The historical development of handguns began with the Chinese invention of gunpowder in the 9th century and its spread to Europe and the Middle East. Today, firearm technology has advanced to such a degree that a single shot can have a definitively lethal effect. Improvements in combat range, accuracy, reloading speed, and barrel power have turned handguns into near-perfect weapons. Here are the top 10 most powerful handguns in the world:
Magnum Research BFR .45-70
- Price: $1,030 (average)
- Caliber: .45-70 Government
- Barrel Length: 7.5 inches
- Overall Length: 15 inches
- Weight: 1.95 kg (4.3 lbs)
- Capacity: 5 Rounds
This gigantic 5-shot revolver from Minnesota is essentially a hunting handgun that fires rifle ammunition. Designed for the African plains, this weapon is capable of taking down even a bear. Requiring two-handed use and featuring serious recoil, this model has been described as the “world’s most powerful handgun” available for sale as of 2018. However, it is a specialized tool made for professional hunting rather than urban use.
Taurus 454 Raging Bull Casull
- Price: $985 (average)
- Caliber: .454 Casull
- Barrel Length: 8.375 inches
- Overall Length: 14 inches
- Weight: 1.78 kg (3.94 lbs)
- Capacity: 5 Rounds
This model stands out with its traditional design and can fire both .44 Magnum and the renowned .454 Casull rounds. Weighing nearly 1.8 kg with a solid “brick-like” build, it is an imposing handgun with a total length of 14 inches. Frequently carried by people working in bear country or African environments, it is a true handheld cannon capable of bringing down big game.
Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan Special
- Price: $1,000 (average)
- Caliber: .454 Casull
- Barrel Length: 2.5 inches
- Overall Length: 7.62 inches
- Weight: 1.24 kg (2.75 lbs)
- Capacity: 5 Rounds
Despite its short 2.5-inch barrel, this firearm delivers tremendous stopping power in a compact package and is an ideal choice for wildlife control. The .454 Casull cartridge is not one to be underestimated. This model is considered essential gear by Alaskans and is carried like a “pocket gun” due to its effectiveness against dangerous wild animals.
Smith & Wesson 500
- Price: $1,200 (average)
- Caliber: .500 S&W Magnum
- Barrel Length: 8.38 inches
- Overall Length: 15 inches
- Weight: 2.05 kg (4.53 lbs)
- Capacity: 5 Rounds
One of the most famous high-powered handguns in recent years, this model—though technically surpassed by a few rare firearms—is among the most powerful mass-produced handguns available. Its shorter-barrel versions can be life-saving in regions populated by large predators. If you are seeking one of the most powerful handguns in the world, the Smith & Wesson 500 is an impressive choice.
Desert Eagle
- Price: $1,780 (average)
- Caliber: .50 Action Express
- Barrel Length: 6 inches
- Overall Length: 10.75 inches
- Weight: 2.04 kg (4.5 lbs)
- Capacity: 7+1 Rounds
The Desert Eagle is one of the most powerful handguns ever produced. As seen in movies such as The Matrix and Deadpool, it has become a cinematic icon. When magazine capacity is taken into account, it can be more practical than many of its competitors. It is a “beast” of a weapon suitable for both hunting and home defense.
Smith & Wesson 460 XVR
- Price: $1,365 (average)
- Caliber: .460 S&W
- Barrel Length: 14 inches
- Overall Length: 21.5 inches
- Weight: 2.45 kg (5.4 lbs)
- Capacity: 5 Rounds
With its attention-grabbing 14-inch barrel, this handgun requires proper technique and hunting skill to use effectively. In the North American wilderness, it is one of the most versatile handguns you can carry alongside a long-range rifle (such as a Creedmoor) for any potential scenario.
Ruger Blackhawk 45 Long Colt
- Price: $535 (average)
- Caliber: .45 Long Colt
- Barrel Length: 7.5 inches
- Overall Length: 13.3 inches
- Weight: 1.13 kg (2.5 lbs)
- Capacity: 6 Rounds
The classic Blackhawk model is designed for .45 Long Colt ammunition (Casull versions are also available). If you are not encountering angry grizzly bears daily, this gun will likely provide all the power you need. A .45 ACP version also exists, which is sufficient for most users.
Taurus Public Defender Polymer
- Price: $490 (average)
- Caliber: .410 Bore / .45 Long Colt
- Barrel Length: 2 inches
- Overall Length: 7.65 inches
- Weight: 0.76 kg (1.69 lbs)
- Capacity: 5 Rounds
One of the most practical and logical additions to a personal defense arsenal, this model is suitable for concealed carry due to its small size. Weighing around 760 grams and measuring 18 cm in length, it can fire both .410 shotgun shells and .45 cartridges. It offers an alternative to standard handguns and can be an integral part of a daily defense setup.
Glock G20
- Price: $550 (average)
- Caliber: 10mm
- Barrel Length: 4.6 inches
- Overall Length: 8.03 inches
- Weight: 0.87 kg (1.92 lbs)
- Capacity: 15+1 Rounds
Although the 10mm cartridge delivers more recoil than 9mm, it is not as punishing as the massive calibers on this list. The Glock 10mm is ideal for users who are not physically strong or who want complete control over their handgun. While larger handguns require you to reacquire your aim after every shot, the Glock allows you to empty the entire magazine into a tight grouping—a potentially life-saving advantage.
Ruger SR1911 10mm
- Price: $750 (average)
- Caliber: 10mm
- Barrel Length: 5 inches
- Overall Length: 8.67 inches
- Weight: 1.14 kg (2.52 lbs)
- Capacity: 8+1 Rounds
For those not yet ready for the Desert Eagle but looking for a powerful yet controllable handgun, this 10mm version of the 1911 platform is an excellent alternative. Considered one of the best in the world in terms of price-to-performance ratio, this model is technically capable of stopping dangerous animals—though it is best not to test this theory unless absolutely necessary.