Shadow Systems, based in Plano, TX, arrived on the polymer striker-fired handgun scene in 2016. The company quickly gained a reputation as a solid upgrade over other polymer framed striker-fired weapons on the market. Not only talking about the Austrian variation, but all offerings. This stems from Shadow Systems’ in-house manufacturing of slides, barrels, triggers, and internals. Shadow Systems also employs patented MIM and injection mold tooling for frames and small parts. An example is Shadow Systems own LCI extractor. It features proprietary geometry for extra reliability and consistent 3 o’clock brass ejection pattern versus brass back in your face you get with some other polymer striker-fired handguns.

The CR920P is great example of Shadow Systems’ innovation and ability to respond quickly to emerging weapon technology and trends. As we know red dots on personal defense handguns are here to stay. Most Shadow System models come standard with an optic-ready slide cut, including the CR920P. The Shadow Systems optic cut is unique thanks to its ability to accommodate multiple manufacturer red dots without need for adaptor plates. The Shadow Systems mounting method allows for a lower 1/3 co-witness with the Shadow System low-profile factory sights. The elimination of suppressor height iron sights protruding upward from the slide will be warmly received by anyone that has been gouged or had them snag on a cover garment during a draw stroke. Co-witnessing is important, as anything electronic can fail, no matter how rugged; thus, it’s important to have iron sights ready as a backup plan.

What sets apart the CR920P from its stablemates is the integrated compensator at the end of the slide. An earlier compensated model, the DR920P, showed Shadow System’s creativity. Merely screwing on a compensator was not good enough. In fact, the Shadow System compensator does not require a threaded barrel. This is good news for those living in jurisdictions prohibiting threaded barrels.

The CR920P takes this a step further. The CR920P employs a proprietary 3-lug muzzle that works in combination with a centrally located locking lever in the body of the compensator. The intent here was to keep the pistol as compact as possible. The compensator is machined in a way to give a unified appearance with the slide and frame. This allows the CR920P to fit into a wide array of holsters created for the Glock 43X/48 models from Austria by way of Smyrna, Georgia.

FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION

With the CR920P, Shadow Systems creates a superior covert carry handgun that excels in gunfighting, not just reactive defense most associated with smaller framed handguns. The CR920P is a slim, petite, sub-compact polymer handgun chambered in 9mm. Dimensions lend it to pocket, ankle, belly band, or other deep cover methods of concealed carry.

The CR920P is created from scratch. It is NOT a customized Glock. The CR920P benefits from Shadow Systems quality control and experienced gunsmiths pulling it all together. With that said let’s lay out what the CR920P consists of; Shadow Systems 1:10 twist conventional rifling 3.75-inch spiral fluted bronze TiCN coated match barrel made from 416-R stainless steel, distinct Shadow Systems slide machined from 17-4 stainless steel with enhanced serration all around, patent pending optic cut, black nitride finish on the slide, steel iron sights with green Tritium front, undercut trigger guard, stainless steel guide rod, integral railed dust cover, and a flat-faced trigger.

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Shadow Systems slides are machined from 17-4 stainless steel. The CR920P’ slide is not just a hunk of steel meant to host barrel, sights etc. The slide is well thought out—from serration pattern to optic cut. Special attention is paid to the barrel lug and hood geometry to ensure concentric lockup enhancing accuracy. The serrations are not merely aesthetic. The purposely designed directional nature of the serrations provide an aggressive grasping surface when manipulating the slide… but they also reduce friction when coming out of the holster. The serrations combined with the window cut in the slide also reduces reciprocating slide mass. Lastly, the serrations contribute to minimizing weight. The CR920P weighs only 20 ounces.

The CR920P sits low in your hand for better recoil control. An extended beavertail and double trigger guard undercut assists with proper grip straight from the holster. Material is relieved from where the guard connects with the grip as well as under the center of the trigger guard. A nice touch usually only found on polymer frames sent out for custom stippling are the recoil ledges on both sides of the frame in front of the trigger guard for off-hand thumb placement as well as finger placement when not manipulating the trigger. Shadow Systems enhanced the CR920P’s polymer frame using a texturing pattern, lengthened backstrap skirt and a streamlined extended beavertail. These things were done so that the CR920P feels like a larger handgun when fired. Accurate strings of fire with multiple rounds placed on target bears out the Shadow Systems design philosophy.

The CR920P’s compensator further accentuates the recoil control characteristics of the Shadow Systems design philosophy. It produces an extremely benign recoil impulse and lowered decreased muzzle flip due to the single-chamber comp using muzzle gases to drive the slide down after firing. This is key in keeping the handgun on target during multiple shot strings of fire.

WHY COMP?

Just as with red dot sights on handguns, compensators are expanding beyond competition applications and becoming more prominent in the realm of personal defense weapons. This drives the impulse to reduce compensator size while still retaining effectiveness. Why? Part of the challenge of using a handgun involves controlling muzzle flip. No one is saying a 9mm needs a brake. Do not confuse muzzle brake with compensator. However, controlling muzzle rise is a valid goal.

Muzzle flip reduces the speed with which you can accurately fire multiple rounds. The weapon must return to the sight alignment point before firing again. Recoil and muzzle flip also cause the pistol frame to move in the hand. A well-designed compensator allows for an easier job in firing the weapon under normal conditions, as well as under duress or with one hand. Most literature on compensators indicate 30% to 40% reduction of muzzle flip. Testing protocols can be somewhat subjective.

A size-equivalent non-compensated handgun was fired next to the CR920P. I not only fired the weapons but also volunteered students who were attending a concealed carry certification course at my home range Echo Valley Training Center. Many were new to handgun shooting which served my purposes perfectly. I loaded the same ammunition and have shooters engage a target 7 to 10 yards away. There was no prefacing what I was looking for; just questions after each handgun was shot asking about the perceived recoil and muzzle flip. The CR920P was unanimously judged as much more pleasant and easier to shoot accurately.

Accuracy test protocol consisted of three five-shot groups with each ammunition type. Group sizes were averaged. Velocity figures obtained by averaging five rounds fired over a Caldwell Precision Shooting chronograph.

NOTHING QUITE LIKE IT

The CR920P can be compared to a Glock 43 in terms of size. However, the CR920P arrives in a zippered pistol rug with two magazines that indicate something different is afoot—one, a 13+1 and the other, a flush 10+1 capacity magazine. This is a significant improvement over the G43’s 6-round magazine with the CR920P maintaining nearly the same dimensions of the G43, including height and width. This capacity increase is wrought by proprietary metal Shadow Systems magazines. The magazine redesign is necessary for the CR920 to achieve Shadow System’s higher capacity goal. With that said, you are not going to be jamming G43, G26, or any other GLOCK pattern magazine into your CR920 Elite. Calm your rising angst as extra Shadow System CR920 magazines are available for $26 to $28.

A variety of 9mm loads were tested with the CR920P, including Norma, Federal, Hornady, SIG Sauer and Black Hills Ammunition. The CR920P was fired one handed, including use of the non-dominant hand, to verify there was no sensitivity in terms of reliability. Premium self-defense JHP, target, and match 9mm loads including 108-, 115-, 124-, and 147-grain bullets were used. The CR920P digested anything fed to it.

ON POINT FOR CCW

The CR920P is a near perfect blending of concealed carry compactness while maintaining performance. The ability to mount a red dot only increases its appeal. With that said, I was somewhat surprised by my preference of keeping the CR920P iron-sighted. This stems from maintaining as compact a profile as possible. I found under the right circumstances the CR920P could be considered for pocket carry, especially without a red dot mounted. This is quite an upgrade over any of the miniature 380 ACPs on the market.

Various Galco holsters were not only incorporated into range testing, but also incorporated inyou a daily concealed carry routine with the CR920P. Galco’s Front Pocket Horsehide, Quicktuk Cloud, Blakguard belt, and Underwrap Elite belly band allowed for exploring what the CR920P offered as an ultra-concealable handgun. I am not about to decide what is the best way to carry the Shadow Systems CR920P for others, as everyone has their own ideas on balancing concealment with practical carry.

Scenarios involving plate racks and dueling trees were run. Engaging targets from behind cover or on the move was incorporated into testing. Magazine changes were done for the dual purpose of getting a feel of manipulating CR920P and verifying how quickly it could get back on target. Speaking of magazines, Shadow Systems attention to detail is found here, too. The 13-round magazine’s extension features the same texture on its front pad as the grip providing a comfy spot for your pinky finger. The rear of the 13-round magazine’s basepad is notched to accommodate the lengthened backstrap. With the 10-round magazine, the backstrap extends below the rear of the magazine eliminating a possible pinch point.

The Shadow Systems CR920P balances size to firepower for the concealed carry practitioner. The ability to mount a red dot will only add to its appeal. The Shadow Systems CR920P is a compact handgun that pushes the envelope past norms, while still maintaining real world application. The CR920P increases the effectiveness of a compact handgun beyond what most thought capable.

SPECIFICATIONS

The Equalizer retails for $599 and features a single-action trigger that allows for a short take-up, clean break, and fast reset to make follow-up shots quicker. The slide operates using easy-to-rack technology to cater to a wide variety of needs and the frame includes a picatinny-style rail to mount lights or lasers for any defense scenario. A new optic cut pattern allows the user to mount their choice of sight for enhanced accuracy and the 3.675-inch barrel gives a longer sight radius for increased iron sight precision. The Equalizer also features a new grip texture and pattern designed to give you more control when firing and more comfort when carrying.

Check out the EQUALIZER at www.smith-wesson.com.

$0–$50

US Night Vision
Mag Wraps

Want to change the style of your gun without having to paint it? Well now you can with our vinyl Mag Wraps. Mag Wraps come in 3-packs and will fit any 30rd AR-15 Magazine. They are easy to install and offer the ultimate in protection and graphics for your magazines. The wraps stop right at the mag well so there is no interference with the operation of your magazine while in the weapon. One package will retrofit three magazines.

Our premium US-Made wraps offer superior UV protection, chemical resistance, protection from scuffs and scrapes and are completely waterproof. All Mag Wraps are finished in a non-reflective matte outer coating. They will work with any substrate and leave zero residue when removed. They can be placed over each other if need be for an immediate mission profile change. Our exclusive two-piece wrap design leaves no seams on the crucial sides of the magazine. Mag Wraps Real Patterns, Real Protection. www.USNightVision.com and www.LoadOutLounge.com

Chipotle Publishing LLC
1 Year’s Subscription to Small Arms Review

The ultimate Small Arms Resource on industry practices, historical archives, new products, legal issues and breaking news. The 10 Issue—Subscription comes with free online access to articles and content. To order, visit www.smallarmsreview.com

VORTEX OPTICS
Defender Flip Cap

The E-10 flip cap is the last flip cap you will ever need! Virtually indestructible, this cap will fit snugly on nearly all Vortex Optics and features a snap flat spring that will keep your line of sight unobstructed.

Rifle ranges all over the world are littered with broken flip caps. This is one cap you will most likely never see in a flip cap boneyard. The E-10 cap has three stop positions: The first vertical, to put your dope disk (optional accessory) literally right in your face; The second at a 45°; and the third at 90° to lay flat back.

The E-10 fits all Vortex Riflescopes except the 1-inch tube Viper model VPR-M-01BDC, VPR-M-04BDC and VPR-M-03BDC. Outside diameter: 41.5-46 mm | 1.6-1.8 inches. www.vortexoptics.com

OTIS TECHNOLOGY
Ear Shield

Otis Technology presents a smarter way to protect your hearing while improving your response to range commands and other communication. The Ear Shield’s new Sound Reduction Chamber Technology changes the sport shooter’s experience. Now you can shield your ears from high-decibel noise comfortably while hearing other sound frequencies, like speech, clearly without removing your gear. Unlike muffs, the Ear Shield’s compact design won’t get in the way of achieving the proper cheek weld. www.otistec.com

• Improves communication
• Eliminates stock interference
• Cool and comfortable
• No batteries required
• Lightweight and collapsible
• Adjustable to fit any shooter

$51–$100

EliteIron
EliteIron Suppressor Wrap

A perfect holiday gift for any shooter, EliteIron Suppressor Wraps help solve optical mirage, heat and concealment issues for suppressed weapons. Buy an EliteIron Suppressor Wrap online at www.eliteiron.com/product-category/suppressor-wraps

• EliteIron Suppressor Wraps help eliminate optical images caused by rising heat.
• EliteIron’s 1000 Denier FR Cordura, NOMEX and CarbonX wrap materials help protect a shooter and gear against a suppressor’s hot surface.
• EliteIron’s wraps provide a way to attach camouflage elements for concealment purposes.
• Starting at $48, EliteIron rifle and pistol suppressor wraps come in colors and patterns designed to match any environmental requirement. And they are available in sizes that fit all EliteIron suppressors and most others.

$101–$200

Knight’s Armament Company
Folding Micro Front and Rear Sights

KAC’s line of Micro Iron Sights are currently in use by the United States Army, Marine Corps and numerous law enforcement agencies worldwide. This is because they are built to exacting tolerances, maintain their zero under adverse conditions and, when folded, have one of the lowest profile top-rail footprints in the industry. KAC Folding Micro Front and Rear Sights are no exception and feature a tool-free, finger-adjustable front sight post that makes performing sight corrections extremely fast and simple. Micro Front, PN: 25654/Micro Rear, PN: 25650. Knightarmco.com or salesteam@knightarmco.com

$201–$500

Concealed Carry
Leather Satchel

Recognized as the best. Concealed Carrie products are the perfect Holiday Accessory. Classic and timeless, Concealed Carrie’s distressed leather Satchel features subtle aged hardware and the utmost in quality of material and style. The separate concealed carry compartment is accessible from the interior or exterior of the bag for right- or left-handed carriers and designed to allow for cross body draw. You’ll want to carry this beauty every day! All Concealed Carrie handbags securely hold tasers, stun guns, pepper sprays and like forms of non-lethal, self-defense products. We’ve got your back.

OVER $1,000

Liberty Suppressors
Sovereign Rifle Silencer

The Sovereign Rifle Silencer is perfect for the law enforcement officer, hunter and the long-range shooter. It combines lightweight with numerous mounting solutions to create the most versatile and lightweight silencer to date. Titanium construction provides superior strength as well as low muzzle weight for less fatigue in the field. Combined with our LS1 muzzle brake mount, this is the ultimate package. For more information, please visit www.libertycans.net.

Excelitas Qioptiq
SAKER Fused Weapon Sight

Uncooled In-Line Image Intensified and Thermal Fused Weapon Sight. The ability to combine technology to produce a product greater than the sum of its parts is a goal many seek to achieve. SAKER is a high performance in-line fused weapon sight combining image-intensified and thermal imaging technologies to deliver enhanced 24-hour capability. A fully qualified military fused weapon sight designed specifically for short- and medium-range surveillance and target engagement–SAKER provides the user with the ability to rapidly Detect, Recognise and Identify targets in all weathers and battlefield conditions. The enhanced capability provided by SAKER is a game changer. For more information, please visit www.qioptiq.com or call Excelitas Qioptiq direct +44(0)1745 588002.

GUN MOUNTAIN, LLC
Micro Galil Parts Sets

The Unicorn of Galils, the Micro Galil machine gun with left-hand charging. Unheard of outside of a few elite Israeli units, Gun Mountain has managed to get a few of these in “like new” condition and some that are NRA Excellent. These came from an elite Israeli unit armory. Barrels are cut per ATF regulation, as are the receivers. Receivers are chop-saw cut with the requisite section above the mag well removed and destroyed. One magazine per kit. (702) 564-3272

Knight’s Armament Company
SR-25E2 APC

The SR-25E2 APC is the latest evolution of the dual role 7.62mm NATO Carbine. The APC is equally adept at putting rounds on target past 800 meters or rapid multi-shot engagement at close range, with a barrel and bolt life to support the training regimen necessary to master these skills. An ambidextrous bolt release, selector and magazine release offers the left-handed user the ergonomic advantages inherent to AR-15-based controls, as well as giving right-handed users alternate methods of manipulation to increase efficiency of movement. The Drop-In 2-Stage Trigger serves double duty as an aid to long-range precision marksmanship while enabling surgical speed shooting at close range. A 7.62QDC Flash Suppressor reduces flash and ground disturbance and supports KAC QDC Signature Reduction Devices. PN: 31955. Knightarmco.com or salesteam@knightarmco.com

FREEDOM ARMORY MACHINE WORKS
Dragoon .450 Bushmaster

Freedom Armory Machine Works (FAMW) introduces the Dragoon .450 Bushmaster (.450B) Direct Attach (DA) suppressor utilizing Total Breakdown Technology (TBT) and Gas Indexing Technology (GIT) [U.S. Patent 9,410,761]. TBT allows the user to remove, clean and service ALL components. GIT allows the rotational orientation of baffles in a given stack for optimum sound reduction with centerfire pistol calibers shot from a rifle. Top-rated sound reduction is achieved across the entire caliber range of this titanium suppressor creating a truly universal suppressor. Plus, .308 is hearing safe at the ear! Optional Thread Mounts are available creating an extremely flexible design. See Dealer Locator www.famchineworks.com or contact Freedom Armory Machine Works directly (717) 227-9060

Aimpoint Inc.
CompM5

With the same ruggedness and features, now smaller and powered by a AAA battery–meet the newest member of the Comp Series–the CompM5. With over 5 years of constant-on use with a single battery, the CompM5 is a high performance red dot sight developed to meet the needs of a specific official end user. The optical design of the red dot follows the movement of the user’s eye while remaining fixed on target, eliminating any need for centering. It allows for unlimited eye relief and is compatible with Aimpoint magnifiers as well as all generations of Night Vision Devices. Buy at any Aimpoint Dealer.