Chrome. It’s mankind’s way of letting everyone within a five mile radius know that whatever it adorns is not only manly, but also bad-ass. Chrome is one of those rare elements that makes everything it touches better. It’s the metallic equivalent of bacon. Sure, there may be a few items on which chrome might be deemed inappropriate, but they’re few and far between. Mmm… maple bacon cupakes… So, when I opened the Century Arms catalog and saw my favorite element adorning my favorite pistol platform, I had to get one…Canik55’s Stingray-C in 9mm parabellum. The Stingray-C is a compact CZ-75 type pistol with black plastic grips and night sights enrobed in satin chrome. Its two-tone appearance coupled with a mirror-finished barrel is reminiscent of a 50’s hot rod. But can the Stingray live up to its muscle car-like exterior? Or is it just fart-pipes, Type-R stickers, and sheet metal spoilers? . . .
I know I don’t have to explain my infatuation with chrome, but if you’re not familiar with the inner-workings of a CZ-75 you might wonder why it’s my favorite pistol platform, instead of an American classic like, say, a 1911. The answer: a SIG P210. I had the pleasure of shooting this beauty once, but its astronomical price tag and limited capacity make it a poor choice for home defense and competitive shooting.
What do the SIG P210 and the CZ-75 family of pistols have in common?
Unlike most American handguns the CZ-75 and the P210 have a slide that sits inside the frame. Why does this matter? Accuracy. In my eight years of hands-on experience with firearms, I’ve found that the most accurate semi-automatic pistols consistently have a slide that rests inside the frame. While I can’t scientifically confirm that statement, I will say that – in my hands, at least – guns of this nature, the P210, Hammerli and CZ type guns, are consistently more accurate than most other semi-automatic pistols. I know that’s an unfair league to place the CZ in, since the other two are target guns, but hear me out.
Having the slide seated inside the frame rather than attached outside of the frame allows for more slide-to-frame contact in the cycling of the action. Assuming that the rails do their job, this should make the slide recoil in a more consistent manner, because there’s less room for erratic movement. The FNS design also allows for a lower bore height which helps mitigate muzzle flip by better aligning the recoil of the pistol with the shooter’s forearm. This could conceivably result in more accurate shooting for more recoil-sensitive shooters.
Add to that the CZ’s ability to be carried in condition 1 (cocked and locked) and its ergonomic grip angle (very 1911-esque) and it’s no wonder most shooters find it shoots more accurately than the average combat handgun. In short, he Stingray is a soft-shooting, accurate, ergonomic pistol; what’s not to love?
Well a few things. Mainly it’s weight. The Stingray-C is, well, a brick. A big chrome brick. Depending on your size, it can print more than a Kinko’s and, like the CZ design it emulates, there’s only a tiny amount of real estate for the shooter to grab to rack the slide. This isn’t a huge deal on a range gun. However, it could definitely become an issue should you decide to carry it for personal defense. If you want to get proficient with it (or get to Carnegie Hall) practice, practice, practice.
Size-wise the Stingray reminds me of a Glock 19. Here it is side-by-side with a Glock 17:
It’s not so small that your fingers are hanging off, but not so large so that you’ll look like you have a cinderblock under your shirt. For all but the smallest shooters, it’s right there in the happy middle. One aspect of the chromed pistol that will definitely set it apart from Glocks, though, is its substantial weight. The Stingray-C tips the scales at a hair over 2.5 pounds fully loaded. That heft makes shooting the Stingray a breeze, but you’ll want a heavy-duty gun belt to tote it.
Given its size, the capacity for the pistol is good, but not great. While their site indicates the Stingray ships with either 10- or 15-roundders, mine came with lucky 13-round mags. And 13 rounds should get you out of most fixes. Strangely, only one of the two magazines included with the pistol contained witness holes. Inconvenient, but hardly the end of the world. Thankfully the Stingray can make use of standard 9mm CZ-75 mags so you can carry a full-sized 16-round mag or even their extended 26-round competition unit. Of course, that might make concealment rather difficult.
What about accuracy? In the Stingray’s case it shoots better than combat accurate and follow-up shots are a breeze due to all that mass. The 1911-esque grip angle makes aiming the Stingray as natural as pointing your finger. Since I tested six types of ammo with three groups of five rounds each, I decided to list the best of the three groupings all shot from ten yards.
American Eagle – Toxic-Metal Free Primer – 124 grain Total Metal Jacket
American Eagle – 147 Grain Full Metal Jacket Flat Point
Federal – 9mm 100 Grain Reduced Hazard Training
Aguila – 124 grain FMJ
PPU – 115 Semi Jacketed Hollow Point
PMC Bronze – 115 Gr FMJ
Is it perfect? No, but what gun is? If you don’t mind the weight, the Stingray is a great budget carry piece with looks that will turn heads. If you’re into that.
Specifications:
Caliber: 9mm (also .40 auto)
Action: Semi auto, short recoil, tilting barrel
Barrel length: 3.75 inches
Overall length: 7.1 inches
Overall width: 1.4 inches
Overall height: 5 inches
Weight: 2.245 lbs. unloaded
Sights: Adjustable 3-dot, steel
Finish: Satin Chrome or Black Chrome
Capacity: 13 rounds, up to 26 rounds with extended mags
MSRP: $400, $345-370 street
Ratings (out of five stars):
Style: * * * * *
With chrome in almost every conceivable crevice, the Stingray-C is handsome, durable and functional with classic Czech lines. Want something more understated? It’s available in basic black, too.
Ergonomics: * * * * 1/2
Springing from the CZ 75 family of handguns, the Stingray feels like a natural extension of your hand. It’s a bit heavy , though, and can be tricky to rack given how little the slide serrations protrude above the frame.
Reliability: * * * * 1/2
The Stingray ran 100% with every ammo type tested except Aguila, where it experienced a failure rate of about 4% to go into battery once the gun got really filthy.
Customize This: * * * * *
The Stingray accepts the vast majority of CZ-75 parts including magazines. It also sports a frame rail so can hang whatever laser, light or mini-bayonet you’d like.
Overall: * * * * *
The Stingray-C is a CZ-75 at a Bersa Thunder price. If you’ve been itching for a CZ but can’t seem to scrounge up the dough, the Stingray might just be the answer you’re looking for. Especially if you want your CZ clone in a finish not offered by CZ.
Special Thanks to the guys over at Federal Premium Ammunition for providing 9mm ammo for the review, and to Salute Targets for the steel targets used in the review.
I have one. . . . the problem is finding friggin’ nightsites that can swap in easily.
Some of the guys on the CZ forum said CZ night sights drop right in.
not really . . . . . I have gone thru several sets of nights sights. Which CZ forum?? Do you have a link?
Contact Cajun Gun Works for some sight options.
Dirk
*I just took delivery on my CZ 55 Stingray. When *I opened the case , I noticed a red , hard plastic doodad in the ejection port.
For the life of me I can’t get out…any suggestions?
it is a safety flag so you know that the weapon is cleared
No need for night sites. Put a light on the rail so you can actually see what you’re shooting at.
Thanks for the review, James. I learned stuff.
Looks nice….
Reminds me of the Israeli Industries Baby Eagle / UZI Pistol / Jericho 941, an absolute favorite of mine. I absolutely love to watch people shoot it for the first time… With a Hogue rubber grip installed, the Baby Eagle will elope with your hand, providing non-stop silky smooth action for your satisfaction, of which, there will be plenty.
You may even need to light one up afterward.
Canik/TriStar also makes the T-100/120 models which are Jericho/Baby Eagle copies (just as the Jericho itself is originally a CZ derivative itself):
http://www.tristararms.com/ckfinder/userfiles/images/T-120%20Chrome.jpg
What’s more is they make it in chrome as well, two different lengths and unlike the majority of the Jericho pistols out there in the wild it uses a frame mounted safety (as it should). I handled one at Academy the other day where they had it listed for $400 (brand new of course) and it felt just like every other Jericho I have ever groped. I already had my heart set on finally getting an M&P that day, but for $400 I know my next pistol will always be the “Jericho” I wanted… more or less..
I bought one of the tri-star T-120s: double action is a little long, but single action is good. Only real hitch is the finish is a “polycoat” (i.e. glorified powdercoat”) that I already rubbed out a little bit with my wedding ring while shooting.
Otherwise, an excellent pistol for the low cost they can be had for.
Where can one obtain an Israeli Eagle…also do you know where I can get a holster for my CZ55 Stingray?
As far as holsters for the Stingray C, the Galco King Tuk for the Sig 220/226/228 works like it was made for it. Make sure you get the newer version for pistols with light rails (Galco #KT248B). The only issue I have had so far in a few months of daily carry is the sharp lower edge of the light rail rubbing through cheap jeans, just inside the back pocket. I will probably wind up stitching a thick patch to the inside of the pants to correct it, or knocking the sharp edge off the muzzle end of the pistol.
Just file the sharp edge to a rounded edge
theholster store in florida has really top notch holsters for it http://www.theholstersore.com
OK, so what sets this apart from a genuine CZ-75? CZ makes good quality firearms. I’ve worked on their stuff and really have very few complaints.
What does Canik do better?
I have a CZ-75b and the Stingray and to be honest, I can’t really say if they do anything better or not…I suppose it is the same as asking what is the difference between a Colt and a Springfield 1911.
The reason I’m asking is because I’ve seen the workmanship on some Turkish-sourced guns… and if I were given a choice between any gun coming out of CZ and any gun coming out of Turkey, I’ll take the CZ.
This, BTW, includes Turkish Mausers going back 70+ years. In Mauser-type rifles, I’ll take a Czech VZ-24 over any Turk Mauser, every day of the week. My overall impression of the Turkish arms industry is that their stuff works, but that’s about the limit of nice things I can say about the Turk stuff.
In general, I like CZ’s products. Their steel is good, their workmanship is good. While it isn’t at the level of “best guns,” CZ’s stuff is head and shoulders above lots of other crap out there in the marketplace.
Being something of a CZ fanatic, I was wary at first, but after owning the Stingray for almost a year, I really cannot find any fault with the workmanship and quality with the Canik. It is in all honesty, just as good as any of the CZ handguns I own. The Turks seem to be stepping up their game…well at least Canik is, I cannot really speak to anything else.
Canik (as shown) $409 (Bud’s Gun Shop)
CZ75 $568 (Bud’s)
That’s the only difference I can find as far as “better”.
I got my mine for $285 on gunbroker. 🙂
That is high for a CZ-75b. MSRP is $499.
CZ prices have soared over the last couple of years. I fell in love with them when they were selling in the mid $400s. When I decided to get one at the end of last year – pre-Newtown – they were all selling for $550 to $600. Still happy with it.
Apparently you are not a very good shopper. J&G Sales $319.00 or buy 2 @ $309.00 each. CZ does not complete the finished on the ishde of the gun and canik does and at a better price. How’s that for “Better”?
When I was a boy, they sold toy, pot metal, cowboy pop guns. They had chrome inside and out of those too, didn’t make them “better” than a CZ. They were cheap too. These guns aren’t “better” than a CZ in any way. They are a cheap copy, with a cheaper price tag. If that’s good enough for you, then go for it. Holding both in the hand shows just how much better the machining and fit of a real CZ is.
ambi controls for us wrong handed people
half price—an every one has complaints
I also have one that I bought on a whim, it is a without a doubt a great shooter. It is way to heavy for me to carry though. IMO the Stingray is an excellent night stand pistol. My wife, who normally despises semi auto pistols in favor of wheel guns even seems to like it, the heft of the thing mitigates pretty much all the felt recoil. I’m not sure why CAI claims the mags only hold 13 rounds, I can easily fit 15 in both of mine. Good review overall, it has reaffirmed my happiness with my purchase for some reason.
The mags mine came with actually only hold 13 rounds. Well at least one only holds 13 the other will hold 14 if I force the hell out of it but then it won’t feed. YMMV
Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that they’re made by Mecgar? The magazines on mine actually have a window that shows 15 rounds. Interesting. I have no problem fitting just about any CZ-75 magazine into it, but for some reason, the Mecgar magazines from my buddy’s Jericho 941 and Tanfoglio Witness don’t fit at all. I’m sure there is a good reason for that, but I have no clue what it might be.
FYI MecGar makes the OEM magazines for CZ (and Sig, Beretta, and lots of other brands). Some of the CZ clones have mags of a different thickness and/or the mag release catch is in a different location. Parts compatibility varies between EAA/Tanfoglio/CZ/Sarsmarz (or whatever)/Armalite/Jericho/Baby Eagle/Canik/etc…
FWIW, the MecGar mags with the blue anti-friction followers are nicer than the OEM mags that come with a CZ. Follower is upgraded and the finish on the mags is better, and typically the butt pads are better also. Basically, what CZ has MG make for them to sell w/ the CZ brand on it is the base model MG mag. Still very good. But you can get better branded as MG and for less $$$ too.
I wanted a CZ75, but after several months of looking I’ve given up. Nowhere to be found and the prices are ridiculous. Not a single one at bottom of $500. Maybe if you’re lucky and buy one at pawn shop or used. I ended up buying a Canik S-120 for $325 from Buds off Gunbroker. And it is great. All steel. There is also an alloy version, called L-120 selling at Academy for $349. It is a great deal for a basically a Turkish made CZ75.
Great write up.
Thank you!
Thanks and you’re welcome.
The grip of the CZ styled and browning Hi Power pistols fit my hand much better than the Glock style.
That’s because you have hands, not mechanical pincers.
LMFAO that sh*t was funny as hell.
Imitation is the highest form of flattery.
In my view, CZ nailed it with their 75 series. Using the 75B, the P-01, or the Compact .40 always makes me appear to be a better shooter than I view myself to be.
I personally like the weight, girth and fit of the CZ. The recoil is inconsequential. The tucked in slide configuration has caused me no problem at all, ever; besides, when you carry in the de-cocked locked ‘n loaded configuration, the inside slide is a moot point absent an FTE or FTF neither of which I have ever experienced with any of the CZs. They have devoured every manufacturer’s load I’ve fed them, flawlessly.
If the Canik 55 can meet the success of the CZ 75 line, and improve on the trigger pull somewhat, with its lower price point (for now), the Canik may sit as a competitive peer to the CZ.
If someone is looking for something similar, but in a lighter package, check out the SARARMS B6P. It’s a Tanfoglio copy, not a CZ copy, so it won’t have the same parts compatibility. But it’s got the same ergonomics, it’s well made, light, and shoots well. I have it’s bigger brother, the K2P, and really like it.
I’ll second the SAR love. My K2 is fast becoming the favorite in my little collection… PITA to carry at 3lbs loaded, though. Not saying I don’t carry it, but you need to have your ducks in a row if you’re gonna lug it around.
Second that, though, good luck getting replacement parts from EAA. I had to wait 2 1/2 months for replacement grip panels.
The size comparison to the Glock is impressive. Looks pretty small. Would probably be awesome in a shoulder rig with the shorter length.
especially if you had a second “Black Chrome” stingray in the opposite shoulder holster.
True but do realize that’s a Glock 17 and not a 19.
BTW I hate Glocks…ugly as a Hi-Point IMO.
I think I’ll draw the line at carrying anything heavier than a Beretta 92. Someone should try making a CZ-75 with an aluminum frame. I’m not a big fan of cocked and locked, but if you sliced 5 or 6 ounces off the thing, I’d be interested.
There are options for that. CZ makes CZ-75 variants (‘compact’ size) in aluminum frame, like the P-01, P-06, PCR, etc. Also options for polymer frame like the SP-01 Phantom or the P-07 or P-09 (which are an offshoot of the CZ-75 with some differences, but you will be familiar if you’re familiar with the 75 and they are certainly at least as accurate and reliable). Decockers available on most of those if you don’t like cocked and locked, and the P-07 Duty and P-09 Duty can be swapped back and forth between decocker and safety.
Canik as well has aluminum-framed models. I own a Pre-B model CZ 75 and Canik’s aluminum-framed C100, a copy of CZ 75 Compact. Both are great guns. I have no complaints about the Caniks. I have shot the S-120 as well. It’s subtly different from my well-worn 75, though that may be due to the S-120 being new. I would recommend either to anyone looking for that kind of pistol.
I think many people unfairly discount modern, European made handguns. Canik (as reviewed here), as well as Arcus and Zastava (from personal experience) make quality handguns at a reasonable price.
Wondernines, how boring.
I want one. I also want more reviews like this, featuring guns that normally don’t come up in conversation.
I have a CZ75D and CZ75B, and this platform is SWEET. My B is in matte stainless, and I think I’m as accurate with it as I am my Buckmark.
It is purdy all right.
But Im just as happy with my EAA Compact in 45acp.
I wish this site would set up a page that explained what comments will and what comments won’t be blocked. Seems like a random selection. Maybe every 7th comment gets booted?
So maybe a review on the Tanfoglio pistols is forthcoming?
“the slide seated inside the frame rather than attached outside of the frame” Have a Bersa Thunder .380 manufactured in Argentina. Recently added a Ruger P95 .9mm also with this feature. Some Rugers have this feature, some don’t. All Bersa pistols do have this feature. Both very accurate, nice factory sights and good price for quality weapons.
Would give pistol reviewed some thought but already have full stable of similar quality. Discretionary income now goes to ammo and range fees. No matter the caliber or quality of a weapon, accuracy is dependent on training and practice
I think you’re mistaken. The Bersa Thunder has a normal design with the slide riding on, not in, the frame, as does the Ruger P95 (even in the mythical .9mm caliber)…
All that said, I think the benefits of this are sometimes overstated. And I’m a HUGE CZ fan (and Sig P210 fan). I like the design, but I don’t think it necessarily does what most people think it does.
Is Canik the same factory that made that Armalite-branded CZ clone? (I think it’s called the AR-24…)
That’s Sarsilmaz. I don’t know if they’re related to Canik or what, though.
I own quite a few handguns, Glock, Sig, Walther, HK, XDM and now my first Canik, the Tristar C100. Got it for $329 from Academy and though it only has 300 rounds through it, it has been solid. The gun obviously has great ergo’s being a CZ clone and fantastic craftsmanship for the price. The double action trigger is a bit heavy but it breaks clean. I would not only recommend but I’ll probably get another, great car gun, range and/or home defense gun IMO.
I got the black Tristar C-100, which has the steel alloy (it is aluminum) frame. Tristar is the importer and Canik55 is the manufacturer. A close copy of a CZ compact. Academy had them on sale late last year for $300, but they are only $329 now. Nice single action trigger. Good accuracy. I have put several hundred rounds of various types of 9mm though it, with no issues. Most recently shot Academy’s cheap steel cased Monarch ammo. I really like this gun. The Turks are stepping up their game in firearms manufacturing. The original CZ forum website, clone forum, has some good information including upgrades and accessories for these pistols. Some of the CZ fans say that the Canik is better than the CZ, not just better for the price.
The Aritical said it come’s in black, is that black finnish in black chrome ?
Not Black chrome.
The artical said the gun could be had in black, is that black finnish in black chrome ?
I bought the S-120 from Bud’s for $307. I compared it to my brother’s CZ-75B and fit and finish is superior. It shoots 1″ groups at 30 ft. with Federal 115 FMJ when I do my part. 4oo+ rounds through it and no hangups whatsoever. Yeah, its heavy, but I would recommend this gun to anyone looking for a good house gun. The price vs performance can’t be beat. Please note that Canik’s factory is 100% CNC, and is NATO and ISO 9000 certified. Yep, the Turks have stepped up their firearms game. Get’em while they’re still new to the US market and still sell for a price that reflects that fact.
Like the site. 🙂
Chrome is like bacon…Check good writing, simile.
Satin chrome? Now we are talking turkey bacon.
The gun is OK…The Turks are the dollar value menu of the gun world. Plan accordingly.
I just got back from the range with my black stingray-c. friggin’ tack driver. . . . and I haven’t put night sights on it yet. only thing I hate is the cocked and locked. don’t want to get used to a safety since none of my other primary carry guns use them. But if you are willing to slowly . . . . pull the trigger while holding the hammer back you can uncock it. . . . not to do without caution
Yeah, the manual decock is the thing. Just put your finger in between the hammer and the gun and slowly let it uncock while pulling the trigger. Practice it unloaded until you can do it in your sleep and it’s no worries when it’s loaded. The only thing is will you shoot your first shot in double action, or take the time to cock it into single? I mean, if God forbid, you have to defend yourself with it. If double, then you should get the spring kit from Cajun Gun Works that cuts the trigger pull in half in double action. Only costs around $25.
what’s the price of canik 55 c100 pistol??
usually between $300-400. try Bud’s or Gunbroker. . . . there are some for sale there
Creator ( Allah ) create Turks then Canik 55….
No Muslim nonsense here please…
thanks for the shoutout: http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=iQFbUgtsNug
no luck on CZ sights working. . . . I even called the importer Century Arms and they had no clue on a proper fitting.
update: I had night sights custom made by the company near trijicon in Michigan that does their custom work. Very nice.
I have a SAR ARMs K2P in 9mm that I picked up at a local gun show for $300 that is a tack hammer. I have a few buddies that are gun snobs that quickly became believers after a trip to the range a few weeks back. I did have a couple questions/observations that I was hoping other owners might know about.
1. Is it normal to have some slight issues with Mec-Gar magazines tripping the mag catch? I observed that the factory magazine have a rectangular shaped cut out while the Mec-Gar is more of an oval shape. I hit the corners with a needle file and it seems to have helped, but the condition still persists. If I give the floorplate a light palm slap the mag catch engages, but sometimes I have to repeat the action to get this to happen,
2. Do standard CZ-75 night sights fit the K2P? Do any particular brands work better than others?
3. Can anyone recommend a good forums for CZ clones? I have had the gun a few months and have been a shooter for a long time. I am rather new to the forum experience and would appreciate any feedback. I realize these type of questions really belong in a forum. Thanks in advance.
Looking for a CZ-style. If price were no issue, I would buy a Sig p210. Price being an issue, the Canik is interesting, as are IMI products.
A few companies make a good 75 copy. The Canik listed here is pretty nice. A bit heavy as the original article states. EAA imports 2 companies that produce good copies. The Sar Arms (Sarsilmaz of Turkey) and the Tanfoglio (Italian pistols sold as the EAA Witness). I have a Sar Arms that I picked up for $300 at a gun show and it’s a great shooter. If you like Israeli steel, the BUL Cherokee can be purchased for under $300 last time I checked on Grabagun or Gunbroker. I haven’t seen them in a while but Armscor (of Rock Island Armory fame) has the MAP1 and MAPP1 as well. Hope that gives you a nice starting point.
Got my canik 55 stingray Copes dist to my FFL 349 inc shipping… Took from box and went to range with out cleaning put 500rds down range in past 3 weeks using all different ammo from 115 lead reload to hollow point to 147+p military surplus… this gun doesn’t care what she eats as long as she eats not a bump or skip out of her… I have shot Taurus p111. SnW sd9ve, several browning hi-power clones.and even my coveted 1911.. this by far is my favorite pistol to date…
I have the TRI-Star T-120 that I purchased at Academy Sports on Black Friday for $299 this past year 2013. It was only offered in the desert tan finish. I’ve got relatively small hands and it feels rather large for me but I sure enjoyed shooting it for the first time this weekend. I ran about 125 rounds of Winchester hard ball through it and for the life in me I can’t figure out why had at Least 5 failure to feed and 3 times where the slide would run all the way forward. I had a few dry fires too. I shot at 7 and 15 yards and I have to say I shot some of the best groups ever. So accuracy I’m totally impressed with. My Son had cleaned it for me before we left and he must have forgot to wipe excess gun oil out because when I arrived at the range it was practically dripping. I wiped it clean but I think all the trouble was from powder and oil build up. When I got home and broke it down for cleaning it was like wiping oil mixed with soot. I am assuming this was the root of all the trouble. Does anyone have any recommendations for a solvent wash to remove all the oil and soot ? Once I clean and oil correctly i can return to the range and hopefully eliminate the issues. I really like the look and feel of the gun so I want to gain confidence with it.
The slide being on the inside allows it to be smaller in proportion to the frame, reducing mass in proportion to the the barrel caliber without sacrificing rigidity. Reduced slide mass also reduces torsion. An inset slide allows more than enough room for contact surfaces. It also allows for better ergonomics.
Does the Stingray have a decocker? And where can I purchase one in the Metropolitan Detroit area? What type of warranty comes with the Stingray? Thanks in advance to all who reply.
Century, the import gives one year but it’ll way outlast that don’t worry.
Does the Stingray have a decocker? Where can I purchase one in the Metropolitan Detroit area? What type of warranty comes with the Stingray? Thanks in advance to all who reply.
No decocker.
My wife bought me an EAA (Tanfoglio) Witness 9mm in stainless for my birthday last year. Love it, love it, love it. It shoots like nothing else I own. It’s the only gun I have that makes ragged hole groups. I call it the “Tanfoglio effect.” I’m convinced that having the slide inside the frame is the key. I’m a big fan off all the CZ-style guns.
I have a Tri-Star Canik T-100 9mm. it came with two 15rd mags but I am lookin for an ext mag for it. I’ve heard of a 25 or a 26rd ext mag for it. but I have not found any for sale anywhere or online. Anyone kno anywhere or any sites I could get one from.
Try checking with Mec-Gar, since they supply the mags for these guns.
In reference to your search for magazines I just got a 32 rnd mag for my Stingray from lg outdoors. It fits fine with no hangups, but my quest for original 15 rnd Canik Compact 9mm magazines is still unfulfilled.
FYI Buds Guns gives a raving review about this gun in video.
Mec Gar made the magazine I have but they don’t list them anywhere on their site and they have yet to reply by email. Mebbe I’ll have to call them.
The 32 round magazine I got is from Pro Mag and is listed for the CZ 75 – Baby Eagle.
Okay I’ve located 15 rnd mags for this unit though I can’t confirm at this stage.
http://www.jgsales.com/canik-stingray-c-9mm-15rd-magazine,-blued,-new.-p-71206.html
I have the Tri-Star L-120 full size, and two C-100 compacts, all in 9mm. Have had nothing but good results with all of them. Had one FTE when the L120 was brand new, but that has been the extent of malfunctions. Probably 700-800 rounds ago. The Tri-Star have the more traditional rounded dust cover, and appear a little less bulky from your photos of the Stingray. I noticed that your pistol prints a little high and to the left. Same with all three of mine. I really don’t care, as these are range and knockabout guns, purchased at a decent price ($349.00, with tax, roughly, at Sportsmans Whse, Albuquerque) Love the guns, steel slide, and steel alloy receiver . Good SA trigger. DA is about, I don’t know, seems a little less than a new Beretta 92. Front sight and all that, what! Good review. Cheers!
This review was a strong factor in my decision to purchase this pistol as my carry piece. This is my second pistol and am used to carrying steel guns as my first was a cz 82. I’ve put about 250 rounds through mine so far without any malfunctions. The gun shoots very accurately and follow up shots are indeed easy. Mine came with 15 round mags, a case, cleaning kit, and speed loader. with ffl fees I still paid under 400. I highly recommend this gun to anyone, the weight is a non issue to me for carry and Im a small guy. I weight 125 and am 5’4 so I have no idea what people are complaining about with steel guns being too heavy.
I pulled the trigger on the Stingray-C and agree with you (Lurker). I’m 5’6″ and haven’t found the gun to be too heavy or bulky. The heft of the gun seems to be more of a benefit than a liability (IMHO), and I expected it to be that way when I got it. I wasn’t out to buy a pocket pistol.
I got the same deal for under $400 all inclusive. This is a utility piece, so it won’t be hanging over the mantle, but I bet you could drive a tractor trailer over it and it will work just fine. There is not a loose part on the gun. I only put about 60 rounds through it, but had no issues using 2nd hand ammo with corrosion on the casing.
My Stingray pros:
Price: I studied and shopped for months. Now that I have it, I still think it is a great value.
Quality: ISO certified (enough said)
Capacity: I got 2-15 round mags (confirm before ordering)
Fit: My whole hand fits on the grip and I can reach the trigger easily, ergonomics are good
Other: Has a “Real” safety for OPTIONAL use, can still fire a round with no magazine in, loaded chamber indicator (whatever),Take down is easy, ADJUSTABLE 3 dot sights, front rail, nicely packaged with accessories, pleasantly surprised with the cerkote finish, shoots great with friendly recoil.
My Stingray cons:
Heavy: (pro or con depending on your perspective) Holstered on a belt, it can pull on your pants like a toddler. Similar lighter models are more $
Grips: Checkered hard plastic… Good for now
Finish: Will coating hold up through abuse?
Fit: Can barely reach the slide release with my thumb while gripping the gun.
Other: DA trigger pull is difficult/heavy (SA is nice and crisp by me), can’t chamber a round with safety on, parts and accessories may be harder to find
Bottom line: Happy with my Canik 55 Stingray-C and would recommend it to a friend.
BEWARE these are not being imported in hard chrome any more. The current finnish is cerkote and listed as a chorome finish.
Ty everyone for all the reviews, comments and comparisons. Kudos to James Grant for an enlightening write up on the Canik Stingray 55 and including the CZ style platforms. Gives me more food for thought.
I got a Canik 55 Stingray-C, came with only 2/15 magazines, Man I need More more Many More Magazines. HELP Me Find Them, or Any Others That Fit And Work.
I Enjoy The Hell Shooting It, No Problems After Firing At least Close To 600 Rounds, But Hate Reloading The Only Two Mags. That’s Why I Need More, even better if they hold 40 plus rounds.
I mentioned this earlier but LG Outdoors just sent me a 32 rnd cap mag and it fits fine. It’s listed as a CZ 75 – Baby Eagle mag, but I too search for the original 15 rnd Canik mags by Mec gar.
Okay I’ve located 15 rnd mags for this unit though I can’t confirm at this stage.
http://www.jgsales.com/canik-stingray-c-9mm-15rd-magazine,-blued,-new.-p-71206.html
PS get hold of an Uplula, your prayers have been answered lol.
The design feature is properly called “inverse rails” and was pioneered by SIG in the 47/8 (later renamed P210); this is SIG’s only serious handgun. (SIG-Sauers are made by Sauer in Germany.) Not too long ago, SIG published a study showing that pistols with IR start out more accurate and become more accurate with wear.
I spent several years trying to find a manufacturer of an IR gun that DIDN’T deliver LASER accuracy right out of the box. Haven’t found one yet, and my collection includes guns from Spain, Switzerland, Italy, the Czech Republic, Serbia, Israel, Turkey, and the Philippines. I’ve bought them new and used, in 5 different calibers – it just doesn’t matter, if you follow the blueprints, you get a pistol accurate right out of the box.
By the way, ladies & gentlemen, I’m over 60, 5’8″, 275#, with NO athletic preparation (or interest) and I say “Heavy gun? Man up!” This is the only arena where I’ve been the man in the picture, and it feels good… 😉
As a CZ fan, I am a bit biased towards CZ. I have shot Sigs, Brownings(which was forgotten on this article since it was the original that the CZ was based on, not Sig), and a host of CZ clones like Jericho in steel and polymer, also Tanfoglios. I’m not saying I am an expert, but my experience tells me nothing shoots like a CZ. Even if you interchange slides between these guns as some can be, there’s something about the ergonomics of the CZ that sets it apart from the copies. They come close yes, but shootability, balance in your hand, fit and finish, it’s just overall better. I will buy a Canik 55 Stingray in black for home defense, like putting it in the garage, as a back-up, a car gun, and stash away several for JIC. But for my overall and everyday, it has to be a CZ.
Sorry, xrey; I believe you’re mistaken about the Browning, as no Browning pistol has inverse rails, whereas the P210 was in service and well-known throughout Europe by the 1970s, when the Koucky brothers accepted the assignment that produced the CZ-75. If you’re aware of any Browning pistols made with inverse rails, I would be keenly interested in learning of them.
Who was talking about the rails? When CZ was developed, they weren’t looking at rails. They were looking at a Browning.
I’m sorry, xrey, the CZ-75 would have been far less expensive to manufacture, had the inverse rails never been included in the design, so I rather believe that they were considered worth the additional expense. I wasn’t in the room, at the time – not even a fly on the wall – so I can’t be certain. The decision of many police and military organizations to standardize on an inverse-rail gun, rather than a less-expensive simple Browning-type would seem to suggest that others share my opinion.
I’m close to getting one of these in black and I just saw this review so I just thought I’d tell everyone.
I am “old school” and don’t like plastic, decocker, or strikers; I have to have a hammer fired pistol that I can carry “locked & cocked” or use double action. The Tristar imported canik 55 (the factory) c-100 compact
in brushed chrome with alloy frame weighing 26 oz has been perfect. The factory is a division of Sarsilmaz, has a 9000 Iso rating and is nato approved. At 15 yards the pistol is as accurate as my ruger 22 cal mk111 with 150 rods through it.
Maybe the “clone” is better than the original–lol.
Mr Grant would you please tell me which gun you actually enjoy and prefer more, your p01 or your stingrays. I can locate a p01 for purchase but the stingray is incredibly hard to come across. I have read where the stingray is no longer offered in Hard Chrome they are only offered in a Cerakote coating. But like I said just finding one is near impossible. I have a Dealer checking into it as well as having written emails to Century Arms and Canik to see if they are still in production or not.
Thanks for Your time and informative write-up’s on Firearms.
I have a friend who bought a Canik CZ clone (black finish) the same exact day I bought my real CZ75. We took them to the range and fired 300 rounds from each. Both functioned flawlessly, BUT – and this is a big but in my mind, when it was all over, his gun looked like a worn out Hi-Point and mine still looked new. Bare metal was showing through on all parts of his gun, from the slide to the trigger guard. It was full of little nicks and wear spots. It’s like the finish they use is just Krylon, and poorly applied Krylon at that. It was a nice shooter and dare I say, I may have even liked his trigger better, but if the finish wears off that quickly after ONE range session, count me out. I know that it’s just the finish, but if they can’t even do that right, it makes me wonder what else will wear prematurely on the gun. The cost to refinish it would negate all savings from buying the clone. Just save your cash and buy a real CZ.
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IR rails give the illusion that bore axis is low, but it is really just average. The author would know this if he had actually measured it vs other guns instead of just repeating mythology.
The IR rails also don’t have anything to do with accuracy. That is due to the excellent lockup between the barrel and slide. For instance, the M&P has a sloppy fit between rails (and the rear rail set is held in with a 1/8″ roll pin) but with a good fit barrel will shoot a ten shot group under 2″ at 50 yards.
This should not be possible if the rails were a factor.
I would like to add my dime about sights of Canik Stingray. I have two Stingrays, early version with an adjustable sight and later model with a fixed rear sight. The early model shoots POA with minimal adjustments. The later model shoots higher and requires 6 o’clock hold different for each distance. Puzzled by this phenomena I studied both guns in detail. Front sights are identical but the fixed sight is almost 1mm higher than adjustable in the right position. Probably Canik tried to cut the production cost without testing. The easiest solution is to mill the fixed sights and blacken the dots, however I opted to find an adjustable one, Sar k2, or Tanfoglio/EAA adjustable sights works. It takes some time to find one but it is worth the efforts. I wonder if anyone experience the same problem.
Just spend the extra bills and get a real CZpo1.
I’ve had 3 Tanfoglio CZ clones, (2 FS and a compact), and 2 Sar clones, a K2 and a CM9Gen2 and they’ve been pretty much perfect, so I decided to try out a TriStar P120, I’ve heard nothing but good about them and I found one for $320 shipped in black. I have a CZ loving friend bring his “real” Sp-01, P-01, and his older CZ-75 Pre B for a comparison. Taking them apart, the “real” CZ 75 had the worst looking inside finish of the bunch, and it wasn’t close. It shoots everything so it’s no big deal. The polycoat finish looks pretty bad, as he carries the thing all the time. He’s thinking of having it NP3’d. We pooled up ammo and shot a little bit of everything through all of the guns. The P-120 was flawless, and was every bit as accurate as the SP-01. We put a couple of hundred rounds through it, and If we closed our eyes, the only way to tell the difference between the T-120 and the SP-01 was from the grips. The SP-01 is totally stock so the trigger isn’t as nice as the worked on SP-01 and especially the P-01, which is super slick. Even if the P-120 was the same price as the “real” CZ, it wouldn’t be a ripoff, it just wouldn’t be the amazing value it is. I fully expect the prices on the Canik and Sarsilmaz guns to follow the XD guns and suddenly go up at least $100 when the word gets out. Oh, the SAR “Mega” is another great CZ pattern gun and it’s available in SS for about $400.
It won’t let me edit. The line “The SP-01 is totally stock so the trigger isn’t as nice as the worked on SP-01 and especially the P-01, which is super slick” is supposed to be “The P-120 is totally stock so the trigger isn’t as nice as the worked on SP-01 and especially the P-01, which is super slick but it’s not bad at all.
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