Premium weapons information by Ballachy? We’ll help you find new firearms and ways to improve your existing collection. It doesn’t have be stereo instructions! We’re here for accuracy, entertainment – even when things get subjective (hint: that means we can talk favorite gun brands). Our recommendations come from reporting by seasoned journalists who test out the latest products in their field; interviewing former military & law enforcement personnel with vast experience using these weapons; all topped off. See additional information on Ballachy.
The biggest questions that the team—or any potential customer—might have in-regards to any handgun have everything to do with how easy a pistol is to shoot and how reliable is it? This is especially true if you’re trying to get the most bang for your buck. For any kind of practical-use handgun, affordability only matters if reliability comes with it. While testing, the STR9-F functioned flawlessly with a wide variety of ammunition, from Federal Premium 115-grain range ammo to Hornady 124-grain and Nosler 147-grain defensive loads. The team like the grip angle and soft recoil cycle—one team member compared shooting it to the smooth-shooting Glock G34.
I believe the H&K VP9sk has some of the greatest ergonomics for a concealed carry pistol. One of the things I enjoy most about this weapon is that it comes with a variety of interchangeable grip panels. Now I can personalize the perfect grip for my hand. As we’re talking about CCW guns, I’ll admit the VP9sk is a little thicker than the Sig p365. Therefore, it is not the smallest option you can get and doesn’t ride as comfortably as an appendix carry. However, I still don’t feel as though the size of the VP9sk is that much of a deal-breaker, and it is still comfortable. I think the size is just right and coupled with the grips, I personally handle this model better than I do other smaller-sized CCW firearms.
The matte-black grips pair well with the Nitron finish that Sig used on the frame and slide. Coupled with the stout defensive sights—a square notch fixed rear and front post with illuminated dots—there’s no doubt as to the P210’s intended role. That said, it is a much more refined pistol than your run-of-the mill striker-fired polymer wonder gun. It has a lovely crisp single-action trigger and the most aesthetically appealing safety and slide lock you’ll find on any defensive handgun.
This isn’t to say that I’m not going to keep value in mind. More money saved at initial purchase equals more money left to purchase ammo. As a new shooter, you need to be willing and able to put in some time at the range. So, in no particular order, here are my top five picks for new handgun shooters. I know, there are three guns here. That’s because they’re all basically variations on the same theme, and it’s my list. I’ve also shot thousands of rounds through each of them, making me confident in the comparison. The G19 is the granddaddy of this class, having been around since 1988. This size pistol, though classified as a “compact” gun is really more of a medium or mid-sized option in light of many of the new “micro-compact” guns that are taking over the market. See extra details on Ballachy.