The Grand Power Stribog SP9A1 is a 9mm pistol/PCC with a non-reciprocating charging handle. These guns feature an 8-inch threaded barrel and an aluminum frame. Utilizing a simple direct blowback design, these guns are rugged and incredibly reliable. Flip-up sights, 30-round magazines, and AR-style controls help make the Stribog an affordable yet feature-rich option in today’s market.
The Grand Power Stribog SP9A3S utilizes a newer non-reciprocating charging handle and roller-delayed blowback design. These guns are chambered in 9MM with a 5″ threaded barrel and an aluminum frame. The SP9A3S offers the reliability of the previous SP9A1 while reducing recoil via the roller-delayed operation, resulting in a soft-shooting and durable weapon.
The Smith & Wesson Equalizer picks up with the M&P Shield EZ left off, with a very beginner-friendly design — complete with an easy-to-rack slide. We spent a full day at the range with Equalizer and during our 500 rounds of testing, found it to be a soft recoiling option. It’s easy to disassemble and maintain, which earns it bonus points with us. Plus, it ships with three magazines! The only downside is the short grip, which will be problematic for those with larger hands.
The Beretta 80X Cheetah is a modernized version of Beretta’s older 84 Cheetah line. Nice updates to the platform include improved ergonomics, an optics-ready slide, and an accessory rail. These guns are a bit bigger than most .380 ACP guns, and feel more substantial and easier to shoot. If you want something between a compact 9mm pistol and a pocket .380, the 80X Cheetah is that perfect in-between.
The full-size CZ Shadow 2 is one of the most winning competition handguns of all time. The CZ Shadow 2 Compact takes all the shootability, ergonomics, accuracy, and performance of the larger Shadow 2 and scales it down into a package that is suitable for concealed carry. While this kind of performance doesn’t come cheap, the discerning concealed-carrier may find it worth it to spend the money to get something that shoots as well as this.
Weighing in at just 6.6 ounces and measuring 0.75 inches wide, the KelTec P32 is the smallest semi-automatic centerfire handgun on the market. Despite its diminutive size, the P32 still offers an impressive 7+1 capacity and uses a short-recoil operating system. A 5-pound double-action-only trigger pull rounds the features out. Designed for deep concealment, the P32 is ideal for a variety of carry situations and styles.
“The Glock 26 is affectionately known as the “baby Glock.” This 6.41-inch long sub-compact handgun is the smallest of Glock’s 9mm models. And while it’s a great concealed carry gun, the G26’s small size makes the handgun difficult to handle for people with large hands. The G26 didn’t get the nickname “baby Glock” for no reason – it’s tiny.
When Glock released the G26 Gen 4, they added two great features — adjustable backstraps and a magazine-release button that’s easier to access. While these modifications helped make the handgun easier to handle, the gun’s small size may take some getting used to.
Like with other Glock products, the “baby Glock” is designed to be just as durable and accurate as its predecessors. It comes with a 10-round magazine, so you don’t get as much firepower as you would with bigger 9mm Glocks. Don’t let the size fool you though, the G26 is just as strong as full-sized 9mms.
The G26 is designed for one primary purpose: concealed carry. If you’re looking for a gun that’s guaranteed to be comfortable and easy to lug around, you won’t find a better match. Its small size makes the G26 the best gun for shooters who need compactness over versatility.” – Brandon Harville
The Stoeger STR-9C is an extremely affordable entry into the world of optics-ready striker-fired polymer handguns. A 13+1 capacity, sub 5-lb crisp trigger, optics-ready slide, accessory rail, and interchangeable backstraps ensure that the STR-9C isn’t lagging behind the competition. At under $350, this compact pistol is tough to beat when it comes to performance per dollar.
The DSA SA58 Improved Battle Rifle takes the ruggedness and reliability of the original FAL design and adds modern features. This rifle uses the B.R.S. (Battle Rifle Buttstock), which is adjustable for length-of-pull and comb, and also allows the gun to fire when folded. Also present is DSA’s extreme duty Picatinny scope mount and M-LOK front handguard. This allows you to mount all the optics and accessories you need to bring one of the most proven rifle designs in the world into the 21st century.
