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One of the things that keeps me going as a firearms industry writer is that many companies in our industry are never content to rest on their laurels. The second is their willingness to resurrect and improve firearms designs once considered obsolete or not of interest to modern shooters. Smith & Wesson has been proving […]

Many handguns on the used gun market are still capable of providing reliable performance for today’s concealed carrier or home defender, often at a much lower price than newer models. And if you consider a revolver to fill your defensive needs, you’ll find a platform known for durability, accuracy and simplicity. While several manufacturers yet […]

Originally published in April 2018. Updated February 2026. Smith & Wesson is continually improving pistols. One example over the years is the Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm Shield 2.0 with Integral Green Laser Sight. In 2016, Smith & Wesson purchased Crimson Trace, the pioneering manufacturer and developer of handgun and long gun laser sighting systems. […]

The old adage of “buy once, cry once” is everywhere in gun media. The idea is simple: You pour every penny into a gun one time, then you’re set for life. Conversely, if you go cheap, you’re clearly going to regret it and possibly get killed. What’s the truth about the cost of a defensive […]

A defensive pistol should be as close to flawlessly reliable as possible, easy to operate and comfortable to shoot. You can purchase the most reliable pistol on the market, but if that pistol doesn’t fit your hand or is uncomfortable for you to operate or shoot, it’ll be all but impossible for you to maximize […]

I’ve been using laser sights on my defensive handguns and AR-15s since 1995. I think guns mounted with laser sights are the best option in low light because they do not obstruct the user’s view. I’ve also found them useful during my time as church security to pinpoint the wolf among the sheep. Why Consider […]

I’ve been carrying a handgun on the trail since I entered law enforcement. In my earlier days of hiking and carrying concealed, that usual meant a compact .38 Special snubnose revolver or small .380 auto like the Colt Mustang. These options were adequate in the 1980s when bear sightings and trouble from two-legged predators were […]

Handguns are primarily divided into two categories: revolvers and semi-automatics. Choosing between a revolver and a semi-auto is one of the biggest decisions new handgun owners face. Both platforms can serve well for concealed carry and self-defense, but each has strengths and limitations that matter depending on your experience level, training habits and intended use. […]

For gun enthusiasts of all disciplines and skill levels, a rimfire handgun, specifically one chambered in .22 Long Rifle, should undoubtedly be part of your collection. Not only is .22LR amongst the most affordable ammunition to purchase in bulk, but it is also a round that produces a very manageable amount of recoil. This allows […]

In the latter half of the 20th century, classifying handgun frame sizes was simpler because there were so few models available. Especially when examining semi-automatic pistols, narrowing down the size of handgun was easier. You were typically deciding between a full-size duty pistol, a compact version of that same gun or a small “pocket pistol.” […]