Favorite Range Guns
- Graham Baates
- Aug 31
- 5 min read
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Continuing the series answering requests to list some of my favorites are my favorite range guns. These are gun that I know I'm going to have a good time at the range with. Reliable, easy to use, and easy to perform well with. Range guns are what we can use to test our abilities, unlock higher levels of proficiency, and make tough shots with.
These are in no particular rank or order, simply what came to me as I scrolled back through the 500+ firearms reviewed. As you read through these think of your own favorite range guns and share them with us in the comments. While most any handgun can be run well by most any hand, I don't deny that a good fit goes a long way. These are guns that seem to just work well for me naturally.
Linked names will take you to the original review. Prices and availability on this page are current as of the date this was written.
Icarus Precision / DPM Systems HS Produkt Echelon Build: The HS Produkt Echelon is a solid gun that's enjoyable on the range, but when you add control with an Icarus Precision grip module and delete recoil with a DPM Systems recoil assembly tuned for how you want to shoot it becomes an entirely different firearm. Unfortunately YouTube has deleted much of my coverage of both Icarus Precision and DPM Systems, but this combination can be seen in this video.
Pricing as of 31AUG25 for 4.5" model
The "Gear Up" packages including extra mags, range bag, and sometimes an optic are available as of the time these prices were researched
For current pricing and availability click links
Icararus Precision Echelon Full Grip Module $399.99 at Optics Planet
DPM Systems Echelon Kit: $144 at Optics Planet
Echelon Full Size:
Tisas 1911 B9R Duty 5" This is not the fanciest, best, least-, or most-expensive double stack 1911 out there, but it runs great. No single feature makes the Tisas stand out from the increasingly-flooded market of more-affordable double stack 1911s aside from great all-around value and a reasonable build. The trigger isn't the best, but it's better than others and not bad enough to inhibit performance. As I've been rediscovering myself, 5" 9mm guns are softer-shooting with a recoil impulse that is more of a gallop than a jarring hop. Another trait of the Tisas is that while the frame is steel, the shorter dust cover prevents the gun from being too heavy for quick handling: a nice balance. Combine that with easy ergonomics, plenty of capacity, and that non-inhibiting trigger and you'll find yourself shooting better than expected.
Unfortunately YouTube promptly struck down my videos of this gun.
Pricing as of 31AUG25
For current pricing and availability click links
Grand Power SP9A3 Stribog A large-format pistol that runs well suppressed or not, delivering more energy than your handgun, with ambi controls and solid reliability. I know that last part goes against some reports on the internet, but if you keep your support-hand fingers away from the ejection port and either use the newer magazines which feature an over-travel stop or simply don't unnecessarily smack your magazines against a closed bolt they'll last. My build is an older one, there are not picatinny end plates that allow for a more compact attachment of a brace. It running suppressed, or recoil reduction isn't a priority for you, the standarad-blowback SP9A1 is a less-expensive option.
Pricing as of 31AUG25
For current pricing and availability click links
Grand Power XCalibur Match CO The XCalibur Match CO is one of that pistols that when I hold in hand I feel empowered; like whatever handgun task is ahead I know I can do it and do it well. What makes the XCalibur Match CO model special beyond all the traits that make Grand Power pistols great is the extension of the billet stainless steel chassis inside the gun out to the dust cover. This puts a lot of weight under the nose of the gun to turn an already flat-shooting platform even flatter. Slap a dot on it and get ready to enjoy one of the best triggers I've ever felt. The special construction of the XCalibur Match CO means the price is a bit higher. If you'd prefer a less-expensive option buy a regular XCalibur and mount a heavy light to it for a similar experience.
Pricing as of 31AUG25
For current pricing and availability click links
Grand Power K100 Mk23 A long-time favorite of mine has been the Grand Power K100. Now in the Mk23 generation traction has been enhanced and optics readiness added. The 4.25" barrel length is another long-time favorite of mine, I believe I first discovered that with the K100. Grand Power pistols are naturally softer-shooting thanks to their superior action type, but this slightly longer barrel and slide makes for a little more nose weight than a "compact" and slightly slower recoil impulse without being as slow as a 5" gun. Low recoil without a sluggish action plus the impeccable trigger of a Grand Power and you've got yourself an awesome gun for kicking butt on the range.
Pricing as of 31AUG25 (for Mk23 generation)
For current pricing and availability click links
Derya Melik Despite my distaste for the abused M9's I served in the Army with, and even disappointment with some of the other clones out there, the Derya Arms Melik really impressed me. I imagine it's what a properly-maintained M9 could have been like. The price makes it an attractive fun gun, but what really makes it fun is how easy it is to be consistently accurate with. The broad frame and lighter slide make for less felt recoil and the gun runs smoothly.
Price as of 31AUG25
Check link for current pricing and inventory
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