Finding the best handgun can be daunting. With countless options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
You are navigating through a myriad of choices. But this is what separates an amateur from a seasoned survivalist. You’ll never reach this level if you don’t know how to select the right firearm effectively.
Selecting the ideal handgun isn’t simple, folks.
Consider, for instance, one outdoor enthusiast who recently shared his experience purchasing an unreliable pistol in critical situations. This has left him hesitant about buying another gun and worried he might not make the right choice again.
No surprise there!
But let’s face reality…
Without proper guidance, finding your best handgun indeed becomes challenging.
Evaluating the Best Handguns
As survivalists, we understand that finding the best handgun is not just about picking up any compact pistol. It’s an exercise in precision and scrutiny.
We’ll now fully review how top semi-auto pistols are evaluated for their performance and suitability to your needs as a survivalist.
Scoring Categories
The first step in finding the best handgun involves establishing scoring categories. The initial category is accuracy or precision, where we evaluate how well shots from each rimfire pistol cluster together at a given distance under controlled conditions.
In addition, practical drill performance is integral in determining the gun’s effectiveness during realistic defensive scenarios, when speed and accuracy become critical factors. Features like low recoil can make all the difference between success and failure.
Moving on from functional aspects such as trigger pull, there are other considerations. For instance, quality refers to construction standards maintained by renowned gun makers, including materials used and craftsmanship involved.
The shooting comfort/shooter interface looks into ergonomics such as grip safety design, trigger guard shape, slide lock position, etc. At the same time, holster availability checks if suitable holsters are available in the market.
Suitability for Self-defense/Carry & Value Assessment
A crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked when looking for the best handgun is its suitability for self-defense or concealed carry situations. This considers size, weight, and reliability, ensuring smooth gun runs. Last but certainly not least comes value assessment – does it offer good features at a reasonable price? Is it worth spending your valuable funds on the best handgun?
Top Centerfire Handguns
In the world of survivalists, centerfire handguns are a go-to choice for their dependability and power. But with so many options available from various gun makers, how do you choose? Comparing two of the top-rated models that have been popular among competitive shooters, let’s take an in-depth look.
Wilson Combat SFX9 – Best Overall Centerfire Handgun
The Wilson Combat SFX9 is more than just another semi-automatic pistol. This compact piece boasts superior construction quality and delivers excellent performance even during intense defensive drills or rapid-fire sequences.
Maintaining good condition becomes effortless thanks to the robust build quality ensuring longevity. Despite being feature-rich, including high-quality factory sights that provide a clear sight picture under stressful conditions, it also maintains a reasonable price point that appeals to budget-conscious buyers.
Taurus GX4 – Best Handgun Value – Centerfire
If value for money is your primary concern when choosing firearms, then the Taurus GX4 might be what you’re looking for. Known as one of the best-value centerfire handguns on the market today, this model impresses not only with affordability but also with functional features that enhance user comfort and efficiency. One key element where Taurus excels over competitors lies within recoil management. Effectively minimizing muzzle flip offers better control during rapid-fire scenarios, which can prove crucial, mainly if used as a personal protection weapon.
Despite its affordable pricing, there’s no compromise made on durability. Rigorous testing protocols employed by manufacturers ensure long-term reliability provided owners strictly maintain guns in good condition.
Leading Revolvers and Outdoor Handguns
- Concealable wheel gun with a 2.75” barrel with slimmed down Hogue grips for concealment
- Chambered in .357 Magnum with optional interchangeable 9mm cylinder
- Machined from high-quality billet steel, Finished in DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon)
- Cold forged barrel for maximum accuracy, adjustable rear sight, and fixed post front sight
- Operable in double-action or single-action, Weight: 2.19 pounds.
- Polygonal rifling in the barrel allows firing of both .357 Magnum and 9mm rounds
- Interchangeable 9mm cylinder for quick switch between .357 Magnum and 9mm
- Cylinder change involves releasing .357 Magnum cylinder crane, sliding out the cylinder
- Barrel Length: 3 inches
- Revolver manufactured by Colt’s Mfg Company
- Renowned for its premium build quality
- Chambered in various calibers, historically including .357 Magnum
- Operable in both double-action and single-action modes
- Sleek and elegant design, typically features a full-lug barrel design
- Adjustable rear sight for improved accuracy, equipped with ergonomic grips
A standout among semi-auto pistols is Colt Python’s classic model. It is an absolute gem not only due to its aesthetic appeal but also because of how well-made it is, which contributes significantly towards shooting comfort.
This versatile design makes it suitable as a concealed carry weapon and a small game hunter, a true outdoorsman’s delight. But what truly sets Colt Python apart from other models? It runs like clockwork, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship behind each unit produced by one of America’s oldest gun manufacturers known globally for producing utterly reliable firearms available at reasonable prices considering their quality.
Superior Rimfire Handguns
Rimfire handguns are increasingly popular for survivalists, competitive shooters, and small-game hunters. They offer an affordable yet fun shooting experience without compromising performance or reliability.
This semi-auto pistol has been designed with the user in mind. The trigger guard provides comfort during extended use, while the accessory rail allows easy mounting of optical devices, enhancing versatility.
The gun runs smoothly thanks to its sturdy construction by reputable gun makers, ensuring reliability under varying conditions. The adjustable rear sight improves precision, while the grip safety feature adds an extra layer of security during handling and usage.
- An Utterly Reliable Performer: Consistent performance, making it incredibly enjoyable whether plinking cans or practicing your aim.
- A Smart Design: Its innovative design and high capacity make this firearm engaging.
- Built-in Safety Features: Factory sights come standard, providing decent visibility straight out of the box, while the slide lock ensures safe operation each time you fire the weapon.
Maintaining the excellent condition of guns should always be prioritized when purchasing as they ensure the utmost reliability. So, if you’re considering buying one, consider factors such as low recoil, trigger pull, and suitable factory sights.
Key Considerations When Buying a Handgun
Purchasing a handgun is not as simple as picking the first one you see. There are several factors to consider, such as gun runs and makers, pistol ship efficiency, recoil management features like trigger guards, and accessory rail preferences of competitive shooters.
The Importance of Gun Runs & Makers
To ensure your firearm performs optimally during continuous firing or ‘gun runs,’ it’s essential to select handguns known for their reliability under various conditions. This aspect becomes even more critical when considering survivalists who may need them for personal protection or home defense.
Furthermore, don’t overlook the reputation of gun makers in this process. Renowned manufacturers like Wilson Combat, Taurus, and Sig Sauer consistently deliver high-quality firearms with reasonable accuracy that can be relied upon time after time.
FAQs about Best Handgun
What’s the most effective handgun?
The Wilson Combat SFX9 is often lauded as highly effective due to its superior construction, impressive trigger pull experience, and excellent performance in defensive drills.
Can I buy the best handgun online?
In some regions, you may be able to purchase handguns online through licensed dealers and have them shipped to a local Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder for transfer. However, specific laws and regulations regarding online handgun sales vary by country and state.
What pistol do Navy SEALs carry?
Navy SEALs typically carry the SIG Sauer P226 or the newer model, SIG Sauer P320. Both are renowned for their reliability and accuracy under extreme conditions.
What handgun will stop a bear?
A large caliber revolver like the Colt Python 3-inch can potentially deter a bear attack when loaded with suitable ammunition for big game hunting.
What is the best handgun in the world in 2023?
Predicting future trends is challenging, but guns such as the Wilson Combat SFX9 and Taurus GX4 are popular due to their quality, performance, and value blend.
Is a rimfire pistol better than a centerfire?
The dissimilarity in design dramatically enhances the reliability of centerfire rounds compared to rimfire rounds. Rimfire rounds are more prone to misfire incidents, making centerfire a much more dependable choice. However, rimfire rounds remain perfectly suitable for training, practice, or hunting smaller prey.
How do I obtain a concealed carry permit?
Obtaining a concealed carry permit is regulated by your state government. Please reach out to them for a concealed carry application. You must pick this up in person at a government office in some states.
Can I use a pistol for small game hunting?
A more likely choice for a youngster is a .22, maybe a .17, or perhaps a .410 or 20-gauge shotgun. Revolvers or pistols in .22 long rifles are great for older small game hunting, but kids should start with a long gun.
What is the SIG P322?
The SIG P322 is a modular, striker-fired semi-automatic pistol manufactured by SIG Sauer. It is designed for military, law enforcement, and civilian use, offering versatility, reliability, and ease of use.
Is the CZ 75 suitable for concealed carry?
While the CZ 75 is a full-size pistol, it might be challenging to conceal for some individuals due to its size and weight. However, CZ also offers compact versions, like the CZ 75 Compact, which may be more suitable for concealed carry.
Conclusion
Handguns are more than just a tool for self-defense. They’re an integral part of any survivalist’s kit. Their rising popularity is no surprise, given their versatility and practicality in various situations.
Evaluating the best handgun isn’t a task to be taken lightly. It involves rigorous testing and scoring on precision, performance, quality, comfort, reliability, and value. Centerfire handguns like Wilson Combat SFX9 or Taurus GX4 offer excellent overall performance and value.
If you fancy revolvers or need one for outdoor activities such as hunting or trail carry, the Korth 2.75-inch Carry Special and Colt Python 3-inch won’t disappoint you with their features.
Rimfire handguns can also be fun while offering good accuracy at reasonable prices – think Taurus TX22 Competition SCR or Heritage Rough Rider Black Tactical Cowboy!
But remember: The key to buying your best handgun lies in considering important aspects such as gun runs, pistol ships, low recoil, trigger guard, and accessory rail, among others. Make sure to get the full review from your local dealer.
And maintaining it well is equally crucial!
Ready to embark on your journey toward finding the perfect firearm? Visit, where we provide comprehensive guides tailored for survivalists navigating through disasters.
Disclosure: Our website contains affiliate links, which means we may receive compensation if you purchase from websites we recommend. We test and review these products independently, and we do not accept free products or incentives in exchange for positive reviews. Any opinions expressed here are our own.
