Pistols

S&W engineers put some thought into the bottom end of the CSX. Instead of polymer used for the Shield frame, the CSX frame is made of aluminum alloy with a matte-black finish.

As tested with an additional magazine we bought separately and a Wilson Combat Slide Lock, the total comes to $614.

The PMR-30 has been out the longest of the three handguns and still appears futuristic in profile.

The Walther WMP has received a lot of attention. Walther’s ad campaign stresses a duty to be ready.

In hand, the full-size SFT has nice balance and grip. The beavertail is extended. The grip girth is manageable for small-handed shooters.

Modular back straps seem to be the norm with striker-fire pistols, and the Girsan provides three options: small, medium, and large. A tool is provided to push out the plastic pin that holds the back strap in place.

Most striker-fire pistols use a trigger bar assembly that articulates, with the striker acting as both a trigger bar and a sear.

Joe Woolley, Contributing Editor for Gun Tests Magazine, interviews John Thomas, Designer for Savage Arms, and learns about the company's new-for-2023 1911 pistols. Savage Arms’...

In this SHOT Show 2023 video, Gun Tests Contributing Editor Joe Woolley learns the details of Ruger's New Security-380 Lite Rack Pistol from Paul...

The Specialist was designed for tactical use. There are no forward cocking serrations. It does have an ambidextrous safety. There is no full-length guide rod (FLGR), which may be a plus.

A Les Baer pistol often requires a break-in period, according to conventional wisdom and the maker. This is the second new Les Baer we have tested that came out of the box running, after having its long bearing surfaces lubricated. A pistol tested several years ago demanded a brief break in.

The test pistol is stainless steel. The fit and finish are good; however, there was an apparent tool mark near the rear of the trigger guard where the pistol is marked “SS” for stainless steel.