What is the Effective Range of a Handgun
? Well, that's a loaded question (and yes, that is my pitiful attempt at humor). I think the one word that likely applies to that question is...variable. If you are just looking for a simple number for the answer to that question, I would say the effective range of a handgun is somewhere between 10 to 300 feet.

Handguns

For the purpose of this article, it is important to remember what handguns
actually are. From their conception, handguns were designed to be a compact weapon for self-defense. Single shot, revolvers, and semi-automatic pistols all fall within the handgun classification. Handguns are designed to be used at closer ranges and as a defensive weapon, usually during a close combat, personal defense, or physical altercation event. Successful self-defense shootings are usually justified within a 21 foot (7 yards) range. Handguns are also very popular at the range as well. We all like to take our favorite pistols and revolvers to the range and send some rounds downrange at different yardage intervals. It is quite a sense of accomplishment to hit center mass in tight groups, even more so when the target distance is increased. This is where the effective range starts to come into question. The effective difference between hitting a stationary target and stopping an assailant are very different. Of course, you could also add a moving target into that equation, as well as the skillset of the shooter. Remember the keyword is variable.

The Yugoslavian M57 TT Tokarev Pistol

 

What Effective Range Is

Effective Range is the distance a weapon can deliver effective results, or the range that it takes to prevent an enemy from accomplishing their goals. Caliber, pistol or revolver, barrel length, ammunition, skillset, and conditions of engagement could all have a different effective range. If you will be satisfied with a simplified range or measurement for "effective range", I can tell you that handguns usually have a 25 - 30 yard effective range on average. Another variable in effective range is how far you, as the shooter, can actually assess the threat. Can you reasonably assess the threat and make an effective shot past 30 yards with your handgun? Is it truly a threat past 30 yards? Can you make the shot to stop the threat? If your answer is "yes", then the effective range of your handgun is greater due to the variables involved. If you are a great shooter and can arc your shot to hit the target at farther distances, that also changes the effective range of your handgun.

The Beretta PX4 Storm

 

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RANGE

When folks ask what the effective range of a handgun
is, they sometimes mean to ask what the maximum range is instead. The effective range of a weapon is distinct from the weapons maximum range. The absolute maximum range is how far the handgun can throw a projectile. Absolute maximum range is a number that is measured by perfect conditions without obstacles to interfere. Of course, ammunition could factor into this number as well, but to clarify the definition, let's just say you're using average full metal jacket ammo. For example, the absolute maximum range for a Beretta M9
while aiming it up into the air is 1,800 meters, however, it's effective range on a target is just 50 meters. The 50 meters is at a perfectly stationary target with no other interference.

The Beretta M9A3 9mm Pistol

 

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM EFFECTIVE RANGE

Then there is the definition and application of absolute maximum effective range. The term itself is a little misleading. Absolute Maximum Effective Range is the distance at which the energy of a fired round drops to a point where it can no longer be considered lethal. Accuracy does not come into play when determining this measurement.

MAXIMUM EFFECTIVE RANGE ON A POINT TARGET

The maximum effective range on a point target is a term used for handguns when lethal energy is not required. In others words; for target shooting.

SUMMED UP

When purchasing a handgun, buyers frequently ask about maximum range. Don't get maximum range confused with effective range. Also don't get hung up on a number. Remember what handguns were designed for; personal defensive weapons, and understand that variables will affect both the effective range and the maximum range. That's without factoring in your ammo selection. I will offer a word of advice, if your threat is beyond 25 yards, and you have a rifle nearby......go for the rifle :) Shop All Hand Guns
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