When it comes to close-quarters combat in Grand Theft Auto V, having a reliable pistol can mean the difference between a quick takedown and an untimely respawn. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out with fresh GTA 5 accounts, choosing the right sidearm is crucial. In this guide, we’ll rank the six most dependable pistols in GTA 5, evaluating their damage, accuracy, and overall usefulness in different scenarios.
6. Vintage Pistol
The Vintage Pistol may look stylish with its classic design, but it falls short in raw power. It’s a decent early-game option for players who haven’t unlocked better weapons yet. However, its slow fire rate and moderate damage make it less viable in high-intensity shootouts. If you’re rocking a buy GTA modded account with all weapons unlocked, you’ll likely skip this one.
5. Pistol .50
A step up from the Vintage Pistol, the Pistol .50 offers better damage and a higher fire rate. Its sleek, modern design is a favorite among players who prefer a balance between style and functionality. While it won’t outclass heavy hitters, it’s a solid backup weapon for mid-range engagements.
4. AP Pistol
The AP Pistol is where things get interesting. This fully automatic sidearm is perfect for drive-by shootings or suppressing enemies in tight spaces. Its rapid fire rate compensates for its lower per-shot damage, making it a versatile choice for chaotic encounters. Many players, including those with U4N-level experience, swear by it for its versatility.
3. Heavy Pistol
If you prefer precision over spray-and-pray, the Heavy Pistol is a fantastic pick. With high damage and excellent accuracy, it’s ideal for picking off enemies at medium range. It’s a favorite in Heist setups where every shot counts, and its stopping power ensures you won’t need too many follow-up shots.
2. Marksman Pistol
The Marksman Pistol is essentially a pocket sniper rifle. Its high damage and scope attachment make it deadly at longer ranges, perfect for stealthy players who like to keep their distance. While it’s not as effective in close quarters, its niche utility makes it a must-have for certain missions.
1. Up-n-Atomizer (Honorable Mention: Stun Gun)
Okay, technically not a traditional pistol, the Up-n-Atomizer deserves a spot for its sheer uniqueness. This sci-fi weapon doesn’t deal lethal damage but can send enemies (and vehicles) flying with its energy blasts. It’s more of a utility tool than a primary sidearm, but its crowd-control potential is unmatched.
For those who prefer realism, the Combat Pistol (a close runner-up) offers the best balance of fire rate, damage, and ammo capacity, making it the most reliable all-rounder in GTA 5.
Final Thoughts
Your choice of pistol ultimately depends on your playstyle. Whether you’re a stealthy marksman or a run-and-gun enthusiast, GTA 5 offers a sidearm for every situation. And if you’re looking to jump straight into the action, some players opt to buy GTA modded account setups with these weapons unlocked from the start.
