3. CZ 75 SP-01 TACTICAL

• Cabela’s Price: $679.99
• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 18+1

The CZ 75 isn’t just an excellent first home defense gun, it’s also a favorite among firearm enthusiasts. Like the Sig Sauer P226 (and its smaller cousin, the 238), there are different variations available, allowing you to find one with all the features you want.

The SP-01 Tactical variation has a side-in-frame design that offers recoil management. It’s another pistol that’s perfect for shooters who are looking for a comfortable grip as it features rubber grip panels.

There are also a huge range of holsters for the CZ 75, ranging from ankle, IWB and OWB, and shoulder holsters, made from a variety of materials.

The fixed night-sight system ensures that you’ll be able to see your target clearly under the blanket of night, and its cold-hammer-forged barrel is paired with a smooth double-action trigger.

With a comfortable grip, sharp accuracy right out of the box, a smooth trigger pull and an affordable price, this handgun truly checks all the boxes.

2. FNX-45

• Cabela’s Sale Price(s): $649.99-1,499.99
• 1800gunsandammo.com Price: $1,149.00
• Caliber: .45ACP
• Capacity: 15+1

If you’re looking for a gun that fits the term “hand cannon” without being so large that it becomes unwieldy, the FNX-45 is the right choice for you.

It packs a serious punch, and even though it’s big, it remains fairly steady when it comes to recoil. Even though it’s a .45ACP, its capacity is on par with most 9mm handguns.

It’s got 3-Dot Night Sights and a serrated trigger guard. The best part is how inclusive it is—this one is fully ambidextrous from safety levers to magazine release.

And if you’re looking to add a red dot, this one comes with two mounting bases. It’s truly a versatile firearm that is adaptable to any environment.

1. WALTHER PPQ M2

• Cabela’s Price(s): $574.99-624.99
• 1800gunsandammo.com Discount Price: $569.99
• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 15+1

Walther is well-known for producing high-quality, dependable guns that can go through thousands of rounds without a misfire and the PPQ M2 is their finest handgun yet.

It has an ergonomic grip, but the real highlight is the trigger, perhaps the smoothest you’ll find for a handgun.

This handgun is available with a 4 or 5-inch barrel. Although we like the 5-inch barrel for aiming, but you can’t really go wrong with either one.

This centerfire pistol boasts striker fire action and an extremely light trigger pull. For this reason alone, it’s an excellent choice for beginners who aren’t used to the throwing their weight behind firing a weapon.

It’s got a Piccaninny equipment rail, three automatic safeties, three interchangeable sculpted-grip backstraps for custom fit and a fast audible reset.

There’s very little this pistol doesn’t possess and, for that reason alone, it’s number one with a bullet in my book.

CONCLUSION

If you’re having a tough time deciding between the handguns on this list, we recommend visiting your local gun range and renting a few of them.

But of course, don’t think that you’re only limited to the guns we’ve covered on this list.  There are many other great options out there as well, including some that can be had on a budget, such as the Taurus G2C or Canik TP9SF.

That being said, you’ll likely be happy with any of these guns, but the best way to decide which one is right for you is to try them yourself. Happy hunting.

This article by Will Ellis originally appeared at Gun News Daily in 2019.