Firearm: Mossberg MC2c (MSRP: $490)
Sized in between microcompacts like the SIG Sauer P365 and Springfield Armory Hellcat and traditional compacts like the Glock G19, Mossberg’s MC2c offers a little something to like from both worlds. It’s smaller than the traditional “compact” pistol for easier concealment, but offers a slightly larger grip and sight radius for greater “shootability” than micros. It’s a good “in between” size that works well both on the range and on the belt.
Speaking of size, the MC2c is smaller than the G19 in just about every dimension. Overall length is 7.1 inches, barrel length is 3.9 inches, width is 1.1 inches and empty weight is 21 ounces. This puts it a quarter inch smaller overall, slightly thinner, and lighter than the G19. Capacity is 13 rounds with a slightly extended 15-round magazine also included, so in that matter the G19 has a slight edge, but only barely so.
While it’d take mighty big pockets to pocket-carry the MC2c, it will fit inside- or outside-the-waistband with plenty of room, while still leaving a full grip for range day. And speaking of range day, the same excellent ergonomics and trigger that we appreciated on the MC1sc are also present on the larger MC2c, resulting in a pistol that shoots exceedingly well and comfortably so. Again, practicing with a pistol you’re going to carry for defense is supremely important, so a gun that’s not painful to shoot really does make a difference.
While it might be tempting to ding the MC2c for not having an optics-ready version in today’s market, keep in mind this is only the second concealable handgun Mossberg has made in literally a century. The company has wasted no time in bringing out variants with manual safeties and upgraded sights in the short time it’s been on the market, so there’s no telling what the future might hold. The second “c” in MC2c stands for “compact,” hinting that a larger version might be coming down the road.
Holster: DeSantis Mini-Slide (MSRP: $73.99)
Another advantage to the MC2c’s size is a wider variety of carry options that still allow concealment. Carrying a G19 or similar model in an outside-the-waistband holster can present difficulty in concealing. With the MC2c in this DeSantis Mini-Slide, however, an oversize T-shirt or polo shirt will easily get the job done with no printing or inadvertent exposure.
The Mini-Slide features a forward cant, adjustable retention and a design that pulls the rig close to the body for optimum concealment. It’s available in black or tan and for both right- and left-handed shooters, and offers saddle leather construction with double seams. An open top and dedicated sight channel make for quick, uncluttered draws and a minimalist footprint.
Knife: CRKT Maven (MSRP: $69.99)
Rounding out today’s kit is the CRKT Maven pocketknife, a flipper-actuated design with contoured G10 scales. Offering a 3.68-inch, 8Cr13MoV steel, drop-point blade with bead-blast finish, the Maven makes use of CRKT’s proprietary IKBS ball-bearing opening system. It’s not assisted opening, but it’s very nearly as fast and smooth. The attractive G10 scales make for sure purchase, while a liner lock keeps the blade safely open when in use.
When it comes to a pocketknife you intend to have with you every day, looks often come second to blade construction, opening mechanisms and such. With the Maven, you really do get the best of both worlds in an attractive knife that holds a sharp edge, but might need more frequent sharpening than other steel types if you’re doing a lot of cutting. Best of all, the Maven can be found under $50, so it’s not going to strain the budget.
