What are the Different Types of Handguns?
Handguns are a popular choice for personal defense, target shooting, and hunting. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming for newcomers to the world of handguns to determine which type is right for them. In this article, we will explore the different types of handguns, their characteristics, and uses.
Pistol vs. Revolver
The first distinction to make is between pistols and revolvers. Pistols are magazine-fed firearms that use a slide or bolt to load and eject cartridges. They are often more accurate and have a higher magazine capacity than revolvers. Examples of pistols include the Glock, Sig Sauer, and Smith & Wesson M&P.
Revolvers, on the other hand, are single-shot or multi-shot firearms that use a cylinder to load and eject cartridges. They are often preferred by shooters who value simplicity and reliability. Examples of revolvers include the Smith & Wesson J-Frame, Ruger SP101, and Colt Python.
Types of Pistols
Within the category of pistols, there are several sub-types:
- Single-Stack Pistols: These pistols have a single column of cartridges in the magazine, such as the Glock 17 and the Sig Sauer P320.
- Double-Stack Pistols: These pistols have two columns of cartridges in the magazine, such as the Smith & Wesson M&P and the Beretta 92.
- Compact/Concealed Carry Pistols: These pistols are designed to be small and lightweight, making them ideal for concealed carry, such as the Glock 43 and the Ruger SR9c.
- Full-Size Pistols: These pistols are designed for target shooting and law enforcement use, such as the Sig Sauer P226 and the Glock 17.
Types of Revolvers
Within the category of revolvers, there are several sub-types:
- J-Frames: These revolvers are designed for concealed carry and have a small frame and compact design, such as the Smith & Wesson J-Frame and the Ruger SP101.
- K-Frames: These revolvers have a larger frame and are often used for hunting and law enforcement, such as the Smith & Wesson K-Frame and the Colt Python.
- D-Frames: These revolvers have a unique frame design and are often used for target shooting and hunting, such as the Smith & Wesson D-Frame and the Ruger Vaquero.
Rimfire Handguns
Rimfire handguns are a type of handgun that uses a rimfire cartridge, which has a firing pin that strikes the rim of the cartridge to ignite the primer. Examples of rimfire handguns include:
- .22 LR: This is the most popular rimfire cartridge, used for target shooting and hunting small game.
- .22 WMR: This is a higher-powered rimfire cartridge, used for hunting larger game and target shooting.
- .17 HMR: This is a newer rimfire cartridge, used for hunting small game and target shooting.
Centerfire Handguns
Centerfire handguns are a type of handgun that uses a centerfire cartridge, which has a firing pin that strikes the center of the cartridge to ignite the primer. Examples of centerfire handguns include:
- 9mm Luger: This is a popular centerfire cartridge, used for self-defense and target shooting.
- .40 S&W: This is a higher-powered centerfire cartridge, used for self-defense and target shooting.
- .45 ACP: This is a classic centerfire cartridge, used for self-defense and target shooting.
Handgun Calibers
Handgun calibers refer to the diameter of the bullet fired by the handgun. Some common handgun calibers include:
- .22: This is a popular caliber for rimfire handguns, used for target shooting and hunting small game.
- .380 ACP: This is a popular caliber for self-defense, used in pistols like the Glock 42 and the Ruger LCP.
- 9mm: This is a popular caliber for self-defense, used in pistols like the Glock 17 and the Sig Sauer P226.
- .45: This is a classic caliber, used in pistols like the Glock 21 and the Colt 1911.
Handgun Action
Handgun action refers to the mechanism used to load and fire the handgun. Some common handgun actions include:
- Single-Action: This type of action requires the user to cock the handgun before firing, such as the Colt 1911.
- Double-Action: This type of action allows the user to fire the handgun without cocking it first, such as the Smith & Wesson J-Frame.
- Double-Action-Only: This type of action only allows the user to fire the handgun with a double-action trigger pull, such as the Beretta 92.
- Striker-Fired: This type of action uses a striker to ignite the primer, rather than a hammer, such as the Glock 17.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many different types of handguns available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. From pistols to revolvers, rimfire to centerfire, and single-action to double-action, there is a handgun out there for everyone. By understanding the different types of handguns and their features, shooters can make an informed decision about which handgun is right for them.
