Steyr S9-A1

Steyr Mannlicher · Pistol · In Production · 2004

Also known as: Steyr S-A1, Steyr S9-A1 Subcompact

Overview

The Steyr S9-A1 is a subcompact, striker-fired semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, the smallest member of Steyr's A1 pistol family. Introduced in 2004, it shortens both the slide and grip of the full-size M-A1 into a concealable package with a 3.6-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel and a flush-fit 10-round magazine. It retains Steyr's signature low bore axis for reduced muzzle flip, the distinctive trapezoidal three-dot sights, and the Reset Action System trigger, giving it soft recoil and controllability unusual for a gun of its size.

Specifications

Weight (empty)757 g (26.7 oz)
Weight (loaded)877 g (30.9 oz)
Overall Length173 mm (6.81")
Barrel Length91 mm (3.58")
Height122 mm (4.80")
Width33 mm (1.30")
Action TypeShort Recoil
Firing MechanismStriker Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Trigger Pull22 N (4.9 lbf)
Magazine Capacity10 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity340 m/s (1115 fps)
Muzzle Energy430 J (317 ft·lbf)
Effective Range50 m (55 yd)
Maximum Range1800 m (1968 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist249 mm (9.80")
Number of Grooves6
Frame MaterialPolymer
Slide MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
FinishMannox

Calibers

Features

Production

Production years: 2004-present

Civilian concealed-carry and law-enforcement backup pistol; subcompact variant of the third-generation A1 line.

Origin

Country of origin: Austria

Designer: Steyr Mannlicher

Notes

Marketed with a double-action-style feel via the Reset Action System, though the mechanism is striker-fired. The S-A1 shares its frame lineage with the M-A1 and C-A1; longer 15- and 17-round magazines from those models will function in the S9-A1.

Background

Steyr's A1 pistols trace their design lineage to the radical Steyr GB and the 1999 Steyr M, whose low-slung grip and low bore axis were engineered by Austrian designer Friedrich Aigner to keep the barrel as close to the shooter's hand as possible, minimizing felt recoil.