The host introduces a countdown of the top five new pistols of 2024, selected by the Classic Firearms team using an internal points system. Only handguns released in 2024 and actually shot by the team were considered. The list is presented as a mix of personal and collective favorites based on range time, shootability, and overall impressions rather than specifications alone. The goal is to cover a broad spectrum of roles, from concealed carry to duty and competition use, while focusing on how each pistol feels and performs in practical shooting.
In fifth place is the Tisas 1911 Double Stack Nightstalker, introduced in April 2024. The host does not have the Nightstalker on hand but compares it to a Tisas 1911 Double Stack Duty model, noting that the Nightstalker is a more refined version. Key features mentioned include slide cuts, an optic cut, higher sights, and an available threaded barrel option. It is described as a tactical double-stack 1911, often referred to as a 2011-style pistol, aimed at shooters seeking an affordable entry into that platform. The Classic Firearms team was impressed with how well it shot and considered it a strong value among new 2011-style guns.
Fourth place goes to the new Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0, a compact pistol chambered in .380 ACP with a 12-round capacity. The host demonstrates how easily it conceals under tight clothing, emphasizing that it remains hidden even under a fitted shirt, while also stressing the importance of always using a holster in real carry situations. The pistol is described as very light, affordable, and well-suited for gym wear or minimal clothing where deep concealment is needed. Despite its small size, the host notes that it feels ergonomic even in large hands, with the slide not interfering with the grip. Recoil is characterized as mild due to the .380 chambering, yet still offering reasonable stopping power, and the team agrees it shoots surprisingly well for such a small handgun.
Third place is the Canik TTI Combat, a collaboration between Canik and Taran Tactical Innovations. The pistol is highlighted as a fan favorite at Classic Firearms, largely due to its trigger. Both companies are known for quality triggers, and this model showcases that reputation. The host demonstrates the trigger on camera, describing a defined wall, a clean break around 90 degrees, and an extremely short reset. Additional features mentioned include an integrated compensator at the front of the slide, slide cuts, quality sights, aggressive stippling, and a flared magwell. The overall impression is that it is a well-thought-out, high-performance pistol that shoots very well and has earned strong enthusiasm from both the team and viewers.
Second place is awarded to the SIG Sauer P320 X5 SXG, presented in the context of the broader P320 family. The host references earlier models like the polymer-frame P320, including the M17-style configuration, and the P320 AXG Pro with its aluminum frame. The X5 SXG is described as an all–stainless steel variant, weighing around 50 ounces and developed with input from competition shooter Max Michel and the SIG team. The added weight translates into very soft shooting characteristics and excellent control. The host recounts shooting the X5 SXG at the SIG Sauer Academy during a SIG Next event and being surprised by how much it improved personal performance, particularly on a plate rack. While acknowledging that it is not inexpensive, the host feels the performance justifies the cost and notes friendly competition on the range with Max Michel and a colleague named Aaron.
Before revealing the top pick, the host discusses two honorable mentions that still need more time to prove themselves. The first is the Alpha Foxtrot Ramulus, described as a 2011-style, double-stack 1911 platform. During a range session with Josh from Alpha Foxtrot, the host fired an estimated 200 to 300 rounds through the Ramulus with no gun-related malfunctions, noting only one issue attributed to ammunition. The pistol’s build quality, tolerances, and overall feel left a strong positive impression. The second mention is an HK VP9 compact variant, referred to as the HK CC9 or VP9 compact. The host handled it at a show in Germany, at the Enforce Tac event, and describes it as similar to a VP9 in a more compact form with a somewhat heavier trigger tailored for law enforcement users. Because there has not yet been range time with this HK model, it remains an honorable mention rather than a ranked entry.
The top spot goes to the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Competitor-style metal-frame pistol, described as a compensated metal-body variant of the M&P 2.0 line. Unlike the standard polymer-frame M&P, this model uses a metal frame yet reportedly weighs about the same as the polymer version. The host recalls shooting it with competitive shooter Kenzie and being impressed by its performance. Features highlighted include a smooth-sliding upper, effective slide serrations, solid stippling, and compatibility with optics such as the Trijicon RMR, shown mounted via a plate. The pistol can be set up with suppressor-height sights and a threaded barrel for suppressed use. The trigger departs from the traditional hinged M&P design, using a more curved shoe with a smooth, roughly 4.5–5 pound pull and a clean reset. Four interchangeable backstraps allow grip customization. The host views it as suitable for competition, recreational shooting, or duty use, and notes that its price in the roughly $800 range is reasonable for a metal-framed pistol.
The video concludes with a recap that the list represents the entire Classic Firearms team’s choices, covering a competition-focused pistol, a duty gun, and a compact carry option to span different use cases. Viewers are invited to share whether they agree with the rankings and to comment on the selections. The host then directs attention to the CF Contest, suggesting viewers search for it to see current giveaways and promotions. A specific example mentioned is a Taran Tactical Innovations Sand Viper pistol, described as a high-end firearm valued at over $8,000, featured in a contest at the time of filming. The host closes by thanking viewers for their support and indicating that more content will follow in future videos.
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