Vektor SP1
The Vektor SP1 was an improved 9mm version of the Z-88 pistol (which was a South African produced copy of the Beretta 92F), produced since 1992 by Denel Land Systems (DLS), formerly Lyttelton Engineering Works (LIW).[1]
| Vektor SP1/SP2 | |
|---|---|
 Vektor SP1 | |
| Type | Semi-automatic pistol |
| Place of origin | South Africa |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1992–present |
| Used by | See Users |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | Denel Land Systems, South Africa |
| Variants |
|
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 995 g (2.194 lb) |
| Length | 210 mm (8.3 in) |
| Barrel length | 118 mm (4.6 in) |
| Width | 40.5 mm (1.59 in) |
| Height | 145 mm (5.7 in) |
| Cartridge | |
| Action | Double action, short recoil operation |
| Muzzle velocity | 347 m/s (1,138 ft/s) |
| Effective firing range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Feed system | Detachable box magazine, + 1 in chamber 15-rounds - 9 mm, 11-rounds - .40 S&W |
| Sights | Iron sight with Tritium light |
Design
The Vektor SP1 and SP2 pistols are almost the same save for the calibre and magazines, and broadly based on the Italian Beretta 92 design. SP stands for “Service Pistol” and both weapons are full-sized, holster type pistols of solid construction. Vektor also made compact versions of both models, marketed as “General models”; these have shorter barrels, slides and grips.[1]
The Vektor SP1 was a short-recoil operated, locked-breech pistol. It used a Walther-type tilting locking piece, located below the straight-recoiling barrel, to lock it to the slide. The frame is made from aluminium alloy, other parts are steel. The trigger is double-action, with an exposed hammer and a frame-mounted, ambidextrous safety that allows for "cocked and locked" carry. Sights are fixed; the front sight is pinned to the slide, the rear is dovetailed. Magazines are double stack; the magazine release button is located at the base of trigger-guard.[1]
Variant
A .40 S&W caliber version of the SP1 was introduced by LIW/DLS a little later as the Vektor SP2. Both SP-1 and SP-2 pistols were exported to Europe and South America in several variations.
A limited edition SP1 Target pistol was also available. This model features a single action operation, large adjustable sights, straight trigger design, a different trigger guard a compensating weight with longer barrel. They were marked as "Vektor USA: Norfolk VA".[2]
Usage
SP-1 pistol was in service with the South African National Defence Force and the South African Police Service. Outside South Africa, the pistol is seen in use of some South-Asian countries, notably Singapore and Malaysia.[3]
Users
See also
The Vektor CP1, another pistol by the same manufacturer, is noted for its streamlined, science-fiction appearance.
References
- Charles Q. Cutshaw (28 February 2011). Tactical Small Arms of the 21st Century: A Complete Guide to Small Arms From Around the World. Iola, Wisconsin: Gun Digest Books. p. 112. ISBN 1-4402-2709-8.
- Jeff Kinard (2003). Pistols: An Illustrated History of Their Impact. New York: ABC-CLIO. p. 282. ISBN 978-1-85109-470-7.
- Hogg, Ian; Walter, John (29 August 2004). Pistols of the World. London: David & Charles. p. 96. ISBN 0-87349-460-1.
- "Exocet". Malaysian Defence. 6 November 2015. Retrieved 13 October 2016.
- Montes, Julio A. (August 2011). "Peruvian Small Arms: Gunning for the Shining Path" (PDF). Small Arms Defense Journal: 25–29.
