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.
The Taurus GX4XL builds on the standard GX4 micro-compact by adding length to the slide, providing a longer sight radius and increased velocity. Features include a DLC-coated barrel, flat-faced trigger, 11 or 13-round (extended) capacity, and a 3.7-inch barrel. At only one inch wide, the GX4XL combines capacity, accuracy, reliability, and concealability to make for a great EDC pistol.
“The PDP F-Series is an evolution of a very fine handgun into something much more palatable for smaller-handed shooters. All the great features of the original PDP have been carried over into a reduced circumference grip and reduced length of pull.” – Sean Curtis
The VP9 is HK’s entry into striker-fired pistols. It’s reliable with great ergonomics and an incredibly clean trigger. The VP9 features a light, premium trigger, customizable grips, ambidextrous controls, an extended Picatinny rail, and an advanced striker-fired slide. Price on the VP9 is also quite reasonable – competitive with Glocks. The VP9 comes with different configurations, available in multiple colors and mag counts. The recent variants of the gun features optics-ready slides, a normal mag release button, and 17-round mags.
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.
“With a competitive price, a comfortable yet diminutive frame, and stellar accuracy, the Springfield Hellcat is a winner. It provides stiff competition for the Sig Sauer P365, as well as the other micro compacts on the market. It’s a solid concealed carry pistol with varying capacities, optional accessories, and an actual Picatinny rail.” – Travis Pike
“The Walther PDP is extremely well done. Whether you are a concealed carrier, home defender, or officer on the street, it is an excellent option. Its grip is superlative, the accuracy is very good, and I’ve only experienced a couple of issues I likely caused. In short, the gun is highly reliable in my mind. The controls are well-placed, and the trigger is superb for a striker-fired weapon.” – Sean Curtis
The P-10 C is CZ’s entry into the world of compact, striker-fired, 9mm polymer handguns. They were able to bring an ergonomic, accurate, reliable, well-priced firearm to market in a race filled with stiff competition.
The CZ P-10 C focuses on reliability, ergonomics, and providing a good trigger in order to create a rugged, duty-ready ready compact pistol that stands out among the competition. This striker-fired pistol features a 4.02-inch barrel, fiber-reinforced polymer frame, metal sights, and a 15-round capacity.
The FN 509 Tactical is based on the pistol FN submitted for the US Army Modular Handgun Trials. While it is very much like the standard 509, the Tactical model features an optics-ready slide that allows for the low-profile mounting of red dots. Also included are tritium night sights, with the rear sights sporting protective wings to help avoid any damage during hard use. Present is a 4.5-inch cold hammer-forged threaded barrel. Controls are fully ambidextrous and the 509 Tactical comes with one 17-round and one 24-round magazine. Like the base model the 509 Tactical shines as a full-size duty pistol.
“The Shield 9 Plus is about as small as you can go and still have an easily useable platform with ergonomic controls across a range of hand sizes…any smaller and compromises begin to occur. That said, Smith did an excellent job with this pistol, making it accurate, easy to use, and wholly concealable.” – Sean Curtis
