Understanding the Full-Sized Advantage
Improved Accuracy
The longer sight radius (the distance between the front and rear sights) allows for more precise aiming. This, coupled with a typically longer barrel, contributes to tighter shot groups and better accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
Enhanced Recoil Management
The larger frame and added weight of full sized pistols absorb recoil more effectively. This makes them easier to control during rapid firing and follow-up shots. Less felt recoil means less muzzle rise and quicker target reacquisition.
Higher Magazine Capacity
Larger frames typically accommodate magazines with a greater number of rounds, increasing your firepower. This can be especially important in defensive situations or during extended range sessions.
Superior Ergonomics
The larger grip often allows for a more comfortable and secure hold, particularly for those with larger hands. This improves overall handling and control of the firearm.
Assessing What Makes a Great Pistol
Choosing the “best” full sized pistol is subjective, as it depends on individual needs and preferences. However, certain criteria consistently contribute to a positive experience. We will consider these points when evaluating the offerings below:
Reliability
A firearm must function flawlessly when needed. This entails the pistol consistently cycling ammunition, firing on command, and extracting spent casings without issue. We will look for pistols with a reputation for dependability.
Accuracy
Accuracy is another critical factor. We’ll consider the pistol’s inherent ability to group shots tightly. Factors like sight quality, trigger pull, and barrel quality all play a role in this.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics refers to how well the pistol fits in the hand and how comfortable it is to use. Features such as grip texture, grip size, and the location of controls contribute to ergonomics.
Features
Features are important. We’ll consider factors such as the quality of the sights, the trigger system, the availability of aftermarket accessories, and the overall design of the pistol.
Price and Value
Price and Value are essential to any purchase. We will assess the cost-to-performance ratio of each full sized pistol and consider the features offered for the price.
Exploring Top-Tier Full-Sized Pistols
The Glock 17: A Timeless Classic
The Glock 17 is arguably one of the most iconic and widely used handguns in history. Its impact is undeniable. First introduced in the mid-eighties, the Glock 17’s simple, robust design revolutionized the industry. Its polymer frame, striker-fired action, and safe-action trigger system are now standards.
Key Specifications and Features
The Glock 17 is chambered in nine millimeter Luger, the industry standard. It usually boasts a magazine capacity of rounds. Its barrel length contributes to a respectable overall length. The pistol features a polymer frame, steel slide, and Glock’s patented safe-action trigger system.
Strengths
The Glock 17 is renowned for its exceptional reliability. Glocks are incredibly simple to maintain and clean, making them ideal for new gun owners. The availability of aftermarket parts and accessories is extensive, allowing for customization. Glock offers an impressive track record for reliability, often functioning under extreme conditions.
Weaknesses
The Glock’s trigger pull may not be as refined as some other pistols. Some find the grip angle less natural than others. The sights can also be considered basic.
Performance
The Glock 17 is consistently accurate. Its reliability record, across various tests, speaks volumes about its reliability.
Ergonomics and Handling
The grip is comfortable for many, although some users with smaller hands may find it slightly bulky. Controls are simple and easily accessible.
Price and Value
Glock 17s represent great value, offering a proven track record at a reasonable price.
Best Suited For
The Glock 17 is an excellent choice for home defense, law enforcement, and recreational shooting. Its simplicity and reliability make it a favorite for new gun owners.
The Sig Sauer P320: Adaptability Redefined
The Sig Sauer P320 is a modern marvel. This handgun has rapidly gained popularity, especially after its selection as the U.S. Army’s Modular Handgun System (MHS). The P320 is best known for its modularity.
Key Specifications and Features
The P320 is available in several calibers, including nine millimeter Luger, .357 SIG, and .40 S&W. It offers a wide range of frame sizes, from compact to full-sized, and slide lengths. The serialized part of the P320 is the fire control unit, a small module. This allows for easy conversion between different frame sizes and calibers by swapping out the frame, slide, and magazine.
Strengths
Modularity is the P320’s greatest strength. You can easily change the size and caliber of your pistol. The trigger is generally excellent, with a crisp break and short reset. Accuracy is high.
Weaknesses
The P320 has experienced recalls in the past, particularly related to drop safety. The modular design, while a benefit, can also lead to a more complex experience, if parts aren’t assembled correctly.
Performance
The P320 is known for its high accuracy. Its trigger is a major asset.
Ergonomics and Handling
The grip is comfortable, and the modularity allows for customization.
Price and Value
The P320 is competitively priced.
Best Suited For
The P320 is an excellent choice for those who want a versatile pistol. It is also a great fit for those who want a pistol that can be easily configured for different tasks and shooting styles.
The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0: Engineered for Excellence
Smith & Wesson’s M&P (Military & Police) 2.0 series represents a significant evolution of the original M&P line. Designed to be a versatile and adaptable pistol, the M&P 2.0 offers several improvements over its predecessor.
Key Specifications and Features
The M&P 2.0 is offered in nine millimeter Luger, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. Features include a stainless steel slide and barrel, polymer frame with interchangeable backstraps, and an enhanced trigger.
Strengths
The ergonomics are excellent. The M&P 2.0 features a more aggressive grip texture than the original, improving handling. The trigger has been significantly improved, offering a crisper break and shorter reset. Reliability is good.
Weaknesses
The M&P 2.0 is not as readily customizable as the Glock or Sig Sauer P320, although aftermarket support continues to grow.
Performance
The M&P 2.0 is known for its accuracy. Its refined trigger enhances its shootability. Reliability has been excellent.
Ergonomics and Handling
The M&P 2.0 feels great in the hand, due to a more aggressive grip texture and ergonomic design. Interchangeable backstraps allow shooters to customize the grip to their hands. The controls are well-placed and easy to manipulate.
Price and Value
The M&P 2.0 offers a competitive price and a host of features, making it a good value.
Best Suited For
The M&P 2.0 is a solid choice for home defense, law enforcement, and recreational shooting. Its excellent ergonomics, improved trigger, and reliability make it a favorite for experienced shooters.
The CZ P-10 F: The Czech Contender
CZ-USA has made a huge splash in the handgun market with the P-10 series, and the full-sized P-10 F is no exception. CZ is renowned for its quality.
Key Specifications and Features
The P-10 F is chambered in nine millimeter Luger. The polymer frame is optimized for ergonomics. The P-10 F features a flat-faced trigger, aggressive grip texture, and excellent sights.
Strengths
The CZ P-10 F boasts one of the best triggers in the striker-fired handgun market. The ergonomics are excellent, with a comfortable grip. The pistol is very accurate.
Weaknesses
Aftermarket support is not as extensive as for Glock or Sig Sauer models.
Performance
The P-10 F consistently scores high on accuracy and reliability tests.
Ergonomics and Handling
The grip is very comfortable, and the controls are well-placed.
Price and Value
The CZ P-10 F provides incredible value, offering premium features at a competitive price.
Best Suited For
This is an excellent option for shooters who want a premium pistol.
The Springfield Armory XD-M Elite: Ready to Compete
Springfield Armory’s XD-M Elite series builds upon the successful XD platform. It is a high-performing handgun.
Key Specifications and Features
Available in several calibers, including nine millimeter Luger and .45 ACP. The Elite models feature a Match Enhanced Trigger Assembly (META) trigger, a flared magazine well, and improved ergonomics.
Strengths
The META trigger is a significant improvement. The ergonomics are excellent, and the flared magazine well facilitates faster reloads.
Weaknesses
The XD-M Elite is generally reliable, though some users may encounter issues with aftermarket parts.
Performance
The XD-M Elite excels in accuracy and reliability.
Ergonomics and Handling
The pistol feels great in the hand. The META trigger and other features enhance handling.
Price and Value
The XD-M Elite offers a good balance of features and price.
Best Suited For
This pistol is ideal for competition shooting, home defense, and recreational shooting.
Looking Beyond the Top Contenders
While the pistols we’ve reviewed represent some of the best in the full sized pistol class, there are other excellent options. The Beretta 92FS remains a popular choice, with its distinct aesthetics and proven reliability. The HK VP9 is known for its superb ergonomics and trigger. Those seeking a classic design might explore 1911-style pistols, with their crisp single-action triggers and proven combat history. These pistols are viable options but are either specialized or may not offer the same blend of modern features and mass appeal as the top contenders.
Making Your Selection: Key Considerations
Choosing a full sized pistol is a personal decision. Consider these factors when making your choice:
Intended Use
Determine the primary purpose of the pistol. Will it be used for home defense, concealed carry (though often not the best for full sized pistols), competition, or range practice? This will influence the features you prioritize.
Hand Size and Ergonomics
Grip size, shape, and texture are crucial for a comfortable and secure hold. Try different models to see which fits your hand best.
Budget
Handgun prices vary significantly. Set a budget before you start shopping to narrow your choices.
Caliber
The most common caliber is nine millimeter Luger. The .45 ACP is another great caliber.
Personal Preference
Consider factors such as trigger pull, sight picture, and overall aesthetics.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The full sized pistol market is filled with excellent options. Whether you are a novice shooter or a seasoned expert, there’s a perfect pistol to suit your needs. The Glock 17 remains a top choice for its reliability and simplicity. The Sig Sauer P320 provides unparalleled modularity. The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 offers excellent ergonomics. The CZ P-10 F delivers a premium experience. The Springfield Armory XD-M Elite offers strong features.
Ultimately, the best full sized pistol for you is the one that fits your hand, suits your intended use, and you feel most confident with. Before making a purchase, visit a gun store, handle different models, and, if possible, test-fire them to get a feel for the pistol’s performance. Practice safe gun handling habits.
Choosing the right full sized pistol is an investment in your safety. Take your time, do your research, and choose wisely.
