Gun News | Gun Holster Comparisons, Gun Reviews, Gun Safety and More

.22 Magnum handguns use rimfire cartridges and are popular for self-defense, target shooting, hunting, and as kit guns for backpackers.  

In 1959, Winchester introduced the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire, also known as the .22 Magnum or .22 Mag. However, it wasn’t until a year later that the round made its debut in the company’s Model 61 pump-action rifle. Since then, several companies have chambered both revolvers and semi-automatic pistols in .22 Magnum for various applications. 

This round is excellent for hunting small game. The .22-caliber lead round-nose or jacketed hollow-point bullet won’t cause excessive tissue damage, preserving more meat for the table.

At typical compact handgun velocities, few .22 Magnum loads expand reliably. However, in a home defense or concealed carry handgun, .22 Magnum may be a good choice for those who are sensitive to recoil and need a lightweight weapon.

Although there are countless handgun models and variants, most of them fall into three types of handguns: Pistols, revolvers, and derringers. Some may use these terms interchangeably, but each handgun type has its own characteristics. 

Understanding the different types of handguns: Revolvers vs. pistols vs. derringers can help you find the best weapon for your needs, whether for concealed carry, self-defense, or competition shooting.

If you’re interested in purchasing a pocket pistol, consider the KelTec P32, one of the lightest semi-automatic centerfire handguns in the world. This reliable, no-frills self-defense pistol is affordable, comfortable to shoot, and incredibly convenient to carry. 

Find out how this unique weapon entered the market and what makes it one of the best pocket pistols available. 

The United States Army adopted the Colt-Browning .45 Automatic as the U.S. Pistol, Automatic, Caliber .45, Model 1911 on March 29, 1911. Between the date of its adoption and its official replacement in 1985, the M1911 served in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. 

While no longer the primary sidearm of the U.S. armed forces, 1911-pattern pistols remain popular among private citizens for self-defense, competitive target shooting, and collecting. 

If you’re interested in an affordably priced 9mm or .40-caliber semi-automatic pistol for concealed carry, consider the Taurus G2c. However, some gun owners may ask, “Is Taurus a good gun brand?” The company had a few problems over the years regarding its Millennium line. 

Fortunately, the G2c was never the focus of these complaints, and the pistol remains a cost-effective alternative to Glock and Smith & Wesson firearms for budget-conscious gun owners and first-time buyers. 

In 2005, Smith & Wesson introduced the M&P as a competitor to the Glock series of handguns. The M&P is a striker-fired, polymer-framed, semi-automatic pistol available in several calibers and variants. M&P stands for Military & Police, a designation the pistol shares with the company’s Model 10 service revolver. 

The M&P 40, specifically, fires the .40 S&W cartridge, which Smith & Wesson developed in cooperation with Winchester in 1990. This round offers increased power compared with the 9mm Luger cartridge and increased capacity compared with the .45. While not the first Smith & Wesson .40 pistol, the M&P is one of the most versatile. 

What is the best gun for home defense? Handguns are popular and have advantages, but rifles and shotguns are more powerful, easier to learn to shoot well and provide greater stability. 

The best gun for home defense ultimately depends on your individual circumstances. 

Handguns

Many first-time gun buyers seeking firearms for self-defense consider handguns because they’re relatively lightweight, compact, and easy to store.