Just the basics

[Richard Simmons]

Was thinking the other day about what handguns I would own if I wanted to keep the collection to just those handguns that really made a difference. Everyone has a difference of opinion but for my list I think you would just have to have the following guns at a bare minimum so, in no particular order:

Colt SAA
Colt 1911
S&W Handejector/M&P
S&W Registered Magnum (introduction of the .357mag and the beginning of every other magnum to follow)
Luger P-08
Browning Hi-Power
P-38
Glock 17

I would consider these to be benchmark firearms in their own right just not quite as historically significant as the ones listed above:

Colt Python
S&W Model 29
Strum and Ruger Standard Pistol
Beretta 92
S&W M39/59 series
T/C Contender

With the examples from both lists I feel like you can touch most of the key handgun development stages as it relates to cartridge firing handguns.

[Pat Garrett]

I would add the FNH FiveseveN to the top list. It's the first in what will become a new era of handguns.

[imanaknut]

I like your list and agree with Pat that the Five-seveN should be added as it is a very underrated pistol.

[ltorlo64]

What about the Mauser C96 "broomhandle"? Wasn't it the first successful military semi-auto pistol?

[vit]

I would have to add Sig P226.

[Pat Garrett]

The Walther PP and PPK were actually the first successful DA autos.

[Durangokid]

I like your list Richard. I own all of the ones you have listed except the Python and the TC. I do enjoy the Mauser C-96 and the Lugers as well. I don't own the Five-Seven . I do how ever own the S&W .22 Jet {.22 CF Magnum} it is a hot .22 handgun.

[NAPOTS]

It would be close to what I have.

1911, or two....or three
Ruger MK III
.357 mag revolver I have a taurus but would like a S&W model 27. Ok I'd like a colt python but those are unobtanium.


That really rounds it out, have a big caliber semi auto, powerful revolver and a .22lr plinker.

Not sure what else I need.

[vit]

CZ-75

[Helen Keller]

1911
Daewoo series
Beretta 92
S&W .357 and higher wheelguns.



I would sorta call the C96 successful. Yea it was sold in huge numbers all across the world and began a few handgun features , But in no way 100% reliable.
and whoever put 1000 meter sights on them was a snot rocket scientist .

[rci2950]

I would be happy with just my Browning HP or my S&W Model 10

[jet3534]

I would add the C96 Mauser to that list. Just saw that recommendation has already been made so +1 for the C96.

[was_peacemaker]

I am going to go out in left field here, and say at least in modern European Spec Ops missions the one pistol over looked and under rated, and has stood out when it counted is the French Manurhim-M73 .357 magnum.

[davepool]

I'm going to add the Bren Ten to the list, the first semi-auto to put the power of god in your hand

[Partisan1983]

Handguns are a very personal preference sorta thing...kinda like women

My list would be completely different from yours Rich.

That doesn't mean that one of is right and the other is wrong....like you said in a way, when it comes to handguns, opinions seem to take on an Ego of their own