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.
The Grand Power Stribog SP9A3S utilizes a newer non-reciprocating charging handle and roller-delayed blowback design. These guns are chambered in 9MM with a 5″ threaded barrel and an aluminum frame. The SP9A3S offers the reliability of the previous SP9A1 while reducing recoil via the roller-delayed operation, resulting in a soft-shooting and durable weapon.
Smith & Wesson’s Bodyguard 2.0 is a nice upgrade to the original Bodyguard, offering some nice features and an improved trigger. It’s super concealable, and .380 ACP is generally easy to source. While those with bigger hands might struggle to get a good grip, it does offer a design that is perfect for concealment.
The Hammerli Force B1 is one of the most unique rifles in a sea of rimfire plinkers. We love the straight-pull action and quick-change barrel system. The M-LOK stock is better than most, and mounting a scope or red dot on the Picatinny rail is a piece of cake. It’s a fun rifle to shoot, and if Hammerli would ever get around to supporting other cartridges with new barrels, buying this would be a no-brainer.
The Glock 30 is a .45 ACP that punches above its class when it comes to concealed carry. While it still features those Glock ergonomics, which you either love or hate, it shoots well and is extremely reliable. A shorter grip area might prove difficult for some shooters to get a full firing grip. If you can deal with a loose pinky, though, it’s a soft shooting .45 ACP that is perfect for those who want to CCW something other than 9mm.
The Smith & Wesson Equalizer picks up with the M&P Shield EZ left off, with a very beginner-friendly design — complete with an easy-to-rack slide. We spent a full day at the range with Equalizer and during our 500 rounds of testing, found it to be a soft recoiling option. It’s easy to disassemble and maintain, which earns it bonus points with us. Plus, it ships with three magazines! The only downside is the short grip, which will be problematic for those with larger hands.
The Trailblazer Firearms LifeCard looks like something out of a spy movie, but it really works! This has to be the most low-visibility, concealable pistol we’ve ever tested. This little peashooter puts the power of .22 LR or .22 WMR in your pocket, but it’s no larger than a cell phone. If you can live with single-shot rimfire limitations, it’s pretty darn cool.
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!
The Beretta 80X Cheetah is a modernized version of Beretta’s older 84 Cheetah line. Nice updates to the platform include improved ergonomics, an optics-ready slide, and an accessory rail. These guns are a bit bigger than most .380 ACP guns, and feel more substantial and easier to shoot. If you want something between a compact 9mm pistol and a pocket .380, the 80X Cheetah is that perfect in-between.
