Although bigger is usually better in the world of defensive firearms, there are occasions where a smaller package might be a blessing more than a curse.
Whether you need something small enough for deep concealment, a backup gun for your primary CCW, or if tiny things just make you happy, a mouse gun might be just what you need.
Hold on to your cheese because we’re about to dive into the world of ultra-tiny mouse guns. We’ll cover what they do well and what they don’t. We’ll even share a few of our favorite mini mouses.
THE QUICK LIST
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Easiest to Load
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Lightest
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Premium .380 ACP
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Best for Deep Concealment
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Best Minimalist Design
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Largest Capacity
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Best Revolver
Table of Contents
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How We Chose the Best Mouse Guns
Alice is a lifelong hunter and experienced shooter who grew up flinging arrows and bullets at Virginia whitetails, turkeys, and game birds. Her hunting experience has grown to include other game, such as Elk, wild hog, and more.
She leverages this knowledge to bring her readers tips, tricks, and recommendations on what works (and doesn’t) in the field.
What is a Mouse Gun?
I’m not sure if the term “mouse gun” refers to the adorable appearance of these dainty pistols or to the notion that they are only fit for shooting tiny rodents.
Mouse guns are typically ultra-petite pocket pistols chambered for calibers lighter and less potent than the 9mm. Most mouse guns run .22 LR, .32 ACP, and .380 ACP, and while those cartridges provide pretty paltry ballistic performance, they are meant to be as a last-ditch, close-range, get-off-me means of defense.
Their teensy size also makes them suitable for situations where super deep, spy-level concealment is a must.
When nothing else will fit, and you absolutely must carry a firearm, and it must stay hidden at all costs, a mouse is more than willing to go along for the ride. Even a mouse gun on your person is better than the full-size sidearm you left at home.
Best Mouse Guns
1. Easiest to Load – Beretta 3032 Tomcat
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Beretta 3032 Tomcat Pros & Cons
Pros
- Tip-up barrel
- Mild recoil
Cons
- Heavy trigger
- Frustrating sights
This thing is tiny. About the size of the average smartphone, the Tomcat is a serious runt, even in the world of micro pistols. It measures a scant 5.4 inches long and 3.7 inches tall. Despite its small size, the Tomcat weighs 14.5 ounces thanks to its sturdy, all-metal frame.
That extra heft combined with the mild-mannered .32 ACP makes this mouse gun shoot like a relative pussycat, although one that’s snappy and has a somewhat pissy attitude.
Beretta’s tip-up guns bring some serious cool factor to the table. The design allows you to load a round directly into the chamber without racking the slide.
The Tomcat’s stock sights are super plain, with a tiny nub for a front sight and a simple rear notch. With the gun’s seriously stunted sight radius and lackluster sight quality, getting solid sight alignment can be an exercise in frustration. It also has a frustratingly heavy trigger.
The Tomcat is one of the few mouse guns that will accept replacement sights, so upgrading the rear sight is an option.
However, this isn’t intended to be a competition pistol. It performs best at halitosis range, where an adrenaline-fueled point-and-shoot is probably all you’ll have time and space for.
2. KelTec P32
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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KelTec P32 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Ultra lightweight
- Low recoil
- Very affordable
Cons
- Super-short sight radius
This .32 Auto micro pistol tips the scales at a skimpy seven ounces and measures only 5.1 inches. It is 3.5 inches and .75 inches wide, making it one of the tiniest semi-autos on the planet. It has a six-plus-one capacity and weighs 6.6 ounces.
For such a tiny pistol, the P32 is surprisingly shootable. It doesn’t try to squirm out of your grip; the recoil isn’t obnoxiously brutal, and follow-up shots dependably land on target.
The P32 has built-in sights, so you won’t be swapping these out if you don’t like them. Like all mouse guns, this one has a sight radius shorter than a toddler’s attention span. That’s going to magnify shooter error in a major way.
Want more? Check out our full review on the P32!
What do you think of the KelTec P32? Rate it below!
3. Sig Sauer P238
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Sig Sauer P238 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Attractive design
- SIGLITE sights
- Great trigger
- .380 Auto
Cons
- On the pricier side
If you like the idea of a shrunk-down ultra-concealable 1911, Sig’s got you covered. The P238 is a micro pistol with everything we know and love about the 1911, including all-metal construction, the familiar thumb safety, and gorgeous aesthetics.
It also strips just like your Grandpa’s trusty 1911, so there’s no learning curve at all.
The P238 has a very good, short SA trigger with a pull of around 7 pounds.
The SIGLITE sights are really what sets this mousie apart from the hordes. Most pocket pistols have marginal sights, but SIG went whole-hog with the P238 and slapped their 3-dot SIGLITE tritium night sites. These things really pop and help compensate for the short sight radius that makes every mouse gun hard to shoot accurately.
I also love that the P238 is chambered for .380 Auto, which packs a more serious punch than most mouse gun cartridges. It almost puts this pistol in the realm of primary self-defense guns. Almost.
Check out our full review of the Sig Sauer P238 for all the deets.
4. Seecamp LWS 32
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Seecamp LWS 32 Pros & Cons
Pros
- All-metal frame
- Miniature size is easy to conceal
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Snag-free design
Cons
- Heavy 11.5-pound trigger
- Snappy recoil
It doesn’t get much tinier than the Seecamp LWS 32, even in the world of miniature mouse guns. This munchkin measures less than 3/4 of an inch wide and a scant 4 1/4 inches long. It also weighs barely over 13 ounces with a fully loaded magazine and a round in the chamber.
Despite its almost microscopic size (My keyring and keys take up more space), the Seecamp LWS 32 is surprisingly ergonomic and fairly easy to shoot, even with some pretty cantankerous recoil.
The Seecamp was engineered from top to bottom to be a last resort, point-and-shoot option for self-defense. Its only safety is a hefty 11.5-pound DAO trigger pull. It doesn’t have sights since you don’t usually need to aim at the distance this gun is meant to fire at.
The lack of sights also makes the LWS 32 wonderfully snag-free, so you can fluidly draw from just about anywhere.
4. North American Arms 32 Guardian
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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North American Arms 32 Guardian Pros & Cons
Pros
- Affordable
- Weight helps absorb recoil
- Simple design
Cons
- Rudimentary sights
North American Arms, inspired by Seecamps’s ultra-tiny LWS 32 design, put together the 32 Guardian. Like the LWS 32, NAA’s micro pistol features an all-stainless steel construction. There aren’t a bunch of bells and whistles on this one.
NAA kept it deliberately simple. Aside from a traditional grip-mounted mag release and a take-down lever, there are no other controls. Even the sights are almost non-existent, bare-bones basic.
At 4.38 inches by 3.38 inches, the 32 Guardian is smaller than the average hand. However, its relatively substantial weight (almost a full pound) soaks up a good bit of that snappy mouse gun recoil, making it handle more like a subcompact than a pocket pistol.
5. Ruger Lite Rack LCP II
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Ruger Lite Rack LCP II Pros & Cons
Pros
- Holds 10 rounds
- Slide is easy to rack
Cons
- Chambered in .22 LR
Yes, the LCP II is chambered in the most beloved rimfire cartridge known to man (or woman). Critics will rant about the cartridge’s lack of stopping power. However, there are legitimate reasons someone might desire a self-defense pistol in mild-mannered .22 LR.
In fact, there are definitely situations (like age and disability) that could prevent an individual from handling anything more intense.
Another bonus is that the ubiquitous .22 LR is far less expensive than anything centerfire. That means it’s fun to shoot because it’s easy on the wrists and easy on the wallet, so there’s no excuse not to put in enough practice to build proficiency.
6. North American Arms 22M-R
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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North American Arms 22M-R Pros & Cons
Pros
- This one’s a looker
- Compact and lightweight
- Wheelgun reliability
Cons
- Difficult to reload
This list wouldn’t be complete without at least one wheel gun. While the cylinder on this mini revolver may slightly resemble a hamster wheel, you can’t argue with its concealability.
At just over 5 inches long and one inch wide, the 22M-R vanishes inside a waistband or pocket like David Blaine’s disappearing playing cards.
The 22M-R is chambered in .22 Magnum and has a 5-shot action with a break-open cylinder that allows for simple reloading. However, reloading is still more complicated than a semi-auto. It can take some practice to master, and removing those bantam spent casings can take some manual dexterity and better-than-average eye/hand coordination.
It also features unique notches cut into the cylinder, which lock the hammer away from a chambered round to prevent accidental discharge. Usually, toting a SAO rimfire gun with a loaded chamber is a no-no. This safety detail allows you to confidently and safely carry five rounds in a full cylinder.
Although it is built for deep concealment, it has a super attractive bead blast finish and a rosewood bird’s head grip that you will want to show off.
Challenges with Mouse Guns
Mouse guns might look all kinds of adorable, but don’t let their size fool you.
Pocket pistols are almost always a bear to shoot. Sure, most of them are chambered in softer shooting subcalibers, but their petite proportions don’t do anything to tame recoil.
Things can get pretty snappy, muzzle rise can be hard to tame, and they tend to slip around in your hand when you shoot. Honestly, a slimy, wriggling catfish is easier to hold onto. You’ll need a solid stance, a steady hand, and a firm grip to keep these rodents in line.
And just face the fact that rapid, accurate follow-up shots are probably not in the cards, so make that first one count.
But it’s important to keep things real. Don’t expect a pipsqueak mouse gun to do the job of a full-size handgun in a substantial caliber.
Final Thoughts
Tiny, ultra-concealable mouse guns may look cute, but carrying a mouse gun is always a compromise.
We usually stuff them in a pocket or strap them to an ankle because we can’t afford for those around us to know we’re packing heat or use them as backup, just-in-case guns we can grab when our primary firearm fails.
Basically, mouse guns are reserved for situations that suck, which is appropriate because their handling and general performance pretty much suck, too.
But sometimes you just have to embrace the suck. Even a mouse gun is better than no gun at all.
If we missed your favorite pocket pet, let us know about it in the comments. Don’t forget to check out our guide to Pocket Carry. And if you’re into something bigger (and you totally should be), see our list of Best CCW Guns.
19 Leave a Reply
The NAA Pug is great. There are great neck holsters as well as pocket holsters.
Total drop of the ball.
Ruger Lcp Max is incredible. For caliber, size, shoot ability, concealment and price, it beats everything on your list. Not a dig. Just the truth
I agree, but I think they were going for the smallest tiniest baby hand size pieces of kit out there
I own and enjoy the NAA revolver, but mine is a fold up NAA-22MSC, with both a 22LR and 22WMR wheels. It folds up to become a VERY deep concealment backup, or even primary carry in some situations! However, like most guns in the review, one would be lucky to hit "the broad side of a barn" at 21' with this tiny firearm. Projectiles tumble and rarely fly straight, but it was never intended to be a competition gun! I love mine, and it often resides DEEP in my pocket!
I have the NAA Pug with the laser sight and find it accurate at 5-6 yards.
Someone keeps showing the Gen 1 P32. The Gen 2 is an improved version of the Gen 1 and holds 7 plus one. The P3AT in 380 ACP holds 6 plus one and is no longer in production. I will never part with my P32 due to it's weight and comfort to carry. It is a great shooter although not pretty. For around town it's this or my LCP. On the highway it's a 9mm. While the 32 ACP is a less powerful option, no one wants to be shot by any pistol. Having it on your person is much better than your canon left in the vehicle.
P238, wife has had one now for few years, had to replace the extractor at 3600rds, with carpel tunnel in both hands it was the only one we could find, at the time, that she could rack. (before the M&P EZ) now apporaching the 5000rd milestone.
I've owned my Sig P238 for years. That thing is actually very accurate, in fact I used it for my initial CCW training and blew out the bullseye with it. The instructor was surprised, but also owns one herself. Of course I keep my hollow points in there for self defense and I never leave the house without it. I have other pistols... my Glock 19 G5 and a Springfield Hellcat (fits well in my CC jacket), but this little P238 is my fave for on body concealment.
Any comments on the .380 ACP Micro Desert Eagle?
Bought my wife a Glock 40. Too big and hard to rack.
Bought her a Glock 9mm. Same problem.
Her brother passed and she inherited a Beretta 32 that he used to carry in the city because he got tired of lugging around a .357 Python.
She carries the Berreta 32 because it's light and she can operate it.
Diamondback DB9 under 16oz with 6 rounds of 9mm. I've run over 500 rounds thru mine with all types of ammo, no issues.
Alice Jones Webb - when you have to draw and shoot fast - with any pistol - you’re not bothering with sights. I use a Glock 17 in combat matches and there’s no time to use the sights. So to criticise these small guns for poor sights is laughable.
Why no mention of the Ruger LCP Max?
All the Ruger LCP's, how about the EC9s still fits in your pocket carries 7 9mm if you need more a couple mags in your back pocket, and I picked mine up for under 2 bills. I have others for more serious times, but my everyday around town don't have to worry about a holster I got it covered it works well and functions when and where I want it. It's not my Combat Commander 45 with Crimson Trace but, it's my light duty around small town, 45 is going to the city worry about car jackings .
Been very happy with my Kimber K6xs .38 Special +P with enclosed hammer and 2" barrel. 15-ounce dry weight and essentially unnoticeable in a pocket.
+1 for the LCP MAX. Comfortable to shoot for gun its size and 10 or 12 rounds +1 in chamber depending on your choice of magazine. It’s a short range option as are most this size. However with practice, you can be combat accurate at 30-40 feet. Also has decent tritium sights. Much better handling than the Kahr CW380 I tried.
Diamondback DB9 Gen4 is a sleeper (and cheaper). The earlier generations were crap. I have over 250rnds downrange in a Gen4 with 115gr-147gr, FMJ & Hollowpoints with a single stovepipe on the second round fired. Snappy recoil though. 50 rounds in a session is enough for me.
What about the LCP Max?
LCP Max with the 12 rounder. Mag dumping mayhem !