Saint Victor Pistol: Springfield’s AR-PDW

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The Springfield Saint series of rifles is nearly a decade old (which, consequently, makes me feel old). Springfield has continuously released updates, new iterations, and improved versions of the popular rifle during that time. The Saint is a good value, especially when Springfield is running its Gear Up promotion (they do it so often they might as well make it standard), where you receive an extra magazine, sling, and a Vortex optic. Our sales reflect that sentiment. Springfield previously offered Saint pistols, which were discontinued during the Pistol Brace ban that doesn’t really exist anymore (I mean, technically it does, but injunctions by federal courts have declawed the ruling). The pistols, like their rifle counterparts, were a great value and popular with enthusiasts. However, they haven’t been available for a few years. So, it’s interesting that Springfield has decided to release a new pistol variant, but this time, it’s built on their Saint Victor PCC in 9mm.

A New Kind of Pistol

From Springfield: The SAINT® Victor 9mm Pistol delivers rugged performance in a compact, hard-hitting package. Its direct blowback system ensures rock-solid reliability while feeding from durable 32-round Colt®-pattern magazines. Equipped with an SB Tactical SB-A3 brace for enhanced stability, this pistol variant is engineered for those who demand SAINT performance in a compact form.

Sounds good, right? Let’s dig into some other features:

• 5.5” barrel made of CMV with a Melonite Finish.
• Forged 7075 T6 aluminum upper and lower receivers that have been Type III Hardcoat Anodized (standard amongst many AR manufacturers).
• 45-degree ambidextrous safety.
• Adjustable SBA3 pistol stabilizing brace with ambi QD sling sockets.
• Free float M-Lok handguard
• B5 Weapons Systems grip and triggerguard.
• Nickel-boron coated flat-faced trigger.

Overall, it's a decent option for a compact 9mm AR pistol. If anything, the mil-spec charging handle should be replaced with something that’s a bit more ergonomic. Personally, I’ve never liked the SBA3 brace. I prefer the SBA4 or their new A5 version. The only downside of Springfield’s latest offering is the weapon’s simple blowback operation. While reliable, it doesn’t recoil as softly as one might expect from a 9mm. To explain, direct blowback uses all the energy of the fired round to push the bolt rearward. It is only slowed by the buffer's weight and the spring's tension. This means that all the energy of the round goes into your shoulder. Conversely, something like CMMG’s radial delayed systems mechanically delays the pressure build-up and fall in the chamber before the bolt unlocks, slowing bolt speed and reducing felt recoil. But I digress.

One of the gun’s most significant advantages is its compatibility with Colt SMG magazines. While many may prefer Glock-style magazines, they were never designed for use in a rifle. In contrast, Colt SMG mags were built explicitly for this purpose. They function reliably and hold the bolt open on empty without requiring a stopgap solution (as is necessary with a Glock mag). Therefore, kudos to Springfield for challenging the status quo on this.

Final Thoughts

It’s good to see Springfield bring the Saint Victor pistol line back. And I think the 9mm version was the right choice. It provides a compact and ergonomic option for a truck gun, backpack gun, or in the confines of a home. Not to mention, they are fun to shoot. While I’m not the biggest fan of direct blow-back operation, it is a simple and reliable system. However, if you suppress the weapon, you’ll want to change the springs and buffer weights to slow the bolt further. MSRP on the Saint Pistol is $1099.99, and I expect that to be lower as time passes.