The biggest handgun brands in America have continued to innovate and provide high-performing guns across the United States. American long guns perform well compared to their global counterparts, but some foreign semi-automatic pistols and revolvers remain more popular than U.S. brands.
Stocks We Like Better than American Outdoor Brands Corporation
Despite the debate over gun control and the right to bear arms, many American firearms and ammunition company stocks have continued to perform well in 2019. Sturm, Ruger & Co. (RGR) has a lot of potential, as Ruger guns continue to keep their stellar reputation. Another solid choice is Alliant Techsystems (ATK), a defense contractor that has both aerospace and firearms manufacturing.
Kel-Tec PMR-30 and Sig Sauer P320
These were two of the top-selling guns in 2018. Though Sig Sauer is one of the biggest gun manufacturers in the world, the Kel-Tec PMR-30 is gaining popularity in the American market thanks to its 30-round capacity. Since Kel-Tec is based in Florida, it’s a great brand to buy to support American jobs.
Glock 19
The Glock 19 is very similar to other Glock pistol models, but it’s renowned for its accuracy and ease of use. The Glock 19 base model is popular for concealed carry, but the Glock 19x has a full-size frame that feels more solid.
Sig Sauer P938
This is another well-known Sig Sauer pistol that is powerful and easy to conceal. Though it’s not as widely used as the P320, it’s a fantastic subcompact pistol.
Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield
This inexpensive handgun is a must-have for gun enthusiasts on a budget. It’s a smaller version of the standard 7.6” M&P, so it works well for concealed carry. It has a smaller capacity than other pistols in its class, but it’s reliable.
Ruger LCP
Ruger is known for manufacturing everything from pistols to pump-action shotguns. At just over five inches long, their LCP is an excellent choice for concealed carry.
5 Best Handgun Makers on Earth (Sig, Glock and Ruger Made the Cut)
Deciding the single best arms company on the planet is impossible, because some companies specialize in different types of guns. However, the list of the best five handgun companies has to include Sig Sauer and Glock, because of their guns’ incredible reliability.
Smith & Wesson has over a century of history under its belt, and is undeniably in the top five. Ruger’s sturdy pistols and variety of styles available make it a top 5 company as well. The last company on the list is difficult to choose, but it may be Heckler and Koch, thanks to their incredible 9mm pistols.
All American Made Handguns
The most famous brand in American history is likely Colt, which manufactured several iconic guns used in the American West. Springfield Armory is another classic brand that makes both handguns and long guns for shooting sports.
However, there are many other reputable and well-loved American gun brands. Newer, veteran-owned gun companies have also begun to appear in recent years. There are dozens of small gun manufacturers around the country, so gun enthusiasts can choose from a variety of domestic brands.
The Best Handgun Brands, Ranked by Gun Lovers
Out of the top 10 most popular pistols sold in the U.S. in 2018, three models are made by Sig Sauer and three are made by Smith & Wesson. The Kel-Tec PMR-30 was the second-most popular gun in the country, but it was the only Kel-Tec gun to make the list.
The only other brands on the list were CZ, which claimed the number four slot with its CZ 75, and Glock, which has its single-stack Glock 43 on the list. Though these manufacturers only had one gun model apiece make the list, their reputation is excellent.
Top 20 Gun Brands in the World
Although not every gun manufacturer makes handguns, most do. The list of top 20 gun brands in the world includes many American manufacturers, in part due to the number of rifles and shotguns they sell. European brands like Sig Sauer and Glock are near the top of the list thanks to their handgun sales.
Top-Selling Handguns Summer 2019
Sig Sauer dominated the American handgun market in summer 2019. Though the Beretta 92 FS was the second-most popular new pistol sold in June 2019, the most popular and third-most popular pistols were Sig Sauer models. Ruger and Smith & Wesson made some of the most popular revolvers, but did not break into the top three for pistol sales.
What are the Most Popular Guns Used by Law Enforcement Professionals?
Though Heckler & Koch is one of the biggest defense contractors in the country, Glock dominates the law enforcement market. The New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles Police Departments all allow a limited list of duty weapons, and Glock models are the most common among these three departments. Specifically, the Glock 22, 19, and 17 are the most popular and widely allowed among large police departments.
Other major metropolitan areas commonly use Smith & Wesson, Sig Sauer, and Springfield Armory pistols. While a handful of departments still use revolvers, they are increasingly being replaced by pistols.
Top 5 Most Popular Guns and Why
Historically, the Colt M1991 has been the most popular gun of all time in America. It was even the standard-issue sidearm for the U.S. Army for over 70 years.
Worldwide, the most popular handgun of all time is the Glock 17 series, followed by the Makarov PM and the Smith & Wesson Model 10 Revolver. The German model Walther PP/PPK is at number four on the list, and the Colt M1991 is all the way down at number five. This doesn’t even include the numbers of rifles and shotguns that have far outsold handguns over the years.
Five Best USA Made Handguns Under $500
The Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield is one of the most popular pistols in America, and is available for around $400. Ruger’s SR9 Standard and Security 9 pistols are two sturdy options, as are Springfield Armory’s XD Mod.2 and Springfield Defender pistols. These five guns offer the perfect balance of affordability and reliability.
Best Handguns for Home Defense
For short-range home defense guns with a high capacity, 9mm pistols are the best option. The Beretta M9, Glock 19, and the Sig Sauer P226 provide the best balance of capacity and firepower. However, the Glock 17, Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield, and Colt 1911 are also excellent options.
Most of Springfield Armory’s pistols are good for home defense, too. Try the XD Mod.2, Springfield Defender, or the Hellcat Micro-Compact. For a gun with a light trigger that even inexperienced gun users can pull, try the Walther PPQ M2.
The Best Brands for All Experience Levels
Sorting through which handgun is right for you doesn’t have to be a chore. IFATactical has a massive selection of pistols and revolvers with clear descriptions and product specifications. Compare and save so you can invest in accessories like holsters and safes.
