Modern striker-fired pistols have refined the combat handgun. They tend to be very reliable and easy-shooting pistols that are every bit as durable as traditional hammer-fired pistols. From the cops patrolling the toughest part of the city to the citizen carrying concealed for self-defense, striker-fired pistols have become the standard by which others are judged.
Striker-fired pistols can be had in a variety of forms, all designed for different purposes. Some are thin and light for concealed carry, while others are full-sized pistols intended for law enforcement and military applications. Fortunately, there is a gun for virtually every need. The following handguns are some of the top striker-fired pistols on the market today.
FN FNS-9
Developed by FN as a service pistol for law enforcement, the polymer-framed FNS-9 features a double-action trigger and options for manual and non-manual safeties. Standard magazines hold 17 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and night sights are available as an option.
For more information, visit fnhusa.com.
Glock 19 Gen5
Considered by some to be the perfect size for both concealed carry and combat duties, the G19 pistol is a 9mm handgun that carries 15+1 rounds in its standard configuration. The Gen5 version sports a redesigned trigger system and a magwell that allows for faster reloading.
For more information, visit us.glock.com.
Glock 22 Gen5
Perhaps carried by more law enforcement officers than any other single handgun, the G22 Gen5 is a full-sized pistol chambered in .40 S&W. These 28.43-ounce guns hold 15 rounds in a standard magazine. What’s more, the Gen5 offers a flared mag-well for rapid reloading and sports an enhanced GLOCK Marksman barrel (GMB) for increased accuracy. Left- and right-handed shooters will appreciate the ambidextrous slide-stop lever.
For more information, visit us.glock.com.
Heckler & Koch VP9
The newest gun on this list, the VP9 is the latest striker-fired pistol from Heckler & Koch. With more than 40 years of technological development since the introduction of HK’s first striker-fired pistol, the VP9 is everything a modern combat pistol should be. A duty-sized 9mm gun, it features interchangeable grip side panels and backstraps, a very smooth trigger and a 15+1 capacity.
For more information, visit hk-usa.com.
Ruger American Duty
The 9mm Ruger American Duty is nothing short of impressive thanks to its wide array of features. The Duty’s pre-tensioned striker system has a powerful striker spring for impressive ignition with a lighter trigger pull. The Duty’s barrel cam dissipates recoil to make shooting more comfortable and the Novak LoMount Carry three-dot sights with wide rear notch yields quick target acquisition and alignment. Accessory enthusiasts will appreciate the MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail to mount lights and lasers. Lastly, the inspection port allows for visual confirmation of a loaded or empty chamber.
For more information, visit ruger.com.
Sig Sauer P320-AXG Legion
The P320-AXG Legion is available only in the Full-Size XSeries model. Out of the box, the P320-AXG Legion offers a 21+1-round capacity in 9mm. The P320-AXG Legion has a 3.9-inch barrel and X-RAY3 Day/Night Sights. For optimal customization, the firearm is optics-ready and the accessory rail accommodates lasers or lights.
For more information, visit sigsauer.com.
Smith & Wesson M&P Series
M&P stands for Military & Police, and Smith & Wesson has been satisfying these markets for decades. Both the full-size and compact M&P striker-fired handguns use a polymer frame with a stainless steel chassis for durability. Smith & Wesson offers its M&P semi-autos in 9mm, .40 S&W, .357 SIG and .45 ACP. Models are available with and without thumb safeties. The standard M&P40 has a 15+1 capacity.
For more information, visit smith-wesson.com.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield
Thin and compact, the M&P Shield from Smith & Wesson offers duty-caliber performance in a lightweight package. Shield pistols are available in both 9mm and .40 S&W, and they can be had with or without a thumb safety.
For more information, visit smith-wesson.com.
Springfield Armory XDM 4.5
A full-size fighting handgun, the Springfield Armory XDM 4.5 is perfect for law enforcement and home protection. It has adjustable backstraps and a match-grade, 4.5-inch barrel. These polymer-framed pistols are available in 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP.
For more information, visit springfield-armory.com.
Springfield Armory XD-S 3.3
Very compact, the XD-S pistols have found favor with both police officers needing a backup gun and armed citizens looking for the ultimate CCW handgun. Springfield Armory makes the striker-fired XD-S 3.3 in both 9mm and .45 ACP. The company also offers models with 4-inch barrels.
For more information, visit springfield-armory.com.
Walther PPQ M2
The M2 is an updated version of the very popular Walther PPQ line of striker-fired handguns. Available in 9mm and .40 S&W, the M2 added a reversible, button-style magazine release. Walther pistols are highly regarded for their light, smooth trigger pulls.
For more information, visit waltherarms.com.
