New Pistol for 2025: FN Reflex XL

The Springfield Echelon Alpha is presented as a cost-effective entry into the Echelon lineup, maintaining core functionality and ergonomics while reducing price. Key changes include simplified packaging, a polymer optic cover, a single magazine, and a re-contoured slide without rear cocking tabs. Despite these modifications, the Alpha retains the Echelon's excellent trigger, ambidextrous controls, and optics-ready capability, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers.

This review of the HK VP9CC micro-compact pistol compares it to the Sig P365 and the HK CC9, highlighting its VP9-like ergonomics and controls. It features a cold hammer-forged barrel, optics-ready slide with an RMSC footprint, and a tritium front sight. While slightly larger than the P365, it offers comparable capacity and slightly better shootability, making it a strong contender for concealed carry, especially for existing VP9 users.

This review of the all-metal Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 highlights its shootable balance and controllable movement, largely attributed to its weight. Key pros include improved slide serrations with a cocking shelf, tritium night sights with a daylight-bright yellow-green dot, and a crisp, flat-faced trigger with a predictable pull for accuracy. The handgun is optics-ready with a versatile plate system allowing for low-profile red dot mounting and boasts a 17+1 round capacity. The primary cons identified are its significant weight and larger size, making it less ideal for concealed carry, and a slightly higher cost.

Hickok45 provides an in-depth look at various generations of the Glock 19, from Gen 2 to Gen 6, highlighting key evolutionary differences in design and features. The video includes practical shooting demonstrations of older and newer models, offering insights into their reliability and handling characteristics. The presenter emphasizes that despite generational changes, the core functionality and reliability of the Glock 19 remain consistent.

John Lovell of Warrior Poet Society reviews and compares four popular subcompact pistols for concealed carry: the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus, Glock 43X, SIG Sauer P365, and Springfield Hellcat. The review analyzes each firearm based on size, price, ammunition capacity, ergonomics, trigger quality, accessory availability, and sights, providing a detailed breakdown to help viewers make an informed decision for their personal carry needs.

This review of the Ruger LCP Max focuses on its suitability as a deep carry firearm. The presenter details its size, ergonomics, trigger, sights, and reliability, noting its effectiveness for concealed carry despite some limitations in shootability for new users. The video emphasizes its compact nature and the importance of knowing its capabilities and limitations for self-defense.

This review provides an expert look at the Heizer Defense PS1 Pocket Shotgun, a unique single-shot firearm chambered in .410 and .45 Colt. The video highlights its durable stainless steel or titanium construction, integrated grip storage, and impressive reliability demonstrated through extensive stress testing. Manufactured in Missouri, the PS1 is positioned as a novel option for concealed carry or self-defense, with production and pricing details also discussed.

This review provides an expert look at the Gilboa Snake, a unique double-barrel AR-15 variant. The design, originating from Israel, focuses on maximizing firepower in short engagement windows. Key features include dual magazine wells, a proprietary gas piston system, and independent dual triggers for civilian compliance. The presenter, Liam Brien, demonstrates a high level of technical expertise regarding its operation and legal configurations.

This video compares the recoil of the Desert Eagle in .44 Magnum and .50 AE calibers. The .44 Mag features a new muzzle brake, while the .50 AE uses a 300-grain Speer Gold Dot. Simultaneous firing highlights the visual difference in muzzle flip and recoil impulse between the two powerful handguns.

This video provides an expert analysis of 9mm vs. .45 ACP performance using high-speed cameras. Instructors Patrick Sweeney and Jim Tarr from Guns & Ammo demonstrate how factors like bullet mass and energy affect recoil, slide cycling, and muzzle rise, concluding that 9mm generally offers superior control.