The SAR Arms ST9 is a polymer-framed, striker-fired pistol that is made in Turkey.  While at Media Day, I had a chance to shoot one for the first time.  The pistol I shot was chambered in 9mm, but I was told by a company rep that the company also makes the gun in .45 ACP.

The gun felt a little large in my hands, perhaps a little larger than a Glock 17 grip, but not as large as a Glock 21.  Recoil was quite mild – a combination of a large frame gun with the relatively tame 9mm.

Trigger pull was smooth, with a clean break and a very positive reset.  The reset distance was short and there was a distinctive feel when it reset.

Due to the time restrictions on the range, I was only allowed to shoot one magazine.   I did not experience any malfunctions with the gun.  I watched two other people shoot the same gun, and none of them had any failures either.

The sights were visible and hitting steel at 15 yards was not a problem.

My initial impression of the ST9 is positive.  I’d like to shoot the gun a lot more before I endorse it for self-defense or other uses.