Top Handguns To Own 2026

This comprehensive review ranks 12 major firearm brands from worst to best, based on an experienced instructor's assessment of reliability, historical issues, and current performance. The analysis covers budget-friendly options, duty-grade pistols, and iconic firearms, highlighting specific models and common problems. Brands like Glock, Smith & Wesson, and Sig Sauer are discussed in detail, with emphasis on their track records and market adoption.

This review of the Glock 17 Gen 6 highlights significant ergonomic improvements, including a revised grip, extended beavertail, and enhanced undercut, making it point more naturally for 2011 shooters. Despite initial impressions of a 'budget' feel and critiques of the new plastic optics plates and guide rod, the Gen 6 is deemed the best Glock design yet. It maintains Gen 5 accuracy and offers improved controls for faster reloads, positioning it as a top choice for low-maintenance fleet use and a strong contender against competitors like the Springfield Echelon and Walther PDP.

Roger Barrera provides a comprehensive range review of the new Glock 45 Gen 6, highlighting significant upgrades over the Gen 5. Key improvements include an aggressive RTF6 grip texture, a refined flat-faced trigger with a ~4 lb break and positive reset, and a recessed optic system. Accuracy testing at 25 yards yielded a 1.75-inch group, and recoil management was noted as excellent with vertical stringing. The review confirms compatibility with various magazines and holsters, positioning the Gen 6 as a strong value proposition.

This review of the Smith & Wesson CSX E-Series highlights its enhancements over the original CSX. Key upgrades include improved trigger feel, red dot optic compatibility (Shield RMSc and Holosun 507K), and increased magazine capacity through modular grip panels and backstraps. The E-Series offers a more refined shooting experience for concealed carry.

This review of the Glock 45 Gen 6, presented by 1ShotTV, highlights significant ergonomic improvements over previous generations, including a new grip texture, integrated palm swell, and beaver tail. While the pistol demonstrates excellent reliability with various ammunition types and impressive accuracy even at 100 yards, the reviewer expresses strong dissatisfaction with the new flat-faced trigger, deeming it heavy and mushy. Despite this drawback, the Gen 6 is considered by the reviewer to be the best out-of-the-box Glock released to date due to its enhanced frame.

The Glock 19 Gen 6 introduces significant ergonomic improvements, including a rounded grip, enhanced texture, a deeper trigger guard undercut, and an extended beaver tail. The new Optics-Ready System (ORS) features a deeper channel and protective polymer plates. Range testing with various ammunition demonstrated tight groups, and the trigger retains the Gen 5 feel with a slightly adjusted position for improved length of pull. This iteration is considered by the reviewer to be the best Glock produced to date.

A 16-inch barrel rifle is presented as a practical, worry-free standard for most shooters, offering a balance of performance and legal compliance. While shorter barrels like 10.5 inches are viable for specific close-quarters scenarios, the 16-inch offers superior muzzle velocity and ballistics for longer distances. The video highlights tactical configurations and gear suitable for this common rifle length.

This video explores the psychological impact of firearm sounds in a home defense scenario. It compares the intimidating sound of a pump-action shotgun to the charging handle sound of an AR-15, suggesting both can deter intruders. The iconic nature of the shotgun pump sound is highlighted as particularly effective.

This content explores the psychological deterrent effect of pump-action shotguns in home defense scenarios. The primary argument is that the distinct sound of racking a pump-action shotgun can effectively scare away intruders without the need for firing. The video highlights a customized Mossberg shotgun with tactical accessories as a visual example.

This review examines Aero Precision's AR15, focusing on its 'slick side' upper receiver which omits the forward assist. While this design choice saves weight, the speakers humorously question Aero Precision's confidence in avoiding bolt-to-battery issues. The video features Elliott Delp at an outdoor range, highlighting the rifle's aesthetics and discussing its place in the AR-15 market.