The selection of the perfect handgun is nevertheless a choice based on personal preferences and inclinations. With a vast variation of handguns available in the market, it can be an arduous task to narrow down the best options based on individual needs. Factors such as grip comfort, ergonomic design, built size, and magazine capacity all factor into the considerations while making a final decision. So whether you are looking for a reliable self-defense firearm, a tactical handgun, or simply a sports shooter, compiled below is a list of 43 Best Handguns for men based on factors such as reliability, ergonomics, caliber, and capacity options and reviews for industry experts.
Glock 19 Gen 5
The Gen 5 Glock 19 is a semi-automatic, 9mm pistol known for its outstanding reliability and ease of use. It has a capacity of 15+1 and is the top choice for law enforcement agencies and civilians. The compact size and durable construction make it an ideal option that lasts for years.
Sig Sauer P365
One of the most competitive and popular handguns available in the market. This semi-automatic 9mm pistol comes with a capacity of 10+1 but can be customized to a higher capacity. The slim build and customizable magazine capacity give it an edge over other handguns available in the market. The P365 is not only popular for its reliability but also the crisp trigger pull excellent aiming sight assembly. It’s important to clarify that this is only available with the extended magazine, not with the standard.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus
Offering the perfect blend of power, Concealable profile, and ease of use, The Shield Plus is popular among home defense users and enthusiasts. It comes in semi-automatic 9mm caliber with a capacity of 10+1 up to 13+1 customizable. The new Plus version has an enhanced trigger function and increases magazine capacity.
CZ 75 SP-01
An excellent choice for competitive sports shooters and military tactical personnel, this handgun comes as a semi-automatic 9mm with a remarkable capacity of 18+1. The CZ 75 SP-01 offers one of the best grips when compared to other handguns in the business. Key features also include excellent trigger pull and high accuracy.
Beretta 92FS
A very well-known handgun known for its outstanding service in military use. The Beretta 92FS is a durable, full-size handgun that comes in a 9mm semi-automatic 15+1 capacity. It is known for its robust design, outstanding reliability and accuracy. This handgun has been used by law enforcement agencies for decades.
Ruger LCP II
Ruger LCP II is a semi-automatic handgun that comes in .380 ACP Caliber. It has a magazine capacity of 6+1 and is built to be pocket friendly. The Lightweight structure and compact build make it the best choice for those looking for an affordable, easy-to-use, and reliable firearm.
Spring Field Armory Hellcat
The excellent grip design and the built-in optics of the Armory Hellcat are some of its unique features. This semi-automatic 9mm caliber handgun comes with a magazine capacity of 11+1 and 13+1. The ultra-compact size yet high-capacity magazine makes it a very prominent choice available on the market.
Heckler & Koch VP9
For those who prefer a rather ergonomic handgun, the VP9 is the best choice. This handgun offers customizable grip panels along with impressive overall ergonomics allowing for a very tailored fit in one’s hand. The semi-automatic 9mm comes in 15+1 or 17+1 capacity. The crisp trigger action and high accuracy make it a very preferable choice for tactical shooters and those looking for a sports shooting option.
Walther PPQ M2
Walther is known for making handguns with superior trigger mechanisms. The PPQ M2 comes as no exception. With its short and very smooth trigger pull and reset mechanism, it is an ideal choice for those looking for accuracy and speed. The PPQ M2 comes with a capacity of 15+1, caliber 9mm.
Colt 1911
Durability, power, and accuracy are what the Colt 1911 is simply known for. This semi-automatic, .45 ACP caliber has a capacity of 7+1. It remains a top choice for those individuals who prefer a bulky-built single-action pistol with a track record that speaks for itself.
FN Herstal FNX-45 Tactical
The FNX-45 is a .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun that comes with a capacity of 15+1. Unlike other handguns, this handgun is large and heavy but offers unmatched power and durability. The FNX-45 is designed for combat use, offering a threaded barrel built for suppressors and an optional red dot optic sight for perfect aiming accuracy.
Glock 43X
Similar to the Glock 19, this semi-automatic 9mm firearm is a slimmer version of the renowned Glock 19. The 43X comes with a 10+1 magazine size and is a perfect combination for those who prefer the Glock’s durability along with a more compact size. This makes the 43X a perfect self-defense firearm.
Ruger SR1911
Combining the classic aesthetics of the 1911 design with a touch of modern engineering, the Ruger SR1911 offers a blend of accuracy and reliability. This .45 caliber 8+1 magazine capacity firearm features a very distinctive stainless steel feature. Ideal choice for someone who prefers a durable firearm and appreciates fine craftsmanship.
Browing Hi-Power
It is one the most legendary handguns available in the market. The Browing Hi-power is an iconic 9mm semi-automatic pistol. Famous for its smooth action and fine ergonomic design. It comes with a standard 13+1 capacity magazine and is popular amongst the collector and sports shooter community.
Taurus G3C
For someone looking for an affordable and compact handgun. Taurus offers the perfect solution, the G3C. This semi-automatic 9mm pistol comes with a 12+1 magazine and is the perfect combination of reliably built, good ergonomics, and affordability. Making it an excellent self-defense choice.
HK USP .45
The Heckler & Koch USP .45 is renowned for not only its reliability and durability but also its military-grade construction. It offers a remarkable recoil handling capacity and features ambidextrous safety. Thus making it a very versatile option available in the market. The USP .45 comes standard with a 12+1 magazine size.
Kimber Micro 9
Inspired by the 1911 handgun from Kimber, the Micro 9 is an excellent choice for concealed carry. The small lightweight aluminum frame and smooth trigger make this 9mm semi-automatic the perfect combination of size and power. With a capacity of 7+1, the premium fit and finish of this handgun makes it stand out in the compact market.
Walther PPK
A .380 ACP caliber semi-automatic, made famous by James Bond. This compact, sleek, and reliable handgun with a 6+1 mag size offers a perfect combo for durability with a classic touch in design. Making it not only the best-concealed carry but also a collector’s item among enthusiasts.
Sig Sauer P226
The Sig Sauer P226 is a semi-automatic pistol that comes in two variations. The 9mm offers a 15+1 magazine capacity while the .40 S&W offers a 12+1 magazine capacity. Well-known and trusted, especially among the military and law enforcement agencies for its solid build and unmatched reliability, the P226 is one of the well-known choices available for anyone looking for a tactical or home defense weapon.
FN 509
The FN 509 is designed for both military and civil use. It offers exceptional reliability and durability. A unique feature of this 9mm pistol is the large 17+1 capacity magazine. The modularity allows customization of the grips and various aiming optics.
Springfield XD-S Mod.2
A top preference in the concealed carry handgun market, the Spring Field XD-S Mod.2 is a slim, single stack 9mm with a capacity of 7+1 or 9+1. The upgradation in the trigger and safety grip allows for a safe and reliable operation while maintaining a lightweight profile.
CZ P-10 C
The CZ P-10 is the CZ’s entry into the striker-fired pistol handgun market. It offers an excellent grip, superior accuracy, and a crisp trigger function. With its 15+1 capacity magazine, it offers a reliable choice for both everyday carry and home defense.
Smith & Wesson 686
A very sturdy and durable revolver with a capacity of 6 or 7 rounds offering a .357 magnum/ .38 special caliber configuration. This stainless steel frame firearm offers significant stopping power using the .357 magnum, while the .38 special allows for less recoil. The 686 is a popular choice amongst target shooting enthusiasts and simply those looking for a home defense handgun.
Colt Python
A .357 magnum caliber, 6-round revolver. One of the legendary revolvers known for its unmatched construction, accuracy, and smooth trigger action. A top choice for collectors and sports shooters.
Ruger GP100
This .357 magnum caliber revolver offers 6 round capacity. The distinct feature of this firearm is its exceptional sturdiness. It is simply built like a tank that can tolerate heavy loads without compromising on accuracy or durability. Popular among the hunting community, this revolver is also well-known among home users seeking a reliable self-defense firearm.
Beretta PX4
This semi-automatic firearm is a solid option for anyone looking for a reliable, full-size handgun with minimum muzzle flip. It comes in variations of 9mm and .40 S&W caliber with a capacity of 17+1 or 14+1 respectively. The barrel-rotating design enables the PX4 Storm to reduce the felt coil and improve accuracy.
Kahr CM9
One of the most unique handgun choices available in the market. This semi-automatic, 9mm caliber pistol is known for its ultra-small size. It offers a 6+1 capacity magazine. The lightweight profile of this handgun makes it very ideal for deep concealment, making it the perfect pocket-carry firearm.
Mossberg MC2c
Mossberg is generally known for shotguns, but the MC2c is a fantastic mid-sized 9mm pistol. The 13+1 or 15+1 capacity magazine offered along with its ergonomic build and crisp trigger pull makes it an ideal concealed carry a home defense weapon.
SCCY CPX-2
The SCCY CPX-2 is a fine choice for anyone looking for an affordable yet reliable handgun. This 9mm caliber, 10+ capacity pistol offers a double action trigger and comes in a variety of color options.
Springfield Armory 1911 TRP
The 191 TRP stands out as a Tactical Response Pistol which offers high- end professional- grade features like a match-grade barrel, aggressive front end and slide serrations along with a crisp trigger. Admired by the sports shooters community, and the top choice for home defense users, it comes with .45 ACP caliber having a capacity of 7+1 or 8+1.
Steyr M9-A2 MF
A semi-automatic pistol admired for its excellent ergonomic design and unique trapezoidal sights, the Steyr M9-A2 MF is a modern 9mm pistol with a 17+1 magazine capacity. It is a very reliable option for both sports shooters as well as those looking for a sturdy self-defense handgun. The low bore axis allows a reduction in recoil while maintaining accuracy and quick action.
Sig Sauer P320
The Sig Sauer P320 is a 9mm semi-automatic pistol that comes with a 17+1 capacity magazine. Its modular design allows the interchangeability of grip frames and slide assemblies. This adaptability makes the P320 a highly personalized handgun that not only offers customizations but also serves as a reliable choice available in the market.
Ruger Mark IV
For target shooting enthusiasts and sports shooters, the Ruger Mark IV is one of the best choices available. With a .22LR caliber, 10+1 capacity magazine, the Ruer Mark IV offers accuracy, functionality, and a very smooth trigger mechanism.
FN Five-Seven
This semi-automatic handgun comes in a unique 5.7x28mm caliber with a capacity of 20+1. The unique 5.7x28mm cartridge offers lighter weight, higher velocity and much more lore recoil. It is for this reason that it serves as a preferred choice within law enforcement agencies and civil users.
Desert Eagle Mark XIX
A legendary handgun, known for its bold build, intimidating size, and unmatched power. The Desert Eagle Mark XIX is famous for its .50 AE rounds. Though not an everyday carry-friendly gun, but popular among enthusiasts and collectors for its sheer power and character.
IWI Jericho 941
As an improved version of its predecessor CZ-75, the Jericho 941 offers a much more robust build and improved ergonomics. Offered in a variation of 9mm or .40 S&W caliber with 16+1 or 12+1 respective capacity, it is known for its superior reliability and accuracy. Hence making it a top choice for both professional and civilian use.
Nighthawk Custom GRP
Nighthawk Custom firearms are known for their excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail. The Custom GRP is no different. This .45 caliber, 8+1 capacity firearm is a customized 1911 with a match-grade barrel and premium built quality. A very strong choice for high-end performance driver firearms users.
CZ 97B
Despite having a .45 caliber, with 10+1 capacity, the CZ 97B is one of the softest shooting .45 available in the market. The steel frame and ergonomic grip make it a very robust, reliable, and accurate handgun, an excellent option for home defense or target shooting.
Kimber K6s
Having a .357 magnum/ .38 caliber, 6-round capacity, The Kimber K6s is one of the smallest and lightest revolvers available in this segment. The compact profile and smooth functionality make it an ideal concealed-carry firearm.
Colt King Cobra
A modernized version of the classic King Cobra revolver. Offering a .357 magnum caliber with a capacity of 6 rounds, this gun presents excellent performance along with a stainless steel finish. A fantastic option among revolver enthusiasts seeking a rugged yet reliable firearm.
Walther PDP
The Walther PDP is an amazing high-performance handgun designed for both civil and LEA use. Offering unmatched ergonomics with optic ready slide and a fantastic trigger action, it is one of the most preferred pistols for tactical and home defense. It comes in 9mm caliber size with a capacity of 15+1 or 18+1.
Rock Island Armory GI Standard 1911
For those well versed in the reliability the 1911 offers but seeking a more affordable choice, the Rock Island Armory GI Standard 1911 is a great choice. It offers solid build quality and all the classic features while having a more budget-friendly price. It has a caliber size of .45 ACP and an 8+1 capacity magazine.
Canik TP9SFx
For those who enjoy sports competitive shooting, the Canik TP9SFx is the perfect semi-automatic 9mm available. The long barrel, adjustable sights, crisp trigger, and a capacity 20+1 make this firearm an excellent choice.
With various handguns in the market, selecting the right one depends on individual preferences. Whether one is looking for self-defense handguns, tactical usage, or simply for sport shooting, this list compiles 43 handguns, including models that are reliable, accurate, robust in design, and tailored for different purposes. From the classic 1911s and revolvers to modern, high-capacity semi-automatics, these handguns reflect the top choices for enthusiasts and professionals. Ultimately, the choice for the best handgun is simply the one that fits your purpose and offers confidence in performance.
