Century Arms Canik TP9v2 First Look
We have a Century Arms imported Canik TP9v2 in for review. After reading a lot of controversy over the TP9SA, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the TP9v2. Just to be clear, the TP9SA is the single action version with decocker. The TP9v2 is SA/DA (single action and double action). For those who do not know, a double-action gun will cock and fire every time the trigger is pulled. Single action will only fire if the striker or hammer has been cocked previously. Double-action handguns typically have hammers. This is not the case with the TP9v2 pistol! Not many designs that are “striker fired” have this option.
In the concealed carry community, DA/SA pistols are highly debated and is either a love or hate relationship. Some new shooters especially love having the heavier and longer double-action trigger pull on the first round, instead of the lighter single-action pull. Once fired from “decocked” on the first round, the trigger resets to a single-action trigger pull. Each shot after will require a lot less pressure to pull the trigger, until the gun is decocked again. The difference between the two trigger pull is rated in pounds. We are not talking about a few ounces. No matter what side of the fence you sit on, I would definitely recommend trying one of these pistols out!
Lets not beat around the bush here. Price is definitely a factor with the TP9v2. These can be had for around $350 out the door! In my opinion they are one of top pistols in quality and features in the $300-$400 price range.
Specs:
– Double Action / Single Action with decocker
– 18+1 capacity
– 4.1″ barrel
– “Second strike” capability
– No magazine disconnect
* Traditional land and grove rifling
– Good for reloaders
– Semi aggressive grip texturing
– Lifetime warranty
– changeable grip backstraps
What you get in the box:
– firearm
– 2 magazines (18 rounds)
– Outside the waistband holster with 2 attachments
– Cleaning brush and rod
– 2 backstraps
– magazine loader
– manual
– handgun lock
Being a daily concealed carrier, I wanted to look at this beyond the “range gun” standpoint. Holsters for the TP9v2 aren’t the easiest to come by currently. After searching for a while, I reached out to CrossBreed Holsters. Having a few of theirs already, I knew what to expect. They sent out both an OWB and IWB (Inside the Waist Band) holsters, putting this review in full speed.
Another initial impression I had from the internet, was that the TP9v2 is too large for carry, and would serve best as a home or truck gun. For some this may be the case, but I found no issues myself. Overlayed with my Ruger SR1911 Commander with a 4.25″ barrel, the TP9v2 was very close in size. Of course it was a little thicker due to being a double-stack design, but nothing drastic. I have worn the pistol around for a few days using the CrossBreed IWB holster and have been perfectly comfortable at the 4 o’clock position. The gun rides high in the OWB holster to my surprise. Wearing one of my normal polo shirts covers it completely. Definitely have to keep an eye on the grip when concealing this firearm. It’s length can make it harder to keep printing down, but not for us mid to fullsize pistol carriers. This is the first look, and I am impressed.
TP9v2 vs SR1911Cmd
Getting ready for the range.