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Let me start off by saying that this subjective list of TFB’s ‘Top 5’ best guns from 2017 is not rooted in scientific study nor is it the result of massive data crunching of user polls. The below guns were picked by general popularity, page views, innovative designs and overall accessibility. Point being, there were a lot of awesome firearms released this year and these are only a few of them.
The TFBTV crew is also preparing a ‘Top 5’ list for 2017 – be prepared for boutique weaponry laced with flashy specifications and accessorized with the gun world equivalent of hair gel and tribal tattoos. Typical of on-air talent, expect all show, no go. Fear not, TFB trumps TFBTV with utility over style.
Obviously I’m joking: they use mousse not hair gel.
As we get ready to flip the calendar and stumble into SHOT Show season, we will hopefully start building the Best of 2018 list. What are you hoping to see? What new versions of current guns will hit the market?
Anyone who asks for a GLOCK carbine will be politely shown the door.
Happy New Year everyone.
TFB’s Best Guns Of 2017
Glock – G17 Gen5
The fifth generation of the iconic polymer pistols was marked with small incremental changes that were significant enough to get buyers to flock their local dealers. For me, the lack of finger groves was enough to get me to buy a new Austrian masterpiece.
However, my unconditional love was limited to the G17 model – the magazine relief cutout on the G19 was enough of a grip annoyance to make me still prefer the Gen4. The new slide finish, flared mags well and the factory Ameriglo sights make the Gen5 the best of the plastic fantastic series and earned it a place in TFB’s 2017 Top 5 list.
Introducing the GLOCK 17 Gen5 and GLOCK 19 Gen5 pistols. GLOCK Gen5 pistols are the latest example of GLOCK’s constant pursuit of perfection. Gen5 pistols feature over 20 design modifications from their Gen4 predecessors. These changes deliver improved accuracy, durability, performance, control, and flexibility. Put the next generation of confidence in your hands.
TFB Coverage Of Glock Gen5 Pistols in 2017
Buy Glock Gen5 @ Brownells
As an alternative, TFB’s Miles V. suggests taking a look at the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact.
Buy S&W M&P 2.0 @ Brownells
Q – “The Fix”
Love or hate their marketing style, there’s no denying that the ‘Live Q Or Die’ team makes everyone else’s innovation look mediocre. And their ‘The Fix’ precision rifle is an excellent example of fighting the status quo. With a bolt that literally runs on rails, its extreme light weight and easy change barrel system, The Fix really has to be held to be believed.
2018 promises to bring new versions of Q’s precision long gun with caliber, stock and barrel length options all in play.
The Fix™ by Q is the foundation of what our company believes in. Science and experience coupled with passion and drive, our team set out to do the unpossible™. We identified a gap in the market, set goals to successfully reinvent the traditional design, and developed a product far superior to the industries conventional bolt action rifle.
TFB ‘Innovator Friday’ with Q’s Kevin Brittingham and Ethan Lessard.
B&T – GHM9
At a street price below, $1,300, the B&T GHM9 is a no-brainer choice for the best pistol caliber carbine currently available and a seat at the 2017 Best Guns table. Originally designed to run NATO ball ammo, B&T is releasing a user replaceable fix that will push hollow point ammunition with ease. Upgrades will be available shortly.
Honestly, I still prefer the APC9 for a variety of nearly intangible reasons, but this example of Swiss precision is an unbeatable value. And at the risk of offending my rollerlock brethren, I would classify both the APC and the GHM9 as MP5 killers.
I got a brief look behind the B&T curtain for 2018, and without spoiling the surprise, I’m guessing that there will be a whole new set of new Swiss carbine owners in the new year.
TFBTV’s James reviews the B&T GHM9:
Buy B&T @ Brownells
Remington 870 tac-14
‘Best’ doesn’t have to mean practical or useful – Remington’s non-NFA 12 gauge firearm was a big seller over the past year. With a bird’s head grip, short barrel and a $400 street price, the 870 TAC-14 is both a capable defensive weapon and a fun range toy.
If I had to make an educated guess, companies like pistol stabilizing brace powerhouse SB Tactical will dip into the 12 gauge firearm market with a folding or retractable attachment that will allow for shouldering additional stability.
Small in size but huge on home defense capability, the Model 870 Tac-14 delivers devastating, threat-stopping power to protect your home and family. Featuring legendary Model 870 reliability, a Raptor pistol grip and Magpul M-Lock forend, its powerful personal protection at its absolute shortest– and finest.
Buy The TAC-14 @ Brownells
Kimber K6S CDP
As a handgun with hundreds of years worth of design history behind it, the revolver seems like it should be bumping up against an end-of-life situation. However, the classic wheelgun still has its place as a personal defensive weapon for shooters who require no-nonsense reliability in a compact package.
Kimber America took a classic design and made it more reliable, smooth, functional and beautiful. The 2017 editions to the K6S lineup brought a match grade trigger and night sights to an already unique design.
Prices are on the high-side for a six shot pocket gun, but wheelgun aficionados will not be disappointed.
Based on the world’s lightest production 6-shot .357 Magnum revolver platform, the CDP (Custom Defense Package) features superior ergonomics, smooth match-grade trigger, black DLC frame with brushed stainless barrel and cylinder and small parts, checkered rosewood grips and tritium night sights.
Kimber K6S 2017 Models – TFB’s Adam S.
Buy the Kimber K6S @ Brownells
Bonus: Desert Tech MDR
The ergonomics of the bullpup design never worked for me, but the years of anticipation for Desert Tech’s MDR rifle and it’s eventual debut needs to be marked as a 2017 milestone. With quick caliber change kits, fully ambidextrous controls and ejection and of course a non-NFA SBR footprint, the MDR is a dream come true for U.S. bullpup fans.
Read Tom R.’s MDR review here.
What’s on your Top 5 list for 2017? Drop us a note in the comments section below.
