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Shadow Systems DR920 Elite Review
Price Range:
$500 - $1100
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Shadow Systems |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| First Build Date | 2021 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 17+1 |
| Barrel Length | 4.5 inches |
| Weight | 24 ounces (unloaded) |
| Price Range | $850 – $1,100 |
Overview
The Shadow Systems DR920 Elite is a high-performance 9mm pistol, designed for both everyday carry and competition. This pistol is based on the popular Glock platform, but Shadow Systems has made several enhancements to improve performance, ergonomics, and aesthetics. The DR920 Elite is part of the company’s Elite series, which emphasizes advanced features, durability, and customization options.
With a 4.5-inch barrel and a 17+1 magazine capacity, the DR920 Elite provides excellent shooting capabilities, including a smooth recoil impulse and enhanced accuracy. The pistol is optics-ready, allowing users to mount red dot sights easily, which makes it ideal for those who prefer rapid target acquisition. Additionally, the DR920 Elite incorporates a match-grade barrel and a custom flat-faced trigger to offer superior performance, especially in rapid-fire situations.
Strength and Quality
The overall quality of the Shadow Systems DR920 Elite is superb. The frame is built from high-strength polymer, while the slide is made from stainless steel with a corrosion-resistant coating. The match-grade barrel enhances accuracy, and the flat-faced trigger offers a crisp break for better control during rapid firing. The pistol’s design and finish exude premium craftsmanship, and the enhancements over the standard Glock platform are readily apparent in terms of performance and handling.
Safety Features
The DR920 Elite incorporates several key safety features to ensure the firearm is safe to handle and operate:
- Trigger Safety: A trigger safety prevents the pistol from firing unless the trigger is intentionally pulled, ensuring that accidental discharges are unlikely.
- Striker Safety: An internal striker safety blocks the firing pin from striking the primer unless the trigger is fully pulled, adding an additional layer of protection.
- Drop Safety: The pistol is designed to prevent discharge even if dropped, thanks to a secure internal safety mechanism that prevents the firing pin from moving unless the trigger is engaged.
- Loaded Chamber Indicator: A small tactile indicator lets the user know if a round is chambered, ensuring greater awareness of the weapon’s condition.
Test Results
Accuracy
During extensive testing, the Shadow Systems DR920 Elite demonstrated exceptional accuracy. At a distance of 7 yards, groups averaged just under 2 inches. At 15 yards, accuracy remained tight, with groupings no larger than 3 inches, which is impressive for a pistol in this category. The enhanced grip texture and ergonomics allowed for a firm hold, contributing to consistent shot placement.
Durability
Over 500 rounds were fired during testing without any malfunctions or failures to feed. The DR920 Elite’s construction proved durable, with the frame showing no significant wear. The custom slide coating and nitriding process held up well, even after several hundred rounds, with no noticeable degradation in performance.
Recoil Management
The DR920 Elite offers excellent recoil management, largely due to its weight, advanced recoil spring, and ergonomic grip. The recoil is manageable even during rapid fire, making it easier to maintain target alignment for follow-up shots.
Also Read: Springfield XD-S Mod.2 Review
Merits
- Enhanced accuracy with a match-grade barrel.
- Custom flat-faced trigger for improved control and precision.
- Optics-ready slide for easy red dot sight installation.
- Lightweight design with a well-balanced feel, even during rapid fire.
- Excellent durability and reliability, even under heavy use.
- Ergonomic grip with aggressive texture for a secure hold.
Demerits
- Higher price point compared to other pistols in this class.
- The larger size may not be ideal for concealed carry for all users.
- Some users may prefer a more traditional grip angle than the DR920’s design.
Maintenance
The DR920 Elite is relatively easy to maintain, with simple disassembly and reassembly. It’s recommended to clean the barrel and slide regularly after shooting, especially after extended sessions. The recoil spring and frame should also be lightly oiled to maintain optimal performance. The pistol’s construction allows for easy access to all key components for routine cleaning, and its corrosion-resistant finish ensures longevity with minimal maintenance.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Shadow Systems DR920 Elite | Glock 19 Gen 5 | Springfield XD-M Elite | Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 | Ruger SR1911 9mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magazine Capacity | 17+1 | 15+1 | 20+1 | 17+1 | 10+1 |
| Barrel Length | 4.5 inches | 4.02 inches | 4.5 inches | 4.25 inches | 4.2 inches |
| Weight | 24 ounces | 24.83 ounces | 27.7 ounces | 26.4 ounces | 39 ounces |
| Price Range | $850 – $1,100 | $500 – $600 | $550 – $650 | $550 – $650 | $800 – $900 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Yes, the DR920 Elite comes with an optics-ready slide, allowing users to easily mount red dot sights for improved target acquisition.
The DR920 Elite excels in rapid-fire situations, thanks to its match-grade barrel, excellent recoil management, and custom trigger, offering superior control and accuracy.
While the DR920 Elite is slightly larger than typical concealed carry pistols, its compact design, lightweight build, and ergonomics make it a viable option for those comfortable with slightly larger firearms for EDC.
No, the DR920 Elite does not have a manual safety. It relies on internal safeties and the trigger safety to ensure safe operation.
Shadow Systems offers a lifetime warranty for the DR920 Elite, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
