Your Privacy Choices
What’s the old saying? ‘A handgun’s only use is to fight your way back to your rifle.’ Obviously an over simplification – today’s modern handguns are perfectly capable of handling the majority of common defensive situations. Still, having a proper long gun available is always a good idea.
If you are wondering how I picked the below models, I simply picked handguns that I either own and enjoy or those I am interested in purchasing for myself (hint: or gifts). If I left a glaring omission, please let me know in the comments below.
Handguns
Beretta M9A3 – $1100
With the M9A3 semiauto pistol, Beretta has created a coming-together of all the tactical and functional features that today’s combat professionals may require.
From Vertec-style thin grip to universal slide design convertible from safety-decocker to decocker-only, from a beveled magazine well to oversize mag-release button, from a 3-slot built-in Picatinny rail to high-capacity capability for maximum firepower, the M9A3 was designed to deliver the performance that military, law-enforcement and VIP-protection professionals demand. In short, this combat pistol was designed to be perfect for any tactical use, including home- and personal defense, tactical competitions as well as duty carry in any condition.
Glock G17 Gen5 – $629
The GLOCK 17 Gen5 is the latest example of GLOCK’s constant pursuit of perfection. The latest version of GLOCK’s original model features over 20 design modifications from the G17 Gen4, including the GLOCK Marksman Barrel, an nDLC finish, ambidextrous slide stop levers, a grip with no finger grooves, and a flared mag-well. These changes deliver improved accuracy, durability, performance, control, and flexibility whether you are on the range or in a situation where fractions of a second matter. Gen5 pistols will be available with a variety of sight options, including standard, GLOCK Night Sights (GNS) and BOLD.
At Bass Pro
The M&P M2.0 pistol, the newest innovation to the respected M&P polymer pistol line. Designed for personal, sporting, and professional use, the M&P M2.0 delivers an entirely new platform, introducing innovative features in nearly every aspect of the pistol, including trigger, grip, frame, and finish. Highlights of the M&P M2.0 pistol include an extended stainless-steel chassis and a low barrel bore axis for reduced muzzle rise and faster aim recovery. The M&P M2.0 pistol further improves performance with a fine-tuned, crisper trigger, lighter pull and a tactile and audible reset. The pistol includes an aggressively-textured grip and four interchangeable palmswell inserts for optimal hand-fit and trigger reach. Includes two magazines, a limited lifetime warranty and a lifetime service policy.
Carolina Arms Group Trenton Carry – $3,800
Our classic design, top-end TC is built for performance under any conditions. Made from USA-forged carbon steel.
- 4.25” officer model
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Stainless steel blasted forged frame and slide
- Standard extended Ambi-Safety
- Tactical sights with Fibre Optic front
- CAG NM barrel
- Height 90º to barrel: 4.50 inches
- Weight w/empty magazine: 37.8 ounces
- Length: 4.25 inches
- Finish: Stainless steel
- Barrel twist rate: 1:16 LH
- Recoil spring: 15 pounds
- Trigger: 4 pounds
CZ 75 SP-01 Tactical Urban Grey Suppressor-Ready – $729
Part of the 2016 Urban Grey Suppressor-Ready Series, this pistol is clad in urban grey (a mix of grey and FDE). With threaded barrels, high suppressor sights with tritium lamps and extended capacity magazines, our Urban Grey pistols are a direct response to the many requests we get from customers for more suppressor-ready options.
The Tactical variant of the SP-01 utilizes an ambidextrous decocker in place of the manual safety on the standard SP-01.
The CZ 75 SP-01 is the first full size handgun from CZ to feature the improved manufacturing technology and ergonomics of the NATO-approved CZ 75 Compact P-01 model. Featuring an integral 1913 accessory rail on the dust cover, rubber grip panels, and CZ’s corrosion resistant polycoat finish, the SP-01 is the newest model to join the family of pistols based on the CZ 75 (SA/DA) platform. Borrowing from the improved grip geometry of the compact P-01, the SP-01 utilizes an extended beavertail to protect shooter’s strong hand as well as allowing for a deeper and more secure grip. The new grip geometry, checkering in key areas on the front and back straps, and redistribution of mass provided by the accessory rail noticeably decrease the perceived recoil from previous models and allows for more rapid target acquisition and transition.
The SP-01 was designed as a military and law enforcement duty sidearm. The new model is currently in use by security forces fighting the war on terrorism. Thanks to its exceptional accuracy and superior handling characteristics, the CZ 75 SP-01 has also found supporters in the field of sport and target shooting. Its list of users on the competition circuit include World Champions Adam Tyc and Angus Hobdell (1st and 3rd place respectively in 2005‘s IPSC championship, World Shoot XIV).
S&W Model 27 – $1019
Smith & Wesson makes it possible for you to own a piece of history-in-the-making with these Classic revolvers. They’re the finest new handguns possible with designs harkening back to the most famous and collectible guns that Smith & Wesson ever constructed. Each is based on a model known for legendary performance then enhanced with modern advantages. They’re the timeless best of both worlds, Smith & Wesson Classics.
Ruger EC9S – $299
- Striker-fired featuring a short, light, crisp trigger pull for faster, more accurate shooting.
- Slim, lightweight and compact for personal protection. Just slightly larger (less than 1″ taller and 1″ longer) than the popular and incredibly compact LCP®.
- Rugged construction with through-hardened slide and one-piece, high-performance, glass-filled nylon grip frame.
- Checkered grip frame provides a secure and comfortable grip.
- Includes finger grip extension floorplate that can be added to the magazine for comfort and improved grip.
- Safety features include integrated trigger safety, manual safety, magazine disconnect and an inspection port that allows for visual confirmation of a loaded or empty chamber.
- Sights are machined integrally with the slide and feature glare-reducing, rear face serrations.
- Also includes: one, 7-round magazine.
Note: No, the pistols above aren’t falling onto a bag of hammers and no I didn’t drop test them all. Merry Christmas to you al!
