much become one of the benchmarks for small guns, and for good reason. It offers decent capacity, reasonable shootability and a robust support network of aftermarket parts and accessories.
At an overall length less than 6 inches, a slim 1-inch width and an unloaded weight less than 18 ounces, the P365 is supremely easy to carry. Barely larger than a J-frame revolver, with twice the capacity, the P365 bridges the gap between a “grab-and-go” pistol like you’d toss in a pocket for a quick run to the store and a larger model you’d carry all day. It’s not that much larger than even the tiny, pocket 380s, and chambered in a more powerful caliber.
Sure, the Ruger LCP is smaller, there’s no question - but not by a lot. The P365 is only ¾ inch longer, ⅛ inch wider and .7 inch taller. Weight’s the only place where the LCP really wins — it’s 10 ounces to the P365’s 18. Naturally, this becomes more pronounced when each gun is loaded, as the 11 rounds of 9 mm certainly outweigh the 7 rounds of .380. Again, though, it’s imperative to remember the role — the LCP is a backup or deep concealment option, while the P365 can easily serve as a primary, yet still be concealed fairly deeply.
In fact, this last point is probably the strongest argument for the P365. At 11 rounds onboard, the P365 isn’t really compromising all that much in capacity compared with larger pistols. Add in that 12-round magazines don’t stick out significantly and that 15-round magazines are available as well, and the difference between the SIG and other compact pistols becomes minimal. There’s a lot to be said for carrying one gun, in both the sense of less cost and also familiarity. When it comes to a handgun you’re going to rely on day-in and day-out, having one you know well is invaluable.
Holster: Blackhawk A.R.C. (MSRP: $24.95)
The A.R.C. (Appendix Reversible Carry) holster from Blackhawk is, as the name suggests, designed for appendix-style carry and capable of being swapped for either right- or left-handed shooters. It’s super light, easy to use and allows quick addition or removal from a belt with the pocket clip. Blackhawk even supplies both a 1.5- and a 1.75-inch clip to accommodate the vast majority of belts.
We talk about a “grab-and-go” setup above, and what we’re really getting at is a system with a holster and a handgun that can be retrieved and put into use quickly. Generally, we mean smaller, lightweight guns like the P365 and holsters like the ARC that clip on and off the belt with a minimum of hassle. It might be the gun you wear around the house, it might be something you grab for a quick errand or it might be something you can take off and stow in a safe quickly. More options are always good, and there’s a good case to be made for something that can be accessed fast.
Accessory: DeSantis Travel Wallet (MSRP: $19.99)
In keeping with the minimalist theme of this kit, we’ve selected the DeSantis Travel Wallet as a lightweight yet sturdy way of keeping the bare necessities with you at all times. Capable of holding your ID, a credit card and a handful of bills, this Spartan wallet is thin, light and yet keeps all your critical items handy. Whether you’re traveling and want the least amount of bulk or just trying to avoid a “Costanza Wallet,” the DeSantis Travel Wallet is an inexpensive addition to a minimalist EDC kit.
