Pick up a new handgun today to start a new hobby or prepare for self-defense. Whether you’re preparing to hit the range or protect your family in an emergency, compare these 10 best beginner handgun options today.
1. Mossberg MC1sc
The Mossberg MC1sc is a single-stack subcompact 9mm pistol. At first glance, it does look a little different than some of the other single-stack pistols it is competing with. The first thing you’ll notice is the grip texture. Instead of having a texture around the whole grip, it has an upper section that wraps around the back and a lower section that wraps around the front. So you wind up having grip texture where middle and ring finger wraps around the grip. You also have grip texture in the palm of your hand but not on you purlicue (between your thumb and index.)
2. Smith and Wesson 686+
Pick up a Smith and Wesson 686+ for your first revolver. Pack up to seven .357 or .38 Special rounds. The optional four-inch barrel prevents excess recoil but makes it more difficult to carry. While not many revolvers made the list, it’s no surprise that one of them is a Smith and Wesson.
3. Heckler and Koch VP9
Introduced in 2014, the VP9 uses a polymer frame that houses the magazine and fire control group. The VP9 is sleek and modern looking, in part due to a complete lack of a hammer at the rear of the gun. The handgun has modular ergonomics—that is, the backstrap and grip panels can be replaced to create a pistol that feels more comfortable in a smaller or larger hand, with a thicker or thinner grip. The pistol comes with three backstrap panels and six grip panels, allowing for twenty-seven different ergonomic configurations. A three-dot, glow-in-the-dark sight prepares you for low-light shooting situations.
4. Kahr CW9
Another popular striker-fired pistol, the Kahr CW9 is one of the lightest handguns for beginners. Weighing in just under one pound, this convenient handgun is a great carrying option. You won’t have to worry about jams with this intuitive pistol.
5. Beretta PX4 Storm
The best beginner pistol should have an automatic firing pin block. This prevents the firing pin from accidental discharge while it's holstered, so the Beretta PX4 should be on any beginner pistol list.
6. Smith and Wesson M&P 380 Shield
The Smith and Wesson M&P 380 Shield excels as a starter pistol. An audible trigger reset feature prevents accidental discharge, while the small rear grip cuts assist new firearm owners in safely aiming this pistol. A white dot sight and angled grip are convenient for taking aim. All these features are packed into a reliable Smith and Wesson design.
7. Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 9mm
In 2016, Smith & Wesson introduced the M&P M2.0, an improved second generation of the M&P. They’ve now brought the M2.0 improvements into the whole line that stretches from 5-inch guns aimed more at the competition crowd to the compact Shield, which has been hugely popular with both Law Enforcement and the concealed-carry market.
8. Sig Sauer P320
There’s a reason the U.S. Army chose the Sig Sauer P320 as a sidearm for military personnel. There are many interchangeable components, making it easy to adjust the grip size and design to fit your hand. This popular firearm also has no external safety or decocking lever to snag on your holster or belt as you draw it.
9. Ruger LCR9
Another revolver that makes the top 10 list, the Ruger LCR9 is a snub-nosed option, unlike the Smith and Wesson 686+. A long trigger pull comes from the double-action-only trigger. A snub nose increases the recoil but gives you a smaller handgun for more convenient handling.
10. Springfield XD
Last, though certainly not least, is the Springfield XS Mod 2 Service Model. This popular pistol is a striker fire with aggressive grip texturing, sleek design, and comes from a highly popular and reliable manufacturer.
Shop for Handguns Today Now that you have a better understanding of the top 10 popular handguns, it’s time to go shopping. Shop for handguns today to compare prices, specifications, and ammunition for leading concealed carry or target practice options. Keep your household safe or enjoy a fun hobby taking aim at the target range with the best small firearms at Guns Inc.