Top 10 Best Pistols

A pistol is a short-barreled, handheld firearm used to engage targets at distances of 50–70 meters.

Pistols are divided into several categories based on their purpose and design: military, civilian, sport, signaling, and hunting models. Structurally, pistols may be single-shot, automatic, or semi-automatic. With so many choices available, selecting the right one can be difficult.

In this article, we'll explain the key selection criteria and present the world's Top 10 best pistols.

The first things to consider when selecting a handgun are:

• Reliability characteristics.
• Caliber and ammunition power.
• How easy it is to carry.
• Ease of use.
• Accuracy parameters.
• Simple design, easy to assemble and disassemble.

Most modern pistols are generally reliable. Therefore, it's wise to consider the manufacturer when selecting the best model. Well-known firearm brands include: Browning (FN), Beretta, Glock, Sig Sauer, Walther, HK, CZ, Colt, Smith & Wesson. There are also good models from Ruger, Steyr, Astra, Llama, Taurus, and others.

As for caliber and power, stick to a few basic rules. For example, for self-defense, the minimum acceptable caliber is 9 mm.

Compact models are more suitable for concealed carry. If that's your priority, military-style pistols are not ideal.

Comfort and ergonomics matter: a good grip and balance make a difference. Also consider the safety mechanism.

Accuracy is a hallmark of quality pistols. Some models may require fine-tuning by a gunsmith.

Here are the Top 10 best pistols in the world—models trusted by military, law enforcement, and civilians alike. Reliability, accuracy, and ease of use make them top choices in many scenarios.

Of course, owning a pistol does not guarantee safety—you must know how to use it responsibly. The best way to learn is through professional shooting courses.

The Glock 17 is manufactured by Austria's Glock GmbH. It's one of the most popular and recognizable pistols globally. Used by civilians for self-defense and by law enforcement. Key features include the absence of a manual safety switch, a body made of high-strength polymer, and a simple, reliable design with only 33 parts. Remarkably, it can fire underwater without barrel damage.

The SIG Sauer P226 is a semi-automatic pistol of American-German origin. Its popularity stems from its modularity, allowing for versatile customization. It lacks manual external safeties and instead uses a firing pin block to prevent accidental discharge.

Suitable for professional use and civilian self-defense.

The Heckler & Koch VP9 is a modern 9mm pistol from Germany. It features a polymer frame, a steel slide, and a 15-round capacity. Known for high accuracy and durability.

A standout feature is its customizable grip size. It comes with multiple backstraps and side panels to fit different hand sizes.

The Beretta 92FS is a semi-automatic Italian pistol and a highly recognizable model. Used by military, police, and civilians worldwide. It's featured in movies and video games.

Key advantages: accuracy, power, and a reliable safety mechanism. It offers high muzzle energy (600–650 J) and a 15-round magazine.

A downside: its high rate of fire for this type shortens service life.

The Walther P99 was developed in Germany, initially for military and police. Today, it's among the most widely used pistols.

Compact and powerful, it has a polymer frame that operates on short-recoil action. Its grip is angled at 110° and features ridges for better handling.

The CZ-75 SP-01 SHADOW is a Czech-made pistol, a new version of the classic CZ-75.

It boasts strong muzzle energy and a long sight radius, enhancing penetration and accuracy.

It's great for quick draw shooting and fits well in either hand. However, it's relatively heavy and bulky, making it less ideal for everyday carry.

The Springfield XD (HS 2000) is a Croatian pistol used in countries like the U.S. and Iraq. It features four automatic safeties, including a grip safety at the rear of the grip.

Highly accurate and user-friendly, it resembles the Glock in design but has a flatter body. Holds up to 16 rounds of 9mm ammo. Duty models have a 4-inch barrel. Includes a trigger safety and a loaded chamber indicator.

The FN Herstal FNX-9 is made in the USA. It features a polymer frame and modular grip for different hand sizes. Built with interchangeable parts, it's easy to repair and maintain.

Used by police, military, and civilians alike.

The Colt M1911 holds a respected place in our list. It's one of the most iconic firearms ever made. Designed in 1908, it served in the U.S. military from 1911 for many decades. Still in use globally.

Its design has evolved—such as a curved backstrap and increased distance from hammer to grip.

Rounding out our list is the German H&K Mark 23. Used by U.S. special forces. Its main strengths are compactness and power. Comes with a suppressor and laser sight. Also waterproof and corrosion-resistant.

Before buying a pistol, define its purpose. Will you carry it regularly or keep it at home? Use it to deter intruders? Your answers will guide you in choosing the right size, weight, and caliber.

Here are some basic tips:

1. Before purchasing, hold the unloaded pistol and aim with your eyes closed. When you open them, the pistol, target, and your arm should align. If not, training can correct it. For example, Glock users often aim high at first, but practice helps.
2. Don't choose based only on specs—the gun must feel right in your hand. Even a 'precise' pistol is useless if uncomfortable to shoot.
3. Larger pistols are more accurate and have less recoil but are harder to conceal. Compacts are easier to carry but sacrifice accuracy and power.
4. Beginners should consider smaller calibers—they have less recoil, making them easier and quicker to shoot. Larger calibers are more powerful but require greater control and skill.

Still have questions? Contact the experts at Darwin Club shooting range. We'll teach you to shoot accurately and help you choose the right pistol based on your needs and budget.