For some enthusiasts, the large-format pistol is a starting point for an NFA-regulated short-barreled rifle project, and for others, it’s simply a more compact defensive platform that’s easy to store and deploy when needed. Regardless of the aim, there’s been a huge surge in the large-format pistol category, and 2026 continues to showcase new models answering the wants and needs of today’s firearm owners.
Here are five of the latest large-format pistols available today:
Freedom Ordnance | FM-9D (Belt-fed)
A belt-fed … pistol? The FM-9D can be operated with traditional Glock-style 9 mm magazines or via 100- and 150-round belts that can be transitioned to and from box magazines without tools. A carbine version is also available.
▶ B5 Systems grip
▶ M-Lok slots and QD sling mounts
▶ SB Tactical SBA5 brace
▶ Last-round bolt hold open
Specifications
Caliber: 9 mm
Capacity: 100 rounds
Barrel Length: 8 inches
Overall Length: 24.5 inches
Weight: 128 ounces
MSRP: $4,248
(812) 297-5141 freedomordnance.com

GForce Arms | Jawbone
A .45 ACP-caliber, large-format pistol, the Jawbone has the virtue of using widely available Glock magazines. It includes an Ace of Brace paddle-style stabilizing brace to enhance one-handed firing. Despite its numerous features, the Jawbone is offered at a consumer-friendly price.
▶ Ambidextrous controls
▶ Picatinny optics rail
▶ Glock-compatible magazine
▶ Fore-end charging handle
Specifications
Caliber: .45 ACP
Magazine Capacity: 26 rounds
Barrel Length: 7 inches
Overall Length: 23.3 inches
Weight: 90 ounces
MSRP: $599
(775) 788-1765 gforcearms.com

KelTec | KP50
Changing the magazine-loading arrangement to a bottom design rather than the hinge system of the original P50, KelTec has addressed the intricate method of recharging its 5.7×28 mm large-format handgun while also incorporating a stabilizing brace.
▶ Side-folding brace
▶ B5 Systems grip
▶ Top-mounted charging handle
▶ Sights not included
Specifications
Caliber: 5.7×28 mm
Magazine Capacity: 50 rounds
Barrel Length: 9.6 inches
Overall Length: 18.6 to 28.3 inches
Weight: 64 ounces
MSRP: $1,099
(800) 515-9983 keltecweapons.com

MasterPiece Arms | Defender 30K
Answering the question “What would a ’70s Ingram MAC look like if built with current knowledge and technology?” the Defender 30K brings old-school cachet to the large-format handgun market. Its use of Glock-pattern magazines, AR-15-pattern controls and brace compatibility hint at its versatility.
▶ AR-15-pattern fire control group
▶ Brace not included
▶ Side-folder hinge
▶ Buffer-tube adapter
Specifications
Caliber: 9 mm
Magazine Capacity: 34 rounds
Barrel Length: 4.5 inches
Overall Length: 12.5 inches
Weight: 67 ounces
MSRP: $899
(866) 803-0000 masterpiecearms.com

Tippmann | M4-22 Elite BugOut
If there’s any one theme evident this year, it’s the prevalence of integrally suppressed barrels and complete firearms hitting the market, like this rimfire large-format pistol from Tippmann Arms. It’s an NFA item, yes, but there’s no $200 tax to pay.
▶ Folding T5 arm brace
▶ Flip-up sights
▶ 9-inch M-Lok handguard
▶ Integrally suppressed
Specifications
Caliber: .22 LR
Magazine Capacity: 25 rounds
Barrel Length: 12 inches
Overall Length: 21.6 to 31.4 inches
Weight: 76 ounces
MSRP: $1,159
(844) 340-9317 tippmannarms.com
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