Best Guns & Gear for 2023

Toward the end of each year, I survey the work R.K. Campbell, Roger Eckstine, Robert Sadowski, Tracey Taylor, and Joe Woolley have done in Gun Tests, with an eye toward selecting guns, accessories, and ammunition the magazine’s testers have endorsed. From these evaluations I pick the best from a full year’s worth of tests and distill recommendations for readers, who often use them as shopping guides. These choices are a mixture of our original tests and other information I’ve compiled during the year. After we roll high-rated test products into long-term testing, I keep tabs on how those guns do, and if the firearms and accessories continue performing well, then I have confidence including these firearms in this wrap-up.

• Best In Class Revolver: Ruger Bisley Hunter 0862 44 Magnum
• Best In Class Pistol: Langdon Tactical LTT Beretta 92X LTT-92XC Compact 9mm Luger
• Best In Class Rifle: CVA Cascade SB CR3914R 300 Blackout
• Best In Class Shotgun: Mossberg 590 50674 12 Gauge

Langdon Tactical LTT Beretta 92X LTT-92XC Compact 9mm Luger, $1184

Gun Tests Grade: A (BEST-IN-CLASS PISTOL)

The Langdon Beretta is easily the most improved compared to the original pistol. The trigger action is superb, and all parts fit correctly. Accuracy in both double-action and single-action trigger modes is excellent.

See full review: February 2022

Action	Semi-auto, double action to single action, locked breech
Overall Length	7.75 in.
Height	5.25 in.
Maximum Width	1.5 in.
Weight Unloaded	28.5 oz.
Weight Loaded	35.0 oz.
Slide	Steel, Vertec style
Slide Retraction Effort	14.6 lbs.
Frame	Steel, compact Vertec with rail; flush mainspring cap
Front Strap Height	2.0 in.
Rear Strap Height	3.0 in.
Barrel Length	4.25 in.
Grip Thickness Maximum	1.2 in.
Grip Circumference	5.7 in.
Magazine	(3) 15 round
Rear Sight	Dovetailed square notch, serrated
Front Sight	Dovetailed post, fiber optic
Sight Radius	5.6 in.
Trigger-Pull Weight Double Action	8.5 lbs.
Trigger-Pull Weight Single Action	4.5 lbs.
Trigger Span Double Action	2.6 in.
Trigger Span Single Action	2.4 in.
Safety	No manual safety
Warranty	2 years, optional extension
Telephone	(571) 385-2979
Website	LangdonTactical.com
Made In	U.S.A.

Ruger Bisley Hunter 0862 44 Magnum, $1149

Gun Tests Grade: A (BEST-IN-CLASS REVOLVER)

The recoil impulse on the Bisley model was more comfortable than the standard Super Blackhawk and it was noticeably more pleasant to shoot. Our middle fingers on the shooting hands were actually in pretty good shape even after several hundred rounds through the Bisley.

See full review: January 2022

Action Type	Revolver, single action only
Overall Length	13.0 in.
Overall Height	6.0 in.
Maximum Width	1.73 in.
Weight Unloaded	3.4 lbs.
Weight Loaded	3.7 lbs.
Receiver Material	Stainless steel
Finish	Brushed stainless
Front Strap Height	2.3 in.
Back Strap Height	4.25 in.
Barrel Length	7.5 in.
Grip Thickness (Maximum)	1.47 in.
Grip Circumference	5.0 in.
Cylinder Capacity	6 rounds
Rear Sight	Adjustable
Front Sight	Fixed ramp with red insert
Sight Radius	9.25 in.
Trigger-Pull Weight	2.6 lbs.
Trigger Span	3.0 in.
Safety	Hammer bar
Warranty	None written
Telephone	(336) 949-5200
Website	Ruger.com
Made In	U.S.A.

CVA Cascade SB CR3914R 300 Blackout, $621

Gun Tests Grade: B+ (BEST-IN-CLASS RIFLE)

The most accurate of the three rifles tested, the CVA Cascade handles well and shoots well. The bottom of the receiver on the Cascade matches the common Remington 700 pattern, allowing this rifle to accept almost endless aftermarket triggers and stocks.

See full review: March 2022

Action Type	Bolt
Overall Length	37.0 in.
Barrel Length/Twist	16.5 in., 1:8 in.
Overall Height w/o Scope Mount	7.1 in.
Weight Unloaded	6.5 lbs.
Weight Loaded	6.75 lbs.
Sight Radius	NA
Action Finish	Graphite black Cerakote
Barrel Finish	Graphite black Cerakote
Magazine Capacity	5
Magazine Type	Detachable box
Stock	Fiberglass-reinforced synthetic
Drop at Comb	0.75 in.
Drop at Heel	1.0 in.
Bedding	Metal pillars
Buttplate	Crushzone recoil pad
Buttstock Length of Pull	13.75 in.
Receiver Scope-Base Pattern	Savage, 2-piece Picatinny rail attached
Trigger Pull Weight	2.2 lbs.
Safety	2-position thumb rocker
Warranty	Lifetime
Telephone	(770) 448-4687
Website	CVA.com
Made In	Spain

Mossberg 590 50674 12 Gauge, $568

Gun Tests Grade: A (BEST-IN-CLASS SHOTGUN)

We thought the M-Lok fore end was a great idea, but it was just a bit too slick, which slowed the times during our speed drills. The rest of the shotgun worked perfectly. It has almost the full list of features as on the 870 and is about half the price of the tricked-out Remington.

See full review: October 2022

Action Type	Pump
Overall Length	41.0 in.
Barrel	20.0 in. long, matte-black steel, removable Accu-chokes
Overall Height	8.5 in.
Weight Unloaded	6.9 lbs.
Weight Loaded (#8 Buck, 8 rounds)	7.8 lbs.
Sight Radius	24.5 in.
Action	Matte black aluminum alloy
Magazine Capacity	7
Magazine Type	Tube
Stock	Polymer
Stock Drop at Comb	0.5 in.
Stock Drop at Heel	1.0 in.
Stock Buttplate	Soft rubber
Stock Length of Pull	14.3 in.
Trigger Pull Weight	5.5 lbs.
Safety	Tang, 2 position
Warranty	10 years limited
Telephone	(800) 363-3555
Website	Mossberg.com
Made In	Texas

Colt Anaconda Anaconda-SP8RTS 44 Magnum, $1499

Gun Tests Grade: A

It has a lot of weight forward to help with recoil. The quality of the trigger surprised us.

See full review: February 2022

Action Type	Revolver, double action or single action
Overall Length	13.6 in.
Overall Height	6.4 in.
Maximum Width	1.74 in.
Weight Unloaded	3.7 lbs.
Weight Loaded	4.0 lbs.
Receiver	Semi-bright stainless steel
Front Strap Height	2.5 in.
Back Strap Height	4.5 in.
Barrel Length	8.0 in.
Grip Thickness (Maximum)	1.3 in.
Grip Circumference Maximum	5.2 in.
Cylinder Capacity	6 rounds
Rear Sight	Adjustable, w/locking screw
Front Sight	Fixed ramp with red insert
Sight Radius	10.2 in.
Trigger-Pull Weight Double Action	6.5 lbs.
Trigger-Pull Weight Single Action	3.9 lbs.
Trigger Span	3.5 in.
Safety	Hammer bar
Warranty	1 year limited
Telephone	(800) 962-COLT (2658)
Website	Colt.com
Made In	Connecticut, U.S.A.

SIG Sauer P320 AXG Pro 320AXGF-9-BXR3-PRO-R2 9mm Luger, $1200

Gun Tests Grade: A

The pairing of the X-Series flat trigger with the all-metal AGX grip module makes this variant of the P320 an easy-to-shoot pistol. Recoil was smooth and manageable. We like this variant of the P320.

See full review: March 2022

Action	Semi-auto, short recoil-operated locked breech, striker fired
Trigger	Double action only
Overall Length	8.1 in.
Overall Height	5.7 in.
Maximum Width	1.5 in.
Weight Unloaded	35.4 oz.
Weight Loaded	42.7 oz.
Barrel	4.7 in.; 1:10-in. twist
Capacity	17+1
Slide	Nitron, steel
Slide Retraction Effort	16.0 lbs.
Frame	Hard coat anodized, stainless steel
Frame Front Strap Height	2.6 in.
Frame Back Strap Height	3.6 in.
Grips	Textured G10, black
Grip Thickness Maximum	1.2 in.
Grip Circumference Maximum	5.6 in.
Front Sight	X-RAY3 3-dot night, green dot
Rear Sight	White two-dot notch; optics ready
Trigger Pull Weight	4.5 lbs.
Trigger Span	2.7 in.
Magazines	2; steel w/aluminum base pad
Safety	Striker safety lock; disconnect safety
Telephone	(603) 610-3000
Warranty	Limited Lifetime
Made In	U.S.A.
Website	SIGSauer.com

Henry U.S. Survival AR-7 Model H002C 22 LR, $349

Gun Tests Grade: A

The AR-7 is fun to shoot and packs up into a small, sealed package. The camo finish was starting to wear from multiple disassemblies. It ran flawlessly with different bullet weights and types.

See full review: January 2022

Action Type	Semi-auto, hammer fired
Overall Length	35.0 in.
Overall Length Disassembled	16.6 in.
Barrel Length/Twist Rate	16.1 in.; 1:16 RH twist
Overall Height	8.5 in.
Weight Unloaded	3.5 lbs.
Weight Loaded	4.4 lbs.
Sight Radius	20.5 in.
Barrel	Blued steel
Receiver	Matte black polymer
Buttstock	Black, serrated plastic buttplate
Buttstock LOP	14.0 in.
Magazine	(2) 8-round detachable box
Front Sight	Polymer orange post
Rear Sight	Adj. peep aperture
Trigger-Pull Weight	4.3 lbs.
Safety	Manual hammer block
Warranty	100% satisfaction guarantee
Telephone	(866) 200-2354
Website	HenryUSA.com
Made In	U.S.A.

Springfield Armory SA-35 9mm Luger, $699

Gun Tests grade: A

If you’re not looking for a collectible, then choose the Springfield Armory SA-35 over a stock Browning Hi-Power. The SA-35 is less expensive, has a better trigger, better sights, and is completely modern.

See full review: May 2022

Action Type	Semi-auto single action
Overall Length	7.8 in.
Overall Height	4.8 in.
Maximum Width	1.32 in.
Weight Unloaded	1.84 lbs.
Weight Loaded	2.41 lbs.
Slide	Blued forged carbon steel
Slide Retraction Effort	17.2 lbs.
Receiver Material	Forged steel
Finish	Matte blue
Front Strap Height	2.4 in.
Back Strap Height	3.4 in.
Barrel Length	4.7 in., 1:10 twist
Grip Thickness Maximum	1.32 in.
Grip Circumference Maximum	5.4 in.
Magazines	(1) Mec-Gar 15 round
Front Sight	White dot, drift adjustable in dovetail
Rear Sight	Black serrated tactical rack rear,
	drift adjustable in dovetail
Sight Radius	6.4 in.
Trigger Pull Weight	4.8 lbs.
Trigger Span	2.6 in.
Safety	Manual thumb safety
Warranty	Limited warranty for original purchaser
Telephone	(800) 680-6866
Website	Springfield-Armory.com
Made In	U.S.A., Illinois

Ruger Bearcat Shopkeeper Model 0915 22 LR, $575

Gun Tests Grade: A-

We liked the accuracy and size of this diminutive stainless revolver. It was easy to shoot and carry in a coat pocket. We thought the sharp edges and ill-fitting grip panel were misses.

See full review: May 2022

Action Type	Revolver, single action
Overall Length	8.0 in.
Overall Height	4.2 in.
Barrel Length	3.0 in., 1:16
Sight Radius	4.0 in.
Maximum Width	1.2 in.
Weight Unloaded	22.0 oz.
Weight Loaded	22.7 oz.
Cylinder Gap	.004 in.
Capacity	6
Frame Material/Finish	Satin stainless steel
Cylinder Material/Finish	Satin stainless steel/unfluted
Frame Front Strap Height	1.9 in.
Frame Back Strap Height	2.9 in.
Grips	Smooth laminated hardwood
Grip Thickness Maximum	1.0 in.
Grip Circumference Maximum	4.0 in.
Front Sight	Blade
Rear Sight	Fixed groove
Trigger Pull Weight	4.1 lbs.
Trigger Span	2.7 in.
Safety	None
Warranty	None stated
Telephone	(336) 949-5200
Website	Ruger.com
Made In	U.S.A.

EAA AKKAR Churchill 612 111375 12 gauge, $320

Gun Tests Grade: A

This shotgun has a comfortable pistol grip stock. While all three shotguns are reliable, the Akkar Model 612 is the smoothest. The trigger is crisp; it is the only trigger of the test that could be called nice. Plus, disassembly was easier with this model.

See full review: May 2022

Action Type	Pump
Chamber Size	3.0 in.
Overall Length	38.5 in.
Capacity	5+1
Weight	6.7 lbs.
Weight Loaded	7.5 lbs.
Barrel Length	18.5 in.
Finish	Matte
Choke	Unspecified (Modified)
Stock	Synthetic
Stock Length of Pull	13.8 in.
Fore end	Railed synthetic
Front Sight	Post
Trigger Pull Weight	6.0 lbs.
Safety	Cross-bolt
Warranty	1 year
Telephone	(321) 639-4842
Website	EAACorp.com
Made In	Turkey

Bergara B14R 22 LR, $950

Gun Tests Grade: A

The heaviest, most accurate and most expensive of the four tested, we felt the Bergara was ready to perform competitively right out of the box.

See full review: June 2022

Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 10mm 13389, $619

Gun Tests Grade: A

Slightly more accurate. We felt the S&W had the lighter recoil impulse and the shooting results testified to that. The grips would benefit from the light touch of some 600-grit sandpaper.

See full review: August 2022

Action Type	Bolt
Overall Length	37.75 in.
Barrel Length/Twist	18.0 in., 1:16
Overall Height w Scope Mount	6.4 in., 30-moa Pic rail included
Weight Unloaded	9.3 lbs.
Weight Loaded	9.6 lbs.
Sight Radius	NA
Action Finish	Matte Black
Barrel Finish	Matte Black
Magazine Capacity	10
Magazine Type	Bergara proprietary detachable box
Stock Material	HMR Molded, soft touch
Stock Drop at Comb	0.5 in.
Stock Drop at Heel	0.5 in.
Stock Bedding	Pillar
Stock Buttplate	Bergara soft rubber
Stock Length of Pull	14.5 in., w/three 0.25-in. removable spacers
Receiver Scope-Base Pattern	Remington 700 pattern, 6-48 screws
Trigger Pull Weight	1.8 lbs.
Safety	2-position thumb rocker
Warranty	None specified
Telephone	(877) 892-7544
Website	Bergara.online/us
Made In	Spain

Ruger Precision Rifle Custom Shop Model 18084 6.5 Creedmoor, $2419

Gun Tests Grade: A

There is a lot to like about the Ruger — except the cost — but that is the price required to get the bells and whistles to help you shoot comfortably. We like the rail, trigger, barrel, and muzzle device.

See full review: August 2022

Action Type	Bolt, three lugs, 70-degree lift
Overall Length	38.25 to 41.75 in. (30.6 in. folded)
Barrel Length	26.0 in. long, 1:8 twist, threaded
Muzzle Device	APA Muzzle Brake
Sights	Optics ready, 20-MOA Picatinny rail
Overall Height	7.3 in.
Weight Unloaded	9.7 lbs.
Weight Loaded	11.5 lbs.
Capacity	10
Stock	Ruger Precision MSR
Stock Length of Pull	Adjustable
Stock Drop at Comb	Adjustable
Stock Drop at Heel	Adjustable
Buttplate	Rubber
Grip	Magpul MOE K2+
Action Finish	Matte black
Barrel Finish	Matte black
Magazine Type	Detachable polymer box
Trigger Pull Weight	Adj., 2.25 to 5.0 lbs.
Safety	AR style
Accuracy Guarantee	None stated
Warranty	None written
Telephone	(336) 949-5200
Website	Ruger.com
Made In	U.S.A.

Henry Golden Boy Model H004 22 S/L/LR, $500

Gun Tests Grade: A

The Golden Boy Henry shines, in our opinion. It is heavy and has a very smooth operating lever. The angle of the stock was not as comfortable as some shooters would have liked.

See full review: February 2022

Action Type	Lever-action, exposed hammer
Overall Length	38.5 in.
Barrel	20 in. long; 1:16 RH twist
Overall Height	8.7 in.
Weight Unloaded	6.7 lbs.
Weight Loaded	8.6 lbs.
Sight Radius	17.0 in.
Receiver	Alloy
Action Finish	Brasslite
Barrel Finish	Blued
Magazine Capacity	16 LR
Magazine Type	Tube
Stock	Smooth walnut
Drop at Comb	3.1 in.
Drop at Heel	4.3 in.
Buttplate	Smooth brass
Length of Pull	14.0 in.
Front Sight	Brass bead post
Rear Sight	Adj. semi-buckhorn rear; optic ready
Trigger Type/Pull Weight	Single-stage, 3.5 lbs.
Manual Safety	Quarter cock
Warranty	100% satisfaction guarantee
Telephone	(866) 200-2354
Website	HenryUSA.com
Made In	U.S.A.

Ammo and Accessory Picks

Remington Express 158-grain Lead Semi-Wadcutter Hollow Point +P R38S12

This load is very similar in appearance and performance to the Winchester loading. The Remington load breaks 869 fps and averages 18 inches of penetration. All recovered bullets measured 0.60 inch in diameter, the most consistent of the test. This is our recommended heavy-bullet loading in the test based on its consistent expansion and penetration.

Gun Tests Grade: A (Our Pick)

DeSantis Speed Scabbard, $83

This is a semi-pancake-type holster. The Speed Scabbard features three belt slots for cant or angle adjustment. The holster is molded for specific handguns and features slight variations in geometry for each handgun. This is a holster designed with care and which serves well for concealed carry. The opportunity to compare both standard and optics-ready holster designs was presented with the Speed Scabbard. In the standard version, the holster flows up around the triggerguard and fairly high on the slide. In the optics-ready version, the holster is cut down close to where the holster body meets the belt loops. With very nicely done double stitching, the Speed Scabbard offers a strong, rigid draw. There is also a tension screw to adjust tightness on the handgun and to tighten the holster up when it becomes worn. Available from DeSantisHolster.com.

Gun Tests Grade: A

Safariland 126GLS Assent Holster, $91

Safariland and Bianchi are now branches of the same company. This holster is the most expensive tested. By the same token, you get your money’s worth. The leather work and stitching are excellent. Our example is the size 750. We used a Sphinx compact 9mm during the test program. The pistol worked much the same as the Safariland; however, due to the OTW construction, the draw was sharper. One of the raters felt that there is very little penalty in actuating the GLS switch — practice is the key, but the movement is natural. He felt the GLS lock moves the holster into usefulness when hiking or doing outdoors work. We like this holster very much. Unless you have a pressing need for ITW carry, this is a good choice for concealed carry. We rated the construction far above the paddle holsters for concealed carry. With price as no object for our testers, this is the top retention holster. Find it at BianchiLeather.com.

Gun Tests Grade: A (OUR PICK)

Tulster Contour, $80

The Contour is an outside-the-waistband (OTW) holster. It rides high and offers an option for those who cannot find comfort with the inside-the-waistband (ITW) style. We tested two examples, one for the Glock 19 size and the other for a Smith & Wesson Military & Police 2.0 Compact. The holster is certainly low profile. The standard version is optics friendly. The pistol features asymmetrical wings that ride close to the body. The Tulster features a Retention Adjustment Slot. Simply adjust the slide vertically and then tighten the slot for added retention. The holster may also be adjusted for ride height. The Kydex material is .08 inch thick.

This holster is a good choice for those who want a bit more retention. The draw may be fast enough, but the movement requires a solid tug — still faster than detaching a security device. After setting the holster up for maximum retention, we used an unloaded handgun and jumped up and down, and one of the raters did a back flip, all without losing the gun. The Contour is a viable option for those looking to notch up a bit on retention without adding a retention device that requires additional movement to draw the gun. If you are not comfortable with an IWB type holster, consider the Contour. Available at Tulster.com.

Gun Tests Grade: A

Winchester Super-X 158-grain Lead Semi-Wadcutter Hollow Point +P X38SPD

This is a lead hollow point molded or cast soft enough for reliable expansion. Average velocity is 861 fps from a 4-inch barrel. The Winchester load has probably seen more use than other lead hollow points because it was issued to peace officers decades ago. This appears to be the same load in use since the 1970s. Penetration is 20 inches in water. Expansion ranged from 0.51 to 0.54 inch. We recommend this Super-X load for personal defense.

Gun Tests Grade: A