In your opinion, what are the best pistols ever designed?

[gun runner]

Kimber Ultra Carry II 1911 cocked and locked and mod. 19 2 1/2" SW 357 Combat Master

[Red Hat]

I thought I ,made a post in this thread but I guess I didn't. Hands down in the auto loader category it's the 1911. In the wheelgun category S&W K frames.

[wolfhunter]

Semi-auto:1911's, Revolver: model 629

[gun runner]

good choice on the 1911 and the K frame Smith.

[toreskha]

The 1911 is probably the best, except for that low mag capacity. Having to reload after 7 rounds is cutting it a bit close.

I'll add another superlative, though - IMO, the parkerized 92/96 FS is the most visually attractive handgun ever produced. That's just my opinion, of course. In fact, I finally had to get one just so that I can look at it every single day. It's also a wonderful firearm by itself.

I know nothing about revolvers, so I won't even go there. I've fired fully auto M-16, AK-47, an Uzi knockoff and a few others. My favorite one was the MP-5 - compact, well-designed, accurate, easy to load, etc. It's too bad they're so expensive.

[Darkhorse6]

Any thing made by Glock! 19, 23, 26, 27, 17,30, 31.

[Boomboy007]

My Steyr M40. It fits well in my hand, points exactly where I intend, and the groovy trapezoidal sights are very easy to acquire (after some practice time).

I am really torn in regards to the wheelies. While I do love those Colts, I have really grown fond of that ribbed grip by Taurus. Maybe I will finally grab one of those .410/.45 "Judges" and do a little more comparison.

[tattedupboy]

My Steyr M40. It fits well in my hand, points exactly where I intend, and the groovy trapezoidal sights are very easy to acquire (after some practice time).

I am really torn in regards to the wheelies. While I do love those Colts, I have really grown fond of that ribbed grip by Taurus. Maybe I will finally grab one of those .410/.45 "Judges" and do a little more comparison.

I believe you're the first to list Steyr as the best designed semi auto. Just to be clear, we're discussing the best designed handguns, whether or not they are handguns we've ever shot or owned. I mentioned the 1911 even thought I've never owned one (although I have shot one).

[elkhuntCO]

1911 and Colt Pyton .357

[astute]

For pure simplicity and dependability my vote would have to go to Glock even though I've tried, but never have been able to warm up to them. Other than that:
1911 or HiPower
Colt Python