Pistols have changed in a big way over the last decade. It seems like every second there’s a new innovation that takes these handheld beauties to the next level.
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From interchangeable backstraps to next-gen sights, the future of pistols is an exciting one.
Scroll through the gallery above for a roundup of six popular pistols so far in 2016 and be sure to read more about them below!
DoubleStar PHD
The .45 ACP DoubleStar PHD is custom-grade pistol without the commensurate price. Featuring a flat-topped slide with serrations to reduce glare, XS Express sights with a front tritium insert, a rounded butt and a Wilson Combat high-ride beavertail grip safety, the PHD has an 8+1 capacity and is ready for self-defense duty. (star15.com; 888-736-7725)
EAA Witness Elite Polymer 1911
Taking the classic 1911 platform into the 21st century is the Witness Elite Polymer 1911 from EAA Corp. Offered in .45 ACP or 9mm in three sizes (full-size, Commander and Officer), the pistol features a lightweight and durable polymer frame.
The result is a pistol that weighs between 28.8 to 32 ounces while still retaining the classic and proven 1911’s ergonomics and manual of arms. (eaacorp.com; 321-639-4842)
Honor Defense Honor Guard
The new subcompact, 9mm semi-auto from Honor Defense, the Honor Guard, features an ergonomic polymer frame and a striker-fired action.
With a 8+1 capacity, this innovative pistol also features fully interchangeable backstraps, slide serrations and a serialized modular steel chassis that can be swapped in between different-sized frames. No trigger pull or tools are required for takedown.
An optional manual safety is available as well as a special extended FIST frame with a standoff device. In addition, a long-slide version with a rail will be available soon. (honordefense.com; 678-943-8035)
Kahr TP9 Gen2
The new Kahr TP9 Gen2 pistol represents a real upgrade to the standard TP9. It retains the smooth striker-fired mechanism and single-stack frame but adds a rail on the dust cover for accessories as well as a newly designed trigger with a front safety lever and TruGlo TFX day/night sights. (kahr.com; 508-795-3919)
Ruger American Pistol
The new Ruger American Pistol is a full-sized, polymer-framed, striker-fired pistol available in 9mm or .45 ACP with either a 17+1 or 10+1 capacity, respectively. The entire rear of the grip frame is replaceable, allowing the user to adjust the grip size and trigger reach.
The new striker mechanism also offers a very short reset and take-up while the low-mass slide, recoil-reducing barrel cam and low bore axis reduce muzzle flip and perceived recoil significantly.
The black-nitrided slide features Novak LoMount Carry three-dot sights, and the frame has a full-sized Picatinny accessory rail. The American Pistol’s slide stop and magazine release are also fully ambidextrous. (ruger.com)
Sig Sauer P225-A1
Sig has returned the venerable P225 pistol to its catalog and is now shipping the classic handgun to dealers and distributors.
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The P225-A1 retains the exceptional look and feel of the original P225 but features an enhanced trigger and the precision manufacturing and quality from the state-of-the-art Sig Sauer facility.
The P225-A1 is a single-stack 9mm pistol with a DA/SA trigger system. The slide is stainless steel while the frame is finished in Nitron. (sigsauer.com; 603-610-3000)
