Pistol
Best .45 ACP Pistols of 2026 (That Aren't 1911s)
Want a .45 pistol...but not the 1911? We've got you covered with our top picks of modern handguns that minimize recoil and maximize capacity of the .45 ACP.
Kat Ainsworth Stevens is an outdoor writer, author, and Field Editor for Range365. She is a contributor for an array of major industry publications including USCCA Concealed Carry Magazine, Outdoor Life, and SHOT Business. Kat is heading into her second decade of concealed carry, has been an avid hunter for decades, and has never met a firearm she didn’t want to run (she also has a penchant for big bores). If it pew-pews, it’s on. Although she is now a full-time outdoor writer her background is eclectic and includes K9 Search-and-Rescue and emergency veterinary medicine.
Experience
- K9 Search-and-Rescue
- Author
- USCCA Concealed Carry Magazine
- Outdoor Life
- SHOT Business
- Range365
- Pew Pew Tactical
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FunFlying with Firearms: Everything You Need to Know
Don't just hope for the best. We cover the rules for packing, declaring, storing, and locking your firearm for flying...plus our favorite cases and locks.
Gun ReviewsSig Sauer P226 Review: Super Solid
The Sig Sauer P226 is almost always on a "best pistols" list. We see if it's worth the hype for reliability, accuracy, ergonomics, and more.
Beginner's GuideTop 5 Firearms Instructors (That You Can Still Learn From)
Want to learn shooting from the best? We gather our favorite firearm instructors from all around the US. Now get your learn on!
ObservationsBy the Numbers: Gun Ownership Through the Years
How has gun ownership shifted throughout the decades? We crunched some numbers and analyzed data to offer a look into gun ownership trends.
Observations1994 Assault Weapons Ban vs Biden's Gun Ban Plan
How does Biden's assault weapon ban compare to the 1994 version? We dive into his proposed points and what it might mean for gun owners.
ShootingBallistic Gel: Purpose, Protocol, & Best Ones
How does your ammo really perform? Time to test it with some ballistic gel. We go through the process plus our recommended ones.
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Concealed Carry[Review] USCCA Certified Concealed Carry Instructor Course
Want to become a firearms instructor? Read our hands-on review of the USCCA Certified Concealed Carry Instructor Course.
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How-To[Guide] How To Shoot a Pistol One Handed: Tips, Tricks, & Drills
You might not always be able to use both hands to shoot your pistol. We go over helpful tips, tricks, and drills to master how to shoot a pistol one handed.
ObservationsRemembering Operation Red Wings: What Happened?
Operation Red Wings is one of the darkest times in SEAL team history and the inspiration behind the movie Lone Survivor. So what exactly happened?
AmmoHague Convention: Does It Only Allow FMJ vs Hollow Point Ammo?
Can the US armed forced only use full metal jacket (FMJ) ammo instead of hollow points? Does this affect what you should use for self-defense? Answers!
AmmoThe Ammo Equation: How Much Ammo Do You Really Need?
How much ammo do you really need for each caliber and firearm? We dive into the "ammo equation" and even throw in how many magazines you need for each gun.
19111911 Series 70 vs Series 80: What's the Best?
What's the difference? We go over everything from the safety, bushing, and hammer in the Series 70 and Series 90 1911s to see which is the best for you.
SafetyKids and Guns 101: Safety, Age, & Recommendations
Want to get your kids into the shooting sports? We go over some essential safety, the right age, and a few gun recommendations perfect for children.
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Buyer's Guide3 Best Bond Arms Derringers [Hands-On]
Bond Arms is the premier derringer manufacturer but they have a lot of models. We've hands-on shot a bunch of them and these three are our favorites.
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Concealed CarryOpen Carry vs Concealed Carry [Pros & Cons]
Carry curious? We go deep into the pros & cons of open carry vs concealed carry so you know what's the best for your situation.
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Gun Reviews[Review] Kimber K6s: Worth It
Looking for a primary or backup revolver? The Kimber K6s outperforms its price point in our review of its reliability, accuracy, ergonomics, and more.
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Rifle[Review] Daisy Red Ryder BB Gun: Adult & Youth Models
Ready to get your young one into shooting or reliving your own childhood? We hands-on review the Daisy Red Ryder 1938 in both Adult and Youth models.
![Post Thumbnail Image for post: Best Frangible Ammo: [Purpose & Calibers]](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pewpewtactical.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F12%2FI-admit-it-Inceptor%E2%80%99s-10mm-90-grain-ARX-is-a-favorite-of-mine.-It%E2%80%99s-a-favorite-of-the-Ruger-SR1911s-too-1024x577.jpg&w=2048&q=75)
AmmoBest Frangible Ammo: [Purpose & Calibers]
Frangible ammo isn't just for steel targets. We'll go over their potential use in hunting and self-defense. Plus our favorites for popular calibers.
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Gun Reviews[Review] Smith & Wesson Model 686+
I never liked revolvers until the Smith & Wesson 686. Check out my review on the S&W's reliability, shootability, upgrades, safety, and more.