RARE South African Vektor CP1 4” 9mm Pistol Single Action w/ Case

SOLD FOR: $844

WOA#: WY230922MC012

Make: Vektor

Model: CP1

Serial Number: BDD531

Year of Manufacture: 1996-2001

Caliber: 9mm

Action Type:  Semi-Automatic, Single Action, Gas-Delayed Blowback

Markings: The left side of the frame is marked “VEKTOR CP1”.  The right side of the frame is marked “VEKTOR”.  The bottom of the frame has a metal inlay marked “BDD531 / MADE IN USA”.  The right side of the slide is marked “VEKTOR USA / NORFOLK VA. / READ MANUAL BEFORE USE”.  The chamber is marked “9mmP”.

Barrel Length: 4 inches

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a white dotted blade dovetailed to the slide.  The rear sight is an adjustable rectangular notch sight.

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The grips are synthetic integral to the frame with lightly textured front and rear straps.  Overall, the grips are in Very Good condition.  The right side of the grip has a drag line.  The front of the trigger guard has a safety that also serves as a takedown lever.

Magazine Quantity and Condition:  Two factory 10rd magazines in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Black

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:  The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible corrosion in the bore.

Overall Condition:  This pistol retains about 99% of its metal finish.  There are some faint drag lines on the slide. The Screw heads are sharp.  The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this pistol rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics:  The action functions correctly.  We did not test fire this firearm.  As with all firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet all your maintenance needs.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with its factory case, total of two magazines, and cleaning and takedown tools, Owner’s Manual, Purchase Receipt, and Vektor Catalogs.

Our Assessment:  The Vektor CP1 is a South African semi-automatic pistol that stands out for its futuristic design and ergonomic build. Developed in the late 1990s by the Denel Group’s Vektor division, this pistol aimed to break away from traditional design norms, presenting a sleek, modern aesthetic. The CP1’s body is largely made from polymer, with a unique elongated trigger guard that extends to form the front part of the grip, improving the firearm’s balance. Chambered in 9mm Parabellum, it offers a standard magazine capacity of 10 or 13 rounds.

The CP1 incorporates several advanced features for its time, including a low bore axis to reduce muzzle flip and improve accuracy. Its unique striker-fired mechanism with a pre-cocked striker allows for a consistent and light trigger pull, similar to many contemporary designs seen today. Another noteworthy feature is its internal safety system. The Vektor CP1 offers three automatic safeties—a drop safety, firing pin safety, and a trigger safety—making it one of the safer handguns available during its time.

However, it’s worth noting that the CP1 was subject to a recall due to accidental discharges when dropped, despite the safety features in place. These incidents have made the pistol somewhat infamous, but they’ve also given it a certain mystique in firearms circles. Because of the buy back program, there are very few still left in the United States.  The Vektor CP1 remains a collectible item for those interested in unique and forward-thinking firearms designs. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.