7 of the Most Reliable Pistols on the Market
The focus of this list is on 9mm striker-fired pistols as these are some of the most reliable handguns, and the selection is based on approachability for beginners. So, without further ado, here are the top seven in no particular order.
1. Glock 17/19
Released in the 1980s, the Glock 17 and 19 were the original granddaddies of striker-fired pistols. The G17 provided a full-size handgun with a 17 round capacity, while the more compact G19 offered a capacity of 15 rounds, more suitable for concealment.
Aside from the customizability of the Glock pistol, with its plentiful supply of aftermarket parts, the firearm is known for its simple design and reliability. Since its inception, it has remained one of the most trusted handguns, and there is no sign of changing tides.
2. CZ P10C
As CZ’s first striker model, the company made quite a splash with the release of the P10C series in 2017. With its fiber-reinforced polymer frame and stainless steel side, there is no denying the sophistication of the build. However, don’t let its beauty fool you. The reliability of this weapon is second to none and comparable to the Glock 19.
The manufacturer designed the firearm as a direct competitor to the Glock. The specifications even allow the gun to fit into Glock holsters and support aftermarket parts.
3. SIG Sauer P320
It wasn’t that long ago the U.S. military switched from the Beretta M9 and 92FS in favor of the more polished SIG Sauer P320. The primary reason for the switch is twofold: reliability and versatility.
The most unique aspect of the firearm is the gun assembly, which can be removed and swapped with alternate frame sizes. The availability of size adjustments is unique to this pistol and provides convenience for owners.
4. Smith & Wesson M&P
The year 2005 saw the succession from Smith & Wesson’s 3rd generation hammer-fired guns to the updated M&P line of firearms. With an enhanced ergonomic design, superior trigger, and aggressive grip stippling, the M&P 2.0 series has become Glock’s primary competitor. With multiple sizes, the M&P series remains popular among handgun enthusiasts, especially beginners and those concerned with self-defense.
5. Heckler & Koch VP9
Released in 2014, the HK VP9 or SFP9 was designed as a direct competitor to Walther PPQ and Glock 19 models. While the size of the handgun closely resembles the G17, it only holds 15 rounds, like the G19.
The primary design features of the firearm include two polymer protrusions on the rear and interchangeable side panels and backstraps to promote a better and customizable grip. As a competitor to the Walther PPQ and Glock 19, the HK VP9 is incredibly reliable and excellent for beginners.
6. Walther PPQ
The Walther PPQ was developed with the stylings of a Glock in mind. The manufacturer included aggressive grip texturing, forward slide serrations, a squared-off trigger guard, and a Glock-like single-action trigger with consistent pull, creating a well-rounded and reliable firearm. Interested buyers can opt for the M1 or M2 models, the latter having an American-style magazine release.
7. Walther P99
In 1996, Walther released a genuinely unique firearm: the Walther P99. With a double-action and single-action without a consistent pull, the P99 stands out as one of the most unique designs in the history of striker-fired pistols. The weapon also includes an AS mode, making the gun easier to shoot and safer to carry.
Do you know of any other reliable firearms or have any suggestions of handguns that should have made this list? Leave a comment below.
5 Comments
I like the M&P Shield the best!
Liked your review of these 7 guns.
I think striker fired pistols are okay. I personally still prefer the hammer type of pistol. both of mine are 1911 Springfields. The 45 acp is the Range Officer model and the 9 mm is the Ronin model. Both are accurate and have never failed me yet.
The Smith and Wesson Shield ez 9 i think is a great choice. Very accurate and like the design. A lot of the 1911 features.i think one of among the best EDC
My 2 favorites are the Ruger American .45 acp full size and compact. I have deliberately tried to get them to malfunction (without destroying them of course). I’ve soaked them in muddy pools, wallered them in fine sand and powdery dirt. I’ve frozen them into I’ve cubes, wiped them off and shot them. I’ve put a full magazine of mixed loads along with the above. I have no idea why I never see them evaluated! They’ve taken a beating, shot filthy, wet, muddy, and bloody. They have never failed to eat everything I’ve fed them under all conditions! I love em!
My other favorite under any circumstances is another Ruger. The Ruger model 57 5.7x28mm. it’s as incredible as any fN and just as reliable and accurate. I’ve also tortured it, but it has yet to fail me. My biggest surprise from it came just a few weeks ago. I had just completed shooting a 100 round set and was walkin back to my house. Just below my home I saw a young coyote who was it behaving normally. I watched him for awhile and decided he was sick and should be out down. I dpied him through my rangefinder and he was 63 yards off and slightly downhill from me. My 57 was sighted in at 30 yards for that day, so I just flipped on my green laser, put it directly at the base of his neck and squeezed off a shot. The song dog jumped straight up and hit the ground stone dead. The bullet hit exactly where the laser dot was, and the bullet destroyed his jugular vein and carotid artery. He had bled out by the time his lifeless carcass had settled into the grass. That’s impressive!