The Most Popular Handguns

By John Snow
April 2, 2015

These 12 handguns are some of the most frequently purchased semi-auto models in the country. They span the gambit, from modern polymer frames to a classic 1911.

Smith & Wesson M&P Series

Smith & Wesson M&P Series

Introduced less than a decade ago, this high-capacity striker-fired semiauto has earned high marks for ergonomics, reliability, and soft recoil. Available in 9mm, .40 S&W 
and .45 ACP, it is a great choice for competition, law enforcement, and personal protection.mfg photo
Smith & Wesson Shield

Smith & Wesson Shield

Available in 9mm and .40 S&W, the Shield is a slenderized single-stack version of the highly acclaimed M&P. During a trip to a well-known shooting academy, this writer took a new 9mm Shield out of the box and fired over 500 rounds in two days without a single malfunction.mfg photo
Glock G29

Glock G29

This striker-fired semiauto isn’t much bigger than a compact 9mm, but the 10mm cartridge that it’s chambered for delivers power levels approaching those of the .41 Magnum. It’s a handy trail gun for those wandering through bear, wild boar, or mountain lion country.mfg photo
CZ-USA 85 Combat

CZ-USA 85 Combat

A highly refined version of the classic steel frame, inertia-fired 9mm CZ 75B, this model features fully ambidextrous controls, adjustable sights, and a drop-free magazine. Whether the goal is competition or personal defense, this high-capacity 9mm is an excellent choice.mfg photo
Dan Wesson Specialist

Dan Wesson Specialist

Designed for law enforcement use, this .45 ACP 1911 is equipped with tritium night sights, 1913 accessory rail, ambidextrous thumb safety, and just about everything you could want to adapt John Browning’s classic design for personal defense.mfg photo
Ruger MK III

Ruger MK III

The classic Ruger Standard .22 LR pistol became the launching pad for one of America’s greatest firearms manufacturers. The MK III is a refined version. Available in several different configurations, it will handle anything from competition to plinking to small-game hunting.mfg photo
Magnum Research Micro Desert Eagle

Magnum Research Micro Desert Eagle

Subcompact .380 ACP pistols have a reputation for being finicky. The Micro Desert Eagle, due to its unique gas-assist operating system, is anything but. During extensive testing, this writer could not get it to malfunction. It's an excellent choice for a small personal-defense handgun.mfg photo
Springfield Armory XD(m)

Springfield Armory XD(m)

A recent refinement of the original XD model, the XD(m) is available in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP, and in barrel lengths of 3.8, 4.5, and 5.5-inches. The polymer-framed, striker-fired pistol is rapidly gaining favor among competitive shooters and those concerned with personal defense.mfg photo
Colt Defender

Colt Defender

This sub-compact 1911 features a 3-inch barrel and is available in either .45 ACP or 9mm. It comes with Novak Low Mount Carry Sight and is built from stainless steel. The frame has a tough Cerakote finish.mfg photo
Glock G19

Glock G19

A 9mm compact, 15-shot, polymer-framed, striker-fired pistol, the G19 is considered to be one of the best guns Glock has ever produced. It is reliable under all conditions and is an excellent choice for personal defense.mfg photo
Ruger SR1911

Ruger SR1911

When Ruger decided to build a 1911 .45 ACP, they kept the best of John Browning’s original design and only added refinements that were necessary. The end result is an excellent stainless steel 1911 that comes at an affordable price.mfg photo
Browning Buckmark

Browning Buckmark

If you like shooting handguns, a .22 rimfire pistol is a lot of cheap fun, and the Browning Buckmark .22 LR is a top choice. It features a crisp trigger, adjustable sights, a target crowned barrel, and other features that make it an excellent shooter.mfg photo

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