concealed carry handguns for self defense

Today, we’ll explore our carefully curated list of the 10 best handguns for self defense in 2024.

The world of handguns is ever evolving, and this year has seen some remarkable advancements in technology, design, and functionality.

Our list is based on expert reviews, user feedback, industry trends, and Gun Show Trader’s personal testing and “best of” feedback from gun shows around the U.S., focusing on reliability, ease of use, and effectiveness for your personal protection.

Without further ado, let’s begin!

List of the 10 Best Self Defense Handguns of 2024

• Glock 19

• Smith & Wesson M&P Shield

• Sig Sauer P365

• Ruger LCP II

• Beretta 92FS

• Colt 1911

• Springfield Armory XD-S

• Walther PPS M2

• Heckler & Koch VP9

• CZ 75B

What are the 10 Best Handguns for Self Defense?

When considering handguns for self-defense, it’s important to choose a model that is reliable, easy to handle, and suitable for your specific needs and preferences.

Here are some of the best handguns for personal protection, along with key features, and reasons they made our list. Check out ARMSAGORA to explore more details and pricing options:

Glock 19

A 9mm semi-automatic pistol, the Glock 19 is renowned for its reliability under various conditions. It’s a versatile firearm, equally suitable for concealed carry, home defense, and law enforcement use. Its magazine capacity typically holds 15 rounds, and its lightweight polymer frame makes it easy to handle.

Size and Concealability: As a compact handgun, the Glock 19 strikes a balance between being small enough for concealed carry and large enough to handle comfortably. Its size makes it versatile for both concealed carry and home defense.

Reliability: Glocks are renowned for their reliability. The Glock 19, in particular, is known to function reliably under a variety of conditions, which is crucial for a self-defense situation where dependability is paramount.

Caliber: Chambered in 9mm, it offers a good balance of stopping power and manageable recoil. The 9mm caliber is also popular and widely available, making it easy to find ammunition.

Magazine Capacity: With a standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds, the Glock 19 offers more than adequate firepower in a self-defense scenario without being too bulky.

Ease of Use: The Glock 19 is simple to operate, making it a good choice for shooters of all experience levels. Its consistent trigger pull and lack of external safety make the operation straightforward, which can be beneficial in high-stress situations.

Durability: Made with a polymer frame and a steel slide, the Glock 19 is both lightweight and durable. It’s designed to withstand harsh conditions and rough handling.

Customization: There is a wide array of aftermarket parts and accessories available for the Glock 19, allowing owners to customize the firearm to their specific needs, whether it’s different sights, grips, or triggers.

Widespread Use: The Glock 19 is used by law enforcement and military personnel worldwide, which speaks to its effectiveness and reliability as a firearm.

Training and Familiarity: Due to its popularity, many training resources and opportunities are available specifically for the Glock 19. This can make it easier for a new owner to become proficient with the firearm.

Smith & Wesson M&P Shield

This is a slim, compact 9mm pistol designed for concealed carry. The Shield has a lower capacity than some other models (usually 7 or 8 rounds) but is highly valued for its slim profile, making it easy to carry without printing.

Caliber Options: The M&P Shield is available in several calibers, with the most popular being 9mm and .40 S&W. The 9mm version is particularly favored for self-defense due to its balance of stopping power and manageable recoil.

Size and Concealability: One of the main attractions of the M&P Shield is its slim, compact design. This makes it an excellent choice for concealed carry, as it is less likely to print under clothing and is comfortable to carry for extended periods.

Capacity: The standard magazine capacity is 7 rounds for the 9mm version (with an extended magazine available that holds 8 rounds) and 6 rounds for the .40 caliber version (with an available 7-round extended magazine). This capacity is typical for ultra-compact handguns prioritizing concealability.

Reliability and Durability: Smith & Wesson has a strong reputation for producing reliable and durable firearms. The M&P Shield, as part of the Military & Police (M&P) line, is designed to meet rigorous standards of performance.

Ergonomics and Handling: The Shield has an ergonomic design that provides a comfortable grip, which is important for control and accuracy, especially in high-stress self-defense scenarios. Its lightweight nature also makes it easier to handle for a broader range of shooters.

Trigger Quality: The M&P Shield features a consistent and crisp trigger pull, which can aid in accuracy and is often highlighted as a positive feature compared to other handguns in its class.

Safety Features: Depending on the model, the Shield can come with or without a thumb safety. It also features a built-in trigger safety and a tactile loaded chamber indicator.

Aftermarket Support: Like many popular handguns, the Shield has a robust range of aftermarket accessories available, allowing owners to customize sights, grips, and other components.

Cost-Effectiveness: The M&P Shield is often praised for its affordability, making it an accessible option for many people considering a reliable self-defense handgun.

Use and Popularity: The Shield is not only popular among civilian users for personal defense but also has seen use among law enforcement professionals as a backup weapon due to its reliability and compact size.

Sig Sauer P365

A compact 9mm pistol that revolutionized the concealed carry market with its high-capacity magazine in a very small frame. The standard magazine holds 10 rounds, with options for 12 or 15-round magazines, offering a great balance between firepower and concealability.

Caliber: The P365 is chambered in 9mm, which is a widely favored caliber for self-defense due to its effective stopping power combined with manageable recoil, making it suitable for a wide range of shooters.

Compact Size with High Capacity: The standout feature of the P365 is its high capacity in a very compact frame. Despite its small size, comparable to many micro-compact pistols, it offers a standard magazine capacity of 10 rounds, with options for 12 or 15-round extended magazines. This is a significant advancement over similar-sized pistols.

Concealability: Due to its small size and slim profile, the P365 is exceptionally well-suited for concealed carry. It’s designed to be unobtrusive and comfortable for all-day carry, even for individuals with smaller frames.

Ergonomics and Design: The P365 is designed with ergonomics in mind. It has a good grip texture and shape, making it comfortable and secure in the hand, which is crucial for control and accuracy.

Reliability: Sig Sauer is known for producing reliable firearms, and the P365 is no exception. It has gained a reputation for dependable performance, which is a critical consideration for a self-defense firearm.

Trigger Quality: The P365 features a smooth, consistent trigger pull, which aids in accurate shooting. The quality of the trigger is often highlighted by users as a significant positive aspect of the pistol.

Sights: The P365 comes with high-quality SIGLITE night sights, providing excellent visibility in low light conditions, which is a common scenario in self-defense situations.

Modularity and Customization: The P365 offers some level of modularity. Users can choose from a variety of models with different features (like manual safety, SAS model with integrated sights, XL model with longer barrel and grip), and there’s a growing market for aftermarket accessories.

Build Quality: The pistol features a stainless steel frame and slide, contributing to its durability and solid feel, despite its lightweight design.

Overall Reception: Since its release, the P365 has been highly praised in the shooting community for its innovative design, marrying the compactness of a micro-pistol with the capacity of larger handguns.

Ruger LCP II

This is a .380 ACP caliber pistol, one of the smallest and lightest on the market, making it an excellent choice for deep concealment. The LCP II is an updated version of the original LCP, with improved sights and trigger.

Caliber: The LCP II is chambered in .380 ACP, which is a smaller caliber than 9mm. The .380 ACP is considered adequate for self-defense, particularly in close-range encounters, and is favored for its lower recoil.

Size and Concealability: One of the most significant features of the LCP II is its extremely compact size. It’s one of the smallest and lightest handguns available, making it an excellent choice for deep concealment, pocket carry, or as a backup gun.

Capacity: The standard magazine capacity is 6 rounds, which is typical for micro-compact pistols. Despite the lower capacity, its size makes it a practical option for situations where discretion and concealment are paramount.

Design Improvements: The LCP II is an updated version of the original LCP (Lightweight Compact Pistol). It features improvements like a better trigger, which is lighter and has a shorter pull than its predecessor, and an easier-to-rack slide.

Ergonomics: Despite its small size, the LCP II is designed with ergonomics in mind. It has a more comfortable grip compared to the original LCP, and its design helps to manage recoil, which is essential for accurate shooting in self-defense scenarios.

Sights: The sights on the LCP II are integral and more prominent than those on the original LCP, making them easier to use, although they are still relatively basic compared to larger pistols.

Safety Features: The LCP II includes several safety features, such as a secure magazine catch and a trigger safety mechanism, but does not have an external manual safety.

Portability: The LCP II’s small size and light weight make it very portable. It’s a firearm that can be comfortably carried all day without being burdensome.

Build Quality: Ruger is known for manufacturing robust and reliable firearms, and the LCP II is built to maintain functionality in various conditions.

Use Case: While it may not be the first choice for a primary home defense weapon due to its small size and caliber, the LCP II shines as a concealed carry weapon for situations where discretion is key.

Beretta 92FS

A 9mm semi-automatic pistol, the 92FS is known for its open slide design, which helps reduce jamming. It has a 15-round magazine capacity and is famous for its accuracy and durability. It has been a standard issue for many military and police forces worldwide.

Caliber: It is chambered in 9mm, a popular caliber for self-defense due to its effective balance of stopping power and manageable recoil.

Design and Construction: The 92FS features a distinctive open-slide design, which helps prevent jamming and stove-piping. It has an all-metal frame (usually aluminum alloy) and a bruniton-coated steel slide, making it sturdy and durable.

Capacity: The standard magazine capacity is 15 rounds, providing a good amount of firepower for a self-defense situation.

Accuracy: The Beretta 92FS is known for its remarkable accuracy and stability, owing to its barrel design and tight manufacturing tolerances.

Recoil Management: The weight of the pistol, combined with the design, helps manage recoil, making it easier to shoot accurately, especially for those with more training and experience.

Safety Features: It includes an ambidextrous manual safety/decocker, allowing the shooter to safely lower the hammer on a chambered round and carry the gun with the safety engaged.

Ergonomics: The grip design is comfortable for a wide range of hand sizes, and the controls are well-placed for ease of use.

Reliability: The 92FS is renowned for its reliability, capable of enduring heavy use and harsh conditions. It has been the standard-issue sidearm for the U.S. military (as the M9) for many years, which attests to its durability and dependability.

Aftermarket Support: There is a robust market for aftermarket accessories and parts, allowing for customization of grips, sights, and other components to suit individual preferences.

Historical and Cultural Significance: The Beretta 92 series has a storied history and has been featured in numerous films and other media, making it an iconic firearm.

Colt 1911

A classic American .45 ACP pistol, the 1911 has a 7-round magazine capacity and is known for its stopping power. Its heavier frame can help manage recoil. The 1911 design has been around for over a century and remains popular due to its accuracy, reliability, and trigger quality.

Caliber: The 1911 is traditionally chambered in .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol), known for its stopping power. The .45 ACP is a larger and heavier round compared to 9mm, and it’s valued for its effectiveness in a self-defense situation.

Design and History: The 1911 was designed by John Browning and has been in continuous production for over a century. Its enduring design is a testament to its effectiveness and reliability. The 1911 has a single-action trigger and a distinctive grip safety.

Accuracy: The 1911 is renowned for its accuracy, which is partly attributed to its crisp and clean single-action trigger. This feature makes it a favorite among many shooters for both target shooting and self-defense.

Ergonomics: The slim, single-stack design of the 1911 makes it comfortable for a wide range of hand sizes. The grip angle is often praised for its natural pointability.

Magazine Capacity: The standard magazine capacity is usually 7 or 8 rounds. While this is lower than many modern pistols, many users of the 1911 value quality and stopping power of rounds over quantity.

Build Quality and Craftsmanship: Many 1911 models, especially those from Colt, are known for their high-quality construction and attention to detail, including solid steel frames and finely machined parts.

Customization: The 1911 platform is one of the most customizable in the world of handguns. There is a vast market for aftermarket parts and accessories, allowing for extensive personalization.

Recoil Management: The weight of the 1911, due to its all-metal construction, helps in absorbing recoil, making the .45 ACP round more manageable to shoot.

Safety Features: In addition to the grip safety, most 1911s have a manual thumb safety. This design is conducive to being carried in the “cocked and locked” position, which allows for quick deployment.

Cultural and Historical Significance: The 1911 has a storied history, having been used extensively in multiple wars and by various military forces. Its iconic status and widespread use in media and popular culture have also contributed to its enduring popularity.

Springfield Armory XD-S

This is a compact 9mm or .45 ACP pistol known for its safety features, including a grip safety and trigger safety. It’s well-regarded for its slim, ergonomic design and is a popular choice for concealed carry.

Caliber Options: The XD-S is available in several calibers, with the most common being 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. The 9mm variant is particularly favored for self-defense due to its balance of stopping power and manageable recoil.

Size and Concealability: The XD-S is designed to be a compact and slim pistol, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry. Its thin profile allows it to be easily concealed under clothing without significant printing.

Capacity: Depending on the caliber, the standard magazine capacity varies. For the 9mm, it’s typically 7 rounds in the flush-fitting magazine, with extended magazines available that offer a higher capacity. The .45 ACP version usually has a 5-round standard magazine.

Ergonomics: The XD-S is designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring a comfortable grip and a balanced weight that makes it easier to handle, especially for a compact firearm.

Safety Features: One of the distinctive aspects of the XD-S is its array of safety features. It includes a grip safety, a trigger safety, and an internal firing pin block, making it a safe option for carry and use.

Build Quality and Reliability: Springfield Armory has a reputation for building quality firearms, and the XD-S is known for its reliability and durability. It’s built to withstand rigorous use and maintain performance under various conditions.

Trigger Quality: The XD-S features a smooth trigger with a consistent pull, which is beneficial for accuracy, especially in a high-stress self-defense scenario.

Sights: The XD-S typically comes with fiber optic front sights and a dovetail rear, providing clear sight pictures for accurate aiming.

Portability: Its compact size, combined with its lightweight design, makes the XD-S highly portable and comfortable for everyday carry.

Aftermarket Support: While not as extensive as some other models, there is still a good range of aftermarket accessories available for the XD-S, including different sight options, grips, and holsters.

Walther PPS M2

A 9mm pistol, the PPS M2 is designed for concealed carry with a focus on ergonomics. It features a smooth trigger and a slim profile, with a magazine capacity that ranges from 6 to 8 rounds, depending on the magazine.

Caliber: The PPS M2 is chambered in 9mm, which is a widely favored caliber for self-defense due to its effective balance of stopping power and manageable recoil.

Size and Concealability: One of the main selling points of the PPS M2 is its slim, compact design. This makes it an excellent choice for concealed carry, as it can be easily hidden under clothing and is comfortable for all-day wear.

Capacity: The PPS M2 offers a versatile approach to capacity with its different magazine options. It typically comes with 6, 7, and 8-round magazines, allowing the user to choose based on the balance of concealability and firepower they prefer.

Ergonomics: The pistol is designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring a comfortable grip that suits various hand sizes. The grip texture provides a secure hold, aiding in control and accuracy.

Trigger Quality: The PPS M2 has a smooth and consistent trigger pull, which is an important factor for precision in stressful self-defense situations.

Build Quality and Reliability: Walther has a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship, and the PPS M2 is known for its solid build and reliable performance. It’s designed to function consistently, even under adverse conditions.

Safety Features: The PPS M2 has an internal striker block (as a safety mechanism) and a trigger safety. It does not feature an external safety switch, which some shooters prefer for quick readiness in a defensive situation.

Sights: The handgun comes equipped with low-profile, three-dot metal sights that are effective for quick target acquisition.

Aftermarket Support: While the market for accessories may not be as extensive as for some other models, there are still ample options for customizing the PPS M2, including sights, grips, and holsters.

Reputation and Use: The PPS M2 is well-regarded in the shooting community for its practical balance of size, ergonomics, and performance. It’s a popular choice among both civilian concealed carriers and some law enforcement officers as a backup weapon.

Heckler & Koch VP9

This is a 9mm pistol known for its accuracy and ergonomic design. The VP9 has a unique feature in its customizable grip, allowing the shooter to change the grip panels to fit their hand size. It typically has a 15-round magazine.

Caliber: The VP9 is chambered in 9mm, a popular choice for self-defense due to its balance of stopping power and manageable recoil.

Ergonomic Design: One of the standout features of the VP9 is its ergonomic grip design. It comes with interchangeable backstraps and side panels, allowing the shooter to customize the grip to fit their hand perfectly, which enhances control and comfort.

Trigger Quality: The VP9 is noted for having one of the best stock triggers in the striker-fired pistol category. It has a short, light, and crisp trigger pull with a positive reset, which is advantageous for accuracy and fast follow-up shots.

Capacity: The standard magazine capacity is 15 rounds, providing ample firepower for a self-defense scenario.

Sights: It typically comes with high-quality luminescent sights, which are easy to use and effective for quick target acquisition. Some models may also come with tritium night sights.

Build Quality and Reliability: H&K is known for its high manufacturing standards and rigorous quality control. The VP9 maintains these standards, offering a reliable and durable firearm that can withstand heavy use and adverse conditions.

Safety Features: The VP9 includes multiple safety features such as a firing pin block and a trigger safety. Unlike many other striker-fired pistols, it also has a paddle-style magazine release integrated into the trigger guard, which some shooters prefer for its intuitiveness and security.

Recoil Management: The design and weight distribution of the VP9 help manage recoil effectively, making it easier to shoot accurately, especially for those with less experience.

Customization and Accessories: There’s a growing market for VP9 accessories, including sights, holsters, and magazine options, allowing users to customize the firearm to their liking.

Aesthetics and Handling: The VP9 is often praised for its modern, sleek design and overall excellent handling characteristics, making it an appealing choice for many shooters.

CZ 75B

A 9mm semi-automatic pistol, known for its all-steel construction, which gives it a solid feel and helps manage recoil. The CZ 75B has a high magazine capacity, usually 16 rounds, and is valued for its accuracy and durability.

Caliber: The CZ 75B is chambered primarily in 9mm, a popular caliber for self-defense due to its balance of stopping power and manageable recoil. There are also variants in other calibers.

Design: One of the distinctive features of the CZ 75B is its all-steel construction, contributing to its weight and durability. This weight helps with recoil management, making the firearm more stable and easier to shoot accurately.

Capacity: It has a high magazine capacity, typically holding 16 rounds in 9mm, which is considerable for a full-size pistol and provides a significant advantage in a self-defense scenario.

Ergonomics: The CZ 75B is known for its ergonomic grip and well-balanced design, making it comfortable to hold and shoot, even for extended periods.

Trigger Mechanism: The pistol operates in both single-action and double-action modes, offering versatility in how it can be carried and used. The trigger is generally well-regarded for its smoothness and consistency.

Safety Features: It comes with a manual safety, but no de-cocker in the standard version (the CZ 75BD variant includes a de-cocker). This setup is often preferred by enthusiasts and those who train regularly.

Accuracy: The CZ 75B is renowned for its accuracy, partly due to its fixed barrel design, which tends to provide more consistent shot placement compared to some other designs.

Recoil Management: The weight and design of the CZ 75B, along with its low bore axis (which means the barrel sits closer to the hand), aid in managing recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot, particularly for those with more experience.

Aftermarket Support: There is a robust market for aftermarket parts and accessories, allowing for customization in terms of sights, grips, and other modifications.

Reputation and Usage: The CZ 75B has a strong reputation worldwide and is used by various military and law enforcement agencies. Its design has influenced many other handgun models.

When choosing a firearm for self-defense, consider factors like the size of your hand, your experience with firearms, the intended use (concealed carry vs. home defense), and your personal comfort with the firearm’s operation and recoil.

It’s also important to try out different models at a range, if possible, to find the best fit for you.

Top Handguns for Self Defense: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Best Handgun for Self Defense 2024?

Selecting the best handgun for self defense is a matter of personal preference.

However, these three handguns frequently stand out due to their reliability, ease of use, and overall performance:

1. Glock 19:

• Why It’s Recommended: The Glock 19 is praised for its reliability, ease of handling, and versatility. Its size strikes a balance between being compact enough for concealed carry and large enough for comfortable shooting and good accuracy.
• Caliber: 9mm, which offers a good balance of stopping power and manageable recoil.
• Capacity: Standard magazine capacity of 15 rounds, which is generous for its size.
• Notable Features: It has a simple design with fewer moving parts, contributing to its reliability. Also, it has a large aftermarket, allowing for extensive customization.

2. Sig Sauer P365:

• Why It’s Recommended: Renowned for revolutionizing the compact pistol market by offering high capacity in a very small frame. It’s especially suitable for concealed carry without sacrificing firepower.
• Caliber: 9mm.
• Capacity: Comes with a standard 10-round magazine, with options for 12 or 15-round magazines.
• Notable Features: Despite its small size, it’s comfortable to shoot, and the higher capacity magazines come with an extended grip area for better handling.

3. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield:

• Why It’s Recommended: Favored for its slim, lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry. It balances firepower with concealability effectively.
• Caliber: Available in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP.
• Capacity: 7 to 8 rounds for 9mm (varies with caliber).
• Notable Features: Offers a comfortable grip and good ergonomics. It also has a reputation for reliability and accuracy.

What is the Best Handgun Caliber for Self Defense?

The “best” caliber for a self defense handgun can vary based on individual needs and preferences.

However, the 9mm is often recommended for its balance of stopping power, capacity, and recoil, making it suitable for a wide range of shooters.

Some shooters prefer the heavier .45 ACP for its impact, while others opt for the .380 ACP for ease of use, especially in compact firearms.

What is the Best Handgun to Buy for Concealed Carry Self Defense?

Here are the top three handguns for 2024 commonly recommended for concealed carry self-defense, focusing on their balance of size, capacity, and ease of use:

1. Sig Sauer P365:

• Caliber: 9mm.
• Capacity: Standard 10-round magazine, with options for 12 or 15-round magazines.
• Key Features: Compact size with high capacity, comfortable grip, and manageable recoil. Ideal for concealed carry due to its small frame yet ample firepower.

2. Glock 43X:

• Caliber: 9mm.
• Capacity: 10 rounds.
• Key Features: A slim, subcompact design with a larger grip size than the Glock 43 for better control. Known for Glock’s reliability and durability, it’s suitable for everyday carry and easy to conceal.

3. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield:

• Caliber: Available in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP.
• Capacity: 7 to 8 rounds in 9mm (varies with caliber).
• Key Features: Slim profile, ergonomic design, and a balance between concealability and firepower. It’s reliable, easy to use, and a popular choice among concealed carriers.

Using a .22 caliber handgun for self-defense is generally not recommended by most firearm experts due to the caliber’s relatively low stopping power compared to larger calibers like 9mm, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP. However, there are situations where a .22 may be chosen for self-defense, especially by individuals who are particularly sensitive to recoil, have physical limitations, or need a very lightweight and easy-to-handle firearm.

Here are some of the .22 caliber handguns that are often considered among the best in their category, keeping in mind their limitations for self-defense:

What is the Best 22 Handgun for Self Defense?

Using a .22 caliber handgun for self-defense is generally not recommended by most firearm experts due to the caliber’s relatively low stopping power compared to larger calibers like 9mm, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP.

Yet, there are situations where a .22 may be chosen for self-defense, especially by individuals who are particularly sensitive to recoil, have physical limitations, or need a very lightweight and easy-to-handle firearm.

Here are three of the top .22 caliber handguns that are often considered among the best in their category, keeping in mind their limitations for self-defense:

1. Ruger SR22:

• Features: Known for its reliability and ease of use. It has a lightweight, compact design with an adjustable grip to fit different hand sizes.
• Capacity: 10 rounds, which is high compared to larger caliber handguns.
• Suitability: Good for those who are recoil-sensitive or new to shooting.

2. Walther P22:

• Features: Compact design with ergonomic grip and simple controls, making it easy to handle.
• Capacity: Typically 10 rounds.
• Suitability: Its small size and low recoil make it a good choice for smaller-framed shooters.

3. Smith & Wesson M&P22 Compact:

• Features: Designed to mirror the popular M&P series of centerfire pistols in terms of ergonomics and control layout.
• Capacity: 10 rounds.
• Suitability: It’s a good training tool for those who use larger M&P series handguns for self-defense but prefer a .22 for reduced recoil.

Conclusion & Wrap-Up

In conclusion, 2024 has brought a diverse range of handguns suitable for self-defense, catering to different needs and preferences.

Whether you prioritize technological innovation, compact design, or budget-friendliness, there’s a handgun on this list that meets your self-defense needs.

Remember, choosing a handgun is a personal decision, and it’s crucial to select a model that you’re comfortable with in terms of handling, maintenance, and use.

Stay safe and informed out there!

About the Author

Brian Reese is a senior advisor and co-owner at Gun Show Trader. He is one of the world’s leading experts in veteran benefits, having helped millions of veterans secure their financial future since 2013. Brian is the founder VA Claims Insider, an education-based Coaching & Consulting company whose mission is to educate and empower veterans to get the VA disability benefits they’ve earned for their honorable service. A former active-duty air force officer, Brian deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He is a distinguished graduate of management of the United States Air Force Academy and earned his MBA as a National Honor Scholar from the Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University.