Vektor SP1

The Vektor SP1 is an improved 9mm version of the Z-88 pistol (which is a locally produced copy of the Beretta 92F), produced since 1992 by Denel Land Systems (DLS), formerly Lyttleton Engineering Works (LIW).[1]

Vektor SP1/SP2
Vektor SP1
TypeSemi-automatic pistol
Place of originSouth Africa
Service history
In service1992–present
Used bySee Users
Production history
ManufacturerDenel Land Systems, South Africa
Variants
  • Vektor SP1
  • Vektor SP2
Specifications
Mass995 g (2.194 lb)
Length210 mm (8.3 in)
Barrel length118 mm (4.6 in)
Width40.5 mm (1.59 in)
Height145 mm (5.7 in)
Cartridge
ActionDouble action, short recoil operation
Muzzle velocity347 m/s (1,138 ft/s)
Effective firing range50 m (55 yd)
Feed systemDetachable box magazine, + 1 in chamber
15-rounds - 9 mm,
11-rounds - .40 S&W
SightsIron 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 makes compact versions of both models, marketed as “General models”; these have shorter barrels, slides and grips.[1]

The Vektor SP1 is a short-recoil operated, locked-breech pistol. It uses 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 are 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 is currently 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
  1. 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.
  2. Jeff Kinard (2003). Pistols: An Illustrated History of Their Impact. New York: ABC-CLIO. p. 282. ISBN 978-1-85109-470-7.
  3. Hogg, Ian; Walter, John (29 August 2004). Pistols of the World. London: David & Charles. p. 96. ISBN 0-87349-460-1.
  4. "Exocet". Malaysian Defence. 6 November 2015. Retrieved 13 October 2016.
  5. Montes, Julio A. (August 2011). "Peruvian Small Arms: Gunning for the Shining Path" (PDF). Small Arms Defense Journal: 25–29.

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