Since the pandemic highs, NICS checks have dropped some but they’re still above pre-pandemic levels. February 2025 marked a 9% drop from February 2024, but was also the 67th consecutive month with more than 1 million NICS checks. A lot of these, however, were used sales, meaning new gun sales are down, significantly. One new gun that is selling is the Springfield Armory Kuna.
Developed in collaboration with Croatia’s HS Produkt and first seen at IWA in Germany, the 9mm semi-automatic Springfield Armory Kuna is now available for the U.S. market.
Why It Matters to You
Springfield’s track record with the XD line and, more recently, the Echelon, shows its ability to produce reliable firearms that resonate with American consumers. The Kuna brings a roller-delayed blowback system, akin to the legendary MP5—an instant draw for buyers familiar with tactical platforms.
Key Features That Sell
- Roller-delayed blowback: Rare in the pistol market, this system reduces felt recoil and muzzle rise, making the Kuna soft-shooting and quick on follow-up shots.
- Fully ambidextrous controls: Sell it to right- or left-handed shooters without hesitation. Safety, mag release, bolt release and charging handle all accommodate both.
- AR-pattern grip and controls: Familiar ergonomics help ease the sales conversation with AR-15 owners.
- 6-inch cold hammer-forged barrel with a multi-port brake and a non-reciprocating charging handle.
- 30-round magazines (comes with two): High capacity, high appeal—ideal for defense or range use.
- Brace-ready or equipped: Available in two SKUs—with and without the Strike Industries FSA folding brace. With the brace folded, the firearm shrinks to just 15.5 inches.
- Optics-ready: Full-length Picatinny rail allows easy red dot installation. U-Dot and flip-up peep sights are included.
- Easy Maintenance: Field-stripping is intuitive and AR-like.
Built for a Range of Customers
The Springfield Armory Kuna bridges the gap between a compact defense firearm and a range-day favorite. Chambered in 9mm, it’s cost-effective to shoot and pairs well with most popular defensive and target loads. Law enforcement, personal defense buyers and PCC enthusiasts will all find something to like.
Dealer Talking Points
- Market as a compact PDW-style firearm suitable for home defense, vehicle use, or range fun.
- Emphasize the reliability and innovation of Springfield’s custom roller-delayed system.
- Showcase the shootability—low recoil, crisp trigger, and fast target transitions.
- Position it as a cost-effective MP5 alternative—without the NFA paperwork.
- Great bundling opportunities with suppressors, red dots, slings, or training packages.
Performance Recap
During field testing, the Kuna maintained solid accuracy at defensive distances—around 3-inch groups at 25 yards with a red dot. But its strength isn’t just static shooting—this is a dynamic platform, excelling in drills, transitions, and CQB-style engagement.
Springfield Armory Kuna Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm
- Barrel: 6″, 1:10 twist
- Weight: 4.6 lbs.; 5.5 lbs. with brace
- Overall Length: 15.5″ folded; 24.5″ extended
- Material: Forged 7075 T6 aluminum upper, polymer lower
- Operating System: Roller-delayed blowback
- MSRP: $999 (without brace), $1,149 (with brace)
Stock the Kuna Because It Will Move
For gun shop owners and dealers, the Springfield Armory Kuna offers everything a modern buyer is looking for in a PDW—reliability, innovation, and that rare factor: fun. With 30-round mags and a brace-ready setup, it’s well-suited for personal defense and plinking alike.