SAR9 Shooting Impressions

There is a short list of firearms that I was looking forward to testing in 2018, and the SAR9 was on it. On the surface, it seemed to be a blend between a Glock 17 and the H&K VP9/P30 series of pistols. But, on the inside, the pistol is entirely different. The pistol is basically like a fully modular Glock on the inside. Everything in the frame is removable and is beefed up compared to a Glock. But shooting the pistol is not quite like shooting a Glock.

When I first got the SAR9, I cleaned and lubricated the pistol in order to prepare it for shooting. After lubricating the pistol, I made sure to spend alot of time playing with the pistol and vigorously working the action. I would play with the controls, dry fire the pistol with snap caps, and practice the manual of arms. This is all done so that I can learn the characteristics of the pistol faster. I consider it extremely important to take the time to practice with a new pistol before even going out and shooting it. This helps with the break in process and may even prepare you for the range by helping you learn how to manipulate it more efficiently.

Before you even take this pistol out to the range, you will notice that this pistol has very tight springs. the recoil spring has more tension than many .40 caliber pistols. When shooting the pistol for the first time, I noticed that the felt recoil was mild, but had a sharp impulse. The muzzle rise was virtually nonexistent, and the pistol was very easy to control, with only slight help.

The trigger on the SAR9 is very similar to the Glock, but with a more refined feeling to it. The trigger definitely has a lighter weight pull than a Glock, and a more refined feel to it. The reset is not something I even cared to feel for until later, and it is basically just like a Glock. 

The one thing that gave me issues while I was shooting was the manual safety. The normal pistol did not have a safety, but this one does for import reasons. If SAR USA is going to make a pin to replace it, I hope they fashion something fast. The safety works just fine, but it bothers the hell out of my trigger finger knuckle. If that safety did not exist, this pistol would be a 10 out of 10 in my book.

I got the SAR9 for 375 to include shipping, and I will say that it was well worth the money. I am glad to have this pistol because finally I feel that I have a Glock that I can count on and that will last a lifetime. But, it remains to be seen if this pistol can stand up to my ridiculous scrutiny. I have faith in this Turkish pistols' ability to last and perform well through time in my rough hands.