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compact
327 posts
Streamlight TLR-7X Review: The Best Compact Weapon Light for Your EDC Pistol?
The Streamlight TLR-7 series has long set the standard for compact pistol lights; the updated TLR-7X raises the bar. The original TLR-7 pistol light was one of the first compact pistol lights on the market. The size was perfect for compact pistols like the Glock 19. The TLR-7 did not protrude past the barrel of ... Read more
Best Single-Stack Subcompact 9mms [Concealed Carry]
Concealed carry options are widely available across the United States. Each state currently has its own version of concealed carry legislation. The upside to all of this is that more and more people are getting their concealed carry permits than ever before, and most of them seem to be carrying some form of 9mm pistol–which ... Read more
S&W M&P Subcompact 9mm Pistol [2021 Review]
In this post, we’ll look at the S&W M&P Subcompact, review it, and test its shooting performance. The M&P line of handguns and rifles is a big seller for Smith and Wesson. M&P stands for Military and Police. It is one of Smith and Wesson’s several lines of pistols and rifles. The M&P name was ... Read more
Smith & Wesson M&P .22 Compact Review
You could really do worse than choosing a slightly-smaller rimfire version of your main gun to practice with. That’s where the Smith & Wesson M&P .22 Compact gun comes in — a stand-in for your centerfire boomer. This Compact is 15% smaller than a full-size M&P 22. Speaking of M&P. The M&P line of semi-auto ... Read more
Glock 23: The Compact .40 S&W
Deer-legal in my state. Huh? The Glock 23 is deer-legal in my state. The .40 S&W shot through a minimum-4-inch barrel is considered deer medicine where I live. Add in the ability to shoot the .40 from a carbine, and the joy increases with each additional foot-pound of energy you gain with that longer barrel. ... Read more
Springfield XDM Compact .45 ACP: Hands-On Review
Springfield Armory is well-known for its broad line of 1911 pistols, but their XD brand of striker-fired pistols has acquired huge traction. I recently purchased a brand-new XDM with a 3.8-inch barrel chambered in.45 ACP, which I used for this review. We have provided this review for those who are thinking about purchasing an XDM ... Read more
5 Best Compact 9mm Pistols
Compact can sound like a bad thing in some cases For instance, ask anyone over 6-foot how they feel about compact cars. But what about a compact 9mm pistol? In lots of ways, compact is exactly what you need. The perfect middle ground that makes even Goldilocks smile. Be it a carry gun, a CCW, ... Read more
The 4 Best CZ 75 Compact Holsters
Did you just get yourself a new CZ 75 Compact? Or are you an oldtimer? Either way you know it’s a fantastic weapon that is just the right size for a compact. And now you need a holster for your new concealed carry! We sifted through a variety of leather and kydex holsters to find ... Read more
5 Best Compact Handguns
Guns help prevent an estimated 67,740 crimes a year, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics. This little factoid might be the deciding factor in whether you choose to keep yourself safe by buying a compact handgun. Of course, there are other reasons as well to own a compact handgun perfect for concealed carry. We have ... Read more
[Review] HK P2000SK Compact 9mm
Heckler & Koch makes some of the highest-quality arms in the world. From submachine guns to rifles to pistols, the company has earned a good reputation for tough, reliable weapons. I was blown away (not literally) with the quality and workmanship exhibited in the P30L in .40 S&W when I reviewed that gun a few ... Read more
Taurus Spectrum .380 Subcompact Review
This article/review is about Taurus’ relatively new .380 ACP handgun, the Spectrum. But, before we get into discussing the Spectrum itself, a word about Taurus may be in order. (To cut to the chase, I really like my Spectrum – it’s a very reliable pistol). The following is directed at those who are not fans ... Read more
Review: Primary Arms 2.5x Compact Scope
Primary Arms is an established brand in the world of optics, and is known for their high quality products at mid-range prices. Quick Facts Buying a new rifle is always exciting, whether it be planned or an impulse purchase. On the drive home, your mind is filled with thoughts of holes in paper and the ... Read more
Mossberg Shockwave Review: Legal Sawed-Off or Home Defense Powerhouse?
At first glance, the Mossberg Shockwave looks like a sawed-off shotgun that would require an NFA (National Firearms Act) tax stamp to legally own. In reality, it is 100% legal to own—from a federal standpoint—and is a devastating close-quarters weapon. The Mossberg Shockwave 12-gauge uses an innovative design to classify it as a firearm and ... Read more
Holosun 407K X2: Concealed Carry Perfection [2025]
Red dots on concealed carry guns have rapidly transitioned from a niche to a mainstream feature. The Holosun 407K X2 sets the standard for budget-friendly, durable, and compact pistol red dots. In this pistol red dot review, we’ll cover specifications, glass quality, battery life, carry viability, and the pros and cons. What is the Holosun ... Read more
Hidden Hybrid Holsters Appendix Holster Review: Comfortable EDC for Your Red Dot Pistol.
If you’re looking for an appendix concealed carry holster that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for concealment, hybrid holsters like the Hidden Hybrid Appendix IWB holster are worth considering. The Hidden Hybrid holster I have for review is an optic-cut appendix strong side concealed carry holster with a single belt clip. In this review, I’ll cover the ... Read more
Holosun ARO Review: Best Budget red dot [2025]
When it comes to performance per dollar, Holosun red dots sights have set the standard. In the budget red dot category, very few companies can match the performance and build quality that Holosun brings to the market. I recently posted my review of the Holosun 403r. The 403R is an excellent budget red dot sight, ... Read more
Springfield Armory Echelon Review: The Best New Duty Pistol of 2025?
Introduction The Echelon is Springfield Armory’s bold entry into the full-size, optics-ready, 9 mm handgun market — and it’s already turning heads. Deftly avoiding being just another polymer, striker-fired, copycat pistol, the Springfield Armory Echelon is packed with innovation including a modular chassis, superb build quality, and their patented Variable Interface System (VIS) which makes ... Read more
Skallywag Tactical D2 Dagger Review – Purpose-Built for Close-Quarters Self-Defense
In close-quarters or worst-case scenarios, your last line of defense must be fast, intuitive, and effective – that’s precisely what the Skallywag Tactical D2 Dagger provides. Skallywag Tactical is a veteran-owned business that specializes in self-defense and adventure-specific knives and tools. The team at Skallywag Tactical comprises former military and law enforcement personnel. They translate ... Read more
Trijicon ACOG TA02 Review: Battery-Powered Precision in a Battle-Proven Scope
The ACOG scope has been a staple of military and law enforcement for decades. With the introduction of the TA02, Trijicon brings the ACOG into the age of battery-powered technology. The TA02 ACOG builds upon the combat-proven legacy of the TA31 4-power ACOG sight, introducing battery-powered illumination. In this review, we’ll discuss the performance, build ... Read more
Glock 45 Review – The Best 9mm Crossover Pistol for Duty & Concealed Carry?
I have a long history with Glocks. Fifteen years ago, on my 21st birthday, I walked into my local gun shop and bought a Gen 3 Glock 19 and a bunch of mags. I shot and carried that gun regularly for about ten years. I’ve shot many other handguns since then, but I never found ... Read more
What is a Striker Fired Pistol?
When it comes to semi-automatics it seems that almost every manufacturer is making some form of striker fired pistol. This raises some questions. Why are striker fired pistols dominating the handgun market? What are striker fired pistols? And what are the pros and cons of using one? Today we’ll answer these questions and provide some ... Read more
How Much Does an AR-15 Cost in 2025? Price Breakdown by Build, Brand & Purpose
Whether you are a first-time buyer or a seasoned enthusiast, one of the most common questions is: How much is an AR-15? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. With so many different builds, configurations, and brands in 2025, AR-15 prices can range dramatically, from budget-friendly entry models to custom builds rivalling high-end ... Read more
Best 380 Ammo: Self-Defense & Target Practice
You might ask, “Why write a best-of article about ammo for a less powerful carry gun?” The answer is its popularity. The .380 is more prominent than ever, with a growing number of people carrying it, myself among them. Its popularity has increased significantly in recent years, leading many to consider it a practical self-defense ... Read more
The 4 Best DMR Scopes
Designated Marksman Rifles (DMRs) combine the features of both rifles and sniper rifles, creating a distinct category of firearms. They hold significant importance in both law enforcement and military applications. A high-quality DMR scope is essential for these rifles, offering several specialized functions. Here, I review what I consider the top four DMR scopes for ... Read more
Best 380 Ammo: Self-Defense & Target Practice
You might ask, “Why write a best-of article about ammo for a less powerful carry gun?” The answer is its popularity. The .380 is more prominent than ever, with a growing number of people carrying it, myself among them. Its popularity has increased significantly in recent years, leading many to consider it a practical self-defense ... Read more
4 Best Sig Sauer P320 Holsters
We all understand the risks involved with carrying a firearm. Keeping it unprotected is challenging and dangerous. Some people opt to store their gun in a handbag or gear bag, removing the ammo and loading it only when necessary. While this method might offer some safety, it doesn’t allow for quick access. For self-defense, you ... Read more
Best 9mm Carbines [Hands-On Tested]
Pistol caliber carbines have been popular since the advent of the self-contained cartridge. They saw heavy use during the settlement of the American West, as ranchers and outlaws alike saw the value and convenience of having their rifles and pistols shoot the same ammunition. Adding a 9mm carbine or one in another caliber can be ... Read more
Taurus G3 [Review]: Worthy Budget 9mm?
The Taurus G3 is a budget 9mm pistol with some features that may appeal to gun enthusiasts and collectors. Though it’s not perfect, the G3 is worth considering for an affordable 9mm. So, is this budget 9mm worth your attention? We’ll delve into this Taurus G3 review to find out. The G3 is a striker-fired, ... Read more
The Best 9mm Speed Loaders: The Complete Guide
Speedloaders are essential tools for quickly filling magazines, and we think everyone should own one. They are quite affordable and can significantly cut down your loading time, making it simple to load hundreds of rounds. Fortunately, we have evaluated the top 9mm speed loaders to spare you from the hassle of thumb-straining reloads. When searching ... Read more
The 5 Best Taurus PT111 G2 Accessories
Taurus makes quite a few pistols that are ideal for self-defense and tactical use. Their compact handguns are very reliable, and a lot of gun owners turn to the brand for concealed carry. We made this review of the best Taurus PT111 G2 accessories and upgrades. I’ll cover: Shopping for this model can be challenging, ... Read more
