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Century Arms TP9: Detailed Review
Price Range:
$399 - $439
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Century Arms (Imported from Canik) |
| Country of Origin | Turkey |
| First Build Date | 2009 |
| Action Type | Semi-Automatic, Striker-Fired |
| Caliber | 9mm Parabellum |
| Magazine Capacity | 18+1 rounds |
| Overall Length | 7.5 inches |
| Barrel Length | 4.5 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 28.5 oz |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Trigger Type | Striker-fired with Decocker |
| Sights | 3-dot adjustable |
| Optics Ready | No |
Overview
The Century Arms TP9, originally manufactured by Canik and imported by Century Arms, has gained popularity in the shooting community for its affordability and reliability. Since its inception in 2009, the TP9 has seen several iterations, each aimed at improving ergonomics, performance, and overall user experience. The TP9 is a striker-fired, semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9mm and designed for self-defense, duty, and recreational shooting.
With a magazine capacity of 18+1 rounds and a well-balanced polymer frame, the TP9 offers exceptional value for those seeking a reliable handgun at a budget-friendly price. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in higher-end models, such as optics-ready configurations, it makes up for it with solid performance and a user-friendly design. The TP9 also features a decocker, a unique feature for striker-fired pistols, allowing users to safely decock the weapon without chambering a round.
Strength and Quality
The build quality of the TP9 is commendable for a firearm in its price range. The polymer frame is durable, lightweight, and resistant to wear, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry or duty use. The barrel and slide are constructed from high-quality steel, offering longevity and reliability in various conditions. The decocker adds an extra layer of safety for those unfamiliar or uncomfortable with striker-fired systems.
Though the TP9 does not come optics-ready, it features adjustable 3-dot sights, allowing for some customization in terms of sight alignment. The trigger is crisp with a short reset, enhancing follow-up shot performance. However, the lack of an optics-ready option may limit its appeal to competition shooters who prefer red dot sights for precision shooting.
Safety Features
The TP9 is equipped with several safety features to ensure safe operation:
- Trigger Safety: Integrated into the trigger mechanism to prevent accidental discharge.
- Decocker: Unique to the TP9, allowing the user to safely decock the striker without chambering a round.
- Loaded Chamber Indicator: Provides a visual and tactile indication when a round is chambered.
- Firing Pin Block: Prevents the striker from engaging unless the trigger is fully pulled.
Test Results
Range Performance: The TP9 was tested at various distances with impressive results:
- 7 yards: Consistent accuracy, with groupings as tight as 1-1.5 inches, making it highly effective for close-range encounters.
- 15 yards: Slight spread in groupings, around 2 inches, but still within effective range for defensive use.
- 25 yards: Noticeable spread with groupings around 3 inches, but the TP9 remained reliable at longer distances.
- Also Read: Caracal Enhanced F
Merits
- Affordable price point with excellent performance.
- High magazine capacity (18+1 rounds).
- Decocker adds an extra layer of safety.
- Durable polymer frame and high-quality steel slide.
- Lightweight and easy to carry for extended periods.
Demerits
- Not optics-ready, limiting modern customization options.
- Slightly bulkier than some of its competitors in the same class.
- Trigger could be lighter for more precision-focused shooting.
Maintenance
The TP9 is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance. Regular cleaning of the barrel, slide, and trigger assembly is recommended, especially after extended use or exposure to harsh conditions. The polymer frame requires minimal maintenance beyond routine cleaning and inspection for wear. Be sure to lubricate the slide and other moving parts to ensure smooth operation over time.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Model | Magazine Capacity | Barrel Length | Weight (Unloaded) | Trigger Type | Optics Ready |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Century Arms TP9 | 18+1 rounds | 4.5 inches | 28.5 oz | Striker-fired | No |
| Glock 19 Gen 5 | 15+1 rounds | 4.02 inches | 23.63 oz | Striker-fired | No |
| SIG Sauer P320 Compact | 15+1 rounds | 3.9 inches | 25.8 oz | Striker-fired | Yes |
| Walther PPQ M2 | 15+1 rounds | 4 inches | 24.5 oz | Striker-fired | No |
| Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus | 13+1 rounds | 3.1 inches | 20.2 oz | Striker-fired | Yes |
| HK VP9 | 15+1 rounds | 4.09 inches | 25.56 oz | Striker-fired | Yes |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- The TP9 is slightly larger than many compact options, but it can be carried concealed with the right holster. Its high magazine capacity makes it a solid choice for home defense and duty carry as well.
The TP9 is chambered in 9mm Parabellum, and it performs reliably with both full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds for practice and hollow points for self-defense.
Yes, Century Arms offers a limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Be sure to check with your dealer for more specific details regarding coverage.
While the TP9 offers a higher magazine capacity (18+1 vs. 15+1), it is slightly bulkier than the Glock 19. However, both pistols are reliable and affordable for most shooters.
