Most Popular Handguns 2024

4 min read 30-01-2025

Most Popular Handguns 2024

The world of handguns is vast and varied, catering to a wide range of needs and preferences. Whether you're a seasoned firearms enthusiast or a first-time buyer, choosing the right handgun can be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide explores some of the most popular handguns of 2024, considering factors like reliability, accuracy, features, and overall user experience. We'll delve into various categories and highlight top contenders, offering valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. This guide focuses on popular handguns, but remember to always consult local laws and regulations before purchasing any firearm.

Top Handguns by Category

This section breaks down the most popular handguns into key categories, making it easier to identify models that align with your specific needs.

1. Best Concealed Carry Handguns

Concealed carry handguns prioritize compactness and ease of concealment, without sacrificing reliability or stopping power. Here are some top contenders for 2024:

  • Glock 43X/48: The Glock 43X and 48 are popular choices due to their slim profile, single-stack magazines, and reliable performance. Their relatively small size makes them easy to conceal, while their manageable recoil makes them comfortable to shoot. Many consider the Glock 48, with its slightly longer barrel, to offer improved accuracy over the 43X.

  • Sig Sauer P365: Another popular choice for concealed carry, the P365 boasts a micro-compact design and a high-capacity magazine. Its relatively small size and lightweight design makes it ideal for everyday carry (EDC), while the larger capacity offers an advantage in self-defense situations. The P365XL, with its slightly larger grip, is also a popular option.

  • Springfield Armory Hellcat: The Hellcat stands out with its incredibly slim profile and surprisingly high magazine capacity for its size. It's known for its comfortable grip and reliable performance, making it a strong competitor in the micro-compact market.

Table 1: Comparison of Concealed Carry Handguns

Handgun Model Caliber Capacity Weight (approx.) Notable Features
Glock 43X 9mm 10 17 oz Slim profile, reliable performance
Glock 48 9mm 10 18 oz Slim profile, longer barrel
Sig Sauer P365 9mm 10 17.8 oz Micro-compact, high capacity
Springfield Hellcat 9mm 11 18.5 oz Extremely slim, high capacity

2. Best Home Defense Handguns

Home defense handguns prioritize stopping power and capacity. These are often larger and more powerful than concealed carry options.

  • Smith & Wesson M&P 9 M2.0: The M&P 9 M2.0 is a highly regarded choice for home defense, offering a reliable platform with high capacity magazines. Its ergonomic design and manageable recoil make it suitable for both experienced and novice shooters.

  • Beretta 92FS: A classic choice known for its reliability, the Beretta 92FS is a full-size pistol offering excellent stopping power and capacity. Its robust design and proven track record make it a popular option for home defense.

  • Springfield XD-S MOD.2: While technically designed for concealed carry, the XD-S MOD.2's larger capacity (compared to most concealed carry options) makes it a practical option for home defense. It's more compact than larger duty-sized firearms.

3. Best Handguns for First-Time Buyers

Choosing your first handgun requires careful consideration of factors like ease of use, recoil management, and overall ergonomics.

  • Ruger Security-9: The Ruger Security-9 is known for its affordability, reliability, and user-friendly design. Its relatively manageable recoil makes it a suitable choice for new shooters, while its features make it a decent all-around gun.

  • SIG Sauer P320: The modular design of the P320 allows for customization and versatility, making it suitable for various situations. The smaller versions are manageable for new shooters, and the larger versions are suitable for more demanding uses.

  • Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22: For those looking to practice before graduating to more powerful cartridges, the M&P 15-22 is a .22LR pistol that closely mirrors the feel of many larger 9mm handguns. It’s a cost-effective option for training.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Handgun

Beyond popularity, several key factors should influence your handgun choice.

  • Caliber: Popular calibers include 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. 9mm offers a good balance of power and manageable recoil, while .45 ACP delivers more stopping power but with greater recoil. .40 S&W sits somewhere in the middle. Your choice should depend on your intended use and your experience.

  • Size and Weight: Consider the size and weight of the handgun relative to your hand size and physical strength. Larger handguns tend to be more accurate and easier to handle, while smaller handguns are more easily concealed.

  • Ergonomics: A comfortable grip is crucial for accuracy and control. Look for handguns that fit your hand well and offer a good balance.

  • Reliability: Choose a handgun from a reputable manufacturer with a proven track record of reliability.

  • Features: Consider features like safety mechanisms, sights, and magazine capacity based on your needs and preferences.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Handgun for You

The popularity of a handgun is only one factor in choosing the right firearm for your specific needs and preferences. This article has presented some of the most popular handguns in 2024 across various categories, highlighting their key features and benefits. Remember to always prioritize safety, handle firearms responsibly, and seek professional guidance if you are unsure about any aspect of handgun ownership or selection. Research and careful consideration are key to making the right decision. Regular practice is also crucial to improve your proficiency and safety with your chosen handgun.

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