10 Best Guns Under $500

Published on December 14, 2025
Duration: 15:17

This video presents the Honest Outlaw's top 10 best firearms under $500 for 2025, covering a diverse range of categories including pistols, pistol caliber carbines, rifles, and shotguns. The selections prioritize value, reliability, and performance for their price point, offering options suitable for concealed carry, home defense, hunting, and competition shooting. The instructor emphasizes practical considerations and real-world testing for each recommendation.

Quick Summary

The Honest Outlaw's 2025 list of the best guns under $500 prioritizes value, reliability, and performance across diverse firearm types. Key recommendations include the Springfield Echelon for its modularity and reliability, the Ruger American Gen 2 for bolt-action accuracy, and the S&W M&P Shield Plus as the top concealed carry pistol.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Criteria
  2. 01:38#10 Geissele Blade 6
  3. 02:41#9 Springfield Echelon
  4. 04:02#8 Ruger American Gen 2
  5. 04:33#7 Smith & Wesson FPC
  6. 06:03#6 Ruger MAX-9
  7. 07:37#5 PSA AR-15 11.5" DI
  8. 08:28#4 SIG P365
  9. 09:45#3 S&W Bodyguard 2.0 Carry Comp
  10. 11:43#2 Mossberg 590
  11. 13:20#1 S&W M&P Shield Plus
  12. 14:50Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the criteria for a gun to be included in the Honest Outlaw's best under $500 list?

For a firearm to be featured on the Honest Outlaw's best under $500 list, it must first be priced below $500. Second, it needs to be considered incredibly good for its price point. Finally, the list aims for diversity, including various types of firearms like pistols, rifles, pistol caliber carbines, and shotguns.

Which pistol caliber carbine is recommended under $500, and what are its key features?

The Geissele Blade 6 is recommended as a pistol caliber carbine under $500. It's a blowback-operated firearm that accepts Glock magazines and includes Picatinny rails for accessories. While noted for reliability and accuracy for its price, some ergonomic quirks like the safety and charging handle are mentioned.

What makes the Springfield Echelon a standout pistol under $500?

The Springfield Echelon, even in its non-comp version under $500, is praised for its adjustable optics mounting system, excellent trigger, comfortable ergonomics with interchangeable backstraps, and a modular fire control unit. It also demonstrated exceptional reliability during extensive testing.

What is the top-rated bolt-action rifle under $500 according to the Honest Outlaw?

The Ruger American Gen 2 is identified as the best bolt-action rifle under $500. It offers a smooth bolt action, high reliability, and impressive sub-MOA accuracy. The Gen 2 model also includes a cheek riser and comes in various color options.

Which handgun is considered the best for concealed carry under $500?

The S&W M&P Shield Plus, particularly the Performance Center version, is the top recommendation for concealed carry under $500. It's praised for its accuracy, shootability, and superior grip texture and trigger compared to other micro-compacts like the SIG P365, making it a preferred choice for many.

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