The 9mm cartridge has remained the most popular round in the world, which speaks to its enduring utility and to the truly outstanding handguns that utilize the cartridge. An in-depth look at the top 10 9mm handguns of all time, that have made a difference in military and law enforcement is discussed further in this article.
Renowned for reliability, precision, and ease of use, the Glock 19 is considered to be the peak of contemporary handgun design. That polymer frame guarantees strength and rigidity; even in its compact dimensions, this firearm will take recoil well. Very practical indeed, the Glock 19 uses magazines from both Glock 17 and 18 while supporting an enormous array of accessories.
The Browning Hi-Power, born from the design of John Browning and completed by Diedonne Saive in 1935, is arguably one of the most iconic handguns in the world. Revolutionary for its time was the double-stack magazine, which enabled a higher capacity compared to most other pistols. The fact that it has a steel frame adds to the durability without causing too much extra weight, while the comfortable grip and smooth trigger make it a favorite even to this date.
The Beretta 92, with the US military designation M9, is famous for its excellent handling and reliability. An all-metal build absorbs recoil particularly well, and the locking block barrel adds to accuracy. The Beretta 92 is designed to withstand extreme conditions; thus, it is highly popular with the military and police forces of most countries worldwide.
Preferred by Navy SEALS and other special forces, the Sig Sauer P226 is as dependable and durable as the Beretta 92. The overall length is shorter, on account of a shorter barrel, which makes it an instant favorite for close, personal combat. Modern variants come with a Picatinny rail for mounting accessories and sometimes feature even a red dot sight.
The Luger P08 holds a unique place in history: it was the very first gun to use 9mm rounds. Designed by Georg Luger in the early 1900s, it was issued as the standard for German forces in WWI and WWII. Its recoil-operated design and fixed barrel made it a quick and accurate firer.
The workhorse that is the CZ 75, out of the Czech Republic, melds practicality with style. An all-metal frame with an ergonomic grip and DA/SA trigger means smooth handling with light recoil. The positioning of the slide rails inside the frame further provides control, and that slender grip houses a 16-round magazine.
The Glock 17 is simply a larger version of the Glock 19 and not the first polymer-framed pistol; however, it is the most successful. This versatility in handling and reliability has made it the firearm of choice for more than 60% of US law enforcement agencies.
While classically associated with .45 rounds, the 9mm Colt 1911 offers many of these same advantages but in a more compact package. The 9mm Colt 1911 is light, has less recoil, and a capacity of 11 rounds. It retains the accuracy of the classic 1911, a comfortable grip, and a smooth trigger.
Equipped for police and military use, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is among the best for concealed carry. Its lightweight frame and diminutive size certainly detract nothing from its accuracy, and it houses up to 8 rounds. Easy to use and handle, the Shield handles beautifully.
First to hit the scenes was the Heckler & Koch VP70, an out-and-out game-changer for pistol design. Constructions were simple to the point of guaranteeing reliability, and it boasted an 18-round capacity a quantum leap. The negatives included an immensely stiff trigger pull and deep rifling in the barrel, which somewhat lessened recoil. None of that stopped the VP70 from being arguably the most influential semi-auto design in modern times.
Emerging from the trials of the Austrian army in 1980 in search of a new military handgun to replace the Walther P38, the Glock series became a cornerstone in military and law enforcement arsenals worldwide. The Glock 17 became adopted as the Pistole 80; the innovative approach by Gaston Glock resulted in a lightweight, reliable, and affordable pistol.
Glock pistols have been popularly recognized for the “safe action” trigger system, which simplifies operation and enhances safety. Over five generations, Glock has introduced various models, each improving on the last, with features that include accessory rails, ambidextrous controls, and improved ergonomics.
From innovative design to reliability and effectiveness, these pistols earned their places in the annals of history. Their enduring popularity among military, law enforcement, and civilian users alike underlines their lasting legacy in the world of firearms.