The video opens with the hosts standing on the range, explaining that they have gathered a selection of popular micro compact pistols to shoot and rate on a 1–10 scale. Their stated goal is to handle the testing and comparison so viewers do not have to do the leg work themselves. They immediately clarify that all prices mentioned will be based on MSRP, noting that online pricing can fluctuate. The hosts also mention that on their Rumble upload of this video, the description includes links to each featured pistol for those who want to research or purchase them. Before diving into shooting, they stress that everything shared is based on their own experiences and impressions, and they invite the audience to share differing opinions, carry experiences, and suggestions for additional pistols they may have missed. This introduction frames the video as a practical, opinion-driven comparison focused on real carry use rather than a purely technical review.
To give viewers a clear frame of reference, the hosts explain the difference between compact, subcompact, and micro compact handguns. One host holds up a Glock 19 and identifies it as a compact pistol, calling it a kind of standard baseline for many concealed carriers. He then picks up a Springfield Hellcat and shows it side by side with the Glock 19 so viewers can see how much smaller a true micro compact can be in terms of grip length, slide length, and overall footprint. They point out that some pistols fall into a gray area between subcompact and micro, and that manufacturers do not always agree on exact size labels. Still, they emphasize that size matters for concealment, comfort, and printing under clothing. This sizing overview prepares the audience to understand why certain models in the lineup feel more suited to deep concealment than others, even when they share the same caliber.
With size categories laid out, the hosts introduce three Glock pistols that frequently appear in conversations about small carry guns: the Glock 26, Glock 43X, and Glock 43. They explain that these models represent different design generations and approaches within Glock’s catalog. The Glock 26 is described as an older, double-stack subcompact that some shooters still try to use as a micro carry option. The Glock 43X is presented as a more modern, slimline design that benefits from newer magazine technology and a longer grip. The Glock 43 is framed as the smallest and most stripped-down of the three, but with notable compromises in capacity and control. The hosts explain that each pistol will be shot on camera and then rated from 1 to 10 based on capacity, ergonomics, recoil, concealability, and how well it fits the micro EDC role. This segment sets up a direct comparison among the Glock entries before they move on to other brands.
The first detailed evaluation focuses on the Glock 26. After putting rounds through it, the hosts describe it as a chunky, double-stack subcompact that feels dated compared to newer micro offerings. They acknowledge that it provides solid capacity for its overall length, but they criticize its thickness and blocky profile, which make it harder to conceal comfortably for those seeking a very slim everyday carry pistol. In hand, it does not feel as streamlined or purpose-built for deep concealment as more recent designs. They also note that it lacks some of the refinements and optics-ready features that many shooters now expect. While they agree that the Glock 26 still functions reliably and can serve as a carry gun, they feel it is overshadowed by slimmer, more efficient options. As a result, they assign it a mid-range score in roughly the 6 to 6.5 out of 10 range.
Next up is the Glock 43X, which quickly emerges as a favorite among the Glock trio. The hosts praise its slim profile, noting how easily it disappears under typical clothing while still offering a comfortable, full-hand grip. A major talking point is its compatibility with 15-round Shield Arms magazines, which allow the pistol to carry a high round count without adding much bulk. They highlight the balance between shootability and concealability, explaining that the 43X feels controllable during rapid fire while remaining easy to hide. Ergonomics and overall handling receive positive comments, and they appreciate that the pistol fits well into the modern ecosystem of holsters and aftermarket parts. Based on their range time and carry considerations, they rate the Glock 43X around 8 out of 10, positioning it as one of the strongest contenders in the micro compact category.
The Glock 43 is then evaluated as the smallest and most minimalist Glock in the lineup. The hosts point out that its original 6-round magazine capacity is a significant limitation in a market where many micro pistols now offer double-digit capacities. They describe the recoil as noticeably sharper than the 43X, which they attribute to the lighter weight and shorter grip. Some shooters may struggle to get a full purchase on the grip, which can affect control and comfort, especially during longer range sessions. While they acknowledge that the tiny footprint is excellent for deep concealment or backup carry, they feel that the trade-offs in capacity and shootability are substantial. They conclude that the Glock 43 can still fill a niche for those who prioritize minimal size above all else, but they are less enthusiastic overall. It receives a score in the same general 6 to 6.5 out of 10 range as the Glock 26, though for different reasons.
After wrapping up their thoughts on the three Glock pistols, the hosts shift focus to Smith & Wesson’s entry in the micro compact space. They briefly recap what they liked and disliked about the Glock 26, 43X, and 43, emphasizing that capacity, grip length, recoil management, and overall comfort were key factors in their ratings. They then introduce the M&P 9 Shield Plus as a modern micro pistol that aims to combine strong capacity with a slim profile and improved trigger feel. Before shooting it, they remind viewers that their impressions are shaped by their own body types, preferred carry positions, and holster setups, and that others may have different experiences. This transition sets the stage for seeing whether the Shield Plus can match or outperform the Glock options as an everyday carry choice.
The M&P 9 Shield Plus is presented with a quick overview of its main features. The hosts note its 10+1 capacity, which places it firmly in the competitive micro compact category. They describe the pistol as having a slim frame that aids concealment while still offering enough grip area for many shooters to control it. The trigger receives favorable comments, with the hosts calling it one of the better aspects of the design thanks to its clean break and predictable reset. However, they also mention that the grip can feel short, leaving some hands partially hanging off the bottom, which may affect comfort and control for certain users. They point out that a manual safety variant exists, which will appeal to some carriers and turn off others. Overall, they view the Shield Plus as a solid, modern option and assign it a mid-range score in the neighborhood of 6.5 to 7 out of 10.
Continuing their evaluation of the M&P 9 Shield Plus, the hosts focus on how it behaves during live fire and what it offers in terms of sights and optics readiness. They describe the recoil as snappy, similar to many small 9mm pistols, and note that this can slow follow-up shots or increase shooter fatigue compared to slightly larger carry guns. The factory three-dot sights are described as basic and functional but not particularly impressive in an era where many competitors ship with enhanced sights or optics cuts. A major criticism is the absence of a slide cut for mounting a micro red dot, which they see as a missed opportunity on a pistol that otherwise aims to be a modern carry platform. These factors keep their enthusiasm in check and prevent the Shield Plus from challenging their top pick, even though they still regard it as a capable micro compact.
As they move toward wrapping up the technical portion of the video, the hosts recap their approximate ratings: the Glock 26 and Glock 43 both landing around 6 to 6.5 out of 10, the Glock 43X earning about an 8 out of 10, and the M&P 9 Shield Plus coming in around 6.5 to 7 out of 10. They stress that these numbers are not definitive judgments but reflections of their personal experiences, preferences, and physical builds. Factors such as hand size, body shape, clothing style, holster choice, and tolerance for recoil can dramatically change how a pistol feels in daily carry and on the range. They encourage viewers to treat these ratings as a starting point for their own research and testing rather than a final answer. The segment reinforces the idea that the ultimate micro compact EDC pistol will vary from person to person, even if certain models stand out for this particular panel.
In the final portion of the firearm discussion, the hosts turn directly to the audience and ask for feedback. They invite viewers to comment with what they currently carry, how it fits their body type and lifestyle, and which micro compacts they believe deserve a spot in the conversation. They acknowledge that the market includes many more pistols than the Glock 26, 43, 43X, and M&P 9 Shield Plus, and they express genuine interest in hearing about alternative choices that might be sleeper hits or regional favorites. This call for input reinforces that the video is meant to spark an ongoing community discussion rather than deliver a single, unchallenged verdict. Before shifting into a lighter tone, they thank everyone for watching, supporting the channel, and engaging with the content.
After the serious comparison wraps up, the video transitions into a playful dad-joke segment. One host asks, “What do you call a hippie’s wife?” and the others start tossing out deliberately bad guesses, which leads to laughter and friendly teasing. The eventual punchline is delivered as “Mississippi,” and the group riffs on how far off the earlier guesses were. The exchange is intentionally corny and lighthearted, serving as a humorous cooldown after the more technical firearm talk. This segment showcases the hosts’ personalities and camaraderie, giving viewers a sense of hanging out with friends at the range rather than just watching a dry review.
The outro continues the hippie’s wife joke in an exaggerated, almost glitched style. The hosts keep circling back to punchlines like “Hippo,” “Hippopotamus,” and playful mashups such as “Hippopot Hippopotamus,” while repeatedly referencing “Mississippi.” One host insists he was close with his guess, while another responds that he was nowhere near it, turning the bit into a running gag. The repeated mispronunciations and callbacks make it feel like the clip is looping for comedic effect. Throughout this closing sequence, they thank the audience multiple times, offer well wishes, and sign off with friendly farewells and blessings. No new firearm information is added here; it functions purely as a light, repetitive sign-off that leaves viewers smiling as the video ends.
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