Best Handguns 2024: Top Picks for Performance and Reliability

Choosing the best handgun in 2024 requires careful consideration of several factors, including performance, ergonomics, and suitability for different needs. Some standout models offer excellent value and reliability whether you are a newcomer to firearms or a seasoned enthusiast. For those looking for the best value in centerfire handguns, the Taurus GX4 is highly recommended.

If concealability is crucial, options like the Glock 43X and Kimber KD9Sc provide excellent ergonomics and reliability, making them popular choices. Each model offers unique features that cater to various preferences and applications.

Key Takeaways

• Taurus GX4 offers excellent value in centerfire handguns.
• Glock 43X and Kimber KD9Sc are highly recommended for concealed carry.

Evaluating Handgun Performance and Ergonomics

Evaluating handgun performance and ergonomics involves understanding several key factors. Recoil and handling, trigger mechanisms, and barrel design all play critical roles in determining how effective and comfortable a handgun is to shoot.

Recoil and Handling

Recoil affects how quickly a shooter can return to the target after each shot. Handguns with heavy frames or made of steel generally have less perceived recoil than lighter models. Due to their design, semi-auto pistols tend to manage recoil better than revolvers.

Meanwhile, handling also includes grip comfort, which is influenced by the grip's texture, size, and shape. Ergonomic grips with finger grooves and textured surfaces provide better control. This is especially important for maintaining accuracy during rapid fire.

Factors influencing handling include:

• Weight: Heavier handguns often offer more stability.
• Grip design: Ergonomic grips can reduce hand fatigue.
• Balance: A well-balanced handgun improves control.

Trigger Mechanisms and Precision

The trigger mechanism directly impacts a shooter's ability to be precise. There are various types of triggers, such as single-action and double-action. Single-action triggers require less force and travel, making them more accurate but less versatile than double-action.

Meanwhile, precision is measured by how consistently a handgun can place shots on target. A smooth, crisp trigger pull enhances precision. The trigger's reset characteristics, including how quickly it returns to the firing position, are also crucial.

Essential considerations for triggers include:

• Trigger pull weight: Lighter pulls are usually more precise.
• Trigger travel: Shorter travel can enhance shooting speed and accuracy.
• Reset: Short, tactile reset allows for quicker follow-up shots.

Barrel Design and Impact on Shootability

Barrel design significantly impacts both accuracy and shootability. Longer barrels generally provide better accuracy, offering a longer sight radius and stabilizing the bullet better. However, longer barrels can also add weight and affect handling.

Meanwhile, shootability encompasses how easy and comfortable the handgun is to shoot. Factors like barrel length, muzzle flip, and rigidity play roles. Muzzle flip, where the barrel rises with each shot, can be mitigated by design features such as ported barrels.

Critical aspects of barrel design include:

• Barrel length: Longer barrels improve accuracy but can hinder quick handling.
• Porting: Reduces muzzle flip for faster follow-up shots.
• Material: High-quality steel barrels provide longevity and better performance.

Sig Sauer P365 X Macro

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 17+1
• Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
• Overall Length: 6.6 inches
• Weight: 20.7 oz
• Pros: High capacity for size, optics-ready, excellent ergonomics.
• Cons: Higher price point, some users may find it slightly bulky for pocket carry.
• P365 Holster

Glock 43X

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 10+1
• Barrel Length: 3.41 inches
• Overall Length: 6.5 inches
• Weight: 18.7 oz
• Pros: Slim profile, reliable, aftermarket support.
• Cons: Limited magazine capacity, grip texture could be more aggressive.
• Glock 43X Holster

Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 13+1
• Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
• Overall Length: 6.1 inches
• Weight: 20.2 oz
• Pros: Improved trigger, large package capacity, good ergonomics.
• Cons: Heavier than some competitors. Grip may be small for larger hands.
• M&P Shield Holster

Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 15+1
• Barrel Length: 3.7 inches
• Overall Length: 6.6 inches
• Weight: 21 oz
• Pros: High capacity, optics-ready, compact yet powerful.
• Cons: Aggressive grip texture may be uncomfortable for some, slightly heavier.
• Hellcat Pro Holster

Ruger Max-9

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 12+1
• Barrel Length: 3.2 inches
• Overall Length: 6 inches
• Weight: 18.4 oz
• Pros: Affordable, optics-ready, good balance of size and capacity.
• Cons: Trigger pull could be better, basic sights.
• Max 9 Holster 

Walther PDP F-Series

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 15+1
• Barrel Length: 4 inches
• Overall Length: 7.5 inches
• Weight: 21.3 oz
• Pros: Excellent trigger, customizable grip, optics-ready.
• Cons: Larger size may limit concealability, higher price.
• PDP Holster

Taurus GX4

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 11+1
• Barrel Length: 3.06 inches
• Overall Length: 5.8 inches
• Weight: 18.5 oz
• Pros: Affordable, compact, good trigger.
• Cons: Somewhat snappy recoil, limited aftermarket accessories.
• GX4 Holster

CZ P-10 S

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 12+1
• Barrel Length: 3.5 inches
• Overall Length: 6.6 inches
• Weight: 24.4 oz
• Pros: Excellent build quality, great ergonomics, reliability.
• Cons: Heavier than most subcompacts, slightly bulky.
• P-10S Holster

 FN 503

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 8+1
• Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
• Overall Length: 5.9 inches
• Weight: 21 oz
• Pros: Solid construction, reliable, easy to conceal.
• Cons: Low capacity, higher price compared to similar guns.
• 503 Holster

Heckler & Koch VP9SK

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 10+1
• Barrel Length: 3.39 inches
• Overall Length: 6.61 inches
• Weight: 23.07 oz
• Pros: Superb ergonomics, reliable, excellent trigger.
• Cons: Heavier than some competitors, more expensive.
• VP9SK Holster

Canik TP9 Elite SC

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 12+1
• Barrel Length: 3.6 inches
• Overall Length: 6.7 inches
• Weight: 24.78 oz
• Pros: Great value, excellent trigger, optics-ready.
• Cons: Heavier than many subcompacts, slightly bulky.
• TP9 Holster

Kimber Micro 9

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 7+1
• Barrel Length: 3.15 inches
• Overall Length: 6.1 inches
• Weight: 15.6 oz
• Pros: Compact, stylish, easy to conceal.
• Cons: Limited capacity and higher recoil due to small size.
• Micro 9 Holster

Glock 26 Gen 5

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 10+1
• Barrel Length: 3.43 inches
• Overall Length: 6.42 inches
• Weight: 21.69 oz
• Pros: High reliability, versatile with magazine options, compact.
• Cons: Chunky grip, slightly heavier.
• Glock 26 Holster

SCCY CPX-2

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 10+1
• Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
• Overall Length: 6 inches
• Weight: 15 oz
• Pros: Very affordable, compact, and lightweight.
• Cons: Heavy trigger pull, basic construction.
• CPX-2 Holster

Concealed Carry Considerations

When selecting a handgun for concealed carry, it is vital to consider both the type of holster and the balance between the firearm's size and capacity. These factors significantly affect comfort, concealment, and overall effectiveness.

Finding the Optimal Balance Between Size and Capacity

Balancing the size and capacity of a concealed carry handgun is essential. Smaller guns like the Ruger LCP Max offer easy concealment but often at the cost of lower ammunition capacity. These are ideal for those who prioritize discreet carry in everyday activities.

Meanwhile, compact models, such as the Springfield Hellcat and Glock 43X, balance size and capacity. These firearms offer more rounds without being too bulky to carry comfortably. They are suitable for individuals who need a middle ground.

Weight also plays a role in choosing a gun. Lighter guns, like the Kahr CM9, are easier to carry all day. However, a gun's build quality and reliability should be maintained for lighter weight. Essentially, one must evaluate personal needs and scenarios to determine the most suitable size and capacity for their concealed carry weapon.

Optics and Sights

The type of sighting system is crucial for accuracy and usability when choosing a handgun. The main options are iron sights and red dot sights, and many modern pistols come with both.

Iron Sights Vs. Red Dot Sights

Iron sights are traditional, consisting of a front sight post and an adjustable rear sight. They are reliable, don't require batteries, and are more durable due to fewer moving parts.

Meanwhile, red dot sights provide a quicker target acquisition by projecting a dot onto a lens. They are famous for competitive shooting and home defense. While they require batteries, advancements have extended their battery life significantly.

Key differences and considerations:

• Iron sights are simpler, not needing any power source.
• Red dot sights offer faster target acquisition but require battery management.
• Durability: Iron sights tend to last longer in rugged conditions.
• Visibility: Red dot sights are ideal in low-light scenarios.

Optics-Ready Handguns and Aftermarket Support

Many new handguns come with optics-ready slides, allowing users to mount red dot sights easily. This feature has become a selling point for many firearm manufacturers.

Optics-ready handguns often provide:

• Pre-cut slides for red dot sight attachment.
• Compatibility with popular optic brands (e.g., Trijicon, Holosun).
• Enhanced versatility for both novice and experienced shooters.

Aftermarket support is vital for those wanting to upgrade or modify their gun. The aftermarket offers:

• A variety of red dot sights with diverse features.
• Custom optics-ready slide cuts if not factory-provided.
• Enhanced sights like fiber optics or tritium for better visibility.

Recommendations and Top Picks

When choosing the best handguns for 2024, focusing on specific needs such as self-defense, competitive shooting, and versatility for law enforcement and personal protection is essential. Here are some top recommendations based on expert reviews and performance.

Best Handguns for Self-Defense

For self-defense, the Glock 19 stands out as a dependable choice. Its compact design doesn't compromise firepower, making it ideal for concealed carry. The Sig Sauer P365 is another excellent option, praised for its capacity and compact size, perfect for everyday carry.

The Taurus GX4 offers excellent value in a small package. It's affordable yet reliable, suitable for those on a budget. Lastly, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ in 9mm delivers ease of use and smooth action, making it a solid pick for self-defense scenarios.

Top Choices for Competitive Shooting

In competitive shooting, the Walther PDP Compact Steel Frame is a standout. It provides precision and durability, essential for competitive settings. Another great pick is the Staccato CS, known for its exceptional accuracy and robust build.

The Canik TP9SFX also deserves mention. It is favored for its value and features that cater to competitive shooters, such as its superior trigger and extended barrel. Springfield Armory's Echelon offers versatility and reliability, ensuring it performs well under competitive conditions.

Versatile Models for Law Enforcement and Personal Protection

For law enforcement and personal protection, the Sig Sauer P320 stands out due to its modular design, allowing for customization to meet various duty requirements. The Glock 17 is another top choice, known for its reliability and widespread use in law enforcement.

Kimber's 1911-style handguns, such as the EDC X9, blend classic design with modern performance. CZ pistols, including models like the CZ P-01, are also praised for their balance and ease of use. These models deliver versatility and proven performance, making them suitable for various situations, from duty use to personal protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common questions about handguns, including expert recommendations, top-rated models for precision and reliability, and the latest features in 2024.

What handguns are most recommended by firearms experts this year?

The Sig Sauer P365 is frequently cited for concealed carry due to its balance of size, capacity, and ease of use. Taurus GX4 also gets high marks for its value in the centerfire category.

What are the top-selling handguns in the market this year?

The Sig Sauer P365 continues to be a favorite among buyers. 

What models are currently preferred by professional marksmen and shooting enthusiasts?

Professional marksmen prefer the Sig Sauer P365 XMacro for its compact design. Shooting enthusiasts often turn to the Sig P322 platform for its race gun features packed into a .22 LR.

How do the latest handguns compare in terms of safety and technological advancements?

New models like the PSA 5.7 Rock incorporate advanced safety features, including raised beaver tails and better control ergonomics. Technological advancements include improved magazine capacities and modular designs.