Choosing a handgun starts with determining the intended application, preferred action type, caliber, size, capacity, barrel length, grip dimensions, sights, recoil level, and other features that affect comfort and handling.

Choosing a Handgun Type

• Semi-Auto Pistols: Available in compact, subcompact, mid-size, and full-size configurations with a wide range of capacities, calibers, sight systems, accessory rails, and optic-ready options.
• Revolvers: Offered in multiple frame sizes, barrel lengths, calibers, and action types for range use, collecting, hunting, personal defense, and field applications.
• Derringers: Compact break-action handguns designed around simple operation and highly compact configurations.
• Specialty Pistols: Lever-action, break-action, and other handgun platforms that serve sporting, hunting, collecting, recreational, and specialized applications.

Handgun Size and Intended Use

Compact and subcompact handguns are commonly selected when reduced size and easier carry are priorities, while full-size pistols and revolvers generally provide more grip surface, longer sight radius, additional capacity, and greater weight for range use, competition, home defense, and other applications.

Buying Handguns Online

Handguns purchased online are generally shipped to an eligible Federal Firearms Licensee for required transfer procedures. Review our guide to buying firearms online or see our FFL transfer information for additional details.