First off, each weapon is better suited to a range role and then it's more dependent on how good your aim is. Which means that your class should not truly dictate your primary weapon but rather, your playstyle. Handcannons are close range precision weapons. They have high stopping power but their range is lacking compared to the rifles and low ammo capacity means you'll be reloading alot. This means that each shot must count and be a kill. I would recommend the Hand Cannon to those who don't mind getting close and are cool under fire as it takes guts to stand there for the few seconds it takes to ensure a kill shot while you're taking fire. Hand Cannons take some practice so don't expect to pull of the badass "Out in the open bullet time kill" image right away. Auto Rifles are kind of the catchall. They work better at close range compared to the other two rifles and don't require as much precision. They're excellent at mowing down clustered groups and have the ammo capacity to not worry about as much. Recommend if you find yourself scrambling for ammo too much and find yourself in the middle of clusters too much. Scout Rifles are the Precision tool of people who like to remain at longer ranges. They're not for close range work so you'll have to keep your distance. Otherwise treat like Hand Cannon. For people who prefer realistic semi-automatic fire. Pulse Rifles are a longer range.version of Auto Rifles but fire in three-round bursts. Require a bit more precision then the Auto Rifle but carries the same ammo capacity. However they have a sort of happy medium when it comes range being versatile enough that I've found they work at long and close ranges. Would not recommend at point blank though. So consider your playstyle. What range is comfortable for you and consider your accuracy under pressure. That will tell you which primary is right for you rather then your class.

Hand Cannons are amazing if you can find one with a good ability and/or extended magazines. I have an 11 rounder right now with a great impact and ok ability.