Let’s get this disclaimer out of the way: I’m one guy and gun choices are incredibly subjective. This list is my personal top 5 favorite handguns for this year. Your personal choices may deviate.
With that out of the way, handguns are used for a plethora of different reasons. So this list includes my choices for a few select categories. Because obviously, the best handgun for conceal carry would differ greatly from the best handgun for stopping power.
So now let’s jump right in. The Top 5 Best Handguns for 2017.
2022 update: My thoughts have changed significantly on this subject. I’m much more of a Walther and Glock fan now. Still a strong fan of my S&P40, however. Do with that knowledge what you will.
1. All-Around Best Handgun – The Avidity Arms PD10
Fantastic general purpose gun. Great for the range, has a unique design, and feels great to hold. Recoil isn’t too shabby either. Would definitely consider this a “jack of all trades” type of firearm.
It’s also unique, in comparison to common brands like Glock/etc. Still in development and coming out from a new manufacturer. This one will definitely be one to keep an eye on.
Try it if you get the opportunity.
2. Conceal Carry – Ruger LCP
Coming in at a small size, amazing durability, and incredibly affordable price make this my favorite handgun for conceal carry.
You can fit it just about anywhere easily. It rarely fails, and the recoil is easily manageable.
There are a lot of great conceal carry guns, but this one definitely takes the cake for me.
If you get one, make sure to pick up a laser with it. Usually they are pretty inexpensive and it makes it 50x easier to aim at night (which is most likely when you’d need it).
3. Bugging Out – Smith and Wesson M&P9
A great gun in both the 40 and 9 version.
Why’d I pick this over the Glock?
Primarily because it is a lot easier to fix should anything break, in my opinion.
It also has all the same advantages of a Glock 17, such as:
- Reliable
- Could easily find spare parts
- Large enough to pack a punch
- Solid distance
- Easy implementation for extended mag and other necessary add-ons
- Quick trigger
- Relatively concealable
4. Hunting – Taurus Raging Bull
Go shoot this one time and you won’t have any further questions.
5. Self Defense – Springfield XDM
Springfield is a popular name, and for good reasons. They make some outstanding firearms.
I specifically love the XDM. If you need an at-home self defense handgun, this should absolutely be on your consideration list.
It has all the bite of any normal handgun, with the added benefits of being much more reliable and being incredibly accurate.
The XDS is nice too, but I don’t like the recoil. Makes it hard to aim for over one shot in succession, which you would definitely need in a self-defense scenario. So this one definitely wins the top spot.
Top 5 Best Handguns – Summary
There you have it: My personal Top 5 Best Handguns. Hope you enjoyed this list, and if you have questions about them, send me an email. I’ve used all of them (and many others) extensively.
What are your favorite handguns? Let me know in the comments.
I am not affiliated with any of these manufacturers, nor do I receive any commissions from them. This list is just based on my experiences.