The hosts open with a discussion about buying a first handgun and the factors new gun owners usually weigh. Practical use, affordability, and everyday carry potential are central concerns. They note that many first‑time buyers want reliable protection without spending heavily on high‑end models like a Staccato XC. Cost versus reliability, and the general pros and cons of different pistols, guide their list. The goal is a straightforward set of options that balance price, performance, and usability for people just getting into handguns and personal protection.
The first pistol discussed, ranked at number five, is the Taurus G3C. It is presented as a cost‑effective 9mm option with 12‑round capacity that can serve as either a concealed carry gun or a bedside pistol. One of the hosts mentions buying a G3C for a family member who wanted a reliable everyday carry handgun. They note that recent Taurus G2 and G3C models have been solid performers. The G3C is described as comfortable in the hand, with good capacity for its size and a price around the low $300 range. An optics‑ready TORO version exists for those who may want to add a red dot later.
At number four is the Walther PDP F‑Series. The hosts mention that the marketing focused on female shooters and smaller hands, but they emphasize that the pistol works well for anyone who prefers a thinner grip. They compare its overall size to a Glock 43X and point out that even with larger hands, a full, solid grip is easy to achieve. The PDP F‑Series is optics ready out of the box, has a 15‑round capacity, and features the well‑regarded Walther trigger. Texturing, front serrations, and ergonomics are highlighted as strong points. MSRP is described as being in the high $400 to low $500 range.
Number three on the list is the Smith & Wesson Shield family. The hosts reference the original Shield with an 8‑round capacity and then move to an upgraded Performance Center Shield Plus model. The newer versions increase capacity to around 10 rounds, with available 12‑ and 15‑round magazines. Optics‑ready variants are available, and the pistols are considered well‑suited for concealed carry. Thumb safety options are discussed for new owners who are hesitant about carrying with a round chambered. The Performance Center model shown includes a compensator, porting, upgraded sights, optics‑ready slide, and a 13+1 capacity in a slim, lightweight package, with pricing in the mid‑$400s and higher for the enhanced version.
The number two slot goes to the SIG Sauer P365 family. The hosts credit SIG with pioneering the one‑and‑a‑half‑stack magazine concept, offering higher capacity in a very small 9mm frame. They mention the P365 Macro variant with a 17‑round capacity and an integrated compensator, along with other extra features. A smaller P365 model with a 12‑round magazine is also discussed, emphasizing how compact it is while still providing 12+1 capacity. Many P365 models are optics ready and can be ordered with or without a thumb safety. The platform is described as modular, with the ability to swap grip modules from companies like Icarus Precision, Sharps Bros, and others, allowing owners to tailor ergonomics while staying in a relatively cost‑effective range for the feature set.
Before revealing the top pick, the hosts offer two honorable mentions. One is the Tisas PX‑9 carry, specifically the newer duty model. It is described as a compact pistol that comes compensated and optics ready from the factory, with a notably good trigger and a grip that allows a full purchase. MSRP is said to be around the $500 mark. The second honorable mention is the Canik MC9. This pistol offers a 17‑round capacity, optics‑ready slide, and the characteristic Canik trigger, which the hosts regard positively. The MC9 package typically includes a holster, extra magazines, and other accessories, all at a price under $500, making it another budget‑conscious option with strong out‑of‑the‑box features.
The Glock 19 takes the number one spot. It is described as small and manageable while still large enough to function as a general‑purpose fighting pistol. The hosts emphasize Glock’s reputation for reliability and the broad acceptance of the Glock 19 as a standard concealed carry and duty option. One host notes that after trying many other concealed carry handguns, he consistently returns to the Glock 19 as his primary choice. He also mentions using a Glock 47 on a duty belt and being able to run Glock 17‑size magazines, highlighting cross‑compatibility within the Glock ecosystem. The Glock 19 is said to fill multiple roles—concealed carry, duty use, and range training—at a price point in the low $500 range.
In closing, the hosts recap their goal of identifying pistols that offer strong value for new gun owners by balancing cost, reliability, and capability. They acknowledge that many viewers will have their own preferred brands and models, such as Kimber or Kahr, that did not make the list. The selections were chosen based on shared experience and a focus on options that are generally affordable while still delivering dependable performance and useful features like higher capacity and optics‑ready configurations. Viewers are invited to suggest other candidates they believe should be considered for new handgun owners.
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