Glock 48
Most of us were aware that Glock was producing the G43X before Glock announced it. I don’t think any of us were aware that Glock would also release a similar model called the Glock 48. The Glock 48 shares the same frame and magazine as the Glock 43X however it has a 4.1” barrel. Much like the Glock 43X, the Glock 48 has a 10 round magazine, forward slide serrations and a silver PVD slide finish. It was speculated that Glock created the G48 for shooters in states that have 10 round magazine restrictions but want a compact size 4” barrel. Whatever the case, Glock fans seemed thrilled with the G48 release.
Stoeger SRT-9
Stoeger entered the handgun market in 2019 with the Stoeger STR-9. The STR-9 is a compact size 9mm pistol that mimics a Beretta APX. Sporting a 4.1 inch barrel, comfortable grip, loaded chamber indicator, 6.25 pound trigger and 15 rounds in the magazine, the Stoeger STR-9 offers everything high end handguns do for less money. The average gun store price for the STR-9 is around $280. At the range, the STR-9 was impressive. I found it to be accurate and reliable. Straight out of the box, the Stoeger STR-9 performed like champion. I was very much impressed with it’s smooth and accurate shooting.
Beretta APX Carry
Beretta recently replaced the Beretta Nano with APX Carry. The Beretta APX Carry is a polymer-frame single-stack 9mm that has slide serrations that run across the entire slide. It comes with six and eight round magazine a three inch barrel and trigger that measures just under six pounds. The Beretta APX Carry enters a crowded 9mm single stack market but may do well in 2019.
FN 509 Midsize
This year, FNH shortened the full-size FN 509 and created a FN 509 “Midsize.” The FN 509 Midsize is more suitable to the concealed carry market. It has a shorter 4” barrel and a 15 round magazine. The hinged trigger remains the same along with many of the other features that made the FN 509 a reliable and fine shooting handgun. The FN 509 Midsize is a nice addition to the FN line of pistols.
Nemo Arms Monark MK-9
The Nemo Arms Monark is a full size pistol with a five inch match grade barrel. It has an aluminum frame and weighs 33 ounces unloaded. The Monark has a light 4 – 4.25 pound trigger, front slide serrations, is equipped optic-ready, fiber optic front sight and accepts Sig Sauer magazines. Sporting excellent ergonomics the Monark will be a chosen pistol for competitors and those who enjoy a first class handgun.
