Last month, I shared tips for using a 9mm carbine for home defense in the Gear Up column. Little did I know then that Springfield Armory was releasing a new line of pistols, the Kuna, in April. I anxiously awaited its arrival, hoping to have it in my hot little hands in time for the release day so I could tell you more about it. I hope you are as excited to read about it as I am to share my first look at the Kuna pistol.
First, though, a little background on the name, which I think is really cool. Springfield Armory’s manufacturing partner, HS Produkt, is located in Croatia. The European pine marten, a weasel-like mammal related to badgers, polecats and wolverines, is one of Croatia’s national symbols and appears on Croatian euro coins. The word “kuna” means “marten” in Croatian. Known for its cleverness, shrewd spirit and tenacious determination, and as a tribute to the Croatian manufacturing partners, Springfield Armory named this new line of pistols the Kuna.
Springfield Armory touts the Kuna 9mm pistol as a personal defense weapon (PDW) built to deliver exceptional value in a portable package. At first glance, I agree with the portability. I immediately pictured the Kuna staged in a bugout bag for a quick grab when the zombie apocalypse happens or conveniently located somewhere in my house should the zombies make it to my doorstep.
In the Box
The Kuna is one of those firearms that, when you open the box in the store, everyone wants to get a look. Luckily for me, there was nobody else there since there was an embargo on it when I received it. Because I am 100 percent sure I would have had a crowd around me. Unlike the design of a typical pistol or AR, the Kuna uses a roller-delay operating system, a platform I have only shot a few times. Research shows that a roller-delay operating system dramatically reduces felt recoil and enhances control. I will share more information once I get to the range and have more time on the gun.
One aspect that is very beneficial to anyone who purchases Springfield Armory’s Kuna is its ambidextrous features. A shooter can easily access the safety selector, magazine release and bolt release from either side of the gun. Also, moving the charging handle to the other side is an easy adjustment for all the lefties out there. This is a great defense gun for a home that has both left- and right-handed family members.
Springfield Armory offers two versions of The Kuna, one with and one without the pistol brace. I found the Strike Industries FSA stabilizing brace extremely positive with a strong locking feature. This allows for quick deployment without any questions about whether or not it’s locked in place. It also has a rear QD sling point where you can attach your favorite sling. Look out zombies!
Specs:
I am extremely excited to send some rounds through the Kuna at the range. As I mentioned, this is a somewhat new platform for me. Before I head out there, though, I plan on reading the manual to make sure I understand all the features and how to operate this system. Then, I’ll spend some time on task working and manipulating the Kuna until I have no doubts I can run the gun without fumbling.
Once on the range, aside from getting a feel for the roller-delayed operating system and its reduced recoil, I want to determine its accuracy and ease of use. That will be a fun day on the range, and I may have a few people who will want to come over and try it. I am hoping there are some lefties so I can get their opinion. I better pack some extra ammunition.
Read more about the Kuna on Springfield Armory’s website.
Michelle Cerino, aka Princess Gunslinger, first entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and trainer at a national training company. She immediately began competing in both 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol, becoming a sponsored shooter. Michelle is currently a columnist and Managing Editor of Women’s Outdoor News, as well as owner of Pervenio LLC. She also manages social media for Vera Koo and FASTER Saves Lives. Michelle encourages others to step out of the comforts of home and explore. View all posts by Michelle Cerino
Start the Conversation