After thorough testing, we can confirm that Geissele’s high-end (and high-priced) Super Duty is worth the price of entry. This AR-15 comes with up-spec components out of the box so there’s no need to modify it. It shoots accurately with a variety of ammunition and feels great doing it.
The IWI Masada is a 9mm polymer, striker-fired pistol that provides a low bore axis, improved and adaptable ergonomics, fully ambidextrous controls, and an optics-ready slide, all at a reasonable price point. Its 4.1-inch button-rifled barrel and 17-round capacity make it an ideal size for those seeking a reliable duty weapon.
“Named after an ancient fortification, the Masada is everything you would expect from a modern carry/duty firearm. Roughly the same size profile as the Glock 19, this gun is good to go right from the box.” – David Lane
Sig introduced the AXG Scorpion combines the weight and balance of a metal framed pistol with the performance and reliability of the striker-fired P320. With 17+1 rounds of 9mm on tap and extra weight from the stainless steel frame, the AXG Scorpion delivers elevated performance by reducing felt recoil.
“The Shield 9 Plus is about as small as you can go and still have an easily useable platform with ergonomic controls across a range of hand sizes…any smaller and compromises begin to occur. That said, Smith did an excellent job with this pistol, making it accurate, easy to use, and wholly concealable.” – Sean Curtis
The Ruger P90 is an upscaled version of Ruger’s solid P89 platform but chambered in .45 ACP. It utilizes a SIG P220-style locking system with a 1911-style tilting barrel. Features include an ambidextrous decocker/safety combo, a 4.5-inch stainless steel barrel, and a 7 or 8+1 standard capacity. The frame is investment cast aluminum, with most of the internal parts being constructed from stainless or carbon steel. Ruger set out to produce an affordable, rugged service gun, and the P90 accomplishes that.
When it comes to value, the Hi-Point 995TS Carbine is hard to beat. Despite their modest price, they are 100% American-made and come with a full lifetime transferrable no-questions-asked warranty. These direct blowback carbines are simple, fun, and effective. Additionally, all Hi-Point carbines are rated for +P ammunition.
The Taurus G3X is the evolution of G3 platform but in a hybrid configuration with a compact barrel and a longer grip. The 3.2-inch barrel allows for easier concealment, while the full-size aggressively textured grip allows for controllability. A Picatinny rail allows for the mounting of accessories, and the lack of thumb safety ensures that the gun will always be ready to go whenever you need it.
“This is a very accurate and precise gun that’s consistent in its ability to hit your target. Contributing to its accuracy is the fact it’s easy to control, and you’re unlikely to flinch firing it. This gun feels excellent in the handle. The front and rear texturing is a nice touch, and the grip fits just right in the hand. The magazine release and slide lock are easy to reach and engage. All in all, it’s a little dated but still a good gun.” – Travis Pike
The Staccato C2 redefines the concept of a concealed carry gun by providing full-sized accuracy, handling, and shooting characteristics in a smaller package. The match-grade bull barrel, 16-round capacity, and Recoil Master System ensure that you have everything you need to engage targets from point-blank out to 100 yards with ease. Durability and reliability are also hallmarks of the C2, as evidenced by its growing popularity with law enforcement across the country.
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.
