Top 5 Pistols That Released In 2025
It's been a great year for handgun enthusiasts and concealed carriers, with dozens of new models to choose from. Ranging from updates to classic designs to cutting-edge releases, there's something in today's market for every kind of shooter.
The Classic Firearms team has handled and fired many of these semi-auto pistols, both on and off camera. With that said, here are our picks for the five best pistols of 2025!
5. Ruger RXM
Announced in December 2024, the RXM is a collaboration between Ruger and Magpul to create an affordable yet feature-rich Glock-style handgun. It features an optics-ready slide as well as an ergonomic grip with an extended beavertail and undercut trigger guard for improved handling.
This platform is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket Glock parts and accepts standard double stack 9mm Glock magazines. Each shooter can attach the optic and light of their choice, plus the RXM is available with or without a threaded barrel from the factory.
Out of the box, the Ruger RXM is one of the best bang-for-your-buck pistols to hit the market in 2025. It is accessible for first-time buyers, but is also a tremendous value for experienced shooters looking for a modular platform to build from.
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4. Springfield TRP AOS
Springfield's TRP AOS is the latest update to one of the brand's most popular 1911 variants, based on the iconic service pistol fielded by the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team. The TRP AOS model adds the option to run a red dot using plates that are compatible with a wide range of optics footprints.
If you're looking for a carry-ready 1911 pistol, the TRP AOS is one of the finest production models available in today's market. It features ambi thumb safeties, an extended beavertail grip safety, a standard Picatinny accessory rail, forward slide serrations, top strap serrations, and a two-piece magwell.
Fit and finish are exceptional as one might expect from a hand-fitted 1911. The TRP AOS feels great in the hand and has exceeded our expectations when testing it at the range.
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Swampfox Optics Liberty II 1x24, 3 MOA, Green Dot Sight - LBT2124-3G
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3. Smith & Wesson M&P Shield X
Building upon the foundation of the M&P Shield and Shield Plus, Smith & Wesson's all-new Shield X is the ultimate micro compact EDC pistol. Its slim profile and lightweight construction aid concealment as well as comfort. Best of all, the slide is cut for a variety of popular carry optics.
The Shield X is the most ergonomic of Smith & Wesson's concealed carry pistols and packs a number of improvements over previous shield models, including a flat-face trigger and an accessory rail. Best of all, the base capacity is 13+1 with the factory flush-fit magazine, with 15-round mags readily available.
For those seeking a well-rounded handgun to carry throughout the year, few pistols have more to offer than the Shield X. In our opinion, the refinements and additions Smith & Wesson have made are well worth the price of picking up this phenomenal firearm.
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2. CZ Shadow 2 Carry
The CZ Shadow 2 Carry is one of the smoothest-shooting guns we've fired all year. This pistol's low bore axis and all-metal construction translate to an incredibly soft recoil impulse, allowing for rapid follow-up shots and making the Shadow 2 Carry an excellent choice for concealed carry or competition.
It features a traditional double / single action trigger with a 7.5-8.5lb double action trigger pull and a 3-4lb single action trigger pull. The slide is cut for an optic and each pistol ships with two 15-round magazines. The Shadow 2 Carry is exactly what CZ fans have been asking for in a compact EDC platform.
Moreover, it is one of the few new and innovative DA / SA guns to hit the market in quite some time. We hope the positive reception for the Shadow 2 Carry will prompt other manufacturers to explore releasing more modern DA / SA handguns in 2026.
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1. Heckler & Koch CC9
Following years of development, Heckler & Koch recently launched their first micro compact pistol - the CC9. It features the same ergonomics and interchangeable grip panels as its bigger brother, the VP9, just in a thinner and more concealable package. As a result, the CC9 is among the most comfortable and concealable pistol H&K has ever made.
Each CC9 pistol ships with night sights, an accessory rail, and an optics-ready slide for mounting a red dot. The CC9 is also rated for +P defensive ammo, which is a huge plus for such a slim handgun. In most ways, this is the ideal configuration of a modern concealed carry pistol.
The CC9 feels great in the hand and its light, crisp 5lb trigger translates to a very pleasant shooting experience. We are happy to confirm the hype is real on this one, pick up a CC9 and you won't be disappointed.
Heckler and Koch 81001131 CC9, Semi Automatic 9mm Handgun, 3.32" Barrel, w/ Holosun 407K Included, 1-12rd and 1-10rd Magazine, Black
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What About The Comps?
In addition to the models listed above, many manufacturers released compensated and / or ported handguns in 2025. Find out if these comps actually work and if so, which comp'd pistols we prefer, by watching our video below!
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