17 Best 9mm Pistols (Complete List)
Looking for the best 9mm pistol? Purchasing a new gun is fun and exciting, and making sure you find the perfect one is important.
With so many options available on the market, this post will list all the best 9mm pistols you should consider.
Everyone is different and has personal preferences, so there is no “one size fits all” in handguns.
With practice and training, any of the best 9mm pistols mentioned below will serve you just fine.
In this post, I will go over the best 9mm pistols.
Best 9mm Pistol Criteria?
When choosing and deciding which pistol to purchase, there are a few things to consider.
- Size
- Features
- Price
These are the primary things you want to think about before choosing.
Size
Most of these handguns are in the full to mid-size category. Your primary intended use of the handgun will determine what size you should get.
For example, if you want a home defense pistol, you should lean more toward a full-size pistol with a larger ammo capacity.
A smaller compact pistol might be better if you seek a concealed carry-type weapon.
If you want your pistol to fill multiple roles like home defense, range shooting, and concealed carry, then a mid-size pistol will work best.
Determine the primary purpose you want the handgun to achieve before deciding on which model of the gun to go with.
Features
Another factor to consider is what specific features your need on your pistol. Do you want an accessory rail to add a flashlight or laser?
What about an optic cut on the rail to add a red dot optic? Do you want tritium night sights?
These features depend on what you expect and want in a pistol.
Also, you can always get a pistol with these options, even if you do not want to add anything now. Then later down the road, if you decide you want to add accessories, you can do so.
Price
This will be the biggest deciding factor for many people: how much the best 9mm pistols cost.
Most modern handguns will cost around the $500 to $600 range, but some can be picked up cheaper for around $300 (especially if you can find a good deal or one used).
Some can be much more expensive. I suggest waiting and saving money and getting what you want, even if you must be patient.
Also, it would help if you considered additional costs like ammunition and extra magazines or holsters.
Best 9mm Pistols
Ok, without further ado, here is the list. These will work great for self defense primarily, and I also included some excellent options geared toward concealed carry.
Below is my list of the best 9mm pistols I recommend. They are relatively common and should be easy to find and available.
These are not in any specific order, and you can’t go wrong with any of them.
1. H&K P30 V3
First on the list is the H&K P30 V3 pistol. This excellent handgun has been around for some time but is genuinely an engineering marvel. The V3 is the updated version of this pistol.
This gun’s most significant stand-out feature is the grip texture and form. It has the most comfortable grip of any other handgun I have held.
Aside from the comfort, it is very reliable.
This single-action/double-action firing mechanism can be fired from both states. It has an external thumb safety and also a decocker.
The single-action trigger pull is one of the best, and the double-action pull, although longer, is very smooth.
These premium pistols come with tritium night sights out of the box.
Another fantastic feature of the H&K P30 is the ability to customize the grip. Changing the back straps on a grip is pretty standard on most polymer-framed handguns nowadays, but on the P30, you can also change the side panels on the grip.
All of the different sizes are included in the box with the gun.
Ambidextrous controls include dual slide releases and magazine release levers.
The 9mm version of the H&K P30 V3 magazines will hold 17 rounds and come with three. So this will give you a total of 17+1 in the pistol. These will also accept the 17-round VP9 magazines.
H&K also offers this in a P30L model, with has a longer barrel length and is slightly larger. There is also an SK model, their subcompact model best suited for concealed carry.
P30S models have an ambidextrous safety lever mounted on both sides of the frame. S models are available in conventional double-action/single-action trigger mode -and have a serrated decocking button on the rear of the frame -in addition to the two safety levers.
A Picatinny rail molded into the front of the frame makes mounting lights, laser aimers, or other accessories easy and convenient. The extractor doubles as a loaded chamber indicator providing a subtle tactile and visual reminder of a loaded chamber.
Specs:
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Type: DA/SA
- Safety: Ambidextrous safety/decocking button
- Overall length: 7.12in.
- Overall height: 5.43 in.
- Overall width w/lever: 1.37 in.
- Barrel length: 3.85 in.
- Sight radius: 5.84 in.
- Weight: 26.08 oz with magazine
Features:
- Unique grip frame with interchangeable backstrap inserts and lateral plates
- MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rail on frame for mounting lights and accessories
- Corrosion-proof fiber-reinforced polymer frame
- Polygonal bore profile for increased velocity, easier cleaning, and longer barrel life
- Multiple trigger firing modes are available
- Patented HK recoil reduction system
- One-piece machined slide made from nitro-carburized steel
- Corrosion-resistant “hostile environment” blued finish
- Ambidextrous slide levers and
- Ambidextrous magazine release magazine
- Patented lock-out safety device
- Spurred hammer (DA/SA models)
- Automatic hammer and firing pin safeties
- Ambidextrous safety levers (P30S model)
Click Here to check the current prices of the H&K P30 V3
2. Ruger American
The Ruger American Duty pistol has a pre-tensioned striker system that features a powerful striker spring for positive ignition without a heavier trigger pull.
This handgun has a rigid, one-piece, precision-machined, black nitrided, stainless steel chassis with integral frame rails and fire control housing.
Its modular wrap-around grip system adjusts palm swell, and trigger reach to fit a wide range of hand sizes. Ergonomic grip modules lock in solidly and do not loosen.
The American Duty also features Novak LoMount Carry three-dot sights, ambidextrous slide stop and magazine release, Picatinny rail, and non-slip surfaces on its side and grip.
This pistol has been very accurate and reliable and is an excellent upgrade from Ruger’s previous 9mm pistols, like the SR9.
Honestly, the difference with the American Duty pistol is night and day, one of Ruger’s best decisions.
This gun has all the premium features you want in a modern pistol but is also affordable. The performance is excellent, and the design is aesthetically pleasing, which is important to some people.
One of the good things about the Ruger American Pistol is that it is a chassis pistol like the Sig P320, and this internal chassis is the serialized part. So that means you theoretically can change out calibers, barrels, slides, and frame sizes without purchasing an entirely new pistol.
The disassembly for field stripping requires no tools, and you do not even have to pull the trigger to take it down.
Overall this is a good pistol and is a budget-friendly option.
- Handedness: Right
- Action: Single/Double
- Metal finish: Nitride; stainless
- Product weight: 30.5 ounces
- Manual Safety: Yes
- Product Length (in.): 7.5
- Activity: Shooting
- Magazine capacity: 15+
- Barrel length (in.): 4.2
- Rate of a twist: 1 in 10-inch RH
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Rifle Ammo Type: Centerfire
- +P rated
- Nonslip surfaces
- Polymer wraparound grips with a 1-piece, glass-filled nylon frame
- Single/double action with a 17-round capacity
- Duty-size polymer frame with a nitrided, stainless-steel slide
- MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail
- Pretensioned striker system
- Novak® LoMount Carry 3-dot sights
- Internal, automatic sear block, ambidextrous manual, and trigger safeties with a visual inspection port
- Tool-free takedown
3. Springfield Hellcat Pro OSP
Another great choice often overlooked by shooters is the Springfield Hellcat Pro OSP.
The Hellcat Pro OSP Handgun from Springfield Armory represents the newest line of already successful and reliable firearms.
Everything in this gun is strategically designed to make it the perfect concealed carry handgun – the 3.7″ barrel and slim profile, the impressive 15-round capacity, and the 2 included magazines all come together to provide a superior shooting experience.
Combining the performance of a larger handgun with class-leading concealability and capacity, the new Hellcat Pro is a compact pistol chambered in 9mm that offers 15+1 capacity in a smaller footprint than any other gun in its class.
Optics ready and equipped with a versatile accessory rail and hammer-forged barrel, this exceptional everyday carry pistol delivers the perfect balance.
Designed to offer the best of both worlds, the Hellcat Pro delivers full-size performance in a concealable package.
The slim-line grip feels superb in hand, increasing contact and control, while the additional mass in the slide and barrel translates into reduced muzzle flip and faster follow-up shots.
Designed with red dot optics in mind, the Hellcat Pro features an OSP (Optical Sight Pistol) configuration. The slide is milled with the Springfield Micro footprint, designed to accept the market’s smallest, most popular micro red dots.
If you are looking for a pistol, whose primary purpose is concealed carry, the Hellcat is a great choice.
- Product weight: 21 oz
- Manual Safety: No
- Product Length (in.): 6.6
- Front sight: Tritium luminescent
- Activity: Shooting
- Magazine capacity: 15+
- Barrel length (in.): 3.7
- Product height (in.): 4.8
- Rear sight: Tactical rack U-notch
- Caliber: 9mm
- Polymer frame and adaptive grip texture offer firm handling
- Optics-ready slide is compatible with most micro red dots
- 15+1 round capacity
- Hammer-forged steel barrel delivers increased ballistics and performance
- Dual captive recoil spring with full-length guide rod
4. Canik TP9SA Mod 2
Another great option that is very affordable is the Canik TP9SA Mod 2. You get all of the premium features for a good price.
This handgun comes with industry-standard dovetail sight cuts compatible with a large variety of aftermarket sights. It features a match-grade barrel top-slide mounted disassembly button and a striker status indicator.
The pistol has an improved single-action trigger, a loaded chamber indicator, and a reversible magazine release.
It comes with two magazines, a poly holster, a paddle attachment, a belt attachment, interchangeable backstraps, a cleaning rod, and a brush.
Everything on this pistol is ambidextrous to accommodate left-handed shooters as well. The slide is exceptionally smooth, and the trigger pull feels excellent.
There is a decocking button on the rear of the slide for added safety. Field stripping the gun is easy, and the TP9 has formed a loyal following among gun enthusiasts.
The TP9SA Mod 2 contains several upgrades driven by the feedback of military and law enforcement, including a flat-top slide allowing for better sight acquisition and a top-mounted disassembly button.
The grip has aggressive stippling patterns to engage the user’s hand under adverse conditions fully.
Like the rest of the TP-series family, the TP9SA’s grip design allows a slimmer feel while still containing an 18+1 capacity of 9mm.
- Manufacturer warranty – parts: Lifetime limited
- Grip: Polymer
- Manual Safety: No
- Manufacturer warranty – labor: Lifetime limited
- Product Length (in.): 6.7
- Front sight: Phosphorous white dot
- Style: Pistol
- Magazine capacity: 18
- Product width (in.): 1.45
- Manufacturer warranty – general: Lifetime limited
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Rifle Ammo Type: Centerfire
- Tungsten Cerakote over nitride slide finish and match-grade nitride-coated barrel
- Semiautomatic centerfire 9mm pistol with two magazines
- Blackout rear and phosphorous front white dot sights
- Ambidextrous design with a reversible magazine release
- Nitride and high-wear nickel-coated internal components and hardware
- Accessory under-barrel rail
- Interchangeable back strap in two sizes (small and large)
- Includes a toolbox, two magazines, and a concealed carry holster with reversible clips for IWB and OWB use
Click Here to check the current prices of the Canik TP9SA Mod 2
5. FN 509
The FN 509 is a great choice, especially for left-handed people. These are reliable and packed with features you expect in a modern striker fired pistol.
This ideal combination of a four-inch slide and barrel with a midsize frame retains full-sized pistol performance in an easily-concealed package.
The improved controls aid in manipulation, while the improved texturing on the two included backstraps provides better recoil management. A flatter-faced trigger allows for a more controllable trigger press and cleaner break.
Its polymer-constructed frame features fully ambidextrous controls, a MIL-STD-1913 accessory mounting rail, and a cold hammer-forged stainless steel barrel with a recessed target crown.
The slide is quickly racked and features combat-style sights and improved front and rear cocking serrations.
It ships with two interchangeable backstraps and an FN logo soft pistol case.
This model has a black finish and 3-dot luminescent sights and comes with two 15-round magazines.
This is a highly reliable pistol and has a very ergonomic design. Some people may find the grip texture too aggressive for them, but I would say it should be aggressive and that you will get used to it with time.
FN also makes a few variations of this gun, and you can get the tactical model. It will have a threaded barrel, and a slide cut to mount a red dot optic. The FDE color of this gun also looks very nice.
Specs:
- Brand: FN
- Category: Pistols
- Series: Midsize
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Model: 509
- Capacity: 15+1
- Action: DAO
- Frame Finish: Matte Black
- OAL: 7.40″
- Frame Material: Polymer
- Hand: Right
- Sight Style: Contrast
- Slide Finish: Black
- Slide Material: Stainless Steel
- Slide Description: Serrated Matte Black Stainless Steel
- Grips: Textured Black Interchangeable Backstraps
- Sight Configuration: 3-Dot Fixed
- Includes: 2 Magazines / Soft Pistol Case
- Safety: No Manual
- Barrel Description: 4″ Cold Hammer Forged, Recessed Target Crown
- Barrel Length: 4″
- Max Capacity: 15
- Weight: 26.50 oz
- Frame Description: Matte Black Polymer with Picatinny Rail
- MIL-STD-1913 accessory mounting rail
- Polymer frame with replaceable steel slide rails
- Slide offers an external extractor, loaded chamber indicator, and front, and rear cocking serrations
- 9mm Luger caliber
- Striker fired autoloader with a double action operation and a 10-round capacity
- Fixed 3 Dot luminescent sights
- Interchangeable backstraps
- 4-inch cold hammer-forged stainless steel barrel with a recessed target crown and polished chamber and feed ramp
- Textured grip
- Fully ambidextrous slide stop lever and magazine release
Click Here to check the current prices of the FN 509
6. Sig P320
One of the most modular and popular guns on this list is the Sig P320. This is a unique gun in that the firing control mechanism is the serialized portion of the pistol.
That means you can change the caliber, barrel length, and grip module without buying a separate gun and doing another set of paperwork and background checks.
This is a great option if you only want to own one firearm out of simplicity but still have to convert it into a subcompact for concealed carry or a full size for competition and home defense.
This gun was also chosen as the U.S. Army’s new service pistol. So replacement parts and aftermarket accessories will be very plentiful for decades.
That said, it is a very reliable and well-made gun. There are too many sub-models of this gun to count, and Sig continues to build upon the platform and continuously upgrades the design.
This is now their flagship pistol.
The Sig Sauer P320 Compact is the model I recommend to most people, and even though they call it compact, it is a midsize pistol that is about the same size as a Glock 19.
The Sig Sauer P320 Nitron 9mm Compact 15-Round Pistol is a double-action pistol with a 15-round capacity and a smooth, consistent trigger pull.
Featuring a 9mm barrel with a 3.9″ length, the pistol weighs 26 oz. Safe disassembly requires no tools.
The Sig Sauer P320 Compact features a stainless slide with a durable Nitron finish, a polymer grip, contrast sights, and an M1913 accessory rail. Everything about this gun was designed to be a true combat pistol.
- Manufacturer warranty – parts: Lifetime limited
- Trigger pull (lb.): 6.5
- Action: Double
- Product weight: 25.8 oz.
- Manual Safety: No
- Activity: Shooting
- Barrel length (in.): 3.9
- Handedness: Ambidextrous
- Manufacturer warranty – labor: Lifetime limited
- Product Length (in.): 7.2
- Magazine capacity: 15+
- Manufacturer warranty – general: Lifetime limited
- Caliber: 9mm
- Rifle Ammo Type: Centerfire
- It fits most hand sizes to help eliminate the need for a backstrap
- Smooth, consistent 6.5 lb. trigger pull
- Double-action with a 15-round capacity
- 9mm barrel with a 3.9″ length
- Safe disassembly requires no tools
Related Articles
7. Glock 17 Gen 5
No list would be complete without mentioning the Glock 17 Gen 5. This is the newest iteration of the full-size 9mm Glock pistol.
The Glock 17 Gen 5 delivers high performance, reliability, and accuracy. It comes chambered in 9mm with a 4.49-inch barrel. Features include a polymer frame with a Picatinny rail, fixed sights, a serrated DLC steel slide, and three 17-round magazines.
The G17 comes with the same popular upgrades of all Generation 5 Glock pistols, like the Glock Marksman Barrel and the overall elimination of leaf springs, which new coil spring designs for increased longevity and reliability have since replaced.
The slide release is ambidextrous, and the magazine catch is reversible. The slide has factory serrations on the front and back. Plus, the front of the firearm is now beveled for more effortless reholstering.
The slide and barrel feature Glock’s latest ion-bonded DLC coating, a more accurate black than previous generations with an improved ability to function in dry conditions.
A long-requested feature, the front strap no longer has finger grooves, allowing any finger size to fit comfortably around the grip.
Glock’s MBS (Modular Backstrap System) allows you to add or remove additional backstop pieces, including a beaver tail for those with larger hands. This eliminates slide bite.
In front of the trigger guard, you’ll also receive an integral accessory rail for a wide variety of light and laser accessories.
Glock pistols have long been considered the most reliable pistol on the market. They may not be the best-looking handguns, but one thing for sure is that they will be great for self defense.
Glock pistols were also some of the first handguns that were striker fired pistols designs done right.
There is also tons of aftermarket support for Glocks due to its popularity.
- Trigger pull (lb.): 5.5
- Action: Double
- Metal finish: Matte
- Product weight: 27.01 ounces
- Manual Safety: No
- Activity: Shooting
- Barrel length (in.): 4.49
- Handedness: Ambidextrous
- Product Length (in.): 8.24
- Front sight: Fixed
- Magazine capacity: 15+
- Rear sight: Fixed
- Caliber: 9mm
- Rifle Ammo Type: Centerfire
- Polymer grip
- 5.5-pound trigger pull
- Double semiautomatic action with a 17-round capacity
- 4.49-inch barrel
- Fixed front sight and fixed rear sight
- Matte finish
Click Here to check the current prices of the Glock 17 Gen 5
8. Sig P226 Legion
Next up is an all-metal frame gun that screams quality and superb engineering. The Sig P226 Legion is a personal favorite of mine and a great choice if you want an external hammer on your pistol and something with a little bit of weight behind it.
The Sig Sauer Legion P226 is finished in Cerakote Elite Legion gray coating and custom G-10 grips with a Legion medallion, high visibility day/night sights, and three magazines are included.
The Sig Sauer P226 Legion Full-Size DA/SA 9mm Luger Handgun features a solid build with improved maneuverability.
This Sig Sauer 9mm is built with a unique P-SAIT trigger that offers an intermediate reach and a relatively short reset for smoother shot-to-shot performance.
X-RAY3 day/night sights on this 9mm pistol offer a clear sight picture in most light conditions, making target acquisition fast and precise.
As a plus, the rear sight features a rackable ledge that allows one-handed slide manipulation.
To improve the grip and feel of the handgun, the Sig P226 has aggressive checkering on the front strap and underneath the trigger guard, as well as front cocking serrations on the slide.
A durable Cerakote Elite Legion Gray coating protects against corrosion and wear. Perfectly balanced, the Sig P226 Legion Full-Size DA/SA 9mm Luger Handgun offers quick pointing and smooth performance with every shot.
However, this gun isn’t the best choice for concealed carry because it’s a full-size heavy handgun. For range use and home defense, it’s perfect.
Some people carry a full-size P226, but most people will find it too cumbersome.
Features:
- Solid steel guide rod improves balance
- P-SAIT trigger with an intermediate reach and short reset
- Front cocking serrations provide added grip during slide manipulation
- A Rackable ledge on the rear sight allows slide manipulation with one hand
- Cerakote Elite Legion gray coating lubricates the slide and adds durability
- Aggressive checkering on the front strap and under the trigger guard improves the grip
- X-RAY3 day/night sights provide a clear sight picture in a variety of light conditions
Specs:
- Model: E26R-9-LEGION
- UPC: 798681538782
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Magazine Capacity: 15
- Action Type: Semi-auto
- Trigger Pull DA: 10 lb (44 n)
- Trigger Pull SA: 4.4 lb (20 n)
- Approximate Weight: 34 oz.
- Height: 5.5 in
- Barrel Length: 4.4 in.
- Overall Length: 8 in.
- Overall Width: 1.5–1.7 in.
- Slide Finish: PVD
- Frame Finish: PVD
- Frame Size: Full-size
- Frame Material: Alloy
- Accessory Rail: Sig rail
- Slide Material: Stainless steel
Click Here to check the current prices of the Sig P226 Legion
9. H&K VP9
Another great option with one of the best factory triggers is the H&K VP9. The VP9 was developed by Heckler & Koch to meet the need for an ergonomically enhanced handgun.
The VP9 striker fired pistols design ensures a consistent trigger pull weight from the first shot to the last. Safety features abound on the VP9, including a Push Button Magazine Release and a unique side-mounted drop safety for the firing pin.
The frame incorporates a trigger-mounted safety that prevents accidental discharge if the VP9 is struck or dropped, and a disconnector ensures that the slide must be in battery for the VP9 to fire.
This handgun boasts a customizable grip, utilizing three interchangeable backstraps and six side plates to accommodate various hand sizes.
Ambidextrous controls allow both right- and left-handed shooters to operate the pistol efficiently.
An extended Picatinny rail molded into the polymer frame supports up to 5.6-oz. accessories, while a proprietary captive flat guide rod improves shooter control.
A unique VP feature is HK’s patented rear-mounted charging supports on each side of the slide provide better gripping leverage for racking the slide rearward.
The machined steel slide is protected from corrosion and wear by HK’s hostile environment finish and all metal components, including springs and pins, have superior metallurgy. VP pistols use proven HK P30 steel magazines.
Features:
- Optics-ready slide cut
- Updated hi-vis sights
- Advanced striker-fired slide design
- Optimal light-pull trigger-control system
- Interchangeable backstraps and side plates for a custom grip
- Patented charging supports enhance leverage and grip for racking
- Ambidextrous controls
Specs:
- Manufacturer: H&K
- Product Line: VP9
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-Auto Striker Fired
- Barrel Length: 4.1″
- Overall Length: 7.34″
- Weight: 25.56 oz
- Capacity: 17+1
- Magazines Included: 2
- Finish: Black
Click Here to check the current prices of the H&K VP9
10. CZ P-07
Another great handgun that people sometimes forget about is the CZ P-07. This is not a striker fired pistol but has an exposed hammer.
Outfitted with the Omega trigger system, the CZ P-07 9mm Luger Pistol can be disassembled or reassembled without any additional tools.
It features a nitrated slide finish that wears longer and has increased corrosion resistance.
This pistol is crafted from fiber-reinforced polymer, and its grip features stippling and interchangeable backstraps. Plus, there’s a fixed 3-dot sight system and a range of safety features, including an interchangeable ambidextrous safety and a decocker/manual safety.
The pistol has been dehorned, removing sharp edges to make it more comfortable for all-day carry. Like the P-09, the P-07 safety and decocker are interchangeable with a few minutes and minimal tools.
The best part of this system is its convertible decocker/safety system. Whether the user wants to carry the pistol cocked and locked like a 1911 or decocked for a double-action first pull of the trigger, a few minutes allows the swapping of the safety for a decocking lever or vice versa.
Add to that small, medium, and large backstraps and an integrated 1913 Picatinny rail on the dust cover. The P-07 is adaptable to the shooter and their needs, from service pistol to bedside protector to the envy of the shooting range.
The P-07 shares the P-09 updated trigger shape, which is more comfortable for long days at the range, as well as its snag-free hammer and forward cocking serrations. Metal 3-dot sights and a beefed-up magazine spring have also been added.
- Handedness: Right
- Action: Single/Double
- Product weight: 27.7 ounces
- Manual Safety: Yes
- Product Length (in.): 7.2
- Activity: Shooting
- Magazine capacity: 10
- Barrel length (in.): 3.75
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Rifle Ammo Type: Centerfire
- Fiber-reinforced polymer frame construction
- Stippled polymer grips with interchangeable backstraps
- Single/double action with a 10-round capacity
- Cold hammer-forged barrel
- Interchangeable ambidextrous safety with a decocker/manual safety, a safety stop hammer, and a firing pin block safety
- Forward cocking serrations
- Omega trigger system with interlocking parts to allow disassembly and reassembly
- Fixed metal 3-dot sight system
11. Walther PDP
One of the newest 9mm pistols on this list is the Walther PDP.
The Walther PDP Full-Size Optic-Ready Semi-Auto Pistol is a performance-enhanced duty pistol.
This full-size 9mm Luger pistol features an 18+1 round capacity and is ideal for protection or law enforcement. It has a polymer frame for durability and a Performance Duty trigger for accuracy.
Featuring an RDS-optimized frame with improved ergonomics, this pistol boasts a factory-milled, optics-ready slide with enhanced super terrain serrations for improved slide manipulation and reliability.
The dovetailed, adjustable sights offer intuitive target acquisition when used without a mounted optic and ensure reliable and natural co-witness with mounted optics for unmatched reliability.
The stepped chamber and stainless steel barrel readily withstand high-pressure +P cartridges and deliver improved velocities for more reliable stopping power and enhanced accuracy. At the same time, the performance duty grip texture ensures a dependable, non-slip grip for improved control.
A performance duty trigger delivers a consistent, light pull, and the modular frame design allows for a customizable setup.
This pistol’s grip is forward-swept for optimal hand placement when using an optic, so you’ll pick up the dot faster. Outstanding in design, the Walther PDP price is equally impressive as it is far less than other brands in its class.
Specs:
- Series: Optic Ready
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Model: PDP
- Capacity: 18+1
- Action: Striker Fire
- Frame Finish: Black
- OAL: 8″
- Frame Material: Polymer
- Hand: Right
- Sight Style: Adjustable
- Slide Finish: Black
- Slide Material: Steel
- Slide Description: Serrated Black Steel with Optic Cut
- Grips: Performance Duty Textured Black Polymer
- Sight Configuration: 3-Dot White
- Includes: 2 Magazines
- Safety: Manual Thumb
- Barrel Description: 4.50″ Polygonal Rifled
- Barrel Length: 4.50″
- Max Capacity: 18
- Weight: 25.40 oz
- Frame Description: Black Polymer w / Picatinny Rail
- Steel slide with SuperTerrain slide serrations
- Performance Duty trigger for accuracy
- Full-size 9mm Luger pistol with an 18-round capacity
- Polymer frame for durability
- Performance Duty Grip Texture
- 5.6lb Trigger Pull
- Performance-enhanced duty weapon
- RDS-optimized ergonomics
- Factory-milled, optics-ready slide
- Dovetailed, adjustable sights
- Stepped chamber
- Stainless steel barrel
- +P rated
- Modular frame design
- Includes 2 magazines
Click Here to check the current prices of the Walther PDP
12. M&P9 Shield M2.0
If you want a 9mm pistol primarily used as your daily concealed carry weapon, then the Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield M2.0 should be your first option.
Smith & Wesson M&P pistols have a reinforced polymer chassis, superior ergonomics, and proven safety features. M&P’s patented take-down lever and sear deactivation systems allow for disassembly without pulling the trigger.
The M&P Shield is easy to conceal, offering professional-grade features with simple operation and reliable performance day or night. It puts the power and features of full-sized M&P pistols into a slim, lightweight pistol the size of your hand.
M&P M2.0 models feature aggressive grip texture for enhanced control, an M&P M2.0 crisp trigger with a lighter trigger pull, and a tactile and audible trigger reset.
The stainless steel barrel and slide have an Armornite corrosion-resistant finish. This model has a black frame and slide finish, thumb safety, and 3-dot sights.
It includes one 7-round magazine and one 8-round extended grip magazine.
The lightweight 9mm M&P Shield 2.0 is perfect for concealed carrying and features a newly designed grip and trigger assembly for even more control.
The handgun comes in both configurations, with manual thumb safety or without a thumb safety.
This is one of my favorite stiker fired pistols for concealed carry.
- Handedness: Ambidextrous
- Action: Striker Fired
- Metal finish: Armornite®
- Product weight: 18.3 ounces
- Manual Safety: Yes
- Product length (in.): 6.1
- Front sight: Steel white dot
- Magazine capacity: 7
- Barrel length (in.): 3.1
- Manufacturer warranty – general: Lifetime
- Rear sight: Steel white 2 dot
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Thin, lightweight body
- Aggressive grip texture
- Striker-fired action with a 7+1- or 8+1-round capacity
- The barrel and slide are made of durable stainless steel with an Armornite® finish
- Steel white-dot front sight and a steel white 2-dot rear sight
- Manual thumb safety
- The polymer grip features an 18-degree angle
- M&P M2.0™ trigger with tactile and audible trigger reset
- Take-down lever and a sear deactivation system
Click Here to check the current prices of the Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield M2.0
13. Glock 43X
The Glock 43X Subcompact delivers high performance, reliability, and accuracy. It comes chambered in 9mm with a 3.41-inch barrel. Features include fixed sights, a rough texture beavertail polymer grip, an nDLC steel slide, and two 10-round magazines.
The Glock 43X combines a compact-size grip length, a built-in beaver tail, and a subcompact-slim slide for a comfortably balanced, versatile grip that’s ideal for various users.
It features the Glock Safe Action system, which provides a consistent trigger pull from the first to the last round. The three automatic, independently operating mechanical safeties are built into the fire control system of the pistol.
All three safeties disengage sequentially as the trigger is pulled and automatically reengage when the trigger is released.
The frame is made of polymer with hardened steel guides. It features an ideal grip angle and low weight. The slide stop lever and the magazine catch are easily operated with the shooting hand.
The advanced surface treatment of the slide results in optimal hardness by considerably reducing wear and tear, making it corrosion-resistant, even when operating in saltwater conditions. The matte surface minimizes light reflection.
The barrel is mechanically locked and cold-hammer forged. It also has the same advanced surface treatment as the slide.
Its extractor serves as a loaded chamber indicator to comply with the laws of certain states, and its position may visually and physically indicate whether there is a 9mm cartridge in the pistol’s chamber.
Glock pistols are great and well known for being reliable and the 43X is no exception.
- Handedness: Ambidextrous
- Trigger pull (lb.): 5.5
- Metal finish: Matte
- Action: Double
- Product weight: 19.2 ounces
- Manual Safety: No
- Front sight: Fixed
- Rear sight: Fixed
- Caliber: 9mm
- Polymer grip
- 5.5-pound trigger pull
- Semiautomatic action
- 3.39-inch barrel
- Fixed front sight and fixed rear sight
- Matte finish
14. Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal is the newest gun on this list. This is essentially an M&P9 with a metal frame instead of a polymer.
The lightweight and rigid metal frame of the Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal provides an extraordinary foundation for higher performance. Built on the M&P platform, it is compatible with all M2.0 magazines, slides holsters, and palm swells.
This aluminum frame is constructed from 7075-T6 and is the only significant difference from the previous pistol version. Some people may even say we have come full circle, and the polymer-framed gun craze is dying.
The striker-fired trigger group features an enhanced sear for lighter, crisper trigger let-off and a flat-face trigger with integral safety; there’s no frame-mounted manual safety.
The steel slide and the alloy frame have a tungsten grey Cerakote finish which looks great and is durable.
This is a top contender if you want the newest and greatest pistol on the market. It still has all the features that made the original M&P great, but now it has a modern touch.
This new M&P pistol features a polymer plug, which is screwed into the interior wall of the trigger guard behind the trigger. This prevents overtravel with the factory trigger.
This probably isn’t the best choice for concealed carry because it is a heavier and larger pistol. But for general self defense it works great.
Specs:
- SKU 13194
- Model M&P9 M2.0 METAL
- Caliber 9mm Luger
- Capacity 17+1
- Optics Yes
- Color Two-Tone
- Safety No Thumb Safety
- Length 7.4
- Front Sight Steel White Dot
- Rear Sight Steel White 2-Dot
- Action Striker Fire
- Grip Interchangeable Palmswell Inserts (4)
- Barrel Material Stainless Steel with Armornite Finish
- Slide Material Stainless Steel
- Frame Material T6 Aluminum
- Slide Finish Tungsten Gray Cerakote
- Frame Finish Tungsten Gray Cerakote
- Barrel Twist 1:10 RH
- Barrel Length 4.25″ (10.8 cm)
- Weight 30.0 oz.
Features:
- Optimal 18-degree grip angle for natural point of aim
- Four interchangeable palmswell grip inserts for optimal hand fit and trigger reach – S, M, ML, L
- Textured polymer front strap
- Wide slide stop
- Reversible magazine release
- Slide cut for optics
- M2.0 flat face trigger for consistent finger placement that allows for more accurate and repeatable shooting
- Picatinny-style rail
- Forward slide serrations
- The low barrel bore axis makes the M&P pistol comfortable to shoot, reducing muzzle rise and allowing for faster aim recovery
- Enhanced sear for lighter, crisper trigger let-off
- Accurate 1-in-10 twist barrel
- M&P’s patented take-down lever and sear deactivation systems allow for disassembly without pulling the trigger
- Accepts any 17-round M2.0 magazine
- It comes with two 17-round magazines
- It fits standard M&P9 holsters
Click Here to check the current prices of the Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal
Related Articles
15. Glock 19 Gen 5
The most common Glock pistol, and for a good reason, is the Glock 19 Gen 5. This is the industry standard when manufacturers are designing guns to be competitive.
Everyone wants to build a better gun than the Glock 19 to knock it down from the number one spot it has held for so long.
Usually, when it comes to Glocks, people either love them or hate them, but no one can deny their reliability.
The G19 Gen5 9mm Semiautomatic Pistol is constructed with a 5.5-pound trigger, a polymer grip, and a 4.02-inch barrel. This centerfire pistol is completed with fixed front and rear sights and topped with a matte finish.
The Glock 19 Gen 5 in 9 mm Luger is ideal for a more versatile role due to its reduced dimensions. The frame design without finger grooves still allows you to instantly customize its grip to accommodate any hand size by mounting the different back straps.
The reversible magazine catch and ambidextrous slide stop lever make it ideal for left and right-handed shooters. The barrel’s rifling and crown were slightly modified for increased precision.
It is nothing fancy, but it works. Most people would agree that reliability and performance are better than aesthetics.
If you are overwhelmed with all of the different options available and can’t decide. A good default is always to buy a Glock 19. They have many aftermarket support, parts are widely available, and most law enforcement officers carry these as their duty weapons.
If you want to read more on the Glock 19 and learn why it’s one of the best guns, I will link to my full article on it.
More people rely on the G19 for self defense than any other firearm on this list.
- Action: Double
- Metal finish: Matte
- Product weight: 25.06 ounces
- Manual Safety: No
- Activity: Shooting
- Barrel length (in.): 4.02
- Handedness: Ambidextrous
- Product length (in.): 7.6
- Front sight: Fixed
- Magazine capacity: 15+
- Rear sight: Fixed
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Polymer grip
- Front serrations
- Double semiautomatic action with a 15-round capacity
- 4.02-inch barrel with a matte finish
- 5.5-pound trigger pull
- Fixed front sight and fixed rear sight
Click Here to check the current prices of the Glock 19 Gen 5
16. Beretta 92FS
The Beretta 92FS semi-automatic pistol operates on a short recoil, delayed blowback system, leading to faster cycle times, exceptional accuracy, and greater reliability.
The chrome-lined barrel provides extreme corrosion resistance, while the deeply-recessed combat muzzle crown protects the rifling.
The open-top slide virtually eliminates jamming, and stove piping allows for one cartridge at a time. The rear sight is designed to provide a front projection so that in an emergency, the user may retract the slide single-handedly by pushing the rear sight against the edge of a table or door.
The Beretta exclusive Bruniton non-reflective black coating is a superior corrosion and wear-resistant finish.
The 92FS reversible magazine release is positioned next to the trigger guard for either right or left-handed shooters. This model has a black frame, black Burniton slide, and a 15-round 9mm magazine.
You can count on this double-action/single-action handgun for reliable shooting in a variety of scenarios. Checkered grip panels provide a positive, reliable grip, even with gloved hands.
The Beretta 92FS utilizes a short recoil, delayed blowback system for enhanced control, while an open-top slide that virtually eliminates jams for superior reliability. The disassembly latch makes for easy, toolless fieldstripping, breaking the 92FS down into 4 main components for easy maintenance.
A spring-loaded, ambidextrous safety lever doubles as a decocking lever, and a visible chamber indicator allows for visible and tactile chamber-status checks for an added layer of safety.
A reversible magazine release accommodates right- and left-handed shooters, while two 15-round magazines ensure optimal firepower for defensive scenarios.
- Manufacturer warranty – parts: 1 year
- Action: Single/Double
- Metal finish: Black Bruniton
- Product weight: 34.4 oz.
- Product length (in.): 8.5
- Front sight: 1-dot
- Magazine capacity: 15+
- Barrel length (in.): 4.9
- Manufacturer warranty – general: 1 year
- Rear sight: 2-dot
- Single-dot front sight and 2-dot rear sight system
- Open slide design virtually eliminates jamming
- Semiautomatic double and single action
- 4.9″ black matte Bruniton barrel
- External loaded chamber indicator
- 15-round magazine capacity
- The safety system combines de-cocking with a positive thumb safety
- The internal firing pin block system only moves when the trigger is pulled
Click Here to check the current prices of the Beretta 92FS
17. Sig P365
The final firearm on this list, and a great choice for concealed carry, is the Sig P365.
Sig Sauer pistols are engineered to perform anywhere, at any time, and under any circumstance. They boast unique, advanced features that stand out among the rest.
The Sig Sauer P365 delivers reliable performance in a compact, ergonomic, and lightweight handgun design. It comes chambered in 9mm with a 3.1 inch barrel. Features include night sights, an accessory rail, and two 10 round magazines.
The 9 mm Sig Sauer P365 micro-compact pistol is a revolutionary concealed carry handgun that gives you more capacity, concealability and capability.
It is striker-fired, with a nitron finished stainless steel slide and a polymer grip. The proprietary magazine design allows for a 10 round capacity in both the flush fit and extended grip sizes.
The Sig P365 is rated for +P ammunition and comes with one flush and extended magazine. This model has black finish and X-Ray3 day/night sights.
This 9mm pistol is now available with a Romeo Zero Optic preinstalled, and in an SAS model, which features an innovative flush-mounted FT Bullseye Fiber-Tritium Night sight.
This “sightless” design eliminates snagging when holstering for flawless concealed carry. For those who need a longer slide, the Sig Sauer P365 XL is just the ticket with a slide length that enhances accuracy without sacrificing concealability.
- Handedness: Ambidextrous
- Action: Striker Fired
- Metal finish: Nitron
- Product weight: 17.8 ounces
- Manual Safety: No
- Product Length (in.): 5.8
- Activity: Shooting
- Magazine capacity: 10
- Barrel length (in.): 3.1
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- SIG accessory rail
- Polymer grip
- Semiautomatic, striker-fired action with a 10+1 capacity
- Micro-compact frame made from Nitron-finished stainless steel
- Rated for +P ammunition
- Standard Trigger
- SIGLITE XRAY3 day/night sights
Click Here to check the current prices of the Sig P365
Final Considerations
All the handguns mentioned above are premium options, and you can’t go wrong with them. It’s better to determine if you need a gun for concealed carry or just for home defense.
Concealed carry pistols will be smaller and usually hold fewer rounds. This doesn’t mean that it cannot be used for home defense but it’s designed for everyday carry.
The same goes the other way too. A full-sized pistol can also be used as a concealed carry pistol, but it will be more bulky and uncomfortable for most people.
Striker fired pistols are simpler and easier to operate for most people also. There is no exposed hammer, and you do not have to worry about whether it’s in a single or double action.
Many more guns out there did not make a list because I consider them too niche-specific or novelty guns. The Browning Hi Power, for example, is a great gun, but I don’t see many people owning them or using them as concealed carry pistols. In my opinion, Browning Hi Power handguns are more of a collectible type of gun.
Also, there are no 1911 handguns on my list. I love 1911s, but all of mine are chambered in 45 ACP, not 9mm.
If you are still undecided on which 9mm handgun to get, the Sig Sauer P320 will be wise to get because you are essentially future-proofing. The Sig Sauer P320 will have support for decades because of the platform’s military adoption.
Best 9mm Pistols FAQ
What pistol does the U.S. Navy SEALS use?
What are the top 5 9mm handguns?
What is America’s favorite handgun?
What is the most popular handgun caliber?
Complete List of Items Mentioned
(Click the links for the most up-to-date prices)
- H&K P30 V3
- Ruger American Duty
- Springfield Hellcat Pro OSP
- Canik TP9SA Mod 2
- FN 509
- Sig P320
- Glock 17 Gen 5
- Sig P226 Legion
- H&K VP9
- CZ P-07
- Walther PDP
- Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield M2.0
- Glock 43X
- Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal
- Glock 19 Gen 5
- Beretta 92FS
- Sig P365
What is your favorite 9mm pistol? Do you agree with my list, or are there any other pistols you think I forgot to add and deserve to be on this list?
Let me know in the comments below.
Further reading on Firstworldcrusader.com: Are you interested in learning more about guns and gear?
This list of the Best Red Dot Sights can help you choose the best optic for your rifle.
In addition, here are the Best AR-15 Upgrades & Accessories that can help you get more out of your primary battle rifle.
