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 Glock 30 is a .45 ACP that punches above its class when it comes to concealed carry. While it still features those Glock ergonomics, which you either love or hate, it shoots well and is extremely reliable. A shorter grip area might prove difficult for some shooters to get a full firing grip. If you can deal with a loose pinky, though, it’s a soft shooting .45 ACP that is perfect for those who want to CCW something other than 9mm.
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.
“If you need a top tier CCW, the FN 503 needs to be in the consideration. With an outstanding trigger, great ergonomics, and coming in at a very reasonable price point — this is a gun that simply delivers.” – David Full Review
Walther took their renowned PPQ design and combined it with the classic American .45 ACP caliber to produce an accurate pistol with minimal recoil and excellent ergonomics. The PPQ 45 has a magazine capacity of 12 rounds and also features Walther’s famous quick defense trigger. An ambidextrous slide stop and reversible magazine release ensure it is a great fit for both lefties and righties. The result is a user-friendly, reliable handgun with top-notch accuracy and reliability.
The TP9 Elite SC was the first sub-compact version of the TP9 series from Canik. The Elite SC has the same features as the full-size models while being designed to be snag free and concealable. These features include 12 and 15-round double-stack magazines, front serrations, and day and night sight options with co-witness capability. Each Elite SC is optics-ready and accepts RMS/RMSc pattern optics, making this gun ready to go out of the box.
The Arex Delta Gen 2 M offers great features at a great price. This striker-fired pistol features fully ambidextrous controls out of the box that require no swapping, four backstraps, and a standard Picatinny accessory rail. Great ergonomics, an optics-ready slide, and a short reset trigger round things out. While it may seem similar to much of the competition, Arex is offering all of this at a price that beats many of its peers.
The Glock 48 takes the universal standard Glock 19 and slims it down into a more concealable but still easy-to-shoot platform. A barrel length of 4.17 inches, a standard capacity of 10 rounds, and an overall width of only 1.1 inches. An overall weight of 20.7 ounces helps keep things relatively light, further improving the ease of carry. Although the trigger is the standard mediocre 5.5-pound Glock affair and the capacity is lower than some of the competition, it makes up for that in reliability and aftermarket.
