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Best Reviewed Handguns
Springfield Armory Echelon
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.
KUSA KP-9
Kalashnikov USA’s KP-9 is the civilian version of the Russian Vityaz submachine gun. These easy-to-operate AK-style pistols use a direct-blowback operating system and are chambered in 9mm. A 9.25-inch barrel keeps things handy, and 30-round magazines give you plenty of capacity. Other features include a hinged top cover with a Picatinny rail and feed ramps designed to accommodate hollow point bullets.
Dan Wesson DWX
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.
Beretta PX4 Storm Compact Carry
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.
Sig Sauer P320 AXG Scorpion
Sig introduced the AXG Scorpion combines the weight and balance of a metal framed pistol with the performance and reliability of the striker-fired P320. With 17+1 rounds of 9mm on tap and extra weight from the stainless steel frame, the AXG Scorpion delivers elevated performance by reducing felt recoil.
PSA Dagger Compact
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.
Colt Anaconda
The reintroduction of the Colt Anaconda has been a solid success. Utilizing an oversized Python action and a linear leaf spring for a smooth trigger pull, the Anaconda is as good a shooter as ever. A beefy stainless steel frame and recessed target crown help ensure durability and accuracy. Available in 4, 6, or 8-inch barrel lengths, the Anaconda will be equally at home on the range or out hunting.
Glock 20
The Glock 20 brings the heavy-hitting 10mm cartridge into an easy-to-control and affordable handgun. The 4.61-inch barrel, combined with the low bore axis, helps provide a comfortable shooting experience, even when using high-powered loads. Whether it is for hiking, hunting, or target shooting, the Glock 20 will deliver great accuracy while maintaining the legendary reliability that Glock is known for.
Ruger Mark IV 22/45
The Ruger MKIV 22/45 is the latest iteration of an excellent target and plinking pistol design that has been around for decades. Exceptional ergonomics and great reliability are complimented by modern features such as a rail for mounting optics, a threaded barrel, and a simplified takedown method. These guns feature a standard 10+1 capacity of .22 LR, and all have cold hammer-forged barrels to ensure that the gun will last for years to come.
Sig Sauer MPX K
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.
Sig Sauer P226
The Sig P226 is a longtime staple in the world of combat handguns. It is used around the world by law enforcement, militaries, government agencies, and special operations groups. The 15+1 capacity and a 4.4-inch barrel make this a true full-sized duty gun. The alloy frame and Nitron-coated stainless steel slide create a robust and durable platform that can withstand the harshest duty environments.
Popular Rifles
Ruger Precision Rimfire
Ruger has taken their successful Precision Rifle design and scaled it down to create the Precision Rimfire rifle. These rifles are chambered in rimfire calibers but retain many of the features that make its bigger brother successful. A cold hammer-forged barrel, adjustable stock, free-float M-LOK, handguard, and threaded muzzle mean this rifle is ready to go out of the box. For those looking to print small groups on a small budget, the Precision Rimfire is for you.
Springfield Armory Hellion
Springfield Armory’s Hellion is a fresh take on the bullpup configuration, where the action is located behind the trigger. It features an overall length of just 28.25 inches while maintaining a 16” barrel. The Hellion also sports completely ambidextrous controls and a reversible case ejection system. The result is a 5.56 rifle that combines portability, performance, and user adjustability.
Ruger Precision Rifle
Ruger changed the game with the introduction of the affordable Precision Rifle. Built to be an accurate long-range rifle out of the box, the RPR has all the features to make that a reality. Cold hammer-forged 5R rifled barrels, a free-floated handguard, detachable SR25 or AICS magazines, a fully adjustable and folding stock, and a hybrid muzzle brake give you everything you need to make those long shots. With multiple chamberings available, you can find the right Precision Rifle for you.
Sig Sauer 716i Tread
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.
CVA Cascade
While known for their muzzleloaders, CVA set out to make a feature-rich, affordable bolt action rifle. A threaded barrel, detachable box magazine, and generously textured stock ensure that you won’t be lacking out of the box. With an affordable price of around $500, the Cascade is a strong contender for people looking for a solid hunting-rifle on a budget.
FN 15 Patrol Carbine
The FN 15 Patrol Carbine has the same features as the standard FN 15 Carbine model but with a 16” button-broached chrome-lined barrel, Samson flip-up rear sight, and a Midwest Industries carbine-length quad rail hand guard. Equipped with the standard A2 furniture and an A2 front sight block, the FN 15 Patrol Carbine is a basic, no-frills, reliable carbine that is well suited to patrol and hard-duty use.
Ruger 10/22
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.
M1 Garand
The M1 Garand was the first standard-issue self-loading rifle adopted by the US. A simple but elegant design, the Garand uses a long-stroke gas piston that operates a rotating bolt. It is fed by an 8-round en-bloc clip that makes the distinctive “ping” sound once the clip is automatically ejected after all the rounds are spent. Chambered in the powerful 30-06 cartridge, the semi-automatic Garand gave US soldiers a huge edge over enemies and allies alike who were still using slower bolt-action rifles.
SKS
The SKS is a conventional gas-operated semi-automatic rifle that served the Russian army until the full adoption of the AK-47. It sports 10 rounds of 7.62x39mm ammo inside of an internal magazine, a bayonet lug, and is capped off with a milled receiver.
IWI Tavor X95
The Tavor X95 is the next-generation version of the popular Tavor SAR from IWI. Having been in service with the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) since 2010, the X95 has proven itself to be a rugged, reliable, compact combat rifle. New additions to the X95 over its predecessor include a lighter 5-6 pound trigger, repositioning of the ambi mag release to a more favorable spot, a Picatinny railed forearm, and better placement of the charging handle. It is available in either a 16.5 or 18.5-inch barrel, giving an overall length of either 26.1 or 28.1 inches. While it is a bit heavier at around 8 pounds, this long-stroke gas piston gun bullpup provides solid accuracy and reliability in an easy-to-maneuver package.
Henry Golden Boy .22 LR
Classic lines, cheap ammo, and an affordable rifle are all calling cards of the Henry Golden Boy .22 LR. For those looking for some western-style lever-action fun, it is hard to pass up the 6.75 lb brass and walnut beauty of the Golden Boy. Its low weight, adjustable buckhorn sights, and good balance help make this rifle easy to shoot offhand and fun to plink with. A good trigger, a smooth lever action, and the low recoil of .22 LR will be sure to put a smile on your face for hours on end.
Henry Big Boy X
Henry has melded the old and new with the introduction of their Big Boy X. Utilizing the classic Henry lever-action platform, the Big Boy X adds some modern features such as M-LOK and Picatinny rails, polymer furniture, fiber optic iron sights, and a threaded barrel. In addition to the standard tube loading, these rifles feature a side gate to allow the rifle to be topped off without the removal of a suppressor. A medium-sized loop allows for ease of use with gloved hands, and as always, you get the proven reliability and accuracy that Henry rifles are known for.
Best Concealed Carry Handguns
Springfield Armory Echelon
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.
Dan Wesson DWX
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.
Beretta PX4 Storm Compact Carry
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.
Sig Sauer P320 AXG Scorpion
Sig introduced the AXG Scorpion combines the weight and balance of a metal framed pistol with the performance and reliability of the striker-fired P320. With 17+1 rounds of 9mm on tap and extra weight from the stainless steel frame, the AXG Scorpion delivers elevated performance by reducing felt recoil.
PSA Dagger Compact
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.
Colt Anaconda
The reintroduction of the Colt Anaconda has been a solid success. Utilizing an oversized Python action and a linear leaf spring for a smooth trigger pull, the Anaconda is as good a shooter as ever. A beefy stainless steel frame and recessed target crown help ensure durability and accuracy. Available in 4, 6, or 8-inch barrel lengths, the Anaconda will be equally at home on the range or out hunting.
Glock 20
The Glock 20 brings the heavy-hitting 10mm cartridge into an easy-to-control and affordable handgun. The 4.61-inch barrel, combined with the low bore axis, helps provide a comfortable shooting experience, even when using high-powered loads. Whether it is for hiking, hunting, or target shooting, the Glock 20 will deliver great accuracy while maintaining the legendary reliability that Glock is known for.
Ruger Mark IV 22/45
The Ruger MKIV 22/45 is the latest iteration of an excellent target and plinking pistol design that has been around for decades. Exceptional ergonomics and great reliability are complimented by modern features such as a rail for mounting optics, a threaded barrel, and a simplified takedown method. These guns feature a standard 10+1 capacity of .22 LR, and all have cold hammer-forged barrels to ensure that the gun will last for years to come.
Sig Sauer MPX K
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.
Sig Sauer P226
The Sig P226 is a longtime staple in the world of combat handguns. It is used around the world by law enforcement, militaries, government agencies, and special operations groups. The 15+1 capacity and a 4.4-inch barrel make this a true full-sized duty gun. The alloy frame and Nitron-coated stainless steel slide create a robust and durable platform that can withstand the harshest duty environments.
CZ 75 SP-01
The CZ 75 SP-01 takes the outstanding ergonomics and accuracy of the original CZ 75 up another notch. An extended beavertail, more aggressive checkering, and a Picatinny accessory rail come together to help tune the weight distribution and hand-feel of the gun. The decreased perceived recoil has helped this pistol make its mark in military and law enforcement use, as well as a favorite for competition and recreational shooters. With 19+1 rounds on tap and extreme reliability, the SP-01 is ready to tackle any job.
Glock 43
The Glock 43 harnesses all the world-renowned reliability that Glock is known for, all in a tiny package. Just over 1 inch wide and under 17 ounces, the G43 is easy to conceal in any environment and virtually any carry method. An extended beavertail, textured grip, and enlarged magazine release ensure that operation is smooth and recoil control is manageable. Overall, these single-stack 6+1 pistols are great for those who want a reliable, small, concealable pistol.
Popular Shotguns
Rock Island VR80
The RIA VR80 is a gas-operated semi-automatic 12ga shotgun that offers familiar AR-15 ergonomics and controls for comfort. It is magazine-fed with a standard capacity of 5+1 and fires 2-3/4” and 3” shells. An M-LOK rail allows for easy mounting of accessories, making it the VR80 a versatile shotgun at a very reasonable price.
Tavor TS12
The Tavor TS12 bent the rules and brought us a gas-operated semi-automatic bullpup shotgun with a set of 3 rotating magazine tubes. Each magazine tube can hold up to five 2 3/4-inch shells, giving the gun a maximum capacity of 15+1. Once the magazine tube is depleted, the tubes can be rotated and will automatically load a new round. An 18.5-inch barrel combined with the bullpup configuration keeps the length compact at just 28.34 inches overall. Quick-detach sling points, M-Lok rails, full-length top Picatinny rails, and interchangeable chokes allow for plenty of accessory mounting capabilities and flexibility.
Remington 870 Tactical
The Remington 870 is one of the most-produced and most well-proven pump-action shotguns of all time. Twin action bars ensure a non-binding, smooth pump operation, and the receiver is milled from a solid billet of steel. Built for defensive use, the tactical models feature an 18.5-inch barrel and either come with a standard 4+1 or 6+1 capacity. A variety of stocks, including wood, synthetic, and adjustable, are available so that users can find a model to suit their needs. A standard non-glare matte finish and a bead sight highlight the simplicity and ruggedness that the 870 Tactical is known for.
Winchester SXP Defender
The Winchester SXP Defender is a great shotgun for those looking for a solid home defense or combat shotgun. A 5+1 capacity, chrome plated 18″ fixed cylinder choke barrel, and tough matte finish and synthetic furniture make this no-frills shotgun well suited for hard work. Billed as the “world’s fastest pump shotgun”, the SXP utilizes an inertia-assisted action to help speed up the process of cycling the gun. It is available in 12 or 20-gauge and can be had with either a standard stock or a pistol grip version. The speed, reliability, and toughness make this a hard gun to beat in its price range.
CZ Sharp-Tail
The CZ Sharp-Tail is an evolution of CZ’s previous Ringneck side-by-side shotgun. Redesigned with a smaller, more compact action, the Sharp-Tail brings more consistency and longevity while maintaining its devilishly good looks. A color case-hardened receiver complements the Turkish walnut stock and high gloss black hard chrome barrel finish. A selectable mechanical trigger and pistol grip help ensure a smooth handling and shooting experience. The Sharp-Tail comes with 5 chokes, a single extractor, and is available in 12, 20, 28, and .410 gauge, all with 28-inch barrels.
Benelli Montefeltro
The Benelli Montefeltro is built to be a dual-purpose shotgun that is equally at home at the range or in the field. The slim fore-end and lightweight anodized receiver make for a very printable and fast-handling gun. At its core, the Montefeltro uses Benelli’s proven and reliable inertia-driven system to provide users with a clean-and-soft shooting, reliable semi-auto experience. Available in both 12 and 20-gauge and with compact options and varying barrel lengths available, there is a Montefeltro out there for just about everyone.
RemArms 870 Wingmaster
Remington, under new management as RemArms, has reintroduced the legendary 870 Wingmaster. At its heart lies the proven dual-action bar 870 action and a solid steel machined billet receiver. The Wingmaster is a step above its Fieldmaster brethren, sporting a high gloss blued finish and figured American walnut furniture. This iconic pump action is ready to bust clays or hunt birds once again and is available in 12, 20, and .410 guage.
KelTec KS7
The KelTec KS7 utilizes a bullpup configuration to give users an 18.5-inch barrel while keeping an astonishingly short 26.1-inch overall length. Capacity remains a solid 7+1 despite how short this shotgun is, and at 5.9 pounds, it feels as light as it looks. The KS7 is a great option for home defense or any other roles that may require a compact, but controllable shotgun.
Smith & Wesson M&P12
The Smith & Wesson M&P12 utilizes a bullpup design to deliver high capacity in a short, maneuverable package. Its dual magazine tubes are able to accept six 3-inch shells or seven 2 3/4-inch shells each and also have the ability to use mini-shells. This shotgun also features the ergonomic M&P grip, which includes interchangeable backstraps. Large, ambidextrous controls and downward ejection make this shotgun suitable for both left and right-handed users.
Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol
The Beretta Ultima Patrol is a new addition to the A300 family of shotguns. It is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun that features enlarged controls, an enlarged loading port, 7+1 capacity, and multiple M-LOK and QD sling slots. With its feature sets and price point, Beretta serves up a great value with the Ultima Patrol that’s not found in many comparable shotguns.
Mossberg 500 Combo Field/Security
Usually coming in at under $400, the Mossberg 500 Field/Security pump-action shotgun is one of the most versatile guns you can buy for the money. This gun comes with two barrels, a 28-inch field barrel with interchangeable choke tubes and an 18.5-inch security barrel with a fixed choke. Having both barrels allows you to have a do-all gun that can cover anything from hunting to sporting to home defense. Mossberg makes the barrel change process simple and easy, with a single screw making the barrel swap a 60-second affair that takes no tools. The ambidextrous tang safety makes this gun intuitive for most users, but the rest of the gun is pretty standard fare when it comes to ergonomics. The Mossberg 500 has been the gold standard for basic shotguns since the 60s, and it has the aftermarket to prove that. If you need a shotgun to cover all the bases, this is it.
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