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EAA Girsan MC28 SA-T: Detailed Expert Review
Price Range:
$399 - $465
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Girsan (Imported by EAA) |
| Country of Origin | Turkey |
| First Produced | 2015 |
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Action | Striker-Fired, Semi-Automatic |
| Barrel Length | 4.25 inches (threaded) |
| Weight | 1.8 lbs (810 grams) |
| Capacity | 15+1 rounds |
| Sights | Fixed 3-dot sights |
| Safety | Manual thumb safety, trigger safety |
Overview
The EAA Girsan MC28 SA-T is a semi-automatic, polymer-framed, striker-fired pistol designed for self-defense, duty use, and sporting purposes. Manufactured by Girsan, a Turkish arms manufacturer, and imported by European American Armory (EAA), this pistol is a budget-friendly yet reliable option for shooters. First introduced in the mid-2010s, the MC28 series draws clear inspiration from the widely popular Glock platform, offering a similar feel but at a more affordable price point. The SA-T variant includes a threaded barrel, making it ideal for those looking to add a suppressor.
Strength and Quality
The overall build quality of the Girsan MC28 SA-T is excellent for its price category. The fit and finish are impressive, especially considering it is marketed as a budget-friendly option. The polymer frame is durable, and the addition of the threaded barrel makes this model stand out from competitors at a similar price point. While the pistol does not include many high-end features, such as adjustable sights or advanced coatings, it delivers dependable performance for a modest investment.
Safety Features
The EAA Girsan MC28 SA-T comes equipped with both a manual thumb safety and a trigger safety. While these features add an extra layer of protection, some shooters accustomed to striker-fired pistols without a manual safety may find the thumb safety unnecessary. However, for those who prefer additional safety measures, this feature can be seen as a plus.
Test Results
The EAA Girsan MC28 SA-T is designed for versatility, excelling in both self-defense and range settings. During testing, the MC28 SA-T demonstrated solid reliability, accuracy, and ease of handling. Its threaded barrel is a standout feature, providing users with the ability to attach a suppressor or compensator for enhanced shooting performance.
Accuracy at Various Distances
- 5 yards: At close range, the MC28 SA-T produced tight groupings of less than 1 inch, making it ideal for home defense and personal protection scenarios.
- 15 yards: The pistol maintained consistent groupings of 2-3 inches at mid-range, showing it has enough accuracy for self-defense and target shooting alike.
- 25 yards: While longer distances can slightly stretch the capabilities of this affordable pistol, the MC28 SA-T still held respectable groupings of around 4-5 inches.
Recoil and Handling
The MC28 SA-T handles recoil well, thanks to its polymer frame which absorbs much of the shock, resulting in quick and manageable follow-up shots. The striker-fired action is smooth, and the trigger pull is relatively crisp for a pistol in this price range. Its ergonomic design, interchangeable backstraps, and comfortable grip make it user-friendly for shooters of different hand sizes.
Merits
- Affordable price without compromising reliability.
- Threaded barrel for suppressor or compensator attachment.
- Good accuracy for self-defense and range use.
- Striker-fired system with a smooth trigger pull.
- Ergonomic design with interchangeable backstraps.
Demerits
- Fixed sights, with no option for factory-installed night sights.
- Lacks some of the refined features seen in higher-end models (e.g., better trigger, adjustable sights).
- Manual thumb safety may not appeal to everyone, especially for those accustomed to striker-fired pistols without an external safety.
- The availability of aftermarket accessories for this model is limited compared to more mainstream brands like Glock or Sig Sauer.
Maintenance
Maintaining the Girsan MC28 SA-T is straightforward, much like other striker-fired pistols. Field-stripping is easy and intuitive, allowing users to clean and lubricate the key components with minimal effort. Regular cleaning after use, particularly if firing suppressed, is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Additionally, the polymer frame requires little maintenance beyond regular surface cleaning.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | EAA Girsan MC28 SA-T | Glock 19 | SIG Sauer P320 | Springfield XD(M) | Smith & Wesson M&P9 | Walther PPQ M2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 15+1 rounds | 15+1 rounds | 17+1 rounds | 19+1 rounds | 17+1 rounds | 15+1 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.25 inches (threaded) | 4 inches | 4.7 inches | 4.5 inches | 4.25 inches | 4 inches |
| Weight | 1.8 lbs (810 grams) | 1.65 lbs (750 grams) | 1.8 lbs (815 grams) | 1.9 lbs (860 grams) | 1.7 lbs (771 grams) | 1.75 lbs (795 grams) |
| Trigger Pull | 5.5 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 6.5 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 6.5 lbs | 5.6 lbs |
| Price | $300 – $400 | $500 – $600 | $600 – $750 | $550 – $700 | $500 – $650 | $600 – $700 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Yes, the MC28 SA-T is compact and lightweight enough for concealed carry, though some may find it a bit bulky compared to subcompact models. However, the threaded barrel does add to its length, which might make holstering and concealment slightly more challenging.
While the MC28 SA-T is not specifically designed for competition, its accuracy and threaded barrel make it suitable for some competitive shooting formats. However, more advanced features found in higher-end models might offer better performance in a competitive setting.
Yes, like many EAA-imported firearms, the MC28 SA-T comes with a limited warranty. Be sure to check with the importer for specific warranty details.
Yes, the threaded barrel allows for the attachment of a suppressor or compensator, enhancing the pistol's versatility.
The Girsan MC28 SA-T offers similar functionality and reliability to the Glock 19 at a significantly lower price. However, the Glock 19 has a broader aftermarket ecosystem, more refined trigger, and is more widely adopted by law enforcement and civilians alike.
