When it comes to selecting a handgun, there is no shortage of options.
From full-size models to compact, optics-ready to suppressor compatible and all manner of calibers in between, it can feel a little overwhelming.
But that’s why you have us. We have tested and evaluated enough handguns to know a thing or two, and so we’ve come up with what we think are the best of the best in the handgun category.
This list is not exhaustive, and there are plenty of great guns we just haven’t had hands-on time with yet or couldn’t include for space reasons. So, if we missed your favorite, drop it in the comments below.
In the meantime, keep reading to see what made our list!
THE QUICK LIST
-
Editor’s Pick
-
Best CCW Pistol
-
Best 2011
-
Best Budget Pistol
-
Best Full-Size Pistol
-
Best Competition Pistol
-
Best Revolver
Table of Contents
Loading…
How We Test & Rate the Best Handguns
Creating a list of the best handguns is quite a daunting task since there’s plenty to choose from, but we took the task head-on and narrowed our list of handguns we think hit the mark.
But how did we arrive at these models?
For us, choosing the best starts with testing a variety of pistols. Yes, we actually put hands-on time with every gun we recommend. We send hundreds of rounds downrange over the course of weeks, and sometimes even months, to evaluate the pistols we recommend.
While testing, we look for things like reliability, accuracy, ergonomics, aftermarket support, best uses, and bang for your buck.
Want to learn more about how we rate guns? We got in-depth on our process here!
Best Handguns
1. Walther PDP – Overall Favorite
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Great ergonomics
- Smooth shooter
- Looks great
Cons
- Can malfunction if you run it too dry
- May feel a little too big for smaller hands
Specs
Features
The Walther PDP earns our editor’s pick rating because it’s a superstar among handguns. This 9mm pistol comes in different flavors, including full-size and compact versions.
It’s red dot ready, so if you’re into optics, this gun’s got you covered. Plus, taking it apart for cleaning and maintenance is a breeze – no rocket science required.
Occasionally, if you run it bone-dry, you might encounter some stovepipes. That’s an easy solve with a little lube, though. Also worth mentioning, if you’ve got hands the size of shovels, you might accidentally mess with the slide lock. But don’t worry, that’s not the gun’s fault; it’s more of a “big hands” issue.
In a nutshell, the Walther PDP is a decent sidekick whether you want something for concealed carry, home defense, or just a range toy.
Walther PDP
Accuracy
The PDP is accurate if you do your part, the trigger and the barrel complement each other nicely.
Reliability
I found it took abusive levels of dryness to cause any type of malfunction. Otherwise, they kept trucking.
Customization
Walther has done a good job of offering several accessories if you want to further customize your PDP such as triggers, extended mag releases, baseplates, threaded barrels, and more.
Ergonomics
This gun feels great but smaller hands may struggle.
Read more about the Walther PDP in our full review, or check out our review on the PDP-F (specifically for the ladies out there).
Best Concealed Carry Pistol
2. Sig Sauer P365 X-Macro Comp – Best CCW Pistol
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Class-leading capacity
- Reduced muzzle flip
- Easier draw from concealment
Cons
- Mag can hang up on big hands
- Slightly harder to conceal
Sig Sauer P365 X-Macro
Specs
Features
Sig Sauer’s P365 series shook up the concealed carry game. So, what’s all the fuss about?
First off, the X-Macro Comp doesn’t mess around when it comes to capacity. It packs 17+1 rounds of 9mm ammo into a pretty diminutive frame — pretty darn impressive if you ask us.
It also sports an integrated compensator that helps mitigate recoil and keep follow-up shots pretty consistent. And if you’re all about red dots, this pistol comes optics-ready. Controls are easy to reach, and the ergonomics are also fairly comfortable.
That said, this pistol is a tad larger than some micro-compact handguns. You can definitely work around that, but it’s worth noting.
The Sig Sauer P365 X-Macro Comp is best for concealed carry enthusiasts who want increased capacity, less recoil, and the option for optics.
Sig Sauer P365 X-Macro
Accuracy
The barrel is shorter, but a good trigger and an optic help offset much of the accuracy potential drop off.
Reliability
Round counts varied for the different guns we shot at the range day and competition but are likely in excess of the 1,000 mark. I had zero malfunctions even with continued testing once I got the X-Macro Comp home.
Customization
Sig’s dropping of proprietary fitments like the accessory rail and rear sight included optics plate greatly increases the number of customization shooters can apply to this gun.
Ergonomics
The addition of adjustable backstraps should help shooters find that sweet spot to fit their hands. Otherwise, the controls were well placed and easy to reach and operate.
You can learn more about the Sig P365 X-Macro in our full review.
Best 2011
3. Staccato CS – Best 2011
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Accurate
- Improved Longevity
- Reliable
Cons
- Price
Specs
Features
Staccato’s come a long way from racing-inspired firearms, firmly planting itself in the realm of consumers looking for high-end pistols.
The CS model continues that theme.
It offers a 16+1 capacity in a fairly concealable package. But where it excels is how it handles. It eats up both FMJ and JHP ammo like a champ, with no hiccups during our testing.
Additionally, accuracy was a solid 5/5 for us. There is some recoil simply due to the size of the CS, but after you adjust to that, it will drive rounds down range all day.
While testing, we did notice that controls aren’t the easiest to reach. In our case, we found the magazine release required a grip adjustment…especially for small-handed shooters. If you tend to be on the side of smaller mitts, you might want to look elsewhere.
Also, keep in mind this is a premium gun, which means premium pricing. With a price tag north of $2K, you better be prepared to drop some coin to own one of these.
But if you have the budget and want a solid 2011 platform for carry, then the CS is an excellent choice.
Staccato CS By the Numbers
Accuracy
Accuracy was great after adjusting to the grip and getting used to the gun.
Reliability
Our CS chewed through multiple FMJ ammo types and Federal 124 GR JHP's with ease.
Customization
There is a rail and the ability to mount optics, but the amount of customization is somewhat limited with this new gun.
Ergonomics
Some controls are easily reached though it took grip adjustment to hit the magazine release and slide stop. Smaller-handed shooters will notice this.
We have a review of the Staccato CS with more details!
Best Budget Pistol
4. Taurus GX4 – Best Overall Budget Pick
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Textured grips
- Mags made by Mec-Gar
- Size is great for 11-round gun
Cons
- Grip feels a bit too short
- Bigger handed people will need to adjust grip
Specs
Features
Unlike the Staccato, if budget is a concern, Taurus offers a solid option for a reasonable price with the GX4.
This is a little guy, but don’t let its size fool you; it’s still decent. Offering 11 rounds of 9mm, it delivers a tough, stainless-steel frame paired with a comfortable grip. Taurus even levels up their game with two magazines and a couple of backstraps, all wrapped up in a sturdy plastic case.
Plus, the price tag won’t give your bank account a heart attack. Perfect for those who want a reliable concealed carry without going broke.
At the range, this pistol brings manageable recoil and a trigger that does the job well. Accuracy-wise, it’s no sharpshooter, but for self-defense scenarios, it’ll work. It produced tight groups at 7 yards.
You won’t get much in terms of an aftermarket, but that’s not a dealbreaker.
All in all, the Taurus GX4 gives you a whole lot of bang for your buck in the micro 9mm world.
Taurus GX4 By the Numbers
Did we review it? Of course, we did, learn more in our GX4 review!
Best Full-Size Pistol
5. Glock 17 – Best Full-Size Pistol
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Large aftermarket
- Reliable performance
- Durable
Cons
- Trigger isn't the best
- Iron sights aren't great
Specs
Features
The Glock name has become synonymous with reliability, and for good reason. Glocks just run.
So, if you’re after a full-size handgun that you know will keep going, then the Glock 17 is the model you want.
Offering a 17-round capacity, you can go with the standard model or upgrade to the MOS – which will give you an optics plate to run a red dot.
Glock ergonomics aren’t the best, but you give that up for that reliability. You’ll definitely want to swap out the sights and trigger for something a bit better as well. And that’s a plus to the Glock platform – there’s a large aftermarket and plenty of opportunities to tweak it to what you want.
Again, the name of Glock’s game is durability and reliability, and that’s where it shines. The G17 has long been a favorite in the law enforcement community due to its ability to perform. It will eat nearly any ammo you feed it and is a great option for home defense.
Glock G17 Gen 5 By the Numbers
Accuracy
Reliability
Customization
Ergonomics
Overall
Check out the Glock 17 review we did to see more specs and features.
Best Competition Pistol
6. CZ Shadow 2 – Best Competition Pistol
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Match trigger
- Low bore axis
- Low recoil
- Extended beavertail
Cons
- MSRP
- Heavy
- Not great for low-light, home defense situations
Specs
Features
The CZ Shadow 2 is a familiar face for those acquainted with the CZ-75 or the SP-01 models. This 9mm, DA/SA, steel-framed handgun boasts a 17+1 round capacity and a weight of just under 3 pounds when fully loaded.
It’s designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring an ambidextrous safety, fiber optic front sight, HAJO rear sight, and a 4.9-inch cold hammer forged barrel for exceptional accuracy.
At the range, the Shadow 2 shines as a slim and comfortable yet somewhat heavy racehorse. The anodized aluminum grips offer ample gripping surface, though the low bore-axis design makes slide manipulation take some getting used to.
What really stands out, though, is its exceptional trigger. It almost rivals that 1911 crispness.
While popular among competition shooters for its accuracy, the design may not be ideal for low-light home defense scenarios. If you’re after a competition gun that can keep up with you while you run stages, this one should definitely be on your shortlist.
Also worth mentioning…that CZ has launched the Shadow 2 Compact, and word on the street is it’s good!
CZ Shadow 2 By the Numbers
Considering the Shadow 2? Learn more in our full review!
Best Revolver
7. Kimber K6s – Best Revolver Pick
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Reliable
- Snazzy design
- Smooth trigger
Cons
- Need a speedloader to load effeciently
- Little aftermarket support
- May not work for larger hands
Specs
Features
The Kimber K6s DA/SA is a revolver that seamlessly combines tradition with modern features, making it an enticing choice for revolver enthusiasts.
The one we tested boasts a 3-inch stainless-steel barre, a .357 Magnum chambering, and the ability to switch between double-action and single-action modes. This provides versatility for different shooting scenarios.
Its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, even though it’s a snub-nosed firearm. The revolver’s reliability, combined with Kimber’s attention to detail, makes it an attractive choice for concealed carry.
That said, customization options are somewhat limited. So, if you’re looking to trick your gun out, you might want to pass.
Price point may also be a bit steep for some, but if you opt for the K6s, you’ll get a solid performer perfect for CCW or home defense.
Kimber K6s By the Numbers
We put this wheelgun to the test in our full review.
Best .45 ACP Pistol
8. FNX-45 Tactical – Best .45 ACP Pistol
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Aggressive grip texture
- Threaded barrel ready for a suppressor
- Red dot capable
Cons
- Long and heavy trigger pull
- Lack of aftermarket support
- Hefty, only really suitable for duty, home defense, or range use
Specs
Features
When you need a tactical, suppressor-capable pistol chambered in .45 ACP, FN delivers with the FNX-45 Tactical.
This .45 ACP handgun combines modern features with a durable design. Developed as a successor to the FNX-45 Tactical, this handgun comes loaded with features with an interchangeable backstraps, threaded barrel, and FDE finish.
For those who crave a cool factor in their firearms, the FNX-45 Tactical delivers.
The firearm’s performance doesn’t disappoint either. With its soft shooting and impressive accuracy, it’s a fun one to take to the range. We found it to be a reliable platform great for duty or range fun.
That said, it’s a little too large for concealed carry unless you’re packing it in the winter months under a coat or jacket.
While it may not be the ideal concealed carry option due to its size, the FNX-45 Tactical is a solid performer and great range buddy.
FNX-45 Tactical By the Numbers
Need more info on the FNX-45 Tactical? We cover more data in our review.
Best Handguns: Notable Mentions
9. PSA 5.7 Rock
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- High capacity
- Minimal recoil
- Optics-ready version available
Cons
- Loud
- Expensive ammunition
Specs
Features
While the new Smith & Wesson 5.7 looks promising (review in progress), our current go-to in the 5.7 world comes from none other than Palmetto State Armory.
The PSA 5.7 Rock introduced a full-size pistol chambered in 5.7x28mm with a reasonable base price of $499 — an excellent value compared to other handguns in its category.
Features include things like slide serrations, a Picatinny accessory rail, raised beaver tail, and an undercut trigger.
The pistol’s ergonomics are well-balanced with a low bore axis, which, combined with the minimal recoil of the 5.7 round, makes it shoot like a dream.
While the 5.7 Rock performed well during testing, with all rounds feeding, firing, and ejecting properly, there were a couple of instances of failures to lock back on the last round. It’s a nuisance but not a dealbreaker.
With multiple models available, including optics-ready versions, the PSA 5.7 Rock offers enough variety to make it an appealing choice for 5.7 fans.
Overall, it’s a great value for those seeking a unique and enjoyable shooting experience with minimal recoil.
PSA 5.7 Rock By the Numbers
Learn more about the PSA 5.7 Rock in our review.
10. Dan Wesson DWX
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Excellent trigger
- Accurate
- Very flat-shooting
Cons
- Not optics-ready
- Only two magazines
Specs
Features
Looking for a fusion between the CZ-75 and a 1911? Look no further than the Dan Wesson DWX.
This pistol features the comfortable CZ-75 grip, complete with palm swells and excellent contouring, combined with a 1911-style trigger and safety. Its grip panels offer aggressive checkering for a solid hold, and it accommodates those hefty 19-round magazines with ease.
The DWX’s weight and design minimize recoil, while a blacked-out rear sight and fiber front sight strike a balance between precision and speed.
In terms of shootability, the DWX doesn’t disappoint. It’s accurate, comfortable, and fast, offering a seamless blend of ergonomics and trigger control. And let’s not forget the reliability factor – it ran flawlessly right out of the box, with no hiccups whatsoever.
Its big limitation is in the customization department due to the lack of an optics cut and limited aftermarket support.
So, while it may not outshine the CZ and 1911 in their respective fields, the DWX stands on its own as a unique and capable firearm, offering a little something for everyone. (Bonus, there’s now a Compact version if you need something slightly smaller!)
Dan Wesson DWX By the Numbers
One of our editors took the DWX for a spin. See how it performed in the review!
Why Trust Us for Best Handguns?
You might be asking why you should trust our list over others…well, we put the time in to really evaluate and test the models we recommend.
These aren’t pulled from other blogs or reviews. These guns have actually been tested by Pew Pew Tactical’s staff and writers and have stood out to us for one reason or another.
The PPT team offers a variety of experience, from prior law enforcement and military to firearms instructors, competitors, and serious hobbyists.
Final Thoughts
Picking the right handgun can feel overwhelming with the number of options on the market, but hopefully, we’ve narrowed down some options and given you some good models to consider.
What makes your best handgun list? Let us know in the comments below. Looking for some more handgun options for defense? Check out the Best Handguns for Beginners & Home Defense. Or, if you wanna see some of our favorite rifles, head to our list of the Best Rifles!
FAQ
What is the best selling handgun of 2023?
The Sig P365 tops the list of the best selling handguns.
What caliber is best for a self-defense handgun?
9mm or .45 ACP are the most commonly used calibers for self-defense. Realistically, whatever you're willing to train and use is the best.
Why choose a revolver over a pistol?
Revolvers tend to offer simpler mechanics with fewer moving parts which makes them easier to maintain and less intimidating to use for some beginners.
Why choose a pistol over a revolver?
Larger capacity is a big reason most people choose a semi-auto pistol over a revolver.
20 Leave a Reply
Your top choice is a pistol with bad ergonomics and a penchant for malfunctions, did I get that right? Does PPT get kickbacks from Walther or something?
We do not get kickbacks from any company. Our lists are based on our team's experience. I get that the Walther might not be for everyone, and that's okay. But a large portion of our team, myself included, like its ergonomics. But that's why we don't just include one gun in our lists -- there's something here for everyone. Thanks for reading!
Glock = Perfection
Jon = Doggy do do
Seriously? Glock = doggy do do
Beretta 92X. Nice pistol, accurate, fits great in your hand, a little on the heavy side, but heavy is less recoil and nicely made.
Just wondering why the DWX got a con for no optics cut in the description, while the shadow 2 also didn't show a optics cut?
It really comes down to price. The base Shadow 2s are around $950 to $1050 right now. Optics-ready Shadow 2s are $1100-1200. The DWX is around $1800-2000, which we feel should include an optics cut at that price.
I can see where your coming from, these days I really believe that any potential USPSA "Shooting Iron" or "Shooting plastic TM" should be available with a optics cut to be more flexible between classes.
I'm a big PDP fan. I think you are spot on that It's a great gun for big hands. I replaced my Glock 19 with it. The feel and trigger are so much better. I put a Vortex Venom Red dot on it and added a brass backstap and magwell from Taylor Freelance. The weight of the brass gives it a flatter shooting feel.
Enjoyed the article, thanks for the assist on my Christmas wish list.
This was a pistol article, except for the token Kimber snubby. Need a similar revolver article. Not another snubby article. You have done that. How about best target and hunting revolvers?
There are two major mistakes in the info. re the Kimber revolver.
1. It is not a semi auto.
2. The stocks are not polymer.
There was a glitch with our widget. Thanks for catching that! We got it fixed.
These days, I wouldn’t doubt that the expert factory sales rep (who used to sell blenders on tv shopping channel) gushes over the removable 6-round magazine. Even if the stocks were zebra wood or teak, it’s still a Kimber and therefore overpriced.
Never so happy to rid myself of a gun as I was the Kimber K6s DAO. Too small and violent of a .357 or too bulky and heavy of a .38. Had mine to the range 5 or 6 times and ran 300-400 rounds through it. Traded it away at the next gun show and ran to door as fast as possible. Never looked back.
Where can I get a best selling sig. p325 mentioned in the FAQ?
Typo police! Really had to dig deep for that one, jeeze. Is there typically a period after sig in the name SIG SAUER or were you wanting to end a sentence after "sig." and start a new one at "p325?"
you must be bored
Thanks for your help, Karen.
Sometimes my fingers hit the wrong key...it happens. FAQ has been corrected. Thanks for reading!