The search for the perfect concealed carry pistol is as old as guns themselves. We each have a list of “must-have items” for the ultimate EDC pistol. While there is some variance, there is also a core of essentials. These include reliability, concealability, accuracy, capacity, and, of course, aesthetics. A company that has shared our journey towards pistol Nirvana is Canik. Today, they offer their latest pistol for the concealed carry market. The Canik Mete MC9 Prime.
The Canik Mete MC9 Prime is a refined iteration of the original MC9. While the original Mete MC9 was already sleek and ergonomic, the Prime variant adds subtle visual enhancements. The premium Cerakote finish, accent colors, and laser-engraved slide patterns make it one of the most attractive subcompacts on the market. The gold accent on the trigger is a nice addition.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
The Canik Mete MC9 Prime is focus built for concealed carry. The end dimensions reflect success on Canik’s part. With an overall length of 6.5 inches, a width of just over 1 inch, and a height of 4.5 inches, it’s designed to disappear under clothing. It is also a very light pistol. Coming in at just 23.1 ounces, it’s lightweight enough for all-day carry without sacrificing control. Despite its compact size, the MC9 Prime offers excellent magazine capacity. The mag holds 17 rounds.
All the Canik pistols I have run have had good ergonomics, and the Mete MC9 Prime continues that tradition. The grip texture is aggressive enough for a secure hold but not so abrasive that it causes discomfort during training. Interchangeable backstraps allow users to customize the grip to their hand size, and the undercut trigger guard improves grip purchase, especially for shooters with larger hands.
The beavertail is slightly extended to prevent slide bite, and the controls—including the magazine release and slide stop—are easy to reach and operate. The trigger is one of the highlights of the gun, just as with all Caniks. It has a crisp break and short reset and is cleaner than most pistols, twice its price. Canik has built a reputation for producing some of the best factory striker-fired triggers in the industry, and the MC9 Prime continues that trend. The final feature is the ported barrel and slide, which improve muzzle control.
The Canik Mete MC9 Prime comes pre-cut to accept micro red dot sights, allowing users to mount popular optics like the Shield RMSc or Holosun 407K. Its low bore axis helps manage recoil, making it easier to stay on target during rapid fire. Also included are front and rear slide serrations, a flat-faced trigger, and a loaded chamber indicator. The gun comes with multiple backstraps, a holster, and a toolkit, making it one of the most complete packages available.
The Canik Mete MC9 Prime performs on point with guns almost twice the price and has a better trigger than most. Canik may have hit the Goldilocks zone with this new pistol.
