Vektor CP1

Denel Land Systems (formerly Lyttelton Engineering Works) · Pistol · Discontinued · 1996

Also known as: Denel CP1, Vektor Compact Pistol 1

Overview

The Vektor CP1 is a South African compact 9x19mm semi-automatic pistol designed by Lyttelton Engineering Works (Vektor) for concealed carry and law-enforcement use. It uses an unusual gas-delayed blowback action with a fixed barrel and a sleek polymer frame, giving it a smooth, snag-free profile. Produced from 1996 to 2001, it was sold to civilian and police markets before being withdrawn following a voluntary safety recall.

Specifications

Weight (empty)	720 g (25.4 oz)
Overall Length	177 mm (6.97")
Barrel Length	100 mm (3.94")
Action Type	Delayed Blowback
Firing Mechanism	Striker Fired
Trigger Type	Single Stage
Magazine Capacity	13 rounds
Magazine Type	Detachable Box
Muzzle Velocity	360 m/s (1181 fps)
Muzzle Energy	481 J (355 ft·lbf)
Effective Range	50 m (55 yd)
Barrel Rifling	Right Hand
Frame Material	Polymer
Slide Material	Steel
Barrel Material	Steel
Finish	Blued

Calibers

9x19mm Parabellum · primary · 9mm NATO — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm NATO, 9x19mm

Features

Firing modes: Semi Automatic
Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
Safety mechanisms: Trigger Safety, Firing Pin Safety
Features: Gas Delayed Blowback, Polymer Frame, Polymer Magazine, Ambidextrous Magazine Release, Compact Design

Service history

Operators

Civilian market

Production

Production years: 1996-2001

Production ended after a voluntary safety recall; total output not published

Origin

Country of origin: South Africa

Discontinued: 2001

Notes

Notable for its streamlined ergonomic styling and gas-delayed blowback action. A voluntary recall over an accidental-discharge concern shortened its production life.

Background

The CP1's sci-fi smooth shell got it cast as a future sidearm in the film Starship Troopers, yet in the real world a safety recall cut its career short barely five years after launch.