Best Gun of 2026 | Rideout Arsenal Dragon

The Rideout Arsenal Dragon represents a novel handgun design showcased at SHOT Show, featuring a lever-delayed blowback operating system akin to a rifle. Its modularity allows for tool-less disassembly and customization of components like the muzzle device and grip. The Dragon utilizes Springfield Echelon magazines and incorporates a Non-Reciprocating Optics Carrier (NROC) for enhanced sight stability.

The Rideout Arsenal Dragon Pistol, showcased at SHOT Show 2026, features a novel lever-delayed blowback system with a fixed barrel and a unique slide-less bolt carrier assembly. Its extremely low bore axis promises reduced muzzle rise, and the design incorporates a fixed optic mount for a stable sight picture. The pistol is fully modular, allowing for tool-less swapping of components like muzzle devices and backstraps, and features an integrated Fire Control Unit within the trigger guard for easy chassis and grip upgrades. Chambered in 9mm, it utilizes standard Springfield Echelon magazines.

This video provides an expert overview of new releases from Palmetto State Armory (PSA) at Shot Show 2026, including the Sabre 11 pistol with an Icarus Precision grip, the modular AXR handgun series (including the AXR Micro), and the Sabre-key SBS. Updates on the .50 cal Sabre Lancet are also discussed, with production paused due to testing costs. The presentation highlights PSA's innovative approach to firearm design and modularity.

This review highlights the Taurus TX9 as a significant disruptor in the 9mm handgun market, challenging established brands like Glock and Smith & Wesson with its sub-$500 price point. The TX9 offers advanced features such as a modular chassis, optics-ready slide (TORO system), and improved ergonomics, often surpassing more expensive competitors. The video emphasizes its reliability, accuracy, and US manufacturing, positioning it as a strong value proposition for consumers.

Lucas Botkin provides an expert analysis of SHOT Show 2026, highlighting significant industry trends and new product releases. He discusses the FN SCAR's modernization, Daniel Defense's X1 technology, PSA's premium shift, and the explosive growth in the suppressor market driven by 3D printing. Botkin also offers a critical market analysis, stating the industry is undergoing a 'correction' rather than a slump, emphasizing the need for innovation and quality.

This video from Classic Firearms highlights the top 5 new pistols unveiled at SHOT Show 2026, based on hands-on evaluation. The selections range from an affordable, beginner-friendly FN 309 to high-performance competition models like the S&W M&P 9 M2.0 Competitor HD and Canik MC9 Prime Radian. It also features innovative designs such as the striker-fired Zermatt Arms Waltz 9 and the groundbreaking Rideout Arsenal Dragon with its ultra-low bore axis and AR-15-like operating system. The review provides insights into pricing, features, and target audiences for each firearm.

This video showcases a custom MK18-style AR-15 build with a focus on high-end tactical accessories. Key components include a Daniel Defense RIS II rail, Unity Tactical FAST mounts with Aimpoint optics, and a Cloud Defensive Rein weapon light. The build emphasizes a 2.26-inch optical centerline for improved ergonomics and features a 10.3-inch barrel chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO.

This video showcases a Zastava ZPAP M70 AK-47 converted into a bullpup configuration. The custom build features a unique chassis with a FAMAS-style carry handle and an integrated optics rail. It retains the standard 7.62x39mm caliber and utilizes a rear-mounted magazine, demonstrating a significant firearms modification.

A $70 Amazon ACOG clone failed critical durability tests, including impact and submersion, while a $1300 Trijicon ACOG is implied to be the reliable standard. The budget optic showed significant water ingress and seal failure after being submerged in a river, rendering it unusable. This comparison highlights the stark differences in build quality and reliability between budget knock-offs and premium, battle-tested optics.

The PSA Sabre is presented as a high-value budget AR-15, retailing around $900. It comes with several factory-installed upgrades like an enhanced charging handle, safety selector, trigger, and takedown pins. Key features include a 13.7-inch pinned and welded barrel and an adjustable gas block for performance tuning.