Why Choose a Full-Size Handgun?
Full-sized handguns have carved out a significant place in firearm history, evolving from early 19th-century revolvers into the sophisticated semi-automatic pistols we see today.
The concept of a full-sized sidearm traces back to innovators like Samuel Colt, who introduced the Colt Paterson revolver in 1836, ushering in a new era of multi-shot handguns.
Over the decades, firearm pioneers such as John Browning further refined the platform, creating iconic models like the Colt 1911 - a pistol that set the standard for modern full-sized handguns.
Full-size handguns provide superior accuracy and capacity, making them highly favored among law enforcement, military personnel, competitive shooters, and civilian firearm enthusiasts.
Their longer barrels and larger frames contribute to steadier handling and reduced recoil, enabling precise shot placement even under stress.
Additionally, their increased magazine capacity offers shooters more rounds before needing to reload, a significant advantage in both defensive and sporting contexts.
Beyond performance, each handgun meets strict federal compliance standards, ensuring they are manufactured with safety, reliability, and legality in mind.
Whether chambered in classic calibers like 9mm, .45 ACP, or newer options like .40 S&W, full-sized handguns cater to diverse shooting preferences and tactical applications.
The impact of full-sized handguns on the shooting sports community is profound.
They dominate competitive shooting disciplines such as IPSC, USPSA, and IDPA, where precision and speed are paramount. Law enforcement agencies around the world rely on full-sized pistols for duty carry, valuing their balance of power, accuracy, and user-friendly ergonomics.
Civilian shooters appreciate full-sized handguns for home defense, target practice, and personal protection, drawn to their reliability and superior performance.
From classic designs that shaped firearm history to modern tactical models engineered for the demands of today’s shooters, full-sized handguns remain a cornerstone of the firearms world.
Their blend of craftsmanship, innovation, and practical utility ensures they continue to be trusted tools for those who value accuracy, capacity, and performance in every shot.
Different Sizes of Handguns
Full-Size Handguns
- Full-size pistols feature longer barrels (usually 4.5 inches or more) and larger frames for improved accuracy, higher magazine capacity, and reduced recoil. Ideal for duty use, home defense, and range shooting, they may be harder to conceal due to their size and weight.
- Compact pistols offer a balance between size and performance, often with barrel lengths around 3.5–4.5 inches. They’re slightly smaller and lighter than full-size models, making them easier to conceal while still maintaining decent magazine capacity and control.
- Subcompact pistols are smaller than compacts, with shorter grips and barrels (usually 3–3.5 inches). They’re highly concealable and lighter for everyday carry but typically have reduced capacity and increased felt recoil compared to larger sizes.
- Micro-compacts are the smallest semi-automatic pistols on the market, engineered for maximum concealability. Despite their small size, many modern micro-compacts feature double-stack magazines for higher capacity, often in a slim, lightweight frame perfect for deep concealment.
Pocket Pistols
- Pocket pistols are ultra-small handguns, often chambered in calibers like .380 ACP or .32 ACP, designed to fit in a pocket holster or very small carry spaces. They’re extremely discreet but usually have low capacity and minimal sights.
- Revolvers use a rotating cylinder to hold cartridges, typically offering 5–7 rounds. They come in various sizes, from large hunting models to compact snub-nose revolvers for concealed carry. Revered for reliability and simplicity, revolvers remain popular for self-defense and sport shooting.
- Designed for speed and precision, competition pistols often feature longer barrels, precision triggers, enhanced sights, and custom grips. They’re typically larger and heavier, optimized for shooting sports rather than concealed carry.
Derringers
- Derringers are small, two-shot pistols designed for ultra-close-range self-defense. They’re highly concealable but offer limited capacity and effective range. Often used as backup guns due to their compact size.
Full-Size Pistols Features
Barrel Length
Full-size handguns are equipped with barrels that typically measure between 4.5 to 5.5 inches in length.
This feature not only contributes to better bullet velocity and stability but also significantly boosts accuracy over the distances not feasible with compact or subcompact variants.
Magazine Capacity
The expansive frames of full-size pistols allow for the accommodation of larger magazines, capable of holding 15 to 20 rounds, depending on the caliber.
This attribute is essential in scenarios that demand prolonged use without the interruption of frequent reloads.
Accuracy and Sight Radius
The longer sight radius found on full-size pistols (the measure between the front and rear sights) facilitates improved sight alignment and, consequently, greater accuracy.
This advantage is critical for applications such as duty carry, home defense, and competitive shooting where precision is key.
Recoil Management
The increased weight and larger grip area of full-size handguns significantly enhance recoil absorption. This advantage minimizes muzzle flip, aiding shooters in achieving quicker and more accurate follow-up shots.
Versatility
Beyond their professional applications, the ergonomic and performance-oriented design of full-size pistols makes them suitable for a broad range of recreational shooting pursuits, from range days to competitive events.
Their ease of use and reliability attract a diverse demographic, including both experienced marksmen and novices seeking a trustworthy firearm for home defense or sport.
Despite their imposing size, which may complicate concealed carry efforts, full-size handguns remain a popular choice among those who value a synthesis of firepower, precision, and control.
Trusted Brands/Models We Carry
When it comes to choosing a full-sized handgun, quality and reliability are non-negotiable.
That’s why Ammunition Depot is dedicated to helping you find the perfect full-sized handgun that fits your purpose and shooting style. We offer full-size handguns from top brands, ensuring our customers have access to the industry’s most trusted names and proven models.
We proudly carry an extensive selection of full-sized pistols from renowned manufacturers like Glock, Smith & Wesson, SIG Sauer, Beretta, CZ, Heckler & Koch, and Springfield Armory.
These brands are known for producing firearms that deliver superior performance, precision engineering, and rugged durability, meeting the demands of both professional and civilian shooters.
Explore our collection and experience why shooters everywhere trust these brands for their commitment to quality and innovation.
Glock 17
Renowned for its reliability and ease of use, the Glock 17 is a staple in the world of full-size pistols, offering a 9mm platform that is both versatile and dependable.
Sig Sauer P320
A modular full-size pistol that allows users to customize grip size and caliber without changing the trigger group, making it a popular choice for its adaptability and performance.
Beretta 92FS
An iconic 9mm pistol known for its accuracy, durability, and the distinctive open slide design. It has served as the standard-issue sidearm for the U.S. military for many years.
Smith & Wesson M&P
This model offers excellent ergonomics, a high-capacity magazine, and is designed for durability and reliability, making it a top choice for both professional and personal use.
Heckler & Koch VP9
A striker-fired pistol known for its excellent trigger and ergonomic design, the VP9 is highly regarded for its accuracy and reliability in various shooting conditions.
CZ 75B
A classic firearm that combines a full steel frame with a high-capacity magazine, known for its superior accuracy and handling, making it a favorite among competitive shooters.
Ruger SR1911
A modern take on the classic 1911 design, the SR1911 maintains the original's precision and reliability while incorporating modern manufacturing techniques.
Colt 1911
A timeless design, the Colt 1911 is celebrated for its precision, reliability, and powerful .45 ACP cartridge, making it a legendary model in the full-size pistol category.
Springfield Armory XD(M)
Known for its high capacity, reliability, and ergonomic design, the XD(M) series offers a variety of caliber options and is designed to perform in demanding conditions.
FN Herstal FNX-45
This .45 ACP pistol offers high capacity in a durable, polymer-framed design, with features that cater to both tactical operators and civilian shooters.
Full-Size Handguns FAQs
QUESTION: What is a full-sized handgun?
ANSWER: A full-sized handgun, also known as a full-sized pistol, typically features a longer barrel (around 4–5 inches or more), a larger frame, and a higher magazine capacity compared to compact or subcompact models. These pistols are favored for their superior accuracy, control, and increased ammunition capacity, making them popular for duty use, home defense, and sport shooting.
QUESTION: Are full-sized pistols good for concealed carry?
ANSWER: While full-sized pistols offer excellent performance, they can be more challenging to conceal due to their size and weight. However, with the right holster and wardrobe, many shooters successfully carry full-sized handguns concealed. Those seeking maximum concealability may prefer compact or subcompact models instead.
QUESTION: What are the benefits of full-sized handguns over smaller models?
ANSWER: Full-sized handguns provide several advantages, including better accuracy, reduced recoil, and higher magazine capacity. The larger grip and longer sight radius help shooters maintain control and achieve precise shots, making them a top choice for competitive shooting, range practice, and home defense.
QUESTION: Which brands offer the best full-sized pistols for sale?
ANSWER: Ammunition Depot offers full-sized pistols from top brands like Glock, Smith & Wesson, SIG Sauer, Beretta, Springfield Armory, CZ, and Heckler & Koch. These manufacturers produce reliable, high-quality firearms trusted by law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters worldwide.
QUESTION: Can I buy full-sized pistols online?
ANSWER: Yes! You can browse full-sized handguns for sale online at reputable retailers like Ammunition Depot. When purchasing online, your firearm will be shipped to a licensed FFL dealer, where you’ll complete the necessary background check and paperwork to ensure compliance with federal and state laws.
QUESTION: What calibers are common for full-sized pistol handguns?
ANSWER: Full-sized pistol handguns are available in a wide range of calibers, including 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, .357 SIG, 10mm, and more. The choice of caliber often depends on the intended use, such as self-defense, target shooting, or duty applications.
QUESTION: Are full-sized handguns suitable for beginners?
ANSWER: Absolutely. Many beginners find full-sized pistols easier to shoot accurately due to their weight, ergonomic grips, and reduced recoil. However, new shooters should consider factors like hand size, strength, and comfort when selecting their first handgun.
QUESTION: Why choose a full-sized pistol for home defense?
ANSWER: Full-sized pistols are an excellent choice for home defense because they offer enhanced accuracy, manageable recoil, and higher magazine capacity, ensuring you have ample firepower and control in high-stress situations.