The best performing pistols are versatile and come in all variations. Whether you are looking for a concealed carry handgun or a pistol for competition target shooting, this roundup will hook you up with the best performing handguns in the market.
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1. CZ 75 P-01
The CZ 75 P-01 is the pistol to go for if you are looking for excellent ergonomics coupled with high mag capacity, reliability, and outstanding accuracy. It features a sturdy aluminum alloy frame, equipped with a reliable and simple OMEGA trigger mechanism.
Besides being double-sided, the OMEGA trigger mechanism also comes with replaceable tap release control/manual safety. And of course, a modernized cock and trigger.
The featured steel sights come with luminescent points for effortless target acquisition.
Specs:
- Barrel length: 3.64″
- Caliber: 9×19
- Weight: 1.76lbs.
- Capacity: 15
- Grip: Rubber
- Sights: Luminescent
- Dimensions (h/w/d): 5.31/1.50/7.2″
- Frame: Aluminum Alloy
2. FN 509 Tactical BLK
Next on this best performing pistols list is the FN 509 Tactical BLK.
With this revolutionary handgun, you do not have to worry about which miniature red dot optics to use. This is because it features a US patent low-profile optic mounting system that is compatible with a wide range of miniature red dot optics in the market.
When it comes to concealed carry, the gun features a textured ramp that allows you to rack the slide against your boot, pants pocket, or belt loop. Even with 24-round magazines, you don’t have to worry about concealment convenience as they are roughly around the same length as the gun’s slide.
Lastly, the 4.5-inch stainless steel barrel comes with ½” x 28 threads that are compatible with most 9mm suppressors. What’s more, an O-ring integrated thread cap prevents loosening especially during use to a better shooting experience.
Specs:
- Mag Capacity: 10 or 17/24 Rd.
- Caliber: 9mm
- Barrel length: 4.5″
- Operation: Double-action
- Overall length: 7.9″
- Weight: 1.74lbs.
- Height: 5.75″
- Twist rate: 1:10″ RH
- Trigger pull: 5.5 – 7.7 lb.
- Width: 1.35″
- Sight radius: 5.79″
3. CZ SHADOW 2
The CZ Shadow 2 will increase the performance of any good shooter but will triumph the best ones in most if all eminent competitions. It also makes an excellent self-defense handgun thanks to its reliability.
Great ergonomics don’t get past the CZ Shadow 2. Its pistol grip and frame are shaped in such a way that it guarantees an ultimately secure and comfortable grip.
What’s more, the prominent checkering ensures your shooting hand is always in contact with the grip in any shooting situation.
Besides serving great ergonomics, the frame and slide on the CZ Shadow 2 are greatly modernized and work well with the pistol’s extended barrel to offer you faster and accurate shooting.
Lastly, a finely tuned trigger mechanism offers a shortened reset and an exceptionally smooth trigger pull.
Specs:
- Weight: 2.93lbs.
- Overall Dimensions (h / w / d): 6.18×1.34×8.5″
- Barrel Length: 4.72″
- Caliber: 9 × 19 | 9 × 21
- Sights: Optical fly Height-adjustable visor
- Tank Capacity: 19/10 (9 × 19) | 19/10 (9 × 21)
- Grip: Dural
- Safety features: Safety tooth Manual fuse
- Frame: Steel
4. Sig Sauer P220R 45 Legion
Like with other Sig Sauer firearms, the Sig Sauer P220R 45 Legion stands out among other guns of its kind and for a good reason. It comes packed with features that make it as good for competition as it is for self-defense.
For instance, the pistol’s stainless steel slide comes endowed with Electro-Optics X-ray sights for high visibility in all light conditions. This is a valuable feature since you never know when you might need to defend yourself.
This is even better when coupled with an enhanced grip thanks to the aggressive checkering on the front strap as well as below the trigger guard. That’s not all. An X-five undercut on the trigger guard will offer you a higher grip and ultimately more control of the firearm.
As far as recoil is concerned, a sturdy steel guide rod adds weight where needed. Lastly, with three eight-round magazines, you do not have to worry about capacity as you have more than enough to neutralize any hostile situations.
Specs:
- Caliber: 45 Auto
- Weight: 1.9lbs.
- Barrel Length: 4.4″
- Overall Length: 7.7″
- Height: 5.5″
- Sight Radius: 6.3″
- Overall Width: 1.3″
- Sights: X-RAY3 Day/Night Sights
- Grip Type: Black G10
- Barrel Material: Carbon Steel
5. Beretta 92 A1
The Beretta 92 A1 journey started with the reliable 92, where only the features that make it safe, accurate, and dependable were maintained. To top these up, the manufacturer added modern features valued by tactical shooters.
The result is a reliable pistol that is user-friendly and safe even for the novice. What’s more, you will also love the pistol’s advanced feeding mechanism. This is thanks to the three 17-round magazines that are corrosion-resistant and durable.
As far as maintenance is concerned, the magazines feature a dirt rail that collects grit and dirt out of the magazine.
Additionally, the Beretta 92 A1 also features an integral accessory rail that enables you to attach a wide array of tactical accessories such as laser and lighting devices. On the other hand, the pistol’s removable front sight allows you to exchange it effortlessly without any alterations.
Specs:
- Actions: Single/Double
- Barrel Length: 4.9
- Magazine: 17
- Caliber: 9×19 (PARA)
- Overall Length: 8.5”
- Overall Height: 5.4”
- Weight: 2.08lbs.
- Overall Width: 1.5”
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6. Canik TP9 SFX
Competition shooting pistols don't get past the TP9SFx for a good reason. It comes with standard features like an adjustable magazine, and multiple adapter plates that allow you to mount most reflex sights like the Warren Tactical sights.
Moreover, an ambidextrous charging handle allows for quick reloads when on the firing line. Undoubtedly, the TP9SFx is your easiest means to the medal stand.
Specs:
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Barrel Length: 5.20”
- Capacity: 20+1 rds.
- Overall Length: 8.29”
- Weight: 1.89 lbs.
- Height: 6.20”
- Width: 1.38”
7. Glock 19 Gen4
The GLOCK 19 Gen4 pistol is chambered 9 mm Luger and offers great firepower for fast and accurate shooting right out of the box. Its reduced dimensions adapt it for versatile roles since it doesn't compromise the commendable magazine capacity.
Though the handgun already comes with a functional ergonomic system, you can easily customize the grip to fit your hand size thanks to the featured modular backstrap system. Lastly, an ambidextrous reversible mag catch makes it suitable for right and left-handed shooters.
Specs:
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- Barrel Length: 4.02″
- Trigger Pull: 28 N
- Loaded Weight: 1.89lbs.
- Standard Mag Capacity: 15
- Optional Mag Capacity: 17 / 19 / 24 / 31 / 33
- Overall Length: 7.28″
8. Wilson Combat EDC X9L
The EDC X9L embodies the ergonomics, trigger pull, and accuracy of the classic 1911 enhanced with modern performance and reliability. With a longer barrel, you get an extended sight radius to match the standard 1911 while its 15-round magazine capacity and a new aluminum mag well ensure swift reloads when on the clock or under stress.
The front and back strap on the EDC X9L feature the Wilson Combat X-Tac tread pattern renowned for its tactile but comfortable grip in all shooting situations. Thanks to an enlarged trigger guard, X-frame grip, and an optional trigger pad length, you can expect better recoil control and a comfortable fit for all hand sizes
Lastly, the EDC X9L has the option of an accessory rail and will fit most leather holsters designed for 5” 1911 pistols.
Specs:
- Barrel Length: 5”
- Calibers: 9mm
- Overall Length: 8.7”
- Magazine Capacity: 15 or 18 rounds
- Height: 5.25”
- Sight Radius: 6.6”
- Weight Empty: 2.03lbs.
- Width: 1.4”
- Accuracy Guarantee: 1” at 25 yds
- Weight Loaded: 2.66lbs.
9. Nighthawk Customs Vice President
The Vice President is the third member of the Nighthawk Custom Boardroom Series of 1911’s. It features a smaller commander slide but is chambered in 9mm like the President and Chairman before it.
As a competitive shooter, you will love the heavy angle cuts in the slide as it allows for faster cycling. Besides giving the handgun an aggressive look, the custom Railscales Ascend grips will have an excellent feel on most hands.
Specs:
- Caliber: 9 mm
- Frame Size: Commander
- Safety: Single
- Light Rail: No Rail
- Overall Length: 7.85″
- Height: 5.75″
- Slide Width: 0.92″
- Pistol Width: 1.25″
- Unloaded Weight: 2.38lbs.
- Grip Thickness: Regular
- Barrel Length: 4.25″
- Sight Radius: 5.76″
- Magazine Capacity: 10
- Front Sight: GOLD BEAD
- Rear Sight: Heinie Black Ledge
10. Heckler & Koch P2000 SK
Like its larger P2000 counterpart, the subcompact P2000 SK combines features of the renowned HK USP Compact pistol with modern technological innovations from the manufacturer — but in a smaller and easily concealable design.
Specs:
- Caliber: 9 mm x 19, .40 S & W
- Weight: 1.5lbs.
- Overall Height: 4.55”
- Overall Length: 6.40”
- Sight Radius:5.18”
- Magazine Capacity: 10 Rounds – 9 mm, 9 Rounds – .40S&W
- Overall Width: 1.37” (9mmx9) , 1.27” (.40 S & W)
- Barrel Length: 3.26”
- Single Action Trigger Pull: 4.50 lbs
- Double Action Trigger Pull: 11.47 lbs
There are hundreds of handguns to choose from. However, with this list, you have a better chance of landing some of the best performing pistols in the market.
The best part is that most of these pistols guarantee accuracy, durability, and efficiency out of the box without modifications.
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