In the late 1970s, Sig set out to make a concealable law enforcement pistol before the era of easily concealable 9mm guns. After a long run, Sig updated the pistol in 1996, creating the P232 model. These are direct-blowback, fixed barrel, single-stack .380 ACP pistols that bear a similarity to the Walther PPK. It features a DA/SA trigger, a frame-mounted decocker, a heel magazine release, and a standard capacity of 7+1. It was available with a blued finish and aluminum frame, as well as an all stainless frame and finish version.
“The PPK/s is an iconic pistol that has grown in popularity since its introduction in 1929. The Bond novels and films have certainly helped that, but all the positive publicity in the world wouldn’t matter if the gun itself wasn’t a well-built shooter.” – Mike Hardesty
The Ruger MKIV 22/45 is the latest iteration of an excellent target and plinking pistol design that has been around for decades. Exceptional ergonomics and great reliability are complimented by modern features such as a rail for mounting optics, a threaded barrel, and a simplified takedown method. These guns feature a standard 10+1 capacity of .22 LR, and all have cold hammer-forged barrels to ensure that the gun will last for years to come.
The S&W SW22 Victory is a single-action, enclosed hammer-fired, direct-blowback pistol that excels in target shooting. The 5.5-inch interchangeable match-grade barrel helps provide great accuracy, and the simple blowback design ensures reliability. Takedown can be achieved using a single screw, making the gun extremely easy to clean and maintain. The pistol is on the heavier side, weighing in at 36oz, but the weight helps reduce recoil and improve accuracy. The Victory is highly customizable, with a number of upgrades such as grips, barrel, trigger, and muzzle devices.
The Century Arms Draco NAK9 is built in Romania but has arrived here to deliver fun. It features standard AK sights, a Picatinny railed dust cover to mount optics, a threaded barrel, and premium wood handguards. To make things easier, the NAK9 comes with one 33-round magazine and accepts all standard Glock 17 and 19-style magazines.
“If you’re a PCC fan, you gotta check out the B&T APC9 Pro. This gun is well-made and fun to shoot. While we preferred the ergonomics of the Sig MPX, the APC9 has its perks such as low recoil and very accurate. The APC9 Pro has a slightly longer barrel than the APC9K Pro. For a more compact version, check out the APC9K Pro.” – John C.
The Grand Power Stribog SP9A1 is a 9mm pistol/PCC with a non-reciprocating charging handle. These guns feature an 8-inch threaded barrel and an aluminum frame. Utilizing a simple direct blowback design, these guns are rugged and incredibly reliable. Flip-up sights, 30-round magazines, and AR-style controls help make the Stribog an affordable yet feature-rich option in today’s market.
“If you’re a PCC fan, you gotta check out the B&T APC9 Pro. This gun is well made and fun to shoot. While we preferred the ergonomics of the Sig MPX, the APC9 has it’s perks such as low recoil and very accurate. The APC9K Pro is slightly more compact than the APC9 Pro.” – John C.
Everybody loves the Ruger 10/22, and this is just a fun-sized version of that rifle. The Ruger 22 Charger earned high marks in our testing for value, customization potential, and fun! We experienced the usual issues associate with dirty rimfire ammo, but the 22 Charger is still one of our favorites. At 17 inches long and only 5 pounds, there’s practically no reason to leave it at home. Besides, the price is right!
