Semi-Auto Handguns
Impact Guns has been selling semi-automatic handguns since 1992, and they represent the most popular category of firearms we carry. Semi-autos offer higher capacity, faster reloads, and a wide range of calibers and sizes — from subcompact concealed carry pistols to full-size competition guns. We stock the brands shooters actually trust: Glock, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Springfield Armory, Ruger, CZ, Taurus, and many more.
Read our Semi-Auto Handgun Buying Guide ↓
How Semi-Automatic Pistols Work
A semi-automatic pistol fires one round per trigger pull and automatically chambers the next round from a detachable magazine using the energy of the fired cartridge. This gives you a faster follow-up shot than a revolver and significantly more capacity — typically 10–17+ rounds depending on caliber and model. The tradeoff versus a revolver is slightly more complexity: you need to learn to rack the slide, clear malfunctions, and seat magazines properly. With modern quality semi-autos from reputable manufacturers, malfunctions are extremely rare.
Action Types
Striker-fired — The most popular modern pistol action. Consistent trigger pull every shot, no external hammer, simple operation. Glock, Sig P365, S&W M&P, Springfield Hellcat, and Ruger Security-9 are all striker-fired. Our top recommendation for most buyers.
DA/SA (Double-Action/Single-Action) — First shot is double-action (heavier pull, longer travel), subsequent shots are single-action (lighter, shorter). CZ 75, Sig P226/P229, and Beretta 92 are classic DA/SA pistols. Favored by some experienced shooters for the lighter SA trigger on follow-up shots.
SAO (Single-Action Only) — Hammer must be cocked before firing. The 1911 is the most famous SAO pistol. Exceptionally crisp trigger, but requires manual cocking or carrying cocked-and-locked with the thumb safety engaged.
Caliber Guide
9mm — Our overwhelming recommendation for most buyers. Affordable practice ammo, excellent defensive hollow points, manageable recoil, and high capacity. The FBI, most U.S. law enforcement, and the majority of civilian defensive shooters carry 9mm.
.40 S&W — More energy than 9mm, more recoil, lower capacity. Was the dominant law enforcement caliber through the 2000s before agencies largely switched back to 9mm. Still a capable defensive caliber.
.45 ACP — Classic American caliber, most often in 1911-platform pistols. Heavy bullet, more recoil, lower capacity than 9mm. Favored by experienced shooters who prefer the larger caliber.
.380 ACP — Lighter recoil in a smaller package. Popular in subcompact carry guns. Adequate for defensive use with quality hollow points.
Size Guide
Full-size — Longer barrel (4”+), higher capacity, easier to shoot well. Best for home defense, range use, and open carry. Glock 17, Sig P320 Full, CZ 75B.
Compact — The sweet spot for most buyers. Concealable but not punishing to shoot. Glock 19, Sig P320 Compact, S&W M&P Shield Plus.
Subcompact — Maximum concealment. Smaller grip, shorter barrel, lower capacity. Sig P365, Springfield Hellcat, Glock 43X.
Questions about which semi-auto pistol is right for you? We’ve been helping buyers choose handguns since 1992. Call us at 800-917-7137 or use our live chat.