Welcome to Pistol Buyers Guide. This is the place to learn about handguns: choosing your first pistol, comparing sizes and calibers, and getting to know the companies that make them.
Pistol Buyers Guide is part of the Gun Websites Firearms Network, built by shooters for shooters. New to gun ownership or collecting? Our plain-English guides will help you buy with confidence.
Buying a pistol? Start here
Decide what the gun is for, pick a size, choose an action and a caliber, then buy smart. Our step-by-step guide gets you from “where do I begin?” to a pistol that fits you.
What you’ll find here
Step 1: Pistol Sizes
Full size, compact, subcompact and pocket pistols. Find the size that fits how you will use it.
Step 2: Calibers
From .22 LR to .45 ACP. See the rounds side by side and pick the right one.
Step 3: Brands
History, timelines and top models from 13 major pistol makers.
Pistol sizes at a glance
Pistol brands
- BerettaItaly, since 1526
- BrowningUtah, since 1878
- ColtConnecticut, since 1836
- CZCzech Republic, since 1936
- GlockAustria, since 1963
- Heckler & KochGermany, since 1949
- KelTecFlorida, since 1991
- KimberAlabama, since 1979
- RugerNorth Carolina, since 1949
- SIG SauerNew Hampshire, since 1853
- Smith & WessonTennessee, since 1852
- Springfield ArmoryIllinois, since 1974
- TaurusBrazil, since 1939
Got questions?
Start with the Pistol F.A.Q. for short answers on how pistols work, safeties, sizes and calibers. Don’t expect to understand everything right away. Once you get your gun and go shoot it, you will be surprised how much fun you will have.
Shop pistol gear
- Holsters at OpticsPlanet
- Pistol magazines at OpticsPlanet
- Weapon lights at OpticsPlanet
- Pistol safes at OpticsPlanet
- Hearing protection at OpticsPlanet
- Ammo deals at Ammunition Depot
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Not legal advice. Always check your state and local laws before buying, carrying or traveling with a handgun.