Top 5 New Pistols At SHOT Show 2026

Published on January 28, 2026
Duration: 24:23

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.

Quick Summary

The top 5 new pistols from SHOT Show 2026 include the FN 309 for beginners, the S&W M&P 9 M2.0 Competitor HD and Canik MC9 Prime Radian for competition, the unique Zermatt Arms Waltz 9, and the innovative Rideout Arsenal Dragon with its ultra-low bore axis.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: SHOT Show 2026 Top 5 Pistols
  2. 00:38#5: FN 309 - Beginner-Friendly Pistol
  3. 03:43#4: Smith & Wesson M&P 9 M2.0 Competitor HD
  4. 07:05#3: Canik MC9 Prime Radian - Collaboration Pistol
  5. 09:58#2: Zermatt Arms Waltz 9 - Striker-Fired 2011
  6. 13:44Honorable Mentions: OA Defense, Jacob Grey, Zenith, Staccato
  7. 18:15#1: Rideout Arsenal Dragon - Innovative Design

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the top 5 new pistols featured from SHOT Show 2026?

The top 5 new pistols highlighted were the FN 309 (entry-level), Smith & Wesson M&P 9 M2.0 Competitor HD (competition), Canik MC9 Prime Radian (collaboration), Zermatt Arms Waltz 9 (striker-fired 2011 style), and the Rideout Arsenal Dragon (innovative design with low bore axis).

Which new pistol is designed specifically for new shooters?

The FN 309 is highlighted as a pistol designed for new shooters, focusing on affordability (MSRP ~$599) and user-friendliness, including features like a magazine loading indicator.

What makes the Rideout Arsenal Dragon unique among new pistols?

The Rideout Arsenal Dragon is notable for featuring the lowest bore axis on the market and utilizing a bolt carrier system similar to an AR-15, eschewing a traditional slide for innovative operation and tool-less disassembly.

What is the price range for the Zermatt Arms Waltz 9?

The Zermatt Arms Waltz 9, described as a striker-fired 2011-style pistol, starts at a premium price point of $4,900 and offers semi-custom options for various components.

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