Usually, the shooting world is pretty good at getting right which firearms are the best constructed and best to shoot. Sometimes though, there are a few stand out pieces that the community overlooks or underestimates.
So what are these hidden gems in the handgun community? Well we’ve put them all here! You can comb through this list to find those underrate and overlooked handguns that might just become your next favorite!
#1 SIG Sauer P226
This next option is a formidable one and is a double-stacked version of the P220 from Sig Sauer. It comes with a DA/SA design like many of the other models on this list, but utilizes a unique, modified version of the popular short recoil-operated design.
The P226, even though a number of follow-up models and variations have come after its release, is still one that is commonly and reliably used by military and police forces, including special forces. That ought to say something about its power and reliability even if the handgun’s unique firing method and comfortable grip didn’t.
#2 Browning Hi-Power
These guns have been used all over the world in armed conflict almost continually since their inception and it speaks to the effectiveness of them. It comes with an all-steel, single-action design that uses a double-stack .9mm magazine to put as much power and capacity in its firing.
Some added bonuses of this model are that it is very easy to breakdown and maintain (even easier than a 1911) and the short recoil-operated system that the Browning company has perfected. If you’re looking for that classic, pre-polymer feel with a handgun that can still deliver in terms of power, accuracy, and dependability, then this is a great often overlooked option.
#3 Smith & Wesson M&P
While the last two options were focused on efficiency and simple-use, this next handgun is all about the extra features. As the name states (the M&P being for “military and police”) this gun is meant for real use in a variety of situations, allowing for dozens of modifications.
You can get ammunition caliber in .9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and even .22 LR! On top of that you can choose whether you want a threaded barrel or not, a manual safety or laser sights, and even what color you want from a wide variety of options. This model also comes in a concealed carry variant.
#4 Walther PPQ M2
If you’re looking for something that is effective and easy to use though, you can’t go wrong with the PPQ M2, one of the best handguns offered by Walter. This handgun has a critically acclaimed striker-fire trigger that allows for rapid and smooth fire under any circumstances. Meanwhile, the grip of the gun is ergonomically designed to give each shooter a comfortable and firm grip that enhances their aim.
The small barrel length and the large magazine capacity also make this model a perfect option for concealed carry, but that isn’t all the PPQ M2 can be used for. It makes for an excellent shooting choice in everything from home defense, competitions, line-of-duty use, or just recreational activity.
#6 HK P30
The only reason that this gun might be a bit better known than its fellows on this list is the amount of action it got in the very first John Wick film. Even that exposure hasn’t sent the HK P30 sailing into the light of stardom in the handgun community though, so we figured we give it its due here.
It is a sturdy and durably built modern polymer gun with a sleek DA/SA design that stands out and conforms nicely to your hand. With a trigger guard magazine release and the option to come in either subcompact or long sizes to suit any shooters needs, this handgun is an extremely fun one that deserves more fame than it already has.
#7 Steyr A1
While most people don’t look to Streyr when they’re thinking of getting a reliable handgun, this A1 from them is something that pretty much everybody should practice shoot with at least once. It is constructed out of a polymer frame and allows for using either .9mm or .40 S&W caliber ammo.
These models sport a lot of power and a unique trapezoidal sight that are incredibly intuitive and help you lock onto targets quickly and accurately. The grip as well is extremely ergonomical and comfortable for anyone to hold and use effectively, making these handguns real hidden gems that just never caught on in the shooting community.
#8 CZ 2075 Rami
This CZ gun has a subcompact design that doesn’t sacrifice on any of the important features of larger CZ gun models. It’s a strong and sturdy metal gun that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. Shooting it is unbelievably comfortable and the recoil is almost entirely removed by the heavy weight off the metal body.
The Rami also comes with three different safety mechanisms including a manual safety, a safety stop on the hammer, and a firing pin safety. These, combined with the small size and low unloaded weight of 26 ounces, this subcompact handgun is a perfect concealed carry option that maximizes safety and accessibility.
#9 Ruger American
Ruger has always been a reliable company to turn to for your rifles, but this handgun from them is also a top-of-the-line addition to any shooter’s arsenal. This is another polymer pistol that has a durable chassis and a modular wrap-around grip that provides a comfortable and secure grip. The unique design also reduces the felt recoil for a smoother and more controlled fire.
Perhaps one of the best features is the quick and easy takedown, which doesn’t require any kind of trigger pull. That, and the great addition of Novak LoMount 3-dot sights on every model, make this a greatly underrated handgun that delivers.
#10 Magnum Research MR9
Everybody loves a Magnum, but not everybody loves this particular Magnum. At least, not to the extent that it ought to be respected as a great handgun.
Coming with a DA/SA design, this model has a striker-fired and anti-stress trigger that may seem unorthodox at first, but the results can’t be denied. It uses a stainless slide and can be chosen in a range from 4-4.5 inches for the barrel length (which is something unique to the MR9 as far as we can tell).