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Top Selling Handguns, Rifles, & Shotguns of 2021

Micro Compacts with Micro Red Dots, Front
Curious about which guns people bought in 2021? Well, we walk you through the most sought after pistols, rifles, and shotguns of 2021.
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    So, we can all take a deep breath and celebrate that 2021 is over!

    Much like 2020, 2021 saw lots and lots of guns sold, and I know I’m not the only one who was curious about what guns did well in 2021.

    So, I did what we do best around Pew Pew Tactical and pulled some figures courtesy of Guns.com and GunBroker to find out what the top-selling guns of last year were.

    Keep reading to find out!

    Table of Contents

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    Top Selling Handguns

    In 2021 the world of handguns was all about polymer-frame, striker-fired pistols…and that describes most of the handguns on this list.

    Red Dots on Pistols

    Glock G19

    The Glock G19 popped as the number one seller for GunBroker and the number three seller for Guns.com.

    Glock’s G19 has long been the flagship of its own lineup. The double-stack, 9mm, polymer-frame handgun is currently in its fifth generation.

    Glock 19 Gen 5, Stock
    Glock 19 Gen 5, Stock

    It’s one of the more compact models of handguns that rides the line between being easy to conceal and easy to shoot. Glock makes a do-it-all gun that’s been tapped for home defense, concealed carry, and even duty use by police and military forces.

    It’s a fantastic firearm that places reliability over anything else. I’m not a Glock fan, and I own two Glock G19s!

    $539
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Glock G43

    The Glock G43 exemplifies the concealed carry Glock.

    Glock took forever to embrace the single-stack 9mm, and when they did, it came out in the form of the Glock G43. You can toss the Glock in an IWB holster, in your pocket, on your ankle, or wherever else you want it.

    G43 Banana
    G43

    It’s not a surprise the little Glock G43 made the list. It provides a reliable, easily concealable, and affordable handgun for concealed carriers.

    Ultra Reliable Single-Stock CCW
    $448
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Want more on the G43? Check out our review here or watch the video below!

    Sig Sauer P365

    The P365 has been a hit ever since the weapon premiered.

    Sig Sauer P365
    Sig Sauer P365

    Sig delivered the first micro-compact pistol on the market, giving you double-stack capacity in a single stack frame. Plus, Sig delivered a great trigger, excellent iron sights, and fantastic ergonomics.

    It’s created an entire genre of new firearms.

    $499
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Learn more in our review or in the video below.

    Springfield Armory Hellcat

    Speaking of micro compacts, the Hellcat provided the second micro-compact pistol to hit the buying market.

    Springfield took the XD series of pistols and shrunk them considerably without sacrificing much magazine capacity.

    Springfield Armory Hellcat with Magazine
    Springfield Armory Hellcat

    The company hit the ground running with an optics-ready variant and later an optics-ready, compensated variant called the RDP.

    Springfield provided great capacity, along with excellent sights, a great flat-faced trigger, and stellar ergonomics.

    Oh, they also got rid of that dang grip safety.

    $499
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Read our full review on the Hellcat here!

    Glock 43X

    The Glock G43X took the Glock G43 and stretched the grip. Glock kept it single-stack but increased the capacity to 10 rounds.

    G43x with TLR-7 Sub
    G43x with TLR-7 Sub

    Not to mention, the grip length is a bit thinner than the Glock G19, which grants excellent controllability without sacrificing concealability.

    Plus, the extra capacity can be stretched to 15 rounds with the Shield aftermarket magazines, giving it the same capacity as a Glock G19 in a much smaller platform.

    $448
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Find out more about the Glock G43X in our full review or in John’s video below.

    Taurus G3C

    The Taurus G3 series premiered early this year, delivering a modern take on the Taurus G series pistols.

    Taurus’ G3 series features the standard model and G3C compact model. These double-stack subcompact pistols provide an affordable concealed carry firearm for the shooter on a budget.

    And the low price point makes it an easy sell.

    $229
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    We go into more depth in our Taurus G3C review or check out the video.

    Taurus G2C

    The predecessor to the G3 series, the G2C, strikes the subcompact chord.

    Taurus G2C side log
    Taurus G2C

    It delivers a handy little 9mm or .40 S&W firearm destined for concealed carry. Plus, it comes in a wide variety of colors.

    And when it comes to low price points, the G2C certainly checks the box — often selling for less than $200.

    $237
    at Kygunco

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    We reviewed the G2C a few years ago so read the review or see the video for more info.

    Top Selling Rifles

    I don’t think it’s a big surprise that affordable AR-15s top the list.

    AR might as well stand for America’s Rifle, and the affordable variants allow any American to own a modern, easy shooting, ergonomic rifle.

    Smith & Wesson M&P 15 Sport 2 & 15-22

    The S&W M&P 15 and its many variants top four spots on Guns.com list and the number two spot on GunBroker’s.

    S&W M&P Sport II in a stump
    S&W M&P Sport II

    These bare-bone, 5.56 rifles come from a name shooters trust with a price point that makes them very attractive. They might not be fancy, but they work.

    Plus, they come in numerous models, including California compliant models, optics included models, M-LOK equipped models, and more. Lots of options for lots of shooters.

    $681
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Another variant that bears mentioning in the Smith & Wesson M&P line of rifles is the 15-22.

    The M&P 15-22 brings the M&P 15 to the rimfire world. This .22 LR rifle makes it easy and cheap to train with, is a fun plinker, and is affordable.

    Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport in Khaki
    Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22

    It’s the best factory AR-22 rifle I’m aware of, so I’m not surprised it remains a top seller.

    $455
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Do we have a review on the M&P 15 Sport II…of course we do! Check it out here or the video below.

    Ruger AR-556

    Like the S&W M&P, the Ruger AR-556 offers shooters an affordable, bare-bones AR-15.

    It comes with or without various features – including optics-ready compatibility, an optional M-LOK handguard, a collapsible stock, and all the little features you could ever want.

    Ruger AR-556
    Ruger AR-556

     Like Smith & Wesson, Ruger is a recognizable name in the industry for a reason.  

    Ruger’s rifle provides a fantastic option for the first-time AR owner. And, heck, it even comes in a variety of colors.

    $729
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Kel-Tec Sub-2000

    Who doesn’t love a PCC?

     Kel-Tec not only provides one but a unique and affordable model at that.

    KelTec Sub2000 Vickers One Sling
    KelTec Sub 2000

    The Sub-2000 uses common pistol magazines from Glock, Sig, S&W, and more. Plus, it folds in half to make it one of the easiest firearms to shrink and store.

    A simple blowback system makes the weapon reliable but not too fancy.

    It keeps costs low, and the Kel-Tec Sub-2000 delivers a very modern platform with some unique and interesting features.

    Best Backpacker PCC
    $469
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    PPT staff member, Sean, did a full write-up on the Kel-Tec Sub-2000, so check that out here.

    Ruger 10/22

    Ruger’s venerable 10/22 has been in production since 1964, with millions produced.

    This little rimfire rifle has long ruled the market and is GunBroker’s number one best-selling rifle.

    Fully Upgraded 10/22 with Magpul Stock and Tandemkross Upgrades
    Fully Upgraded 10/22 with Magpul Stock and Tandemkross Upgrades

    When you need the best rimfire rifle on the market, you turn to Ruger, and with the low price point, you don’t feel any sticker shock.

    The Ruger 10/22 delivers an accurate, reliable, and highly customizable platform that allows for plenty of plinking and hunting capability.

    $199
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    We just reviewed the Ruger 10/22 Charger! Why not read the review or peep the video!

    Henry AR-7 Survival Rifle

    Another rimfire makes the list, and it’s the odd but lovable Henry Survival Rifle.

    Originally designed by Armalite, this rifle is a take-down model that fits into a hollow plastic stock.

    Assembled Henry AR-7
    Henry AR-7

    The lightweight rifle was originally designed as a bailout rifle for pilots but has since become a favorite on the civilian market.

    It’s a simple magazine-fed, semi-automatic rifle that delivers a very compact platform.

    This gun is a handy, working gun that fits well in a plane, a boat, or truck for those little tasks that might need rimfire power.

    Best Survival .22 LR Rifle
    $278
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    You guessed it…you can read the review here.

    Top Selling Shotguns

    C’mon, who doesn’t love shotguns?

    Oddly enough, neither Guns.com nor GunBroker have any firearms in common, so I’m taking three from each list. There is an interesting difference between the two lists that’s worth noting.

    Benelli M4

    The king of combat shotguns — the Benelli M4 — is here…regardless of its $2,000 price point.

    Benelli M4
    Benelli M4

    This gas-operated firearm uses Benelli’s ARGO system to ensure total reliability among a wide variety of loads. Shooters get a fast cycling, soft shooting 12-gauge perfect for home defense.

    It’s my favorite shotgun for a reason, and I’m not shocked to see it’s popular with others.

    Best High-End Semi-Auto
    $1,775
    at Kygunco

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Johnny B runs you through the Benelli in his review!

    Mossberg 930

    Bam, another semi-auto on the GunBroker list with the Mossberg 930.

    Mossberg 930 Tactical
    Mossberg 930 Tactical

    This gas-operated Mossberg is one of the more accessible semi-autos at a rather friendly price point. Plus, it comes in numerous sporting, home defense, and duty configurations.

    Mossberg’s long done a fantastic job producing quality shotguns and the 930 series are no different.

    Best Budget Semi
    $650
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Armscor RIA VR80

    Yep, the third shotgun on the list is also semi-automatic, but it’s also a box magazine-fed shotgun.

    Rock Island Armory VR80
    Rock Island Armory VR80

    The VR80 makes use of AR-15 ergonomics and even allows you to remove the thumbhole stock and replace it with a. AR-15 stock and pistol grip.

    The reliability and ergonomics surprised me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the gun. Plus, a 19-round magazine of 12-gauge ammunition delivers a ton of fun firepower.

    $599
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    G Force Arms GF3T Tactical

    The G Force Arms GF3T Tactical isn’t a fancy name brand shotgun, but it made the Guns.com list due to the crazy low price point of $99 on Black Friday.

    This Turkish-produced pump-action 12-gauge shotgun comes with ghost ring sights, an optics rail, and a forward rail for a light, laser, or cup holder.

    It’s not a fancy shotgun, but with a crazy low price, it’s easy to see why it sold so well.

    $135
    at Guns.com

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Mossberg Maverick Model 88

    We get another Mossberg, but this time it’s a pump-action shotgun that’s part of the budget line of Maverick shotguns.

    Sometimes all you need is a weapon that’s brilliant in the basics, and the Maverick 88 is just that.

    Maverick 88 with FAB Defense Stock
    Maverick 88 with FAB Defense Stock

    It’s a simple pump-action shotgun with various configurations, making it perfect for home defense, hunting, skeet shooting, and more.

    The Maverick 88 gives you a fantastic budget shotgun, and it’s been around for decades for a reason.

    $228
    at Kygunco

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Mossberg 590 Shockwave

    Technically, this isn’t a shotgun…but who cares.

    The Shockwave is a 12-gauge firearm and the third on the Guns.com list for top-selling shotguns.

    Ultimate Shockwave Build
    Shockwave

    This is a 14-inch barreled pump-action weapon with a pistol grip only design.

    It’s not super useful for serious tasks, but it’s a ton of fun at the range.

    Editor's Pick Not-A-Shotgun
    $401
    at Battlehawk Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Conclusion

    2020 and 2021 were banner years for firearm sales. And it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon either.

    9mm Micro Compacts

    Lists from GunBroker and Guns.com provide an insight into what Americans want and provide a fascinating look into the world of the firearms marketplace.

    Did you buy a gun in 2021? If so, is it one of the firearms on this list? Let us know below! Interested to know what people bought during the COVID crisis? Check out What Guns People Panic Bought.

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    16 Leave a Reply

    • Ed Vater

      How about an article about how the sales volume of quality bolt actions with wood stocks have been diminished by the black guns and how mch?

      February 14, 2022 6:18 am
    • Kevin Harding

      In shooting a friend's SIG 365 with the extended mag, I found the slight shift of the mag extension each time I shot distracting...I purchased the 365X with the longer grip and couldn't be happier. Extraordinarly compact, large ammo capacity, decent trigger pull(not a big fan of the flat trigger-personal preference). Add a Hogue grip and it's the best for concealed carry for small and medium handed shooters.

      February 14, 2022 4:30 am
    • Bill Stephens

      Interesting that the Glock G43 and the Sig P365 are both listed at $499. That being the case, I can't imagine why anyone would seriously consider the Glock over the Sig. I have both Glock and Sig pistols and there is not much you can do about the Glock mushy trigger. The Sig has it over the Glock on the trigger, capacity, sights, and overall "feel" of the gun as they come, out of the box. Both are utterly reliable. Can someone enlighten me?

      February 13, 2022 8:13 pm
      • LCpl Mike

        Timney Triggers has excellent replacement for Grock stock triggers. I like mine, crisper and more consistent.

        February 14, 2022 8:23 am
      • LCpl Mike

        Timney Triggers has excellent replacement for Grock stock triggers. I like mine, crisper and more consistent.

        February 14, 2022 4:04 pm
    • Will B

      Bought a Taurus g2c for my wife and a g3c for myself, along with a couple not on your list.
      The Rock Island Armory BBR 3.10, just a great sub compact 1911 with a double stack 19 round magazine. 11 rounds of .45 acp. Easily concealed, with some practice, and nice to shoot. And, last but not least, my PA 15 from Palmetto State Armory. Blem complete lower receiver, blem 16" upper with m-lok handguard and full length rail, 5 - 30 round magazines and 100 rounds of Winchester 5.56 nato for less than $700. Love it.

      February 13, 2022 4:39 pm
    • Donn Jacquin

      Picked up a Sar9mm pistol. Surprisingly good for the money. Better trigger and sights over Glock.

      February 13, 2022 4:25 pm
    • Jeffrey Nesbitt

      I bought a CZ 75 Tactical SP-01 Urban Grey and a CZ 75 P-01. Incredible pistols to shoot and a joy to own noticeable quality. Yes, we own striker fire pistols too (S&W M&P2/Springfield XD Mod2) and enjoy them also. But they are not in the same league as a CZ.

      February 13, 2022 4:15 pm
    • TR

      Own two of the ones you mention , however still find the Ruger Max 9 ( not mentioned) way superior over the Springfield Hellcat. I know the Max 9 was late in the game. The Sig 365 was the total game changer in a compact double stack and it’s been a favorite EDC.

      February 13, 2022 3:56 pm
    • David Walters

      I own both a Springfield Armory XD and my wife owns and XDM.

      I love the double safeties, trigger and grip. Indeed, I'll never purchase another pistol from any manufacturer which doesn't.

      The safeties have never caused any problems and they give me confidence that my less experienced wife (I'm an ex-Marine) will be less likely to have an accidental discharge under pressure.

      Now, I've an open mind. If someone has reason to object to my preference I'm all ears.

      February 13, 2022 3:39 pm
      • Travis L Pike

        It might be worth it to research some od the issues with Xd grip safeties. When they do break they'll lock the gun up completely making it impossible to clear the weapon

        February 13, 2022 5:21 pm
        • Ron

          I hope you mean "if", not "when". Any mechanical device can break, but only poorly designed/manufactured ones do break. From personal experience, I would classify S/A products as well made.

          February 13, 2022 6:02 pm
          • Travis L Pike

            S/A doesnt make the Xd series. They just import it. Aaron Cowan of Sage Dynamics kept track of handgun failures in classes and the Xd had more catastrophic failures than other guns

            February 14, 2022 7:00 am
    • Damien Stella

      I picked up a S&W Model 627-5, 4 inch, 8 rounds. Beautiful handgun; nice shooter. Even if I find a good shoulder rig for it, I probably won't make it my EDC; it's pretty hefty. My Model 642-2 is more concealable and weighs about 1/3 what the larger gun weighs.

      February 13, 2022 3:32 pm
    • MoAZ

      Additions in 2021:
      Steyr M9-A2
      Mossberg MC2C & MC2sc
      SA XDM Elite 4.5

      February 13, 2022 3:26 pm
    • Joe Claypool

      Added a Sig Sauer 365 SAS to my gun safe this past year. Found the unusual sight system intuitive and really like the little pocket rascal. My EDC when away from home in areas people get wonky if they see a sidearm on your belt.

      February 13, 2022 2:46 pm
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