Brutally Honest About 5 Popular 9mm Pistols

Published on April 19, 2026
Duration: 14:46

This video offers a brutally honest review of five popular 9mm full-size handguns: the Beretta APX, HK USP, Springfield XD Elite, Ruger SR9, and SIG Sauer P320. The instructor, Chris from Honest Outlaw, provides critical assessments of each firearm's strengths and weaknesses, focusing on ergonomics, trigger performance, reliability, and overall value, often comparing them to modern standards. He highlights specific flaws that can hinder an otherwise decent system, emphasizing that no gun is perfect.

Quick Summary

Honest Outlaw's review highlights significant flaws in popular 9mm pistols: the Beretta APX's poor aesthetics, the HK USP's outdated ergonomics and trigger, the Springfield XD Elite's durability concerns, the Ruger SR9's reliability issues and awkward safety, and the SIG P320's harsh recoil impulse and controversial history.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction: 5 Popular 9mm Pistols
  2. 01:47Number 5: Beretta APX Review
  3. 03:37Number 4: HK USP Series Review
  4. 05:30Number 3: Springfield XD Elite Review
  5. 08:02Number 2: Ruger SR9 Review
  6. 10:35Number 1: SIG Sauer P320 (M17) Review
  7. 13:33Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main criticisms of the Beretta APX?

The Beretta APX is criticized primarily for its aesthetics, described as 'ugly' and 'blocky,' which the instructor believes hinders its popularity despite its affordable price point and decent performance in areas like trigger, grip, and reliability.

Why is the HK USP considered outdated?

The HK USP, while a classic, feels blocky and chunky by modern standards. Its standard trigger is poor, the grip is uncomfortable for most, and it's a large pistol for its 15-round capacity, making it less appealing for contemporary use compared to newer alternatives.

What are the durability concerns with the Springfield XD Elite?

Long-term competitive shooters have observed that Springfield XD models tend to wear out much faster than comparable firearms like Glocks or M&Ps. While unlikely to affect the average owner, this suggests a potential weakness in long-term durability under heavy use.

What are the significant drawbacks of the Ruger SR9?

The Ruger SR9 suffers from reliability issues reported by many users, a difficult-to-operate safety lever requiring a grip break, and an oversprung recoil system. The loaded chamber indicator is also criticized for being useless and potentially impeding accuracy.

What are the primary issues with the SIG Sauer P320?

The SIG P320's high bore axis leads to a significant recoil impulse and muzzle flip. It's also plagued by controversy regarding drop-safe issues, build quality, and reliability problems reported by military and law enforcement users, leading some agencies to drop it.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Honest Outlaw

View all →