“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 Glock 43 harnesses all the world-renowned reliability that Glock is known for, all in a tiny package. Just over 1 inch wide and under 17 ounces, the G43 is easy to conceal in any environment and virtually any carry method. An extended beavertail, textured grip, and enlarged magazine release ensure that operation is smooth and recoil control is manageable. Overall, these single-stack 6+1 pistols are great for those who want a reliable, small, concealable pistol.
The Glock 19X has served as Glock’s first “crossover” pistol. It combines the grip length of the G17 with the frame and slide length of the G19, creating a pistol that can flex into multiple duty roles. It comes with a coyote brown frame and nPVD corrosion-resistant slide coating, ambidextrous slide stop levers, a lanyard loop, the Glock Marskman Barrel, and a flared magazine well. Those features, combined with a standard set of night sights and 3 magazines, make this Glock ready to go right out of the box.
Whether it’s video games, Stargate, or crazy-looking space guns, everyone can find a reason they want a PS90. FN designed the PS90 around the 5.7x28mm cartridge to create a carbine that offers a lot of firepower in a small package. While they can’t sell the original short 10.5-inch barreled model over the counter, the 16-inch PS90 is the next best thing. Although it looks strange, the gun is oddly ergonomic and is 100 percent ambidextrous — it even ejects downwards. Even though it is a direct-blowback gun, the 5.7x28mm cartridge is so light recoiling that your trigger finger will get tired running through the 50-round magazines before your shoulder does. The factory options for mounting optics leave much to be desired, but luckily the aftermarket has you covered. If you can stomach the cost of the gun and the ammo, then you will end up with a gun that is nearly unmatched in firepower for its size and weight.
The FNX 45T is admittedly a pretty niche gun. It really only makes sense if you plan on-duty use or range fun. Other than that, it’s too large to conceal for most and not the best suited for competition. Long story short, it’s duty-sized and heavy weighing in at 33 ounces unloaded. It features a stainless-steel slide assembly and measures 8.6-inches in total length! Furthermore, it stands 6.5-inches tall with a width of 1.5-inches. “The FNX 45 Tactical was built for duty, and it excels in just that. Whether suppressed or unsuppressed, it shoots like a 9mm with all the cool factor of .45 ACP in just as many rounds. It’s completely modern by 2021 standards, making it all the more impressive when considering it launched in 2012. If you’re looking for a full-size, heavy gun that you can run a red dot and suppressor with all in .45 ACP…this is a decent option.” – Justin Chang
The Beretta APX Centurion is a continuation of the APX pistol series from Beretta. It comes in two models — a 9mm or .40 S&W — both striker-fired. Overall length measures 6.97 inches with a 3.7-inch barrel. Though no longer in production, the Centurion can still be found in the used market. It’s a decent CCW option for those that like a good mid-size gun.
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 .22 LR Glock G44 does what it is supposed to do. Shots on target, reliable with specific ammo, and it comes in at a great value. Plus it’s nearly identical to the Glock 19 which makes it the perfect training and plinking gun. Rounding out why this might be worthy of your time…accessories. Because it’s a Glock means that it has a ton of accessories and aftermarket parts ready to throw on.” – Johnny B.
