Introduction
The B&T TP9 (Tactical Pistol 9mm) is a modern Swiss machine pistol designed by Brügger & Thomet to meet the needs of special forces, police units and plainclothes officers. Compact, precise and modular, it is based on the famous Steyr TMP design, to which B&T acquired the rights in the early 2000s. The TP9 combines the ergonomics of a pistol with the rate of fire of a machine pistol, while remaining reliable and controllable.
Origins and development
The original design of the TP9 comes from the Steyr TMP (Tactical Machine Pistol), developed in the 1990s by Austrian manufacturer Steyr Mannlicher. This model, innovative for its time, featured a compact structure and a very high rate of fire, but was eventually discontinued.
In 2001, Brügger & Thomet acquired the rights to the TMP and began the process of modernizing the concept. The result was the TP9, an improved version with the option of adding tactical accessories, a folding stock and greater compatibility with the requirements of modern forces.
Technical specifications
| Features | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9×19 mm Parabellum |
| Capacity | 15, 20, 25 or 30 shots |
| Weight (without charger) | Approx. 1.3 kg |
| Length (without stock) | 305 mm |
| Barrel length | 130 mm |
| Firing modes | Semi-auto or full auto (TP9-N) |
| Firing rate | Approx. 900 cps/min |
| Stock | Folding (on some versions) |
| Barrel thread | Yes (for silencer) |
Design and ergonomics
The TP9 retains a compact shape, ideal for discreet operations or urban environments. Its reinforced polymer construction makes it both lightweight and durable. The threaded barrel allows the addition of a sound moderator, making it a prized weapon for stealth missions.
The handle is ergonomically designed, with a natural angle inspired by modern pistols. A Picatinny rail on the top allows mounting of various optics or accessories (red dot sight, laser, lamp). Some versions also feature a bottom rail for additional equipment.
The TP9-N (military version) is capable of firing in automatic mode, unlike the TP9 semi-auto civilian version.
TP9 variants
TP9 Standard
Semi-automatic civilian version, sold mainly to the sport shooting and collectors’ markets. Equipped with threaded barrel and top rail.
TP9-N
Designed for armed forces and special units. Capable of automatic firing, it features a folding stock, an extended cocking lever, and is sometimes supplied with a silencer. Used by several units in Europe and the Middle East.
TP9 US
Modified version for the American market, with ATF-compliant components, often without a stock or with a stabilizing stock.
TP9 Suppressed (version with integrated silencer)
Less common, this version features a fixed silencer designed specifically for the TP9, for use in high-discretion operations.
Comparison with other similar weapons
| Model | Caliber | Speed (cps/min) |
|---|---|---|
| B&T TP9-N | 9×19 mm | ~900 |
| H&K MP7 | 4.6×30 mm | ~950 |
| Glock 18C | 9×19 mm | ~1 200 |
The TP9 is somewhere between an automatic pistol and a true machine pistol like the MP5 or MP7. Its compactness makes it suitable for restricted environments, but it remains less powerful than some long guns.
Operational use
The TP9 has been adopted by several police and security units, notably in Europe. Its compact size and modularity make it ideal for special operations, close protection or close combat in urban areas.
Notable users :
Some Swiss and German police units
Private intervention groups
Middle East security forces
It is also appreciated by collectors for its rare design and its kinship with the cult TMP.
Conclusion
The B&T TP9 is an outstanding example of Swiss engineering applied to a modern tactical weapon. A direct descendant of the Steyr TMP, it combines extreme compactness, tactical versatility and meticulous construction. Whether for special operations, collecting or sport shooting, the TP9 remains a weapon in a class of its own, discreet, precise and functional.
