There’s something about a metal-framed semi-auto that just feels right.
Polymer guns are cool and all, but there are notable benefits to a hefty metal frame, especially for competition shooters.
Whether it’s an old-school 1911 or a modern competition gun, there are a number of great options out there that meet the standards of reliability and accuracy while also being fun!
But which model should you buy?
I love a good metal-framed pistol, as do a lot of you, so we wanted to take a look at the best of the best across a few different price points.
Whether you’re looking for a new home-defense gun to live in the bedside safe, a brand new competition gun to smoke your buddies at the next USPSA match, a new carry gun, or just a fun range toy, there’s something here for everyone.
Let’s talk about what makes metal-framed semi-auto handguns so great, some potential drawbacks, and which ones are most worth your hard-earned dollars.
THE QUICK LIST
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Most Battle Tested
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Most Affordable
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Best All-Purpose
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Best for Competition
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Best Duty Gun
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Best Compact Carry Option
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Best Value 1911
Table of Contents
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How We Chose the Best Metal-Framed Handguns
For us, creating these lists starts with testing these guns. Our combined team at Pew Pew Tactical has put hands-on time with every gun on this list and we have full reviews for each one.
Every pistol on this list has been tested and in the hands of someone here at PPT with all of our tested guns seeing at least 500 rounds through them (though most have thousands). We shoot all pistols at 3, 5, and 7 yards minimum and run them through drills to evaluate for speed and accuracy.
While testing, we look for things like reliability, accuracy, ergonomics, aftermarket support, best uses, and bang for your buck.
Best Metal-Framed Semi-Auto Handguns
These metal-framed pistols stand out from the rest of the pack for one reason or another. Use them as you please, whether for carry, home defense, competition, or just plain old fun at the range.
1. Beretta 92 Series – Most Battle Tested
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Soft-shooting
- Ambidextrous safety/decocker
- Accurate
Cons
- Chunky grip shape
- Open-top slide
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-automatic, double action/single action
- Capacity: 15+1
- Barrel Length: 4.9″
- Weight: 33 oz
- Optic-Ready: Model-dependent
I struggled for a long time with which version of the Beretta 92 to list. Eventually, I just decided to mention the whole series.
The Beretta 92FS is one of the most battle-tested firearms. The M9, the official U.S. military sidearm for decades, is basically a 92FS (just with different sights and backstrap).
The open-top design, along with the delayed blowback system, make this an absurdly reliable gun. It’s a big part of why so many American servicemen and women have deployed with it to places all over the world.
Featuring a 15-round capacity, the Beretta uses a double-action/single-action design. The action offers a fairly smooth DA trigger pull and a crisp SA mode — the best of both worlds.
If you are partial to the idea of the 92FS or the M9, then the 92X Performance might be even better.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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What’s different between the models? A heavier slide, skeletonized hammer, competition springs, extended beavertail, straight back grip, and better sights, along with some aggressive checkering to aid your grip during rapid-fire strings.
These are true competition-ready guns with excellent triggers and outstanding accuracy. Beretta offers 92X Performance in both DA/SA and SAO versions and also has both iron sight and optic-ready models.
Whether you are into the M9 as a classic duty gun or the 92X Performance as a modern upgrade designed for competition, the 92 series won’t disappoint.
Be sure to peep our full review of the Beretta 92FS.
2. Bersa TPR9 – Most Affordable
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Great trigger
- Ambidextrous controls
- Affordable
Cons
- Expensive magazines
- Limited aftermarket support
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-automatic, double action/single action
- Capacity: 17+1
- Barrel Length: 4.25″
- Weight: 31 oz
- Optic-Ready: No
I know, I know. It might surprise some of you that a Bersa made it on a best-of list for metal-framed handguns. I was skeptical myself — until I got my hands on one.
The Bersa TPR9 is an alloy-framed DA/SA pistol based on the Walther P88’s general design.
So what makes this gun worthy of this list?
For starters, it has full-length slide rails, forward cocking serrations, memory serrations on the frame to rest your fingers, front and rear grip serrations, ambi safety/decocker and slide release, a 17-round capacity, and a damn good trigger.
What does all this cost you? Less than $450, sometimes even dipping under $350.
The fit and finish on mine are excellent. Takedown is the easiest of any pistol I own, only requiring a simple flick of a lever. The trigger is amazing for the price, with a 4.5-pound single action that has a shorter reset than my CZ Shadow 2 or Beretta 92X Performance!
With full-sized, compact, and threaded barrel options, there honestly isn’t any metal-framed gun out there that packs this many features at this price. As far as value goes, this gun is untouchable.
3. Smith & Wesson M&P9 2.0 Metal – Best All-Purpose
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Accurate
- Reliable
- Great trigger
- Optic-ready
Cons
- Expensive
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-automatic, striker
- Capacity: 17+1
- Barrel Length: 4.25″
- Weight: 30 oz
- Optic-Ready: Yes
We have a full review on the Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal if you want to read more about why we absolutely love this handgun, but suffice to say — it rocks.
The M&P9 model is a phenomenal duty gun, with the original line having been launched in 2005. Almost 20 years have passed, and these guns have proven to be reliable, popular, and affordable.
While the base M&P 2.0 pistols are very popular home defense and carry guns, Smith & Wesson graced the shooting world with its all-metal version back in 2022.
All of the great shooting characteristics of the M&P M2.0 were now backed up by some extra weight and improved ergonomics to help reduce recoil and enhance the shooting experience even further.
These guns are extremely accurate, easy to shoot, optics-ready, boast a large aftermarket, and are reasonably priced compared to many other metal-framed striker-fired pistols.
What do you think of the Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal? Rate it below!
4. CZ Shadow 2 – Best for Competition
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Match trigger
- Low bore axis
- Soft recoil
- Accurate
Cons
- Heavy for CCW or EDC
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-automatic, double action/single action
- Capacity: 17+1
- Barrel Length: 4.9″
- Weight: 47 oz
- Optic-Ready: No
The CZ Shadow 2 was designed for one thing and one thing only — to be the best Production Division competition gun on the planet.
We think it succeeds in that.
There are a number of great guns that give the Shadow 2 a run for its money, but for an off-the-shelf option, it’s incredibly hard to beat. Especially for the price.
It’s built on the CZ 75 platform and is as reliable as a Swiss watch. The high beavertail and undercut trigger guard help you choke up on the grip for better recoil control. Speaking of recoil, it’s further improved by the extra-heavy slide.
Did we mention you also get a swappable magazine release and a tuned and polished trigger? The smooth-as-glass double-action trigger pull brings a crisp break in single-action mode.
On top, you get a fiber optic front post with an adjustable HAJO rear sight that makes for a very accurate gun, even during rapid fire.
5. Sig Sauer P226 – Best Duty Gun
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Extremely reliable
- Robust
- Accurate
Cons
- Limited capacity for its size
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-automatic, double action/single action
- Capacity: 15+1
- Barrel Length: 4.4″
- Weight: 34 oz
- Optic-Ready: Model-dependent
The Sig Sauer P226 is another legendary duty gun that we just had to include. Fielded by everyone from the Navy Seals to the Texas Rangers, this ever-popular handgun has been around for decades.
It doesn’t look to be going anywhere anytime soon.
A 4.4-inch barrel is a good size for this genre of pistol. Though the gun is weighty at just over 2 pounds, it actually sits quite well on the hip.
Performance-wise, the gun is a tank. It will take a beating and keep on going. Resilience makes this a great option for duty or home defense.
Though the 92FS beat it to become the sidearm that replaced the 1911 in US military inventories (somewhat controversially), this gun is still used worldwide by U.S. and allied forces and law enforcement.
Like the 92, there are a ton of trims for the P226. We have reviews on everything from the base models to feature-rich duty models to full-blown competition versions.
In short, if you’re looking for something with a strong military pedigree and a hearty reputation for reliability, the P226 is a tough one to beat.
6. Staccato CS – Best Compact Carry Option
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Outstanding trigger
- Great accuracy
- Compact
Cons
- Expensive
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-automatic, single action
- Capacity: 15+1, 16+1
- Barrel Length: 3.5″
- Weight: 23 oz
- Optic-Ready: Yes
Those looking for a premium metal-frame carry pistol, look no further than the Staccato CS.
Staccato aimed to alleviate the issue that most 2011s have — the boxy, thick grips. Not only are those grips harder to conceal, but they are rough on people with smaller hands.
The CS uses a new, slimmer grip module that makes the gun feel better in the hand, conceal easier, and still keep a healthy 16-round capacity.
As with all Staccato projects, you get an excellent 1911-type straight-back trigger, a great grip angle, and superior ergonomics. Sprinkle in a match-grade bull barrel and high-end machining tolerances and you have yourself a true pocket sniper rifle.
All of that goodness comes at a very steep price, though. While this may very well be the ultimate EDC gun, it commands an eye-watering $2500.
If you want to know more about this gun and why it is our content man Sean Curtis’ EDC, check out our full review and video below.
7. Springfield Garrison – Best Value 1911
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Affordable
- Accurate and reliable
- Lovely finish
Cons
- Limited capacity
- No accessory rail
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm, .45 ACP
- Action: Semi-automatic, single action
- Capacity: 9+1 (9mm), 7+1 (.45 ACP)
- Barrel Length: 4.25″, 5″
- Weight: 34-37 oz
- Optic-Ready: No
Springfield’s Garrison is a bit newer to their lineup but has quickly become one of our most recommended best-value 1911s on the market today.
The Garrison comes in both stainless and gorgeous hot salt-blued finishes. A 5-inch match-grade barrel, low profile 3-dot sights, and an excellent trigger round out the rest of the features.
But for me, the big draw is how the gun looks and feels for what you are paying. It feels like you are picking up a $1500 gun, not a $750 one. This is partly because there is no other gun that I am aware of at this price point that has actual bluing.
They are available in 9mm and .45 ACP, but the blued .45 ACP is the classic choice and our favorite.
But don’t be fooled; these don’t just look good; they shoot great, too. Check out our full review to see why this mid-tier 1911 made the list.
Why a Metal-Framed Semi-Auto?
I can hear the polymer disciples already. “Why bother with a metal-framed pistol? Polymer is lighter, springs back instead of deforming, and flexes to soak up felt recoil.”
Yes, all of that is true, but there are benefits to metal frames too. Well, mainly just the one benefit, but it’s a big one.
A metal-framed handgun is heavier. Now, you might be asking yourself, why would I want something heavy? It’s actually a good thing.
That extra weight soaks up recoil energy, making follow-up shots and rapid-fire strings a whole lot easier. For both competition and duty/carry use, it can be a huge advantage!
There’s a reason the Staccato 2011s, Sig P320 AXGs, CZ Shadow 2s, and many other popular competition guns bring some hearty weight to the table.
Many phenomenal classic guns also exist in this realm, like the 1911 and the CZ 75. These guns are backed by enough history that they’re worth owning just because of the pedigree. Not to mention, they are some of the most beloved handguns out there.
All gun owners should have at least one 1911, and you can’t change my mind.
Beyond that, aesthetics and preferences can be important, too, no matter what the internet gun gurus say. Yes, guns are tools, but there’s no reason we can’t like the way they look.
If you like the look and feel of a metal-framed gun, then as far as we’re concerned, that’s reason enough to go for it.
Just keep a few things in mind…
The Problems of Packing All That Metal
The downside of a heavier gun is it’s less convenient to carry. For that reason, the list of compact or sub-compact, metal-framed semi-autos is short, with only one smaller gun making this list.
Why?
To get the most out of that metal frame, it helps to have a larger gun. With a smaller model, recoil is going to get pretty snappy. You’ll miss out on some of the recoil-mitigating benefits of the weighty all-metal construction.
With that in mind, you will need to know the mission of the gun. If it going to be something you are considering carrying, it is important to find the right balance between size, weight, concealability, and shootability.
Final Thoughts
Metal-framed semi-autos are a classic style of handgun that has remained popular despite the rise of polymer-framed guns. Whether you’re looking for a 1911, CZ, or something else entirely, there are a number of options out there that will serve you well.
Every gun on this list is rock solid, and we would trust our lives to any of them (and have in many cases). With that in mind, it’s worth noting this is not an exhaustive list. There are many great metal-framed semi-automatic handguns out there, but these are our favorite across the budget spectrum.
What do you think of these metal-framed pistols? Let us know in the comments below! Ready to read more? Check out our guide on the Best Affordable 1911s and 14 Best Service Pistols of the World.
Latest Updates
July 7, 2024: Removed CZ SP-01, Springfield Ronin EMP, Wilson Combat CQB Elite. Added S&W M&P9 2.0 Metal, Staccato CS, Springfield Garrison. Added supplemental data and media for each product. Reorganized the article and added information on how we chose the guns on this list.
74 Leave a Reply
Haha good reasoning
What do you think about the Walther PDP Match Full Size Steel Frame 5"? I'd love to hear your thoughts on it.
“Heavy is good, heavy is reliable. If it doesn’t work you can always hit him with it.”
Love this click-bait.
The CZ is a decent pistol, as is the Staccato CS.
But…
There are dozens of pistols that would fit the bill as “best” — which leads me to believe this is pure Bravo Sierra.
I appreciate your write ups. WE/I could not possibly try them all as there are so many GREAT options. Polymer is just a fancy name for plastic. They are not all plastic, metal is used at wear points. Far from an expert but plastic tends to become brittle based on age, sun, temperature. Metal? A lot of guns use aluminum to save weight. Aluminum does not rust but it does oxidize. Our home was not far from salt water. Aluminum screens, turned to dust overtime. I replaced them with polymer-plastic. Everything is compromise. Lightest to carry and heavy to shoot.
Where are CZ P01 / P01 Omega? It is much cheaper than Staccato and a great option for concealed carry. And with canjunized trigger, it gets even better
Why aren't the many Turkish guns on the market never included on these lists? Canik, SAR, Tisas and Girsan have outstanding pistols. I own a Girsan MCP35 ops which has a smooth, flat trigger. It has a pickatinny rail, extended beavertail a a bright, orange front sight. My entire family loves shooting it as much as my Walther PPQ. It shoots better than my Browning BDM. Yet all these comparison articles focus on the same 5 or 6 brands.
Nothing is wrong with the polymer frame guns, but the metal frame... Yeah! I do have a few of them. Beretta 92A1. A beautiful gun! I agree that the grip is a bit too large, but it is a great pleasure to shoot it: 92 is a soft shooter, the trigger is predictable and forgiving, recoil is very manageable. And it is RELIABLE! Thanks to everyone who loves this gun and left positive comments about it!
try brigadier/vertec Beretta.
It’s good to see the Beretta 92 get some love these days! I admit I’m biased since I carried one in the Army for over a decade. It’s also the first handgun I purchased years ago. While it’s a bit chunky for concealed carry, it’s still one of my favorite handguns to take to the range, and the handgun I used to teach my son how to shoot. Also, would be my first choice for my “zombie apocalypse “ gun due to the rock solid reliability, and ease of disassembly / cleaning.
I have a Springfield Range Officer 45 ACP that I absolutely love. I have become a devout fan of the Springfield Armory pistols. I have others, but always go back to my Springfields for my EDC.
Value? All forged steel, cold forged barrel? Easy. Springfield Armory SA 35 Hi-Power 9mm. Why did it not make the list. Over fifty armies in the world, still issue the Browning Hi-Power. The SA35 Hi-Power clone, is a much needed improvement.
Should include SA35 to represent the Hi Power.
Thank you Megan, (Latest is a P226 Legion and a Les Baer)
Well Done ! Great article.
I have a Sig 938, never had an issue. Very accurate.
You forgot the LFA AMP 9mm. I have one and it runs flawlessly, in my opinion. Its all-metal frame and slide with a RMR slide cut and plate, fiber optic front and rear sight. All for under $700. Great price for a great gun. Made right here in Florida.
You forgot the LFA AMP 9mm. I have one and it runs flawlessly, in my opinion. Its all-metal frame and slide with a RMR slide cut and plate, fiber optic front and rear sight. All for under $700. Great price for a great gun. Made right here in Florida.
Hi-Power!!!
There is a reason that the entire United States Military is switching to Sig Sauer pistols and rifles. Such high quality, so accurate and soft shooting. Spend the money and get the greatest combat pistol in history, the Sig Sauer P226. Ask a Navy Seal! You will thank me.
IF you love the Sig mark 25, but don't like the price...Check out the Arex zero any model...Half the price and just as solid...I have both!
These are generally good, informative articles for novices and experts alike. However, I never like including super expensive models into any group. It's like adding a Lamborghini to a sports car evaluation. Yeah we all dream about a Lambo, but not many people have the money to throw at one. So focus your articles and tests around items that the typical gun enthusiast will buy and own. The Wilson Combat is a fast fading joke anyway. The days of extensive hand fitting are ending because machining tolerances are getting so good and they make no human errors. Let the old-timers argue all day about hand craftsmanship, but real quality guns of the future will be made on space age machinery. Look at TISAS guns made by the Turks. They use the most modern equipment and keep their costs low. Dollar for dollar, their 1911's are better than any handmade version. And I am not a polymer lover, my entire collection is metal framed guns. What is my 1911 choice? The SIG STX gives the best high end features for the price. Just look at and hold one. The TISAS Service Special cannot be matched at 320 bucks. Nobody else makes a gun at that pricepoint that is so well refined.
We love us some Beretta M9/92FS! My wife introduced me to the Beretta M9/92FS soon after we moved to Florida. Having only been into guns for a few years at that time in my life, I was totally impressed with it & wanted one of our own. We bought a 92A1 as a housewarming gift to ourselves when we bought our house in FL, USA after escaping from MD, USSR. I'm happy to say that it now has several siblings: M9A4, 92X Defensive, 92X RDO, & a 90-Two. They are all sweet shooting guns.
Great piece by Megan. I have a thing for metal but do own a couple poly lower pistols. In shooting the 54 round qualifying test for CCW here I shot 51 /54 with my 92A-1 and 49/54 with my S.A. Range Officer 1911. I thought that I would do better with the 1911 just because of the trigger but the Beretta was no slouch. Just picked up an M9A4 as well and put a Vortex Viper on it. Different technique but once you master finding the dot it's dead on. The other 2 guns I qualified with were compacts = CW.45 and Beretta Nano but I was still in the upper 40s with both but smaller site radius and weight on the polymer frames may have been an issue. Oh yeah, here in Hawaii you need a separate permit for each carry firearm?? I was the 1st guy to run 4 after the Bruen decision forced the CCW issue here in Hawaii County.
Nice write up Megan
Lose the Bersa…replace with SA’s P35…
The finish is terrible on those...easily wears off and scratches..they should apply armory kote or melonite...
Why? I've owned several models of 9mm handguns and the Bersa Thunder/TPR series are outstanding service pistols. Reliable, accurate, ambidextrous and a steal at under $400. I recommend you shoot one and I'll bet you will be pleasantly surprised at how good they are. It's a sleeper, but slowly the word it getting out.
I was going to post a more pointed version of this comment until I saw that this was written by a young lady. I'm glad you have an interest in guns! But I have to mention, nothing against the M9, but by far the most "battle-tested" metal-frame semi-auto in American history would be the 1911. It was standard-issue for both world wars through Vietnam and beyond. You do include a 1911 variant under a different category, but I nearly spit up my coffee when I saw you had a "most battle-tested" choice other than the 1911.
I am sold on the CZ 75 compact as being the last firearm I will ever part with . Nearly a tie with my S&W 629-6 . I plan to buy two more of the CZ 75 compact just so I am never without one . I did my duty when crack was new to the streets and DC was a bad place to go on the wrong side of the river .
Look at the CZ PO1.. super gun...very tough too..
No longer in production but many used models and new clones available, the John Browning P38 "Hi-power" should be number one on this list. Produced in several countries and by both allied and axis forces in World War II, this is easily the strongest, most refined, and natural 9mm design ever.
I added 3" to my bicep lifting the full size Jericho
For a concealable, carry 1911... the EMPs and new Ronin are nice, but the Wilson Combat SFX9 etc are better IMO; pricier as well (3K vs sub 1K), but more reliable and better made. In some configurations you're getting a 2011 style gun in terms of round count, but the benefits of all metal and the reliability of WC. I've seen them recently with and without rails (for you 1911 purists) and with and without optics ready slides.
Never liked the Beretta 92. Used one in the military, and had my own for a short while i got in a trade. Really tried to like it but it just irritates me and I hated the grip.
Love the Sig P226 though.
What about S&W model 59 series pistols? Built tough and will take a licking and, dare I say it, keep on ticking.
What about sub $600 guns... The ones people can actually afford to defend themselves?
Try garrison. They make a pretty good Beretta 92 clone for sub 600.
Walther PP series didn't make the list!!! Considering it has a military pedigree and has been copied repeatedly... I think it deserves a spot over one of the three 1911's (since they are all the same)
WHAT ABOUT ROCK RIVER ARMS
What about them? Another Colt copy.
Thank you for all the information you provide on your site....74 years old and never seen anything comparable.
Thanks for reading!
Great review Megan, very well thought out as usual. I had the honor of being an armorer of a tank unit in Germany in the early 90s, when the army switched over to the Beretta. Was sad to see the 1911 go, but man were the M9s sweet. Also, hey, who wouldn't want a Sig 226 Legion. Aw Yeah!
I have no disagreement with any of the excellent guns you listed, nor your reasons for selecting them.
I respectfully disagree with your comment that a less-than-full-size gun decreases the benefit of a metal frame.
The first downsized gun I wanted was a Beretta 92 Compact, back when they were introduced. But they were so popular they were not to be had. A colleague handed me a Taurus 92 Compact, and while I've had a history of poor service from them, this one was perfect from the first shot.
From the Sig P220, my employer issued the P228 and then, as an option, the P229/357Sig. I scored as well with it as with the P228/9mm.
The next compact i got was a Sig P239/357Sig. While these days I shoot rather sloppy groups, at the time I shot it very well, if a little slower. I shot a friend's P239/9mm and found it easy to be fast and accurate.
At the end of my active career I purchased a Springfield Champion Operator Light Weight .45ACP. Everyone who has shot it side-by-side with other compacts say it is the best compact .45ACP they have ever handled.
I made a guilty pleasure purchase of a Sig 1911, 357 SIG, Fastback Emperor Scorpion Carry, FDE, SAO, one month after date of manufacture. It is a "Commander"-size gun and the best platform yet (in my opinion) for the 357Sig cartridge.
I still like my "big" guns. I liked the Beretta 92FS well enough to buy one for myself. I was given a Sig P226 Blackwater as a retirement gift and keep in the rotation, along with my personal P220/45ACP. I also have a Colt Series 70 I bought in '72 and like it a lot, especially with my handloads, 200-gr JHP bullets at ~900fps. I have a few others, large and small, and feel no disadvantage with any of them.
Good article. Only 1 minor flaw: the most influential pistol is not even a semi-automatic. Wirhout any doubt, the most influential pistol - the one that Marshal Dillon & Ben Cartwright & the Lone Ranger (along with historical figures General Patton, Wyatt Earp, Doc Holiday, Jesse James, Butch Cassidy, etc...) carried was a Colt 1873 "Peacemaker" single action revolver.
I’m pretty sure it was a list of the best metal-framed SEMI-AUTO pistols. So you can put your 1873 Colt Peacemaker back in its holster there cowboy.
i dont share your viewpoint that steel minis like the sig p938 or kahr shoulnt be considered. at 7 to 10 yd., i can shoot the p938 about as well as i can a larger pistol. beyond that range, the gun is out of its intended use zone. the heft makes it feel much better than, say, the LC9 which feels like a toy.
The P938 is just a clone of a Colt Mustang, and I’m assuming you’re only talking about the K-series Kahrs being the only metal-frame Kahr makes.
I bought my first all steel pistol back in 1994 a Ruger P89. After all these years and several other purchases I still consider it the best one of the bunch. It goes bang every time and eats whatever you feed it. It has never once failed to perform even after thousands of rounds through it. I now own four 89's and wouldn't trade anyone of them for even the best on this list.
The P89 is really kind of a cheap knockoff of a SIG P226. It may not be an exact clone but you can tell that Ruger was definitely using one as a template when they made the P89.
You just have something to say to everybody don’t you?! You just trolling for an argument or something?
So, what are you rolling for?
i have many of the pistols you have all mentioned. I like them all! the Sig 229 just fits my hand and points instinctively. I would say to all that find something that fits your hand and reacts well and stick with it. we all have favorites and that's great but find what is natural to you. BTW, i own 4 1911s and love them all, i own a beretta 92 and love that as well. I have numerous Glocks and will never get rid of them lol. I have been able to acquire numerous tools and have found them all to be worthy. that said i have the sig, the kimber or a glock on my hip at all times and am comfortable with any of them. Bless you all for being patriots! Oh and i also have a SW 542 revolver that fits in my pocket without issue so don't give up on the old school design either
I have to agree with the argument for a full metal frame; the heavier frame is easier for me to control. Even in lighter calibers, I have always preferred metal frames; just old school I guess. All these are excellent choices, although I'm surprised the original Browning 9mm wasn't on included. My oldest son got my CZ75; the younger got my Browning SA 9. They will both be fighting over my 1939 production 1911 when the time comes.
I generally agree with all the picks, might add the Walther Q5 SF to the mix. Though a striker fire design, the trigger is still quite good, especially if you already shoot a PPQ regularly.
CZ 97 - 10 rounds of big bore badness all up in yo biz-nass... a real sweet shooter.
I really like Smith and Wesson metal automatics from the 90's (give or take ten years) because of the feel and less recoil. If I said I didn't own a Glock or two I'd be lying but I like all metal pistols best.
Those Smiths were the gun that changed American LEO from revolver to auto pistols, and they are still available on contract, made in Houghton, ME. They were designed to meet the criteria for the 1954 Army Pistol Trials to replace the aging and poorly serviced 1911's. What Army wanted was a Walther P38 clone.
Army got a P38 clone in 1984, called the Beretta M9.
Arex Rex Zero 1
This!
Love your articles, unfortunately living down under in communist New Zealand, our option on firearms can be limited. And the list of cool owns gets smaller by the day. Anyway agree with the wanting a full metal framed semi... recently went on the hunt for something in 9mm that I could buy locally, and found a Tisas Zigana sport and also being the guy who a likes a budget deal and to have something at the range that no one else has. Had to buy one. And so far I’m loving it. Would love to see you guys review the budget Tisas range of pistols to see what you think of them. PS we can only use pistols on a range for competition over here so our selection choices and reasons don’t always align with your reviews. But doesn’t stop me from enjoying them :-)
TAC ULTRA FS HC - 45 ACP..... DOUBLE STACK! All day long!
Metal framed pistols do feel good, usually, shoot well and look nice. I still use Glocks to get a very functional carry gun. I carry my pistols and find the weight of metal-framed guns to be unneeded.
I dry-fired a CZ Shadow at a gun store and it had a trigger as good as anything I had ever tried. Obscenely over my budget, however. Maybe some day.
Where does the Walther Q5 SF fall in this category?
If you want a truly nice pistol for not nearly as much cash (1/2 the cost) that is based on the CZ-75B; even uses the same magazines, then check out the Jericho 941 F9 which is the all metal full length version.
Agree 100% -- I have both the Jericho and the CZ; I like them both, but the Jericho feels better in my hand, and I think it's probably a bit better made, designed as it was for a pretty active military.
I have a SIG P226 Extreme that I really like, but my favorite is my Les Baer Boss 1911. Surprised no Les Baer's made your list.
I have had the Sig 229 Legion (SAO) for roughly 4 years now. It's been extremely reliable and has been my go-to for range training, classes and matches. I love it so much I recently a bought a second one with a red dot. Two thumbs up from me.
*226 not 229...typo
Love my Sig P226 Legion (SA)! Rock solid, really accurate, and amazing right out of the box.
I'd like to hear more about the 'delayed blowback' Beretta 92.
Ok...I know that everyone has their favorite...its a given...however being an MP in the Army the 1911 would probably be my go to...I own one now....but with that being said and in the same breath.
I will and do prefer my Ruger P89....I have owned it since 94 and it has only jammed once...it typically will eat any ammo...cheap or not ...with no feed issues.
Will I put my life on the line with it...yes in a heartbeat...definitely over most on this list....especially the Beretta....I hated that doorstop
Yes it improved over the years but I tested it pre adoption. And it jammed constantly....but again I say...we all have our favorite
Kimber micro another great option.