Springfield Armory has officially launched its latest firearm, the Kuna 9mm pistol, in the U.S. market, marking a significant addition to the growing category of pistol caliber carbines (PCCs). Announced on April 15, 2025, the Kuna is designed by Croatian manufacturer HS Produkt and is named after Croatia's national animal, the European pine marten, a creature known for its agility and hunting prowess.
The Kuna first made waves last October when it secured a contract with the PMESP, the Sao Paulo Military Police in Brazil, beating out competitors like the B&T APC40 and Steyr M40. It also appeared at the EnforceTac show in Germany earlier this year, generating buzz among firearm enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Available in two configurations, the Kuna comes as a base model without a brace for an MSRP of $999, while the braced version, equipped with a Strike Industries FSA brace, retails for $1,149. This pricing positions the Kuna competitively within the PCC market, especially considering its features and performance.
In terms of specifications, the Kuna boasts a compact design with an overall length of 15.5 inches when folded and 24.5 inches when the brace is deployed. It weighs 5 pounds, 5 ounces (braced model) and is constructed with a monolithic forged 7075 T6 aluminum upper and an injection-molded glass-filled polymer lower. The firearm features a 6-inch cold radial hammer-forged barrel, threaded for suppressors, and an M-LOK handguard for accessory attachment.
The magazine capacity is impressive, accommodating 30 rounds, and the Kuna ships with two magazines. The firearm is equipped with ambidextrous controls, including a non-reciprocating charging handle and a two-position safety selector, making it user-friendly for both left- and right-handed shooters.
One of the standout features of the Kuna is its roller-delayed blowback operating system, which significantly reduces felt recoil, allowing for more accurate shooting. This design is reminiscent of the iconic HK MP5, known for its smooth operation and reliability. In testing, the Kuna has proven to be dependable, with reviewers reporting no malfunctions even after firing over 1,000 rounds of various ammunition types.
Reviewers have praised the Kuna for its performance, noting that it delivers easy practical accuracy, making it suitable for both recreational shooting and potential home defense. With its compact size and lightweight design, the Kuna is easy to maneuver, and its high-capacity magazines provide ample firepower.
In practical shooting scenarios, the Kuna has shown impressive results. Reviewers have reported achieving groups ranging from 4 to 8 inches at 50 yards, with tighter groupings of around 1.5 inches possible using premium ammunition. The firearm's adjustable flip-up sights and the option to mount optics enhance its versatility for different shooting applications.
While the Kuna has received accolades for its performance and design, some concerns have been raised regarding its proprietary magazines. Although Springfield Armory has priced these magazines at around $25 each, the lack of aftermarket support could be a drawback for some potential buyers.
In summary, the Springfield Armory Kuna 9mm represents a significant advancement in the PCC market, combining modern features with a robust design. Its competitive pricing, reliability, and ease of use make it a compelling option for both enthusiasts and those seeking a practical firearm for personal defense.
As Springfield continues to innovate and expand its lineup, the Kuna is poised to become a popular choice among shooters looking for a fun and effective firearm. With its combination of quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design, the Kuna is sure to turn heads in the world of firearms.
