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.
The Kimber Next Generation 1911 series breathes fresh air into the 1911 genre with beveled slide cuts, an optics-ready system, thoughtful ergonomics, and carry-conscious lines. Available in the user’s choice of 9mm or .45 ACP, the Kimber Next Gen 1911 comes in two finishes — stainless or black matte. Our handling of it proved it to be reliable and accurate. Most importantly, it was easily carried on the go.
The Henry Axe .410 is a neat pistol grip only lever-action gun that is classified as an “other firearm,” and thus is technically not a shotgun. It is a super fun, compact plinker in a very unique and well-built package. However, its use cases are extremely limited, as are any potential upgrades.
The Kel-Tec RDB Survival is an interesting 5.56 rifle that can easily fill multiple roles. Its slim and compact bullpup design makes it ideal for use as a camping gun, survival rifle, truck gun, or even a home defense tool. The downward-ejecting design and reversible charging handle also mean this rifle is a true ambidextrous gun.
The PSA AK-47 is Palmetto State Armory’s rifle for people who want to stick to the classics. Get all the AK-47 vibes you want, but with slightly more modern furniture and a “Made in the U.S.A.” label. We shot several types of ammo using a few types of magazines, and the PSA AK-47 ate it all up with no malfunctions.
Springfield’s latest iteration of the 1911 TRP (Tactical Response Pistol) brought some welcome upgrades to an already loved line of pistols. Exacting fitment, aggressive grip texturing, optics-ready options, and premium materials put these 1911s firmly in the “semi-custom” bracket. You are getting much of the look and feel of a custom 1911, thanks to the hand-fitting process the TRPs undergo. If you are looking for a high-end 1911 without crossing the $2,000 threshold, the 1911 TRPs are some of the better options.
The Taurus Tracker 627 is a 7-shot .357 Magnum revolver that falls nicely into the “quite affordable” territory. In addition to the extra capacity on the cylinder, the Tracker 627 also features a fully-adjustable rear sight, a ported barrel, and a generous rubber grip to help tame even the harshest of recoil the .357 Magnum has to offer. At a price of around $500 or less, the 627 Tracker is one of the value magnum revolvers on the market.
“If you want a Daniel Defense bolt rifle then we recommend the Delta 5 Pro. It’s a great rifle and it looks good to boot. It produced sub-half MOA with 3-round groups and solidly under MOA with 5-shot groups. We consider that a win. While not the elitist PRS shooter, it’s a great out of the box solution.” — David Lane
“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
