Glock 29 Gen4

The Glock 29 is the only realistic concealed carry option in 10mm Auto. The subcompact frame holds 10+1 rounds with flush-fit magazines but accepts full-size Glock 20 15-round magazines for home use, range sessions, or as backup magazines carried in a belt pouch. This magazine compatibility makes the G29 the centerpiece of a unified 10mm carry system: G29 on your hip, G20 mags as spares.

Recoil management is the G29's primary challenge. The subcompact frame and lighter weight (26.83 oz vs the G20's 30.71 oz) produce noticeably snappier recoil with full-power 10mm loads. Proper grip technique, specifically a high thumbs-forward grip with aggressive hand pressure, keeps the gun controllable. Shooters upgrading from a 9mm subcompact should expect a significant increase in muzzle flip that requires dedicated practice to manage effectively.

For backcountry carry against bears, the G29 provides 10mm terminal performance in a holster-friendly package. A Kenai Chest Holster or similar chest-mounted Kydex holster makes the G29 accessible during hiking and fishing while distributing weight off the belt. The 3.78-inch barrel sacrifices velocity compared to the G20's 4.61-inch barrel (roughly 50-80 fps less with most loads), but the terminal performance difference at realistic defensive distances is minimal.