Well, the 2011 SHOT Show is closer than the 2010 Show, so I thought I would take a look at some of the most popular new guns of 2010. Â Popularity was determined based on Google keyword searches and forum posts that I read. Â So, yeah, this list is pretty arbitrary, but hey, it’s my list. Â Your feedback is encouraged!
Gen 4 Glock (any) – Like them or hate them, the Glock line of pistols is one of the most popular series of handguns currently in the US. Â One of the few complaints about the Glock has been the size of the grip. Â Answering public demand, Glock introduced the Gen 4 series of pistols that feature an adjustable grip size, new grip texture, a magazine release button update, and a double recoil spring assembly.
Initially offered in the models 17 and 22, the Gen 4 Glock 19 is now available, and the Gen 4 Glock 23 should begin shipping in the next 30-45 days.
Taurus 740 Slim – Based on the success of the 709 Slim, Taurus introduced the .40 caliber version in 2010. Â The 740 Slim is a compact, single-stack pistol chambered for the .40 S&W cartridge. Â Larger than the current crop of .380 pistols in the market, the 740 is still a very compact package that offers 6 + 1 rounds of a respected self-defense cartridge. Â Also unlike many diminutive pistols, the 740 Slim has good sights that, while smaller than a full-size gun, are easy to pick up and are adjustable. Â Read this for a full Taurus 740 review.
Ruger SR9c – The SR9c pistol is the compact version of the full-sized SR9. Â Ruger has re-made itself in recent years, offering many more concealed carry and tactical products like the LCP, LCR, and SR556. Â The 9mm SR9c is a continuation of their self-defense concept. Â I have not been able to shoot an SR9c yet, but from all indications, Ruger has a real hit with this pistol.
Smith & Wesson Bodyguard – Smith & Wesson has always been known for their great revolvers. Â Armed citizens and cops alike have favored the J-frame revolvers for pocket and ankle carry, with models like the 442 and 642 being some of the most popular guns in the S&W catalog.
This year S&W introduced a polymer-metal hybrid revolver with an integrated laser called the S&W Bodyguard chambered in .38 Special.  The revolver looks similar to the J-frame ‘hammerless’ revolvers that sell so well for S&W, but apparently are a complete redesign, sharing no parts with their all-metal predecessors.  One of the obvious changes is the ambidextrous cylinder release that was moved from the side of the revolver to the top where you would normally find a hammer on a revolver.
The Marlin Model 1894 CSS was a 2009 SHOT SHOW special exhibition, but the company received such positive feedback from SHOT SHOW attendees and gun enthusiasts alike that they decided to make it a part of their standard product line. The “CSS” stands for Cowboy Stainless Steel.
CZ revamped the Dan Wesson 1911 line, and were showing off the new pistols at the 2010 SHOT Show. The Dan Wesson Guardian was one example.
Inspired by the 1970 Boss 429 Mustang, Les Baer introduced the Boss .45 1911 pistol at the 2010 SHOT Show. The new Boss 1911 is a good looking pistol, with some solid features from one of the best known 1911 builders in the USA.