Top Reddit Picks for the Best Handgun
So, you're thinking about picking up a handgun maybe for self-defense, maybe for fun at the range. But with so many options out there, it’s tough to know where to begin. I went down the Reddit rabbit hole to see what real people folks who actually shoot are saying in communities like r/handguns, r/Firearms, and r/CCW. Let me tell you, these folks are passionate and honest. No sugar-coating, just solid advice and straight-up opinions.
Here’s what kept popping up the handguns Redditors actually trust and recommend and a few tips to help you find the right one for you.
5 Handguns Redditors Swear By
These are the guns that keep coming up in threads, loved for being solid, dependable, and just plain good. Let’s break it down.
1. Glock 19: The Ride-or-Die Classic
The Glock 19 is like that friend who’s always got your back simple, tough, and ready for anything. People on Reddit call it the “do-everything” gun: concealed carry, home defense, you name it. It’s a 9mm with a 15-round mag, and you can trick it out with all kinds of parts. One guy put it like, “It’s the gold standard, period.” Fair warning, though some folks say the grip feels a little off, so hold one first.
2. Sig Sauer P320: The Shape-Shifter
If you like options, the Sig P320 is your jam. You can swap out grips and even calibers like it’s no big deal. Reddit loves it for feeling great in your hand, plus it’s the gun the U.S. Army picked, which is pretty legit. Someone posted, “Sig just fits me better,” and I get it ergonomics matter. It’s got a slick trigger and can handle optics, but it’ll cost you more than some others.
3. Walther PDP: The Fancy New Kid
The Walther PDP is like the shiny new toy everyone wants to play with. It’s got this crazy smooth trigger that Redditors lose their minds over. “Best gun I’ve shot straight outta the box,” one person bragged. It’s awesome for the range and ready for optics, but yeah, it’s not the cheapest thing out there. Worth a look if you want something that feels high-end.
4. CZ P10C: The Budget Boss
Want a gun that punches way above its price tag? The CZ P10C’s your guy. It’s usually under $400, but Redditors say it runs like a champ someone even claimed, “Zero jams after 2000 rounds.” It’s a compact 9mm that’s great for carrying or just messing around at the range. Honestly, it’s a steal for what you get.
5. Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0: The Comfy All-Rounder
The M&P 2.0 feels like it was made to hug your hand. Reddit calls it a solid pick for newbies or anyone who wants a gun that’s easy to shoot. “It’s comfy and just works,” one user said. You can get it in 9mm or other calibers, and it’s great for home defense or range days. The grip’s grippy in a good way, even when your hands are sweaty.
Why These Guns Get All the Love
So what’s the deal with these picks? They’re reliable as hell, for one. Nobody wants a gun that jams when it counts. They’re also easy to handle, whether you’re a pro or just starting out. The Glock 19’s tough as nails, the P320 lets you make it yours, and the PDP’s trigger is like butter. Plus, there’s tons of holsters and upgrades for these models, which Reddit geeks out about.
But here’s the real talk: what’s “best” depends on you. One Redditor was like, “Go rent a bunch of guns and see what clicks.” Your hands, your vibe, your reason for wanting a gun that’s what matters. Concealed carry? Go compact. Home defense? Maybe something bigger.
A Few More Worth Checking Out
The top five get the most buzz, but Reddit’s got love for others too:
HK VP9: Feels like it was custom-made for your hand, awesome for range time.
Canik Mete SFT: Cheap but loaded with cool features, like optics-ready rails.
Ruger LCR: A revolver that’s simple and tough, perfect if you’re not into pistols.
Sig P365: Tiny but mighty, great for carrying without anyone noticing.
How to Pick Your Perfect Gun
Reddit’s got some solid advice for navigating the handgun world. Here’s what I took away:
Try Before You Buy: Hit up a range and rent some guns. You’ll know what feels right when you shoot it. Triggers, grips, recoil it’s all personal.
Know Your Why: Carrying every day? Get something small like the P10C. Protecting your home? A full-size M&P 2.0 might be better.
Don’t Blow Your Budget: You can score a great gun for $300–$600. Save the fancy stuff for later if you’re just starting out.
Get Some Training: Seriously, take a class. Reddit’s big on this owning a gun’s a big deal, and you gotta know how to use it safely. One dude was like, “Training’s worth every penny.”
Wrapping It Up
The Glock 19, Sig P320, Walther PDP, CZ P10C, and M&P 2.0 are Reddit’s MVPs for a reason they’re dependable, feel good, and won’t let you down. But the big takeaway? There’s no perfect gun for everyone. It’s about what works for you. So get out there, try some at the range, and maybe hop on Reddit to swap stories with other shooters.
Oh, and one last thing stay safe. Follow the rules, train like you mean it, and enjoy the journey. Got a favorite gun or tip? I’m all ears!