The video opens with a countdown of the top five pistols that are not chambered in 9mm, covering roles from concealed carry to fun range guns. The hosts explain that they do not know each other’s lists, which sets up a light competitive tone. One of the first picks is the FN 510 in 10mm, highlighted as a powerful but bulky handgun. It is described as less ideal for daily concealed carry due to size and recoil, yet excellent as a hiking or apocalypse gun. With a 15+1 capacity and 10mm chambering, it is positioned as a strong option for protection against wildlife in the backcountry. The other early choice is the Taurus TX22 in .22 LR, praised for its popularity, optics-ready configuration, threaded barrel, and availability of extended magazines. Its extremely cheap ammunition and very quiet shooting characteristics make it a standout training and fun gun in the low $300 price range.
Attention shifts to softer-shooting pistols suited for new shooters and concealed carry. The Beretta ADX Cheetah in .380 ACP is introduced as an all-metal, optics-ready handgun with a DA/SA trigger system. It is described as very soft recoiling and flat shooting, making it a strong concealed carry option for those wanting manageable recoil in a quality platform. The Glock 44 in .22 LR is discussed as a reliable, low-recoil trainer that mirrors the feel of a centerfire Glock. It is frequently used to introduce hesitant shooters, especially women, to handguns before moving them up to .380 ACP. However, it lacks extended magazines, a threaded barrel, and optics-ready features. The Bodyguard 2.0 in .380 ACP is then highlighted for concealed carry, offering soft recoil, a 12-round capacity, and excellent concealability. A caution is given about potential slide bite for shooters with larger hands, but it remains a recommended option for those prioritizing small size and mild recoil.
The discussion moves into more powerful calibers and classic platforms. The 1911 platform appears with references to the Alpha Foxtrot and especially the Springfield TRP Operator in 10mm, contrasted with the traditional .45 ACP 1911 and jokingly tied to World War heritage. The FN 510 in 10mm is revisited as a potent striker-fired choice for backcountry defense, mentioned alongside the FN 545. The M&P 40 is described as a law-enforcement-proven pistol that bridges the energy gap between 9mm and .45 ACP, sitting just below 10mm in power. The hosts defend .40 S&W, noting its long-standing law enforcement use and dedicated fan base despite criticism and comparisons to 10mm. Honorable mentions include the Tisas Raider 1911 in .45 ACP, praised as a beautiful single-action pistol with 8+1 capacity, and the Beretta 30X Tomcat in .32 ACP. The Tomcat is commended for soft, flat shooting, good capacity, and a tilting barrel that simplifies topping off the chamber and enables suppressor use.
The final segment focuses on the hosts’ competing number one non-9mm picks and a playful price debate. One host selects the HK USP Compact in .45 ACP, describing it as a very soft-shooting pistol with 8+1 capacity and renowned HK craftsmanship. Its history of use by U.S. Border Patrol and Customs is mentioned, reinforcing its duty-grade reputation. The other host chooses the SIG P365 Lux in .380 ACP, emphasizing its extremely flat shooting behavior, high concealability, and 12+1 capacity. Features such as a flat trigger, high beavertail, and excellent ergonomics are highlighted, along with its optic-ready configuration and compatibility with the Romeo X compact optic. A lighthearted argument over pricing reveals the HK around $1,200, roughly $200 more than a comparable SIG, with clarification that the discussion centers on the USP Compact rather than the larger Mark 23. The video closes by inviting viewers to pick which list they prefer in the comments, followed by thanks, a blessing, and a casual sign-off.