11 Best Handguns of 2023: Top Picks for Every Need

Are you in the market for a new handgun? Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a first-time gun owner, trying to figure out which handgun is right for you can be overwhelming.

Fortunately for you, you have us. In this guide, we’ve assembled the top handguns in a wide variety of categories. From pocket pistols to competition guns, we’ll tell you the best options for everything.

Our expert picks are based on extensive research and hands-on testing, taking into account factors like performance, accuracy, reliability, and price. So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the top handguns on the market today.

Best Overall – Glock 19 Gen 5

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The Glock 19 is probably the most popular handgun in the world for law enforcement, military, and civilian use. The Gen 5, in particular, makes some upgrades on the older Glock 19 Gen 4 and is designed to improve the pistol’s functionality, performance, and durability.

The G19 is a compact and lightweight handgun that is easy to carry and conceal but is still powerful enough to be used as a self-defense weapon.

The hefty 15-round capacity is more than enough to deal with any threat that may come your way. Like all Glocks, the G19 is renowned for its reliability. It is also easy to maintain and incredibly easy to clean.

The handgun’s modular design, which makes it easy to customize with a wide range of accessories and upgrades, allowing shooters to tailor the gun to their specific needs and preferences.

In fact, the Glock 19 has so much aftermarket support you can assemble one without a single OEM part.

See our Glock 19 Gen 5 review to get our overall thoughts and opinions.

Best Value – Canik TP9SA Mod.2

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The Canik TP9SA Mod.2 is a fantastic choice for those looking for a reliable handgun at an affordable price. It is a 9mm striker-fired pistol that has gained popularity due to its exceptional value. It boasts an impressive list of features, including a comfortable grip, adjustable sights, and a crisp trigger pull.

Despite the Canik TP9SA Mod.2’s budget-friendly price, it offers a lot of features typically found on higher-end firearms. This makes it an excellent value for those who want a quality handgun but can’t justify shelling out a lot of money.

It also has a reputation for being a highly reliable firearm that can withstand heavy use and abuse, again comparable to pistols sold at higher price points, making it a smart investment for those who want a gun that will last them a long time.

Best for Beginners – SIG Sauer P320 Nitron Full-Size

Specifications

Pros & Cons

If you’re just getting started with handguns, the SIG Sauer P320 is a great option to consider. This handgun has been designed with the beginner in mind, offering a comfortable grip and easy-to-use controls that will help you feel confident and in control right from the start.

One of the best things about the SIG Sauer P320 is that it’s highly customizable. You can swap out the grip module, slide, and barrel to create a handgun that fits your unique needs and preferences. And as those needs and preferences evolve, you can continue to modify and upgrade your P320 to keep up with your needs.

As for safety features, this handgun has a striker safety and a trigger safety, both of which work to prevent accidental discharges.

Additionally, the P320 has a modular trigger that can be customized to fit your finger, reducing the chance of trigger-related errors.

Best for Concealed Carry – SIG Sauer P365 XL

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The SIG Sauer P365 XL is an exceptional choice for concealed carry due to its compact size and high capacity. This handgun is a more extended version of the popular SIG Sauer P365, designed specifically for concealed carry and personal defense.

The P365 XL offers a 12+1 capacity, which is impressive considering its small size. With this handgun, you can carry more rounds while still being able to easily conceal it.

Another reason the P365 XL is an excellent option for concealed carry is its comfortable grip. This handgun features an ergonomic design that feels natural in your hand, allowing you to maintain a secure and comfortable grip.

This is especially important for concealed carry, where you may need to draw and fire quickly in a self-defense situation.

Additionally, the P365 XL is incredibly accurate, making it easy to hit your target. It features a longer barrel than the original P365, which enhances its accuracy and reduces recoil. The slide is also designed for easy manipulation, allowing you to quickly and easily chamber a round.

The P365 XL is a reliable and durable handgun that is perfect for anyone looking for a concealed carry option.

Check out our P365 XL review if you want to learn more.

Best Budget Concealed Carry – Taurus GX4 Carry

From our hands-on experience, the Taurus GX4 Carry T.O.R.O. distinctly positions itself as one of the best affordable concealed carry handguns available today.

Taurus’s dedication to providing value without compromising on features is evident in this model. With its accessory rail and a generous 15+1 round capacity, the GX4 Carry is a masterclass in combining affordability with essential functionalities that concealed carry users seek.

The handgun’s ergonomics are praiseworthy; its well-balanced nature ensures a comfortable grip, and the addition of interchangeable backstraps allows users to tailor the fit to their preference. In our testing, the GX4 Carry’s reliability was unwavering. We subjected it to 175 rounds of varied ammunition, and it performed seamlessly, reinforcing its status as a trustworthy and budget-friendly concealed carry option.

Its accuracy did not disappoint either, with tight groupings being easily achievable. What truly sets the GX4 Carry apart is its exceptional value proposition. Priced attractively, often found even below its $504.99 MSRP, it challenges the notion that quality concealed carry handguns have to be expensive.

Based on our direct experience, the Taurus GX4 Carry T.O.R.O. is a top recommendation for those seeking an effective yet affordable concealed carry handgun.

Check out our Taurus GX4 Carry review to see more photos and get our opinion on this new offering from Taurus.

Best for Small Hands – Ruger LCP II

Specifications

Pros & Cons

If you, like me, are someone with small hands, finding a handgun that fits comfortably and securely can be a challenge. Luckily, the Ruger LCP II is a great option for those with smaller hands.

This handgun is a compact and lightweight choice, making it easy to handle and maneuver. The grip is designed with a textured surface, which can help improve your grip and control over the gun.

In addition to its comfortable design, the Ruger LCP II is also a reliable and accurate firearm. It’s a great choice for concealed carry, with its small size making it easy to conceal and carry with you wherever you go.

The handgun also features a low-profile design, which can help prevent snagging or catching on clothing during a quick draw.

Check out our Ruger LCP II review for more info!

Best for Competition – CZ Shadow 2

Specifications

Pros & Cons

If you’re a competitive shooter, the CZ Shadow 2 is a handgun that you’ll definitely want to take a look at. This pistol is specifically designed for competitive shooting, and it’s widely considered one of the best options on the market.

One of the reasons it’s so highly regarded is its exceptional accuracy. The Shadow 2 has a longer sight radius than most pistols, which makes it easier to aim and hit your target with precision.

Another reason why the CZ Shadow 2 is so popular among competitive shooters is its excellent ergonomics. The pistol has a comfortable grip that allows you to maintain a secure hold on the gun, even when shooting for extended periods of time.

Additionally, the trigger on the Shadow 2 is among the best on the market. It’s crisp, light, and has a short reset, which allows you to fire shots rapidly and with great accuracy. All of these features combine to make the CZ Shadow 2 a top-performing handgun in competitive shooting.

Best Duty Pistol – FNX-45 Tactical

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The FNX-45 Tactical is a high-quality duty pistol that’s designed to meet the needs of law enforcement and military personnel. It boasts several features that make it stand out from other firearms on the market, such as its ambidextrous controls and suppressor-ready barrel.

These features make it an ideal choice for anyone who needs a reliable and accurate firearm for duty use.

The FNX-45 Tactical also has a large capacity magazine, with the ability to hold up to 15 rounds of .45 ACP ammunition. This means that you’ll have plenty of firepower at your disposal in high-pressure situations.

Additionally, the pistol’s ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and secure grip, which is essential for accurate shooting.

However, the FNX-45 Tactical is a bit heavy compared to other duty pistols on the market, which may be a drawback for some users. Its size may also make it difficult to conceal for civilian use.

Additionally, the pistol is relatively expensive, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

Best for Seniors – Walther P22 Q

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The Walther P22 Q is a popular choice for seniors due to its lightweight design and ease of use. It is a .22 caliber pistol that can hold up to 10 rounds in the magazine, making it ideal for self-defense purposes.

The P22 Q is also known for its comfortable grip and low recoil, making it an excellent choice for seniors who may have arthritis or other hand issues.

Another feature that makes the P22 Q an attractive choice for seniors is its simple and intuitive controls. The slide is easy to operate, and the magazine release is conveniently located for quick and easy reloading. The P22 Q also has a single-action/double-action trigger system, which provides a smooth and consistent trigger pull that is ideal for beginners and seniors alike.

In addition to its ease of use, the P22 Q also has a polymer frame that is durable and easy to maintain, and it comes in a variety of colors and finishes to suit different tastes.

Best Revolver – Ruger GP-100

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The Ruger GP-100 is a popular and reliable revolver that has been around since the 1980s. It is a favorite among gun enthusiasts and hunters due to its durability and accuracy. The GP-100 is known for its rugged design, allowing it to withstand the test of time and continue to perform flawlessly. We personally loved testing the GP100 and you can see our full review here.

One of the main reasons the GP-100 is considered the best revolver is its build quality. The gun is constructed with a stainless steel frame and barrel, making it resistant to wear and tear. The cylinder is made from high-grade steel, which allows for smoother rotation and better reliability.

The GP-100’s adjustable rear sight and fiber-optic front sight provide excellent accuracy, making it an ideal option for target shooting or hunting. Additionally, the GP-100’s comfortable grip makes it easy to hold and shoot, reducing recoil and improving accuracy.

Another reason the Ruger GP-100 stands out among other revolvers is its versatility. The gun comes in a variety of barrel lengths and calibers, ranging from .22 LR to .44 Special. This makes it suitable for a wide range of shooting activities, including plinking, hunting, and self-defense.

Best Pocket Pistol – Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield M2.0

Specifications

Pros & Cons

The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield M2.0 is a top contender when it comes to pocket pistols. It’s small, lightweight, and easy to carry, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a discreet self-defense weapon. With its enhanced features, the M&P9 Shield M2.0 is a great improvement over its predecessor, the M&P9 Shield.

One of the main advantages of the M&P9 Shield M2.0 is its size. It’s small enough to fit comfortably in your pocket or waistband, yet still offers a solid grip thanks to its ergonomic design. The M&P9 Shield M2.0 also has a 3.1-inch barrel, which provides excellent accuracy for a pocket pistol.

The gun also features a crisp trigger pull, making it easy to shoot accurately. Another benefit is its versatility, as it can hold up to 8+1 rounds of 9mm ammunition, giving you plenty of firepower in a small package.

However, there are some cons to consider as well. The small size of the M&P9 Shield M2.0 can make it difficult for some people to shoot accurately, especially those with larger hands, and the recoil can be quite strong.

Additionally, some users have reported that the slide can be difficult to rack. The sights are also small, which can make aiming more challenging.

Choosing a handgun is certainly a subjective experience, and everyone’s needs and wants are different, so we sought to include various options to try to cover as many people as possible. With all the guns that we’ve recommended here, there should be at least one that works for just about every shooter.

One thing all these handguns have in common: they’re all great quality options. Not one among them is a bad gun, so all you have to do is choose the right one for you.

Which brings us to our next section…

Purpose

The first factor to consider when choosing a handgun is its intended purpose. Are you looking for a firearm for self-defense, home defense, target shooting, or hunting? The purpose of your handgun will determine its caliber, size, weight, and other features.

For example, a handgun intended for self-defense should be lightweight, easy to maneuver, and have a higher-capacity magazine.

On the other hand, a handgun for hunting should have a larger caliber and a longer barrel to provide greater accuracy and stopping power.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of a handgun are critical factors to consider when choosing the best model for you. A compact or subcompact handgun is ideal for concealed carry or self-defense, while a full-sized handgun may be more comfortable for target shooting or duty use.

The weight of the handgun can also affect accuracy, recoil, and ease of use, so it’s essential to find a model that fits comfortably in your hand and feels balanced.

Caliber

The caliber of a handgun refers to the diameter of the bullet it fires. Different calibers have various effects on accuracy, recoil, stopping power, and ammunition availability.

Common calibers for handguns include 9mm, .45 ACP, .380 ACP, and .22 LR. It’s essential to consider the intended purpose of the handgun when choosing a caliber. For personal defense, a higher caliber may provide more stopping power, while a lower caliber may be more comfortable to shoot and offer a higher ammunition capacity.

Sights

The sights of a handgun are crucial for accurate shooting. A handgun with a good sight picture makes it easier to aim and hit your target.

Choose a handgun with sights that you can quickly and easily acquire. Some handguns come with night sights, which can be useful for low-light conditions.

Trigger

The trigger of a handgun is one of the most critical components. A smooth and consistent trigger pull can improve accuracy and reduce the chances of a negligent discharge.

A handgun with a heavy trigger pull can be more challenging to shoot accurately, while a light trigger pull can increase the risk of a negligent discharge. It’s essential to choose a handgun with a trigger pull that you are comfortable with, and that meets your needs.

Reliability

Reliability is perhaps the most critical factor to consider when choosing a handgun. A reliable handgun is one that performs consistently, without malfunctions or misfires. The most reliable handguns are typically those from reputable brands with a proven track record of performance and durability.

Do your research, read reviews, and talk to other gun owners to get a sense of which brands are trusted and respected in the industry.

Price

Handguns come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly models to high-end options. Be sure to set a budget and choose a model that fits within your price range.

Keep in mind that a higher price tag doesn’t necessarily equate to better performance or quality. It’s essential to balance cost with performance, features, and reliability.

When looking at different guns, be sure to compare the prices across different dealers. Our Gun Price Search Engine allows you to search for guns and view prices for gun dealers all across the internet.

Ergonomics

The ergonomics of a handgun refer to its grip and how it feels in your hand. A handgun with a comfortable grip is easier to handle and can help improve your accuracy.

It’s essential to choose a handgun with a grip that fits your hand size and shape. Additionally, some handguns come with interchangeable backstraps, allowing you to customize the grip to fit your hand.

Capacity

The capacity of a handgun refers to the number of rounds it can hold in its magazine. A higher-capacity magazine can be beneficial for self-defense situations, as it reduces the need for frequent reloading.

However, a larger magazine can also make the handgun larger and more challenging to conceal. It’s essential to choose a capacity that meets your needs and is appropriate for your intended purpose.

Action

Handguns come in different action types, including single-action, double-action, and striker-fired. The action type determines how the trigger operates and affects accuracy and speed. It’s important to choose an action type that you’re comfortable with and can operate safely and effectively.

Alright, folks, that concludes our list of the best handguns out there. We’ve covered a variety of handguns for different purposes and preferences, but ultimately, the best handgun for you depends on what you’re looking for.

Remember, when choosing a handgun, always prioritize safety, reliability, and comfort. Take the time to handle and test out different models before making a purchase, and consider factors such as your experience level, intended use, and budget.

Whatever your needs may be, there is a handgun out there for you. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, looking for a duty pistol or a pocket pistol, or simply searching for the best value, we hope this guide has helped you in your search for the perfect handgun.

Leave a comment below to let us know what you think!