There are already lots of standout firearms this year, so many in fact that it’s difficult to choose which ones are best. That’s why for this list, we’re sharing our top three picks for handguns, rifles, and shotguns - as well as the most impressive all-around firearm of 2023 -  so far.

Criteria For Selection

The Classic Firearms team selected guns with a compelling blend of features, ergonomics, and shootability that also demonstrate a high degree of ingenuity or innovation. 

In other words, the best guns from last year may not make an appearance on our list but that doesn’t mean they aren’t still quality firearms worthy of your consideration. We’ve simply decided to highlight the firearms that we feel will work best for the average consumer in 2023.

The Best Guns Of 2023, Part 1: Best All Around Handguns, Rifles, And Shotguns

Handguns

With applications ranging from concealed carry and home defense to private security and law enforcement duty use, handguns are constantly evolving. These popular models strike a balance between concealability and capacity while still affording a solid master grip. 

Shadow Systems CR920 Elite

The CR920 from Shadow Systems packs an impressive 13+1 rounds of 9mm into a compact, intuitive package and simply put, it’s the best Glock-style pistol on the market in 2023.

Shadow Systems CR920 9mm Pistol

Aiming the CR920 pistol

Purchase the Shadow Systems CR920 today!

Tisas 1911 SS45R Carry

An exemplary 1911 pistol with lots of enhanced features one might expect from a much more expensive firearm, the SS45R Carry includes a skeletonized 2-lb trigger and low profile controls that are optimal for EDC - all for an incredibly affordable price.

Tisas SS45R Carry 1911 Pistol

Purchase the Tisas 1911 SS45R Carry today!

CZ P10C Optics Ready

CZ’s latest offering combines a factory threaded barrel with an optics-ready slide for a pistol that is ready for carry right out of the box. The P10C has a 17rd capacity and suppressor sights.

The CZ P10C 9mm Pistol Optics Ready

Be the first to know when it's back in stock!

Rifles

Mid to long-range engagements require a bit more firepower than is offered by most handguns. In those situations, a quality rifle in the hands of a capable shooter can dramatically improve the odds of surviving a defensive encounter. Any of the following will fit the bill perfectly.

Foxtrot Mike .223 / 5.56 NATO MIKE102

This AR-pattern rifle takes .223 / 5.56 NATO AK mags and includes a forward charging handle as well as a Magpul Zhukov folding stock. It is rugged, reliable, and incredibly versatile. 

The Foxtrot Mike .223 / 5.56 NATO Mike102

Purchase the Foxtrot Mike .223 / 5.56 NATO MIKE102 today!

Brigade Makasi

Combining the familiar controls of the AR platform with the proven track record of the FAL rifle, the Brigade Makasi is another example of firearms innovation resulting in a “best of both worlds” system. Check out our first look at SHOT Show 2023!

Kaydi with the Brigade Makasi at SHOT Show 2023

Be the first to know when it’s back in stock!

Smith & Wesson M&P FPC 9mm 

This foldable pistol caliber carbine is the newest addition to the Smith & Wesson M&P line. The FPC 9mm offers improved ballistic performance and ships with one 17rd and two 23rd mags.

Manufacturer photo of the new Smith & Wesson M&P FPC 9mm

Shotguns

Whether for hunting or personal protection, shotguns are some of the most popular firearms available in today’s market. Most models are relatively affordable and for the most part, are also easy to use even for novice shooters. Here are our top picks for the best shotguns of 2023. 

Panzer EG-240

The EG-240 is a semi-auto 12GA shotgun with a tactical stock and patented gas system that is capable of running a variety of ammo types. See the Panzer EG-240 in action below:

Purchase the Panzer EG-240 Shotgun today!

Mossberg 590S Series

For those who prefer a pump action, the 590S from Mossberg is incredibly versatile in that it allows shooters to mix shotshells of various lengths simultaneously without sacrificing reliability.

Manufacturer image of a shooter ejecting a spend shell from the Mossberg 590S Tactical shotgun

Purchase the Mossberg 590S Tactical 12GA Shotgun today!

Garaysar Ft. Myers FEAR-125 Tactical

The FEAR-125 accepts most AR-12 magazines and is available in a variety of finishes - great for home defense or a fun range day.

The Garaysar Ft. Myers FEAR-125 12GA semi-auto shotgun

Buy the FEAR-125 AR-Style 12GA Shotgun today!

The Best Gun Of 2023 (So Far…)

The Oracle 2311 pistol represents the pinnacle of modern firearms design and innovation, and was our winner for SHOT Show 2023. It is one of the most promising releases we’ve seen in a while - paying homage to the 1911 while still managing to stand out as something all its own. 

Watch Clint and Kaya talk about the pistol in greater detail here: