You don’t need to drop a full paycheck to get a pistol that shoots straight. Plenty of affordable handguns punch way above their price tag when it comes to real-world accuracy. These aren’t competition guns—but they’ll hold tight groups if you do your part. Whether you’re plinking, training, or just getting started, these budget-friendly options might surprise you at the range.
Taurus G3C
The G3C is a compact 9mm that’s cheap, but it doesn’t feel like a throwaway gun. With a decent trigger and steel sights, it stays on target better than folks give it credit for.
It’s not fancy, but it’s consistent. At 7 yards and even out to 15, it can group tight if you’ve got a steady hand. For under $300, it’s hard to beat.
S&W SD9 VE
The SD9 VE gets flak for its trigger, but in capable hands, it’s surprisingly accurate. The long pull can actually help some shooters slow down and stay precise.
It has a solid barrel and sight picture, which makes consistent hits more doable than you’d think. It’s not a range toy, but it’ll do the job without draining your wallet.
Canik TP9SF
Canik pistols have made a name for themselves by offering high-end feel at entry-level prices. The TP9SF is full-size and has one of the better striker-fired triggers you’ll find under $400.
It points naturally and stays flat when you’re shooting. A little practice and you’ll be punching the center out of paper without spending a fortune.
Ruger Security-9
The Security-9 feels a bit like a Glock knockoff, but it brings decent accuracy to the table. The hammer-fired system gives it a smoother break than you might expect.
While the trigger reset isn’t amazing, it holds a good sight picture and tracks well during follow-up shots. Not bad for a pistol that’s often found under $300.
Stoeger STR-9
Stoeger doesn’t usually get attention in pistol circles, but the STR-9 changes that. It’s a budget-friendly 9mm that holds tight groups and feels solid in hand.
With adjustable backstraps and decent factory sights, it’s more dialed-in than most expect. For the price, it performs well above entry-level expectations.
Taurus TX22
If you want to train without breaking the bank, the TX22 is a solid .22 LR choice. The ergonomics mimic a full-size pistol, and it’s more accurate than most rimfires in its class.
The trigger is crisp, and the barrel is fixed—two things that help with precision. It’s fun, cheap to feed, and surprisingly dialed in for a plinker.
PSA Dagger
Palmetto State Armory’s Dagger borrows from the Glock 19 platform but adds its own twist. It’s built around a stainless barrel and offers decent fit and finish for the price.
Accuracy is more than acceptable—especially with upgraded barrels. PSA made this one for shooters who want budget performance that doesn’t feel like a total compromise.
SCCY CPX-2
This one’s a surprise. The CPX-2 isn’t fancy and has a heavy double-action trigger, but it can shoot better than expected if you adapt to it.
You’re not going to win a match with it, but for defensive distances, it holds its own. Once you get used to the pull, groups tighten up quick.
Bersa Thunder 380
The Bersa Thunder looks like a throwback, but it’s a solid little .380 that’s known for being accurate and easy to shoot. The DA/SA trigger and fixed barrel help keep things consistent.
It’s compact and controllable, making it a decent choice for close-range accuracy without a huge price tag. Bonus: it’s actually fun to shoot.
Hi-Point C9
Yep, this one makes the list. Say what you want about Hi-Point, but the C9 isn’t as inaccurate as folks love to claim. It’s heavy, which helps tame recoil, and the fixed barrel keeps things steady.
It’s not refined, but it’ll ring steel all day if you do your part. Ugly? Sure. But don’t be shocked when it prints a respectable group.
EAA Girsan MC28SA
The Girsan MC28SA is another striker-fired 9mm that often flies under the radar. It has decent ergonomics and a trigger that feels better than some pricier options.
Accuracy is on par with more expensive full-size pistols. It’s a great option for someone who wants a range gun without stretching the budget.
Rock Island M200
This .38 Special revolver from Rock Island is a throwback in both price and feel. It’s not fancy, but it has a surprisingly smooth trigger for what it costs.
At 7 to 10 yards, it shoots cleaner than you’d expect from a revolver this cheap. For revolver fans on a budget, it’s a solid way to go.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
