By Eve Flanigan
Handgun innovation is accelerating fast, and 2026 is already shaping up to be a standout year. Manufacturers are rolling out pistols with smarter ergonomics, improved optics‑ready designs and performance upgrades that push beyond last year’s benchmarks. This article highlights some impressive new handguns hitting the market and the trends driving their evolution, and provides a clear look at what’s worth paying attention to in the year ahead.
Beretta
The Beretta B22 Jaguar just may be the ultimate .22 LR pistol. There are two models: the B22 Metal Competition and the B22 Tac Metal. Engineered in collaboration with the Scholastic Action Shooting Program (SASP) and TANDEMKROSS, the B22 Jaguar Metal Competition model is purpose-built for steel target competitions; as such, it comes equipped with premium performance upgrades to give shooters a competitive edge. The TANDEMKROSS Steam Demon Compensator and Accelerator Thumb Ledge dramatically reduce recoil and improve muzzle control, and an adjustable TANDEMKROSS textured semiflat- faced trigger enhances both feel and precision. The package includes three grip sizes for a custom fit and two 15-round magazines for extended shooting. SRP: $949.
Built around a smart, modular chassis system, the B22 Tac Metal is easy to disassemble, clean, and customize, giving the user a versatile platform. With ambidextrous controls, ergonomic design, and oversized bolt surfaces, the B22 is comfortable, intuitive, and great for shooters of all skill levels. A semi-flat-faced trigger and interchangeable grip panels deliver a modern feel and perfect fit that is ideal for training new shooters with confidence. Equipped with adjustable fiber-optic sights and a 1913 Picatinny rail, it integrates seamlessly with today’s red dots. It comes suppressor-ready out of the box with a ½x28 threaded barrel and is available with two 15-round magazines and three grip options. SRP: $749.
During the 2026 SHOT Show, find them in Booth #13227
Check these out on beretta.com
Bushmaster
Bushmaster’s Bravo Zulu Pistol looks like a rifle, but is classified as a pistol and not a short-barreled rifle (the latter of which is an NFA regulated item that requires ATF approval and, previously, a tax stamp). It is now chambered in .223 Remington/5.56 NATO and .300 Blackout. Each has two SKUs that indicate inclusion of either a standard 30-round or restrictive-location 10-round mag. Their 11.5-inch threaded barrels are topped with a Snake Charmer II muzzle brake and surrounded by a M-LOK handguard. The receivers are aluminum, though each Bravo Zulu still weighs in at around six pounds. A two-stage DM2S trigger, Magpul grip, and SB Tactical SBA5 brace are all included. SRP: $1,070.95, 300BK; $937.95, .223/5.56.
During the 2026 SHOT Show, find them in Booth #20449
Check these out on bushmaster.com
Caracal USA
Caracal USA announced a late-year release of two 9mm NATO-chambered pistols called CMP9, with a
9-inch barrel, and CMP9K, with a 6-inch barrel. Both accept 30-round MP5-type magazines and 2/28
pitch threaded barrels. Both also have AR/M4-style controls, but the modern features are numerous,
including an ambi charging handle. There’s a generous helping of M-LOK and Picatinny rail for add-ons
on a robust 7075-T6 aluminum forend. Weight is under 5 pounds for either model. Users can choose
their own stock or brace to complement what Caracal USA promises to be a smooth-cycling shooting
experience for defense or recreation. SRP for both models: $1,833.
During the 2026 SHOT Show, find them in Booth #10334
Check these out on caracalusa.com
Charter Arms
Charter Arms, a family business with manufacturing facilities in Connecticut, never fails to deliver interesting wheelgun options. Their latest, a .22 LR, is a line extension and is called Pathfinder II. The new eight-shot double/single action revolvers are offered in three finishes: stainless, black passivate, and OD green/black passivate. There’s an aluminum anodized front sight and adjustable rear sight on the 3.5- inch barrel. The grips are rubber. At 7.5 inches long and 4.25 inches tall, it sits solidly in the mediumsize category, but weighs just 20 ounces. This should be a popular option for recreation and backyard varmint control, in addition to being a defensive option for those who need easier handling. SRP: $510.61.
During the 2026 SHOT Show, find them in Booth #72238
Check these out on charterarmsmanufacturing.com
Kimber America
Kimber America added to its Covert Double Stack (CDS) 9mm line with their CDS9 Classic. Still offered with either a 13- and 15- or 10- and 10-round magazine with pinky support, the Classic is offered in two configurations with tritium sights, with or without an optic-ready slide. Finish colors are stainless steel and black. Fully ambi controls and a flat-face trigger contribute to making the compact CDS9 Classic a truly modern single-action concealment gun. SRP: $795.
During the 2026 SHOT Show, find them in Booth #11421
Check these out on kimberamerica.com
Retay USA
Engineered around an aerospace-grade 7075 aluminum-alloy internal frame and slide and housed in a polymer lower chassis, the RXP22 .22 LR pistol combines strength and ergonomics in a lightweight, durable package. The compact polymer frame features an enhanced textured grip for superior control and comfort, and the slide, drilled and tapped for RMR and RMSc optics, includes aggressive front and rear serrations for easy manipulation. It includes a universal mounting plate for additional optic options. A precision-drilled, chrome-finished AISI 4140 steel barrel ensures top-tier accuracy, available in threaded or standard configurations. Additional features, such as a manual safety and an integrated accessory mount for lights or lasers, enhance functionality, all backed by a limited lifetime warranty for ultimate peace of mind. SRP: $279.
During the 2026 SHOT Show, find them in Booth #70435
Check these out on retayusa.com
Rossi
Building on the success of the original Triple Black line, the R95 series maintains the aggressive styling and practical enhancements of its full-sized counterpart while offering increased portability and control in a pistol-length configuration. Key features include a black Cerakote finish, paracord-wrapped medium-loop lever, a threaded barrel that allows for suppressor installation, and a peep sight and Picatinny rail. Available calibers are .454 Casull, .45-70 Govt., .44 Mag., and .357 Mag. SRP: $1,273.99-$1,321.99. Rossi is also building on the success of their RS22 rimfire rifle with the addition of the RS22, a pistol line extension. This hammer-fired semi with a cross-bolt safety ships with one 10-round magazine. The RS22 is offered alone or with an optional Strike Industries FSA brace, which attaches to a rear-facing Picatinny rail. On the front end, the RS22 has a six-inch threaded barrel and plenty of rail space above and below for optics and accessories. SRP: $189.99-398.99.
During the 2026 SHOT Show, find them in Booth #13038
Check these out on rossiusa.com
Springfield Armory
In the 1911 category, Springfield Armory offers up a big one. The 1911 Operator AOS Handgun in .45 ACP has a 5.75-inch threaded barrel. The frame is forged carbon steel with black Cerakote. The G10 grip panels are also black. The safety is ambidextrous. It ships with two eight-round magazines. Total weight is a hefty 42 ounces. SRP: $1,304.
The SAINT Victor pistol in 5.56mm is the newest addition to the Victor line of AR-pattern firearms. It features an 11.5-inch CMV barrel topped off with a birdcage-style flash suppressor, a full-length top Picatinny rail, and a nickel boron-coated flat trigger. Underneath the free-float handguard is a carbine-length direct gas-impingement system that ensures rock-solid reliability. The handguard features M-LOK slots for accessories, and an M-LOK handstop is included on the lower forward section of the handguard. A handy QD mount is located on
the receiver end plate.
Outfitted with an SB Tactical SBA3 brace on the three-position receiver extension for enhanced stability, the pistol features a B5 Systems polymer trigger guard and B5 Systems Type 23 P-Grip as well as a 45-degree short throw ambidextrous safety. A set of flip-up sights and one 30-round Magpul PMAG Gen M3 magazine complete the package. SRP: $1,150.
The manufacturer has also dropped a .380 ACP version of its very popular Hellcat. Officially the Hellcat Micro-Compact 3” OSP Handgun, it’s optic-ready and has a U-notch rear and tritium front sight. Capacity is 11+1 or 13+1. Just 6 inches long and 4 or 4.5 inches tall depending on magazine, it’s another solid choice for concealed carry. SRP: $653.
During the 2026 SHOT Show, find them in Booth #11217
Check these out on springfield-armory.com
Tisas
This Turkish import (by way of SDS Arms) marks the return of a favorite, thanks to popular demand. The Tisas 1911 AI Stakeout .45 looks, at least from across the room, like the classic WW II-era sidearm. But closer inspection shows that while the profile remains true to Browning’s design, the features are ready for 21st century consumers. A Tough QPQ (quench polish quench) finish, an extended beavertail safety, rounded hammer, and brass bead front sight make the Stakeout an upgrade from grandpa’s 1911. Furthermore, it accepts 70 Series parts for post-purchase upgrades/maintenance. SRP: $565.33.
Designed for everyday carry and self-defense, the PX-9 Carry Comp delivers competition-grade features and performance in a compact offering. With ergonomic controls and various configuration options, it adapts comfortably to any hand size and shooting style. The 9mm offers consistency and reliability with a polymer-flared magazine well for quick reloads. Including 15- and 17-round 228-pattern magazines, the PX-9 Carry Comp balances concealability and control.
Built for professional use, competition, and advanced shooters, the PX-9 Tactical Comp utilizes the PX-9 series frame with a slightly longer 5.1-inch barrel for enhanced accuracy and muzzle control. This model maintains the popular features of the PX-9 Duty Comp, providing full-size capacity for highly skilled shooters. The PX-9 Tactical Comp boasts an extended aluminum magazine well, take-down lever, and magazine catch, and it includes 18- and 20-round 226-pattern magazines. SRP: $562.20, Carry Comp; $539.21, Tactical Comp.
During the 2026 SHOT Show, find them in Booth #14232
Check these out on tisasusa.com
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