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.
The CMMG FourSix Banshee brings the 4.6x30mm cartridge from the MP7 into the world of AR-15 pistol-caliber carbines. The 4.6x30mm is a small and lightweight cartridge with extremely low recoil, comparable to the 5.7x28mm round. The FourSix boasts an impressive 40-round capacity and gives users all the modularity that comes with the AR-15 platform. This gun features fully ambidextrous controls and a complete set of upgraded ZEROED furniture and controls, and a includes a linear compensator.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Glock 19 is the most proven compact semi-automatic handgun on the market today. Chambered in 9mm Luger, the Glock 19 is a versatile compact version of the standard Glock option. It’s great for use as a backup weapon, concealed carry, or service pistol. The Gen 5 in particular has made some great improvements which include an ambidextrous slide stop lever, flared mag-well, and upgraded barrel design, just to name a few. The G19 has been a favorite amongst police agencies and military units and for good reasons. This gun is simple to operate and easy to maintain, making it a great first gun, CCW, or home defense weapon.
The Canik TP9SFX is a true competition-ready pistol with a price tag that won’t break the bank. For under $600, you get a pistol that is absolutely packed with features. From its crisp trigger, its extended controls, to its ability to mount most standard micro red dots, the TP9SFX is more than willing to stand up against its higher-priced competitors. You aren’t likely to find a more accurate and easy shooting gun for the price, and if you are looking to dip your toes into competitive shooting or just want a great shooting range gun or home defense pistol, the TP9SFX might be the ticket.
“The Smith & Wesson Shield EZ is a great gun for those that need a little help in the racking department. The slide rides smoothly on the rails, making it easy to load a round in the chamber. Ergonomics are pretty good, except for the slide release which is just okay. Overall, it’s a soft and smooth shooter — perfect for those with hand difficulties, new shooters, or older shooters.”
The Beretta CX4 Storm is one of the earlier entries into the world of modern pistol-caliber carbines. Its simple direct blowback system has helped cement its status as an extremely reliable gun. Solid ergonomics make the gun feel slick and easy to point, but the gun is almost 20 years old, and it is starting to show.
