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First shots on the new Gen 6 G17, G19, and G45 show real gains in grip, optics mounting, and controls without changing the Glock DNA. It feels updated yet instantly familiar.

From micro-PDWs to thermal-fusion dots and fast-access safes, these are the 2025 picks we’d unwrap first, shoot hard, and brag about later.

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes Benelli M4 EXT in H2O. 18.5 inch barrel, interchangeable chokes, factory 7+1 tube. Same proven M4 heart with more of what matters: a factory 7+1 tube, a 5-position collapsible stock, and a bigger bolt release. We ran it hard, ghost loaded it to nine, and logged what broke in, what [...]

Mossberg finally drops a semi auto Shockwave style thumper, and the 990 Aftershock brings real gas gun control to a compact 12 gauge that hits hard up close.

Lipsey’s honors John Taffin with a Ruger Blackhawk Flattop Bisley in .45 Colt with a .45 ACP cylinder. We shot real .45 Colt and .45 ACP loads, checked chrono and groups, ran leather, and asked if this tribute truly earns the title Perfect Packin’ Pistol.

The concealed carry revolver might seem outdated, but we can see it still has potency and a place in the concealed carry conversation.

If you want a compact 9mm that shoots flatter than most pistols out of the box, try the Archon Type B Gen 2.

The Maztech X4-LRF is the newest entry in the weapon-mounted laser rangefinder (WMLRF) space, and it does a lot more than just ranging targets.

The Springfield Armory Model 2020 Heatseeker blends precision bolt-action performance with the modular adaptability of AR-style components.