The Remington 870 is one of the most-produced and most well-proven pump-action shotguns of all time. Twin action bars ensure a non-binding, smooth pump operation, and the receiver is milled from a solid billet of steel. Built for defensive use, the tactical models feature an 18.5-inch barrel and either come with a standard 4+1 or 6+1 capacity. A variety of stocks, including wood, synthetic, and adjustable, are available so that users can find a model to suit their needs. A standard non-glare matte finish and a bead sight highlight the simplicity and ruggedness that the 870 Tactical is known for.
The Winchester SXP Defender is a great shotgun for those looking for a solid home defense or combat shotgun. A 5+1 capacity, chrome plated 18″ fixed cylinder choke barrel, and tough matte finish and synthetic furniture make this no-frills shotgun well suited for hard work. Billed as the “world’s fastest pump shotgun”, the SXP utilizes an inertia-assisted action to help speed up the process of cycling the gun. It is available in 12 or 20-gauge and can be had with either a standard stock or a pistol grip version. The speed, reliability, and toughness make this a hard gun to beat in its price range.
The PSA Dagger is a striker-fired handgun that is designed for self-defense and concealed carry. It features a 3.8-inch barrel and a 15-round capacity, and is available in 9mm. The Dagger has a smooth trigger pull and a comfortable grip, and best part about this gun works with standard Glock parts. It is also highly affordable (just under $300), making it an excellent choice for those on a budget. Overall, the PSA Dagger is a solid entry into the crowded market of polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols, with a number of features that make it stand out from the competition.
The KelTec KS7 utilizes a bullpup configuration to give users an 18.5-inch barrel while keeping an astonishingly short 26.1-inch overall length. Capacity remains a solid 7+1 despite how short this shotgun is, and at 5.9 pounds, it feels as light as it looks. The KS7 is a great option for home defense or any other roles that may require a compact, but controllable shotgun.
The Glock 20 brings the heavy-hitting 10mm cartridge into an easy-to-control and affordable handgun. The 4.61-inch barrel, combined with the low bore axis, helps provide a comfortable shooting experience, even when using high-powered loads. Whether it is for hiking, hunting, or target shooting, the Glock 20 will deliver great accuracy while maintaining the legendary reliability that Glock is known for.
The Taurus G3X is the evolution of G3 platform but in a hybrid configuration with a compact barrel and a longer grip. The 3.2-inch barrel allows for easier concealment, while the full-size aggressively textured grip allows for controllability. A Picatinny rail allows for the mounting of accessories, and the lack of thumb safety ensures that the gun will always be ready to go whenever you need it.
The Ruger MKIV 22/45 is the latest iteration of an excellent target and plinking pistol design that has been around for decades. Exceptional ergonomics and great reliability are complimented by modern features such as a rail for mounting optics, a threaded barrel, and a simplified takedown method. These guns feature a standard 10+1 capacity of .22 LR, and all have cold hammer-forged barrels to ensure that the gun will last for years to come.
The Rock Island Armory 1911 GI Standard MS (Mid-Size) is a commander-length 1911 that stays true to the original GI combat-issued 1911s of the past. Its shorter 4.25-inch barrel helps keep the gun more compact and concealable while still retaining the accuracy the 1911 is known for. The GI Standard MS holds 8+1 rounds of .45 ACP and comes with a crisp 4-6 pound trigger, wood grips, low profile GI sights, and a smooth parkerized finish.
The Glock 43 harnesses all the world-renowned reliability that Glock is known for, all in a tiny package. Just over 1 inch wide and under 17 ounces, the G43 is easy to conceal in any environment and virtually any carry method. An extended beavertail, textured grip, and enlarged magazine release ensure that operation is smooth and recoil control is manageable. Overall, these single-stack 6+1 pistols are great for those who want a reliable, small, concealable pistol.
The Ruger LCR utilizes a monolithic frame made from aerospace-grade, 7000-series aluminum (.22 LR, .22 Magnum, .38 Special) and 400-series stainless steel (.357 Magnum, 9mm Luger, .327 Federal). Combined with a polymer fire control housing, the result is a lighter revolver that still helps reduce overall felt recoil. A Hogue Tamer Monogrip and the light, friction-reducing trigger help ensure good shootability in this pocket-sized revolver. Ruger met their goal of making a lightweight revolver that is fairly affordable and reliable with the LCR.
The Beretta APX A1 was created by taking feedback from various professional and recreational shooters and applying it to their already successful APX platform. Improved ergonomics, aggressive slide serrations, and an upgraded trigger provide a better hand feel and shooting experience than its predecessor. The low bore axis helps reduce muzzle flip and recoil, improving accuracy. Additionally, it features a blacked-out rear sight and tritium front sight combo and is also optics-ready out of the box. Ambidextrous capable controls and interchangeable backstraps round out the feature set and ensure that the APX A1 is a fit for any hand.
The Walther CCP M2 is the first polymer pistol to use a gas-delayed operating system in the form of Walther’s Soft-Coil technology. This system both reduces the felt recoil and makes the slide easier to rack. Also present is Walther’s trademark great ergonomics, which further help make the CCP comfortable to shoot for anyone. Tool-less takedown and a fixed barrel allow for easy maintenance as well. These single-stack pistols are great for anyone, but especially those with reduced hand strength.
