Introduction
The B&T APC9 (Advanced Police Carbine) is a modern Swiss machine pistol designed by Brügger & Thomet tomeet the operational requirements of law enforcement, special units and military users. Chambered in 9×19 mm Parabellum, the APC9 stands out for its compactness, low noise signature, remarkable accuracy and great ergonomics. Designed to compete with the MP5 and other classic platforms, it embodies the new generation of European tactical weapons, with a modular approach and enhanced compatibility with contemporary accessories.
Background and development
At the end of the 2000s, B&T, a Swiss company already well established in the field of tactical weapons and accessories, identified a gap in the machine pistol market: many of the models in service were old, and sometimes complex to modernize. The growing demand for compact, accurate and modern weapons led to the development of theAPC9, conceived from the outset as a modular, ambidextrous and silencer-ready system.
The APC9 was introduced in the early 2010s, and quickly made a name for itself with its impeccable Swiss finish, reliability in all conditions, and compatibility with NATO standards.
Technical specifications
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9×19 mm Parabellum |
| Overall length | ~597 mm (stock folded) |
| Barrel length | 175 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 2.6 kg (without accessories) |
| Magazine capacity | 15, 20, 25 or 30 shots |
| Firing mode | Single shot / Selective burst |
| System | Closed cylinder head, delayed blowback |
| Materials | Aeronautical aluminum, polymer |
Ergonomics and design
The B&T APC9 has been designed with versatility and user comfort in mind. It incorporates many practical features:
Ambidextrous controls: safety, slide catch, cocking lever, magazine button.
Integral Picatinny rail: top of frame for optical sights, plus side and bottom rails.
Telescopic or folding stock depending on version.
Threaded barrel compatible with B&T sound moderators.
Easy maintenance with quick tool-free disassembly.
Grip is instinctive, with low recoil thanks to the delayed blowback system that improves control when firing in bursts.
Main variants
B&T has developed several versions of the APC9 to cover a wide range of users and tactical situations. Here are the main ones:
APC9 Standard
Basic version.
Available with folding or telescopic stock.
Compatible with B&T chargers only.
APC9 PRO
Introduced in response to requests for a non-reciprocal arming lever.
Ergonomic redesign of controls.
Enhanced compatibility with MIL-STD accessories.
Swiss manufacturing quality maintained.
APC9 K (Kurz)
Ultra-compact version.
Shorter barrel, reduced overall length.
Ideal for operations in confined spaces.
APC9 SD
Fully silenced version (SD = Schalldämpfer).
Extended barrel with integrated silencer sleeve.
Very low sound signature.
APC9-PDW
Specially designed as a handgun with pistol-like ergonomics.
Modified trigger, short stock.
Very popular for discreet wear.
APC9 US (Glock Mag)
Variant compatible with Glock magazines.
Designed for North American services already equipped with Glock 17/19.
APC9 R
Chambered in 9×19 mm but fed by modified AR-15 .223 magazines.
A version designed for the USA, where conventional submachine guns are more strictly regulated.
Comparison with other models
| Model | Caliber | Compatible chargers |
|---|---|---|
| B&T APC9 | 9×19 mm | B&T / Glock / AR mods |
| H&K MP5 | 9×19 mm | Owners |
| CZ Scorpion EVO 3 | 9×19 mm | Owners |
The APC9 stands out for its modularity, modern ergonomics and ability to adapt to different magazine standards. Where the MP5 remains more traditional, the APC9 integrates the codes of the modern tactical weapon from the outset.
Use and distribution
The B&T APC9 now equips :
European and Swiss police units.
Several American services, including the Secret Service with the APC9 K PRO version.
Special forces looking for compact, reliable and discreet weapons.
Civilians in the United States (semi-auto versions), for shooting sports or defense.
Its adoption by prestigious players underlines the weapon’s design quality and versatility in all environments.
Conclusion
The B&T APC9 is one of the most advanced machine pistols on the market. Compact, reliable, fully ambidextrous and available in numerous versions, it meets the most varied operational needs. Whether for a special unit, a close protection agent or an enlightened amateur, the APC9 represents the perfect synthesis of Swiss tradition and modern tactical innovation.
