The Greatest Defensive Handgun

by
posted on December 30, 2013
wilson2015_fs.jpg (22)

I would be interested to know what you folks think is the greatest defensive handgun ever designed. As we look back through history, we see a number of handguns that have given great service to our servicemen and women, law enforcement and the armed citizen. When you look at it in that light, the choice is not as easy as one might think.

Certainly, we have to give consideration to the Colt/Browning 1911 .45 ACP. This design is working on its second hundred years and is still going strong. While not perfect, it is a good combination of power, accuracy and reliability. And that is what makes it one of the top selling handgun designs even today.

However, we cannot exclude the various .38 Spl./.357 Mag. revolvers. There was a time when all law enforcement carried them and, over the years, it has probably been the top choice of more armed citizens than any other design. It's another platform that has been around for over a hundred years and is still kicking and giving reliable service.

But, what about the newer handguns? Gaston Glock did not design the striker-fire system for handguns, but he did produce one of the most popular examples of the type. Since then, numerous other companies have jumped on this particular bandwagon and produced very useful defensive handguns that are both reliable and competitively priced.

We would be interested to know which handgun you would choose for the honor of the Greatest Defensive Handgun of them all. Please take a few moments and share your thoughts. Why do you think a particular pistol should wear that crown?

Latest

Ruger SR1911 CCO
Ruger SR1911 CCO

First Look: Talo Ruger SR1911 CCO Pistol

A compact 1911 in 9mm with a unique look.

First Look: CCI Suppressor Max 22 LR Ammunition

Built for accuracy and effectiveness when used with a suppressor.

Federal Ammunition Awarded Canadian Government Contracts

Will provide 10 million rounds of 9mm training, 9mm duty handgun and .308 Win. rifle ammunition.

New Micro-Compact Pistols for 2025

Now you don't see them, now you do.

First Look: RXD Suppressors from Dead Air And Ruger

Two powerhouses in the industry team up for a new line of suppressors.

First Look: New Caliber Options For The Rossi Brawler

.300 BLK and 5.56 NATO are now available for this break-action pistol.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.