The CZ 75 SP-01 takes the outstanding ergonomics and accuracy of the original CZ 75 up another notch. An extended beavertail, more aggressive checkering, and a Picatinny accessory rail come together to help tune the weight distribution and hand-feel of the gun. The decreased perceived recoil has helped this pistol make its mark in military and law enforcement use, as well as a favorite for competition and recreational shooters. With 19+1 rounds on tap and extreme reliability, the SP-01 is ready to tackle any job.
“The CZ P-01 is a small pistol that doesn’t know it. Most smaller guns feel like small guns, but CZ found the magic though and built the P-01 so that it’s smaller but doesn’t feel like it. Between an excellent cold hammer-forged barrel and outstanding design, it is the most accurate compact I have in my safe. While there is an argument to be made that it isn’t as important as some might claim it is, the P-01 has a very low bore axis. Combined with the metal frame and it simply eats recoil. Everything about the P-01 adds up to being a great pistol.” – David Lane
“The venerable CZ-75 is a classic design that still serves in many militaries around the world…and it’s a great addition to any firearm collection. Chambered in 9mm, it offers an all-metal design with DA/SA operation. And its most modern version, the CZ 75B is a solid and well-built pistol with great ergonomics and a tough, dependable reputation. For that, we can’t recommend it enough.” – Travis Pike
“The METE SFX series by Canik introduces another striker-fired, polymer 9mm pistol into an already crowded market. But priced just over $500 and with a bunch of extras, I think the METE SFX is a clear winner. The gun performed well at the range, shot accurately, and feels great.” – Johnny B
Tracing its roots back to the respected and venerable Mossberg 500, the 590A1 keeps the core of what makes the 500-series of shotguns so great and makes it even better. The U.S. military put out a request for a more durable pump-action shotgun that could stand up to the rigors of hard field use, and the 590A1 was born. Mossberg responded by adding a tough parkerized finish, all metal trigger guard, thick-walled barrel, and stronger internals. It is an intuitive and easy to use pump-gun, but it is a bit on the heavy side due to the aforementioned features. The extra weight helps tame the harsh recoil of the 12 gauge round, making the shooting experience a little more pleasant. The ambidextrous tang safety makes the gun easy for all users to operate the gun. Its wide aftermarket also allows you to tailor the gun to your specific wants and needs. While the 590A1 isn’t the smoothest or lightest shotgun out there, it is an absolute tank, and you’d be hard pressed to find any firearm that will last as long and take as much punishment.
The Mossberg 500 has withstood the test of time and is the gold standard when it comes to pump-action shotguns for the everyman. They are reliable, easy to maintain, versatile, have a huge aftermarket, and are extremely affordable. It is likely the most popular shotgun in the United States, and for a good reason.
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal builds on the previous M&P line with the addition of a lightweight, rigid metal frame that pushes the performance of that platform. A 4.25-inch barrel and 17-round capacity make for a balanced pistol that distributes the weight well for a low-recoil shooting experience. Excellent ergonomics and a good flat-faced trigger help shooters reach the accuracy and speed potential of the gun.
