Introduction
The year 2025 has already brought a wave of innovation in the handgun market. Whether you are a seasoned firearms enthusiast, a first-time buyer, or someone considering options for concealed carry, the latest models released this year showcase improvements in ergonomics, safety, materials, and performance.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the top new handguns of 2025, highlighting their standout features, pros and cons, and best carry options. For those looking to sell guns or upgrade their current collection, this guide will give you a clear picture of what’s worth considering.
1. Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Plus (2025 Edition)
Features
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 15+1 rounds
Upgraded ergonomic grip texture with interchangeable backstraps
Flat-face trigger for smoother pull
Optics-ready slide with factory-installed night sights
Pros
Excellent for both concealed carry and duty use
Reliable performance with reduced recoil
Comfortable grip design, suitable for smaller or larger hands
Cons
Slightly bulkier than subcompacts
Heavier compared to polymer-only rivals
Best Carry Option
Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters make this handgun a perfect balance between concealability and firepower. It’s a solid choice for everyday carry (EDC).
2. Glock 47 MOS (2025 Variant)
Features
Caliber: 9mm
Modular Optic System (MOS) pre-cut for red dot sights
Compatible with Glock 19 and 45 slides
Enhanced barrel rifling for better accuracy
Improved trigger reset
Pros
Legendary Glock reliability
Interchangeable slide compatibility gives flexibility
Excellent aftermarket support
Cons
Still has the “blocky” grip that some shooters dislike
Limited aesthetics compared to competitors
Best Carry Option
Best carried in an appendix holster (AIWB). Ideal for those who want a versatile firearm with optics-ready functionality.
3. Sig Sauer P365-XMACRO TACOPS (2025 Update)
Features
Caliber: 9mm
17+1 round capacity in a slimline design
Integrated compensator for reduced muzzle rise
Accessory rail for lights/lasers
Optics cut for micro red dots
Pros
High capacity in a compact frame
Minimal recoil for fast follow-up shots
Great balance between concealment and performance
Cons
Pricier than many competitors in its class
Slightly longer grip may print when concealed
Best Carry Option
Great for IWB or strong-side carry. Those seeking high capacity and minimal recoil will find this an excellent option for EDC.
4. Walther PDP Compact 2.0 (2025 Release)
Features
Caliber: 9mm
15+1 round capacity
New “Performance Duty Trigger” for precision
RDS-ready with multiple optic plate options
Ergonomic grip angle with textured frame
Pros
One of the best striker-fired triggers on the market
Superb ergonomics
Optics-ready design
Cons
Slightly more expensive than Glock or Smith & Wesson
Bulkier slide compared to micro-compacts
Best Carry Option
Best paired with a custom OWB (outside-the-waistband) holster for range and duty use. It’s a favorite among competitive shooters as well.
5. Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro OSP (2025 Edition)
Features
Caliber: 9mm
15+1 round capacity
Compact footprint designed for concealed carry
OSP (Optical Sight Pistol) slide
Adaptive grip texture
Pros
Slim and concealable
Comfortable grip with reliable recoil control
Optics-ready for red dots
Cons
Trigger feel is not as crisp as Sig Sauer’s P365 series
Limited aftermarket upgrades compared to Glock
Best Carry Option
Excellent for IWB or pocket carry with slim holsters. A great handgun for those prioritizing concealability without compromising capacity.
6. CZ Shadow 3 (2025 Competition Edition)
Features
Caliber: 9mm
19+1 round capacity
Steel frame for better balance
Match-grade barrel
Adjustable fiber-optic sights
Pros
Perfect for competitive shooters
Extremely accurate and stable
Superb trigger pull
Cons
Heavy for concealed carry
Expensive compared to polymer-framed handguns
Best Carry Option
Primarily a competition or range gun, better suited for OWB holsters. Carrying concealed may be challenging due to its weight.
7. Heckler & Koch VP9 Gen 3 (2025 Update)
Features
Caliber: 9mm
Redesigned modular grip panels
Striker-fired trigger system with reduced pull weight
Factory optics-ready slide
Enhanced recoil spring for smoother cycling
Pros
One of the most ergonomic handguns in 2025
Smooth trigger pull
Highly customizable grip options
Cons
Higher price point
Slightly bulkier than Glock alternatives
Best Carry Option
Great for duty carry, OWB setups, and open carry situations. Not the best for deep concealment but reliable for defensive use.
8. Beretta APX A2 Compact (2025 Edition)
Features
Caliber: 9mm
Modular chassis system
15+1 round capacity
Enhanced slide serrations for easier racking
Striker-fired with smooth trigger reset
Pros
Customizable modular frame
Excellent recoil control
Improved ergonomics from previous APX models
Cons
Limited aftermarket compared to Glock or Sig Sauer
Slightly heavy for a compact
Best Carry Option
Best used with an IWB holster for balanced concealment and performance. A strong option for those wanting modularity in a carry pistol.
Trends in 2025 Handgun Design
This year’s new handgun releases highlight some clear industry trends:
Optics-Ready Slides: Red dots are becoming the new standard, even in compact handguns.
High Capacity Slimlines: Manufacturers are prioritizing slim frames with 15+ rounds.
Ergonomics & Customization: Interchangeable backstraps and modular frames are now common.
Trigger Improvements: Flat-faced triggers and lighter pulls are designed for precision.
Pros & Cons of New 2025 Handguns
Pros
More options for optics and accessories
Higher capacity in smaller frames
Improved ergonomics and safety features
Cons
Increasing prices compared to pre-2020 models
Complexity in choosing with so many variants available
Some bulkier optics-ready designs compromise concealability
Carry Options in 2025
Choosing the right carry option depends on lifestyle and comfort. The most popular methods this year include:
IWB (Inside-the-Waistband): Best for concealment, especially with slim models.
OWB (Outside-the-Waistband): Great for duty or open carry.
AIWB (Appendix Inside-the-Waistband): A fast-growing favorite for EDC users.
Pocket Carry: Still popular for micro-compacts like the Hellcat.
Your choice of holster and carry style should balance concealability, comfort, and accessibility.
Final Thoughts
The top new handguns of 2025 reflect how the firearms industry is evolving: slimmer frames, higher capacities, optics-ready designs, and improved ergonomics. Whether you want a reliable concealed carry piece, a competition-ready sidearm, or simply to add to your collection, the market has never been more exciting.
If you’re in the market to buy or sell guns, staying up to date with the latest releases ensures you get the most value for your investment. Platforms like GunsAmerica make it easy to explore, purchase, or list firearms while connecting with a trusted community of enthusiasts.
