If you spend serious time on the range, you know not all handguns are built for the grind of repeated practice. You want something reliable, accurate, and easy to maintain, with a trigger you won’t get tired of pulling after long sessions. A good practice pistol should build confidence, not cause frustration. Whether you’re working on fundamentals or running drills, these handguns have proven themselves as workhorses that stand up to thousands of rounds without skipping a beat.
Glock 19
The Glock 19 has been a standard recommendation for years, and it’s easy to see why. Its size balances carry potential with a long enough sight radius for consistent practice. It digests nearly any ammo you feed it and shrugs off neglect better than most pistols.
At the range, you’ll notice the predictable trigger and manageable recoil, which makes it easy to refine skills. Its popularity also means holsters, magazines, and parts are everywhere, making it a practical choice for constant use.
Smith & Wesson M&P9 2.0
The M&P9 2.0 gives you excellent ergonomics paired with a durable frame that feels natural during long training sessions. The upgraded trigger system provides a crisp break that stands out, especially if you’ve shot earlier M&P models.
When you’re putting in extended time on the range, the grip texture and interchangeable backstraps help keep the pistol comfortable and secure. It’s a handgun you can shoot all day without fatigue, and its accuracy is consistent even with high round counts.
CZ P-10 C
CZ’s P-10 C has earned its reputation by offering Glock-like reliability with a better trigger and grip angle for many shooters. It handles recoil smoothly, allowing you to stay on target through rapid fire drills without much adjustment.
For range work, you’ll notice the low bore axis and solid construction help build confidence in every string of fire. Many shooters end up choosing it as their primary trainer because it feels steady, predictable, and enjoyable over extended sessions.
SIG Sauer P320
The SIG P320 has become a staple for both civilian shooters and law enforcement. Its modular design allows you to swap frames and slides, giving you flexibility as your training needs evolve. Accuracy is excellent right out of the box, and the trigger is easy to manage.
At the range, you’ll appreciate how it maintains consistency even through heavy use. The recoil impulse is smooth, and the pistol tracks well shot to shot, making it a natural fit for long practice sessions.
Walther PDP
The Walther PDP is designed with shooters in mind, offering one of the most comfortable grips you’ll find in a striker-fired pistol. The trigger is exceptionally clean, making it easier to refine fundamentals like sight alignment and trigger control.
During long days on the range, the ergonomic grip frame and textured surfaces make the gun feel steady without fatiguing your hands. The PDP also accommodates optics easily, making it an excellent option for modern training setups.
Heckler & Koch VP9
The HK VP9 combines German engineering with user-friendly design. Its adjustable grip panels let you dial in fit, which is a big deal when you’re firing hundreds of rounds. The trigger is one of the smoothest in its class, helping to build precision over time.
Shooters who spend long hours training notice how well the VP9 manages recoil and returns to target quickly. It’s a pistol built for repetition, with durability that keeps it running reliably under heavy use.
Beretta 92FS
The Beretta 92FS is a classic full-size pistol known for its accuracy and durability. Its all-metal frame gives it a steady feel and reduces recoil, making long strings of fire more manageable.
At the range, you’ll notice its smooth cycling and consistent performance. While it’s heavier than polymer options, that weight pays off in control and comfort. For shooters who want a proven design that rewards precise shooting, the 92FS still stands as a top choice.
Springfield XD-M Elite
The Springfield XD-M Elite is built with range shooters in mind. It offers a generous magazine capacity, solid ergonomics, and a crisp trigger that makes hitting targets easier. The extended slide options also help with sight radius and accuracy.
During high round-count sessions, the XD-M Elite stays consistent and dependable. It’s an easy gun to practice with for hours, whether you’re shooting casually or pushing through structured drills. Its durability under constant use makes it a favorite for those who value reliability.
Ruger SR1911
The 1911 platform has always been a shooter’s pistol, and Ruger’s SR1911 keeps that tradition alive with a durable, affordable take on the design. The crisp single-action trigger makes it rewarding to practice with, and its accuracy is easy to appreciate at the range.
While heavier than modern polymer pistols, that weight translates into smoother recoil and steadier groups. If you’re the type who wants every trigger pull to reinforce fundamentals, the SR1911 is a strong choice for regular range time.
Canik TP9SF
The Canik TP9SF has surprised a lot of shooters with its value and performance. Its trigger is among the best you’ll find in a striker-fired pistol, rivaling more expensive options. Recoil is soft, and the ergonomics make it comfortable for extended sessions.
On the range, you’ll see why it’s earned a reputation for being easy to shoot well. It stays accurate, feeds reliably, and holds up to high round counts without complaint. For everyday practice, it offers a lot without breaking the bank.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
