The Sig MPX-K utilizes a 4.5-inch carbon steel barrel to help bring the already maneuverable MPX into an even lighter, handier package. Additionally, the MPX-K features a reliable and durable gas-piston system to help that helps reduce recoil and aids in suppression. The MPX also has fully ambidextrous AR-style controls, a Timney flat-face trigger, and boasts modularity that allows users to easily change handguards and barrel lengths.
The CMMG FourSix Banshee brings the 4.6x30mm cartridge from the MP7 into the world of AR-15 pistol-caliber carbines. The 4.6x30mm is a small and lightweight cartridge with extremely low recoil, comparable to the 5.7x28mm round. The FourSix boasts an impressive 40-round capacity and gives users all the modularity that comes with the AR-15 platform. This gun features fully ambidextrous controls and a complete set of upgraded ZEROED furniture and controls, and a includes a linear compensator.
The Ruger 10/22 remains America’s most popular rimfire rifle, with millions having been sold since its inception. Utilizing a simple blowback design and a 10-round rotary magazine, the standard 10/22 is a reliable and accurate rifle that is cheap to operate and easy to maintain. With the ability to easily mount optics, along with a massive aftermarket, the 10/22 is possibly the most accessible plinking rifle on the market.
The Echelon is a newer offering from Springfield Armory that features a highly modular system designed around a robust stainless steel chassis and an innovative Variable Interface System (VIS) optics mounting system that allows for direct mounting. Engineered for refined ergonomics and built to withstand duty conditions, the Echelon is aiming to make its mark as Springfield’s next-generation handgun.
CZ and Dan Wesson collaborated to bring us the DWX pistol, a true combination of the 1911 and CZ 75 platforms. It uses a simple locked-breech barrel system in lieu of the older 1911 link system. A CZ-style takedown is also used. The use of P-09/P-10 F magazines provides a reliable low-cost double-stack magazine that sports 19+1 capacity. Sights-wise, you get a 1911-style dovetailed front sight and a CZ Shadow 2 fully adjustable rear. The melding of 1911 and CZ features provide a unique-yet-familiar platform that is built for speed and performance.
Sig Sauer has taken the proven features of their 5.56 AR guns and scaled them up to create the 716i. Chambered in 7.62 NATO, this rifle uses the time-tested directed impingement operating system and features and full-length M-LOK rail, a 16″ free-floating barrel, and a Magpul stock. The result is an accurate battle rifle that is capable in all environments.
Beretta collaborated with Ernest Langdon to create the PX4 Compact Carry. This model features a 15+1 capacity, an accessory rail, a low profile slide stop, a retractable lanyard loop, and a cold hammer forged rotating barrel. Langdon has added night sights, a lightened and smoothed trigger pull, and Talon grips to the PX4 to help make this a home-run concealed carry hammer-fired pistol.
The DD4 RIII uphold’s Daniel Defense’s reputation for building premium rifles that deliver tack-driving accuracy and battlefield reliability. The free-floating RIS III handguard is lightweight, rigid, and offers plenty of M-LOK slots for mounting accessories. It comes in SBR and carbine variants and, while they’re all expensive, you get what you pay for in this case.
Many AR-9s are pushed to market as cheaper alternatives to more expensive pistol-caliber carbines, but not the Angstadt Arms UDP-9. Despite still being a direct-blowback firearm, these feature a much higher build quality with some excellent features like a flared magwell and last-round bolt hold open. If you are looking for a reliable and accurate PCC that has AR-like controls and uses common Glock magazines, this is a great option.
The AR-9 platform is a great way to save money by shooting 9mm ammo instead of 5.56 NATO. Palmetto State Armory’s PX-9 PCC is affordable to buy, as well, making it a fantastic bargain. While the fit and finish can’t compete with premium PCCs, we were impressed with how well the PX-9 shot. It’s reliable, accurate, and offers a ton of value for the money.
The PSA AK-103 pays tribute to one of the most mass-produced rifles in existence, with a few upgraded features. The Barrel comes from FN, the rifle comes with a lifetime warranty, and you don’t have to go through a black market arms dealer to get one. Throw in a great price, and that’s a win in our book.
The Polymer80 PFC9 was one of the first mainstream Gen 3 Glock clones, and it remains a solid option for people who want Glock compatibility with improved features. Updated ergonomics and grip texture mean you no longer have to stipple your Glock yourself or send it off, and a full Picatinny rail allows for better accessory mounting. These guns are good as-is, but are great bases for anyone looking to get into the Glock modding scene.
