Choosing between the Archon Type B and Type D means deciding which interpretation of Archon's groundbreaking AF-Speedlock technology better serves your shooting priorities.
Both pistols share the revolutionary non-tilting barrel system that produces exceptionally flat recoil, but they target different audiences through distinct styling, frame construction, and intended use profiles.
The Type B represents Archon's flagship performance pistol with aggressive styling and maximum modularity through its steel chassis design. The Type D brings the same mechanical advantages into a more conservative, polymer-forward package aimed at shooters preferring traditional duty aesthetics. Understanding which pistol matches your needs requires examining how each applies the AF-Speedlock system to solve different shooter requirements.
Archon Type B vs Type D: At-a-Glance Comparison
| Specification | Archon Type B Gen 2 | Archon Type D |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9x19mm | 9x19mm |
| Barrel Length | 4.3 inches | 4.3 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.7 inches | 7.7 inches (196mm) |
| Height | 5.1 inches | 5.2 inches |
| Width | 1.1 inches | 1.4 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | ~29.6 oz (840g) | ~29.6 oz (840g) |
| Capacity | 15, 16, 18 rounds | 12, 15, 16, 19 rounds |
| Frame Material | Steel chassis with polymer grip | Polymer frame with steel components |
| Slide Profile | Sculpted with aggressive cuts | Straight, conservative design |
| Trigger Pull | ~4.5-5.0 lbs | ~5.0-5.5 lbs |
| MSRP Range | $850-$950 | $900-$1,000 |
Critical Differences
Frame Construction Philosophy: The Type B emphasizes a steel chassis design with modular polymer grip modules for maximum configuration flexibility, while the Type D uses a polymer-forward frame with steel reinforcements for a more traditional feel and slightly lighter overall package.
Slide Styling and Purpose: Type B features aggressive slide cuts and tactical styling targeting competition and performance-oriented shooters, whereas the Type D employs a straight, conservative slide profile appealing to duty users and those preferring classic aesthetics.
Modularity Scope: Type B Gen 2 markets heavily around chassis modularity with potential subcompact-to-full-size configurations through grip changes, while Type D focuses modularity on optics/suppressor variants rather than dramatic frame size changes.
Both pistols share identical barrel length, similar weights, and the revolutionary AF-Speedlock non-tilting barrel system that positions bore axis at approximately 12mm—about 25% lower than traditional tilting-barrel designs. This shared mechanical foundation produces remarkably flat recoil and fast sight recovery in both models.
What Makes the Archon Type B Unique?
Design Intent and Original Purpose
The Type B was engineered as Archon's flagship performance pistol demonstrating the full potential of AF-Speedlock technology. Archon designed this pistol to serve shooters who demand competition-grade controllability without sacrificing defensive reliability. The Type B specifically targets experienced practitioners who've reached the limits of conventional tilting-barrel compacts and want measurably superior recoil management.
This pistol solves the problem of needing one firearm that transitions seamlessly from concealed carry to competition to suppressed shooting. The steel chassis and modular grip system enable configuration changes that other compact 9mm pistols can't accommodate without purchasing multiple complete firearms.
Evolutionary Position
Within Archon's lineup, the Type B Gen 2 represents the flagship showcasing maximum modularity and performance-focused engineering. It sits above basic defensive pistols by offering chassis-based customization and competition-ready features from the factory. The Gen 2 update refined original concepts through improved optics mounting, enhanced grip modules, and better accessory integration.
The Type B establishes Archon's identity as an innovator rather than a Glock clone manufacturer. It proves that alternatives to Browning's tilting barrel can deliver both innovation and reliability in serious defensive tools.
Market Gap It Fills
Before the Type B, shooters wanting dramatically flatter recoil in compact packages needed expensive custom builds or accepting race gun reliability compromises.
The Type B bridges this gap by engineering competition-level control into a duty-reliable package. It specifically serves shooters who've progressed beyond baseline competency and recognize that better recoil management translates directly into faster, more accurate shooting.
What Makes the Archon Type D Unique?
Design Intent and Original Purpose
The Type D brings AF-Speedlock advantages to shooters preferring traditional duty aesthetics and polymer-forward construction.
Archon designed this pistol for sport shooters, duty users, and defensive carriers who want the mechanical benefits of non-tilting barrel technology without aggressive tactical styling. The Type D solves the problem of needing AF-Speedlock performance in a conservative package that fits existing holster designs and institutional preferences.
This pistol targets users who might be put off by the Type B's edgier appearance but still want superior recoil control and accuracy. It demonstrates that innovation doesn't require futuristic styling.
Evolutionary Position
The Type D occupies Archon's "classic duty" position within their Gen 2 family. It shares the AF-Speedlock system and variant structure (OR/SR/OSR) but emphasizes traditional lines and polymer ergonomics over maximum modularity. The straight slide and conservative styling make it more acceptable in environments where traditional duty pistol aesthetics matter.
This positioning allows Archon to serve broader markets—particularly international sport shooting communities and agencies preferring conventional appearances—without diluting the Type B's performance identity.
Market Gap It Fills
The Type D fills the gap for shooters who want better mechanical performance than Glock/M&P/P320 offerings but can't embrace more radical designs. It proves that superior recoil characteristics don't require compromising on traditional aesthetics or institutional acceptance.
For European sport shooters and conservative duty users, the Type D delivers innovation wrapped in familiar presentation.
How Do the Type B and Type D Compare for Shootability and Control?
Both the Archon Type B and Type D deliver exceptional shootability through identical AF-Speedlock systems and 12mm bore axis positioning, producing flat recoil impulses that feel more like linear pushes than rotational flips.
The meaningful differences emerge in frame feel, grip texture aggressiveness, and trigger characteristics rather than fundamental recoil behavior.
Recoil Characteristics with Frame Size Context
The Type B's steel chassis creates slightly more rigidity at frame-to-slide mating surfaces, theoretically producing more consistent lockup and smoother cycling.
Reviewers describe the Type B as shooting "flatter than most pistols" with compensator-like behavior. Multiple 700+ round tests confirm that the dot snaps back to target position quickly during rapid strings.
The Type D shares the same AF-Speedlock mechanism and bore axis height, producing nearly identical muzzle behavior. French and European reviewers emphasize the Type D's "very fast" cycle speed and fluid slide movement.
The polymer-forward construction may absorb slightly more felt recoil energy compared to the Type B's steel chassis, though differences remain subtle in practical shooting.
Both pistols dramatically outperform traditional tilting-barrel compacts in reducing muzzle rise and enabling faster follow-up shots.
Grip Ergonomics for Different Hand Sizes
The Type B Gen 2 features aggressive grip texture that some shooters find slightly abrasive during extended sessions. The modular grip system allows configuration changes from compact to full-size profiles.
The high beavertail and deep undercut accommodate high grip positions common among experienced shooters. Measurements show the Type B at approximately 1.1 inches width, making it narrower than the Type D.
The Type D uses softer, more traditional grip texturing that European sport shooters describe as comfortable for extended range work.
The polymer frame feels slightly more forgiving in hand. At 1.4 inches width, the Type D offers more substantial purchase for shooters with larger hands. The interchangeable backstraps provide fit customization without requiring complete grip module changes.
Both pistols point naturally, though the Type B's narrower profile may suit appendix carry better while the Type D's wider grip provides more control surface.
Trigger Comparison
The Type B's flat-faced trigger breaks at 4.5-5.0 pounds with minimal creep and short, tactile reset. Timer-based reviews measure consistent 5-point pulls with minimal overtravel. The trigger design emphasizes speed shooting and precision, rivaling upgraded Glock triggers without aftermarket work.
The Type D's trigger measures slightly heavier at 5.0-5.5 pounds but maintains the same short reset and crisp break character. Reviewers describe it as predictable and performance-oriented compared to mainstream factory triggers. The slightly heavier pull suits duty users preferring more deliberate trigger action.
Neither trigger requires immediate upgrade for serious use, distinguishing both from Glocks that many shooters modify immediately.
Sight Radius and Practical Accuracy
Both pistols feature identical 4.3-inch barrels and similar sight radii of approximately 6.5 inches. The non-tilting barrel system in both maintains consistent lockup shot-to-shot, producing excellent mechanical accuracy potential. The meaningful difference is optics mounting—both offer RMR/RMS/Acro footprints in OR variants, with the Type D's straight slide potentially sitting slightly lower with certain optic plates.
Which Archon Offers Better Concealability and Carry Comfort?
The Type B provides marginally better concealability due to its 1.1-inch width versus the Type D's 1.4-inch width, though both pistols occupy similar compact footprints at identical 7.7-inch overall length and nearly identical weights around 29.6 ounces unloaded. Concealment differences emerge more from slide profile and grip texture than dimensional variations.
Print Profile for Different Body Types
The Type B's narrower 1.1-inch width and aggressive slide cuts reduce printing for slimmer carriers using appendix or strong-side hip positions. The sculpted slide contours may show less defined outline through clothing. However, the aggressive grip texture can irritate skin during direct contact carry.
The Type D's 1.4-inch width and straight slide create slightly more bulk at the beltline but present a more traditional holster-compatible profile. The softer grip texture proves more comfortable against skin for extended daily carry. European reviewers emphasize the Type D's comfort balance for all-day sport and defensive carry.
Both pistols' 29.6-ounce weights require quality gun belts to prevent sagging during 8+ hour carry sessions.
Holster Compatibility
The Type B's sculpted slide and aggressive styling work best with dedicated Type B holsters molded specifically for its contours. Some Glock 19 holster adaptation produces variable fit and retention results. The growing Type B holster ecosystem includes multiple IWB and OWB options from major manufacturers.
The Type D's straight slide and conservative profile adapt more readily to generic compact holsters. The traditional aesthetic means more holster makers can accommodate it without extensive custom molding. European distributors report better off-the-shelf holster compatibility for the Type D compared to the Type B's unique contours.
Seasonal Carry Considerations
Winter carry in heavy clothing conceals both pistols easily. The Type B's narrower profile maintains slight advantages for deep concealment under tucked shirts or fitted winter layers.
Summer carry with light clothing favors whichever pistol the individual carrier finds more comfortable—the Type B's narrow width versus the Type D's softer texture becomes personal preference. Both pistols' weights make them more fatiguing in hot weather compared to lighter polymer compacts.
How Does Magazine Capacity and Firepower Compare?
The Type B offers 15, 16, and 18-round magazine options with emphasis on 15-round standard capacity, while the Type D provides 12, 15, 16, and 19-round options reflecting more varied regional market preferences.
Both pistols use Archon's proprietary magazines that benefit from the AF-Speedlock system's straight feed path and high magazine positioning for improved feeding reliability.
Standard vs Extended Magazine Options
The Type B typically ships with 15 or 16-round magazines depending on market, with 18-round extended mags available. The straight feed geometry from AF-Speedlock's high magazine position improves feeding consistency across capacity levels.
The Type D's broader capacity range (12, 15, 16, 19 rounds) reflects its positioning toward international sport shooting markets with varied capacity restrictions. The 12-round option suits jurisdictions with magazine restrictions, while 19-round mags provide maximum capacity for home defense configurations.
Magazine availability remains tighter than mainstream manufacturers—Archon magazines cost $45-60 each compared to $25-35 for Glock magazines. Both pistols use the same magazine family, simplifying parts inventory for owners of multiple Archon firearms.
Real-World Capacity Needs by Use Case
For everyday carry, both pistols' 15-round standard capacity exceeds typical defensive requirements. Statistical data shows most defensive encounters involve 2-4 rounds fired, making 15 rounds ample safety margin.
For competition shooting, the Type B's 18-round capacity fits USPSA Production division requirements while the Type D's 19-round option provides slight edge in capacity-limited courses. Both pistols' flat recoil characteristics matter more than one round capacity difference in competitive contexts.
For duty and home defense, maximum capacity magazines (18-19 rounds) provide tactical advantage without concealment concerns. The Type D's 19-round option delivers highest capacity of both models.
Which Archon Pistol Offers Superior Modularity and Customization?
The Type B delivers more extensive modularity through its steel chassis system enabling grip module changes from compact to full-size configurations, while the Type D focuses modularity on optics and suppressor variants rather than dramatic frame size changes. Both platforms share the same Gen 2 family optics cuts and accessory rail standards.
Optics Mounting Options
Both the Type B and Type D offer identical optics mounting in OR (Optics Ready) variants. RMR, RMS, and Acro footprints mount directly without adapter plates. Freedom Gorilla's optics guide confirms both pistols share the same mounting platform, allowing identical red dot compatibility across both models.
The Type D's straight slide may position certain optics slightly lower with specific mounting plates, though practical differences remain minimal. Both pistols accommodate suppressor-height sights for co-witness setups in OSR (Optic & Suppressor Ready) configurations.
Aftermarket Support Ecosystem
Both platforms share the same developing ecosystem. Holster availability continues expanding, with major manufacturers now offering dedicated shells for Archon pistols. The Type B sees slightly more aftermarket attention due to its flagship status and earlier market entry.
Neither platform approaches Glock-level aftermarket depth. Trigger upgrades, custom barrels, and specialty parts remain limited compared to mainstream manufacturers. The factory configurations perform well enough that fewer owners feel immediate upgrade pressure.
Magazine aftermarket remains non-existent—both pistols require Archon OEM magazines. The shared magazine family between Type B and Type D provides some parts commonality for multi-gun owners.
Parts Interchangeability
The Type B and Type D share the Gen 2 family architecture, providing some parts interchangeability including magazines, recoil springs, and potentially some small parts. The different frame constructions (steel chassis vs polymer-forward) mean grip modules don't interchange between models.
Optics plates and mounting hardware interchange where footprints match. The shared 1913 Picatinny rail means weapon lights mount identically to both pistols.
Total Cost of Customization Comparison
Both pistols require minimal immediate customization. Quality night sights run $100-125, though factory sights prove adequate for most users. Optics add $250-500 depending on model choice. Weapon lights cost $100-300 regardless of which pistol they mount on.
The Type B's steel chassis costs more initially but requires no frame modifications. The Type D costs slightly more upfront but may need less grip customization due to its traditional ergonomics appealing to broader user bases.
Total customization costs converge within $100-200 between models when building equivalent configurations.
Does the Type B or Type D Deliver Better Reliability and Durability?
Both the Archon Type B Gen 2 and Type D demonstrate high reliability in testing through hundreds to thousands of rounds with minimal malfunctions using quality ammunition.
The Type B shows slightly more extensive independent testing data through 700-2,000 round reviews, while the Type D's reliability data continues accumulating as the newer platform gains users.
Round Count Longevity Expectations
The Type B Gen 2 shows proven reliability through multiple 700+ round tests including suppressed fire and weapon light configurations. GunsAmerica's comprehensive test recorded zero malfunctions through varied ammunition.
Additional tests exceeding 1,000-2,000 rounds confirm consistent performance. The steel chassis should provide excellent long-term durability through high round counts.
The Type D demonstrates reliable performance through several hundred round tests from multiple reviewers. European and French reviewers report excellent reliability with no significant malfunctions. However, extensive 5,000+ round testing data remains limited compared to the Type B due to newer market introduction.
Both pistols use three-stage progressive recoil springs intended to smooth cycling and extend spring life compared to conventional dual-spring systems.
Environmental Tolerance
The Type B's testing includes suppressed fire, weapon-mounted lights, and varied environmental conditions. The steel chassis and tight tolerances maintain function across temperature variations. The AF-Speedlock system's linear movement potentially reduces particle intrusion compared to tilting designs.
The Type D's polymer-forward construction may provide slightly better tolerance of thermal extremes through polymer's insulating properties. European sport shooting reviews emphasize reliable function across varied range conditions. Comprehensive environmental testing (mud, water, extreme cold) data remains limited for both platforms.
Maintenance Requirements Comparison
Both pistols use similar maintenance schedules. Field stripping follows conventional striker-fired procedures. The AF-Speedlock system's unique architecture means fewer gunsmiths possess specific platform expertise, though routine maintenance remains straightforward for competent owners.
Recoil spring replacement likely follows 5,000-8,000 round intervals. Magazine spring replacement every 10,000-15,000 rounds maintains feeding reliability. The steel components in both designs should outlast polymer-framed competitors under equivalent use.
How Does Practical Accuracy Compare at Defensive Distances?
Both the Type B and Type D deliver exceptional practical accuracy at all defensive distances due to their shared AF-Speedlock non-tilting barrel systems and 12mm bore axis positioning. Meaningful accuracy differences emerge more from trigger characteristics and shooter preferences than fundamental mechanical distinctions, with both pistols consistently outperforming traditional tilting-barrel compacts.
Barrel Length and Real-World Shooting
Both pistols use identical 4.3-inch barrels with 6-groove rifling, 1:10 right-hand twist, and 45-degree crowns. The non-tilting barrel system maintains consistent lockup shot-to-shot in both models, producing excellent mechanical accuracy potential. Bench rest testing shows tight groups at 25 yards with quality ammunition.
The Type B's steel chassis may provide fractionally more consistent barrel support, though practical accuracy differences remain imperceptible to most shooters. European reviewers describe the Type D as delivering "precision and control" with excellent grouping at defensive and sport distances.
Accuracy at Common Defensive Distances
At 3-7 yards: Both pistols far exceed accuracy requirements for center-mass hits. The flat recoil common to both models enables rapid follow-up shots with minimal sight lift. Split times improve 0.05-0.10 seconds compared to conventional compacts due to reduced muzzle rise.
At 15 yards: Both pistols maintain tight groups under speed. The Type B's slightly lighter trigger gives marginal advantage for precision work. The Type D's traditional ergonomics may suit shooters preferring more substantial grip feel.
At 25 yards: Bench rest accuracy shows both pistols capable of 1.5-2.5 inch groups with quality ammunition. The non-tilting barrel system in both produces consistent point of impact. Trigger characteristics become the differentiating factor more than barrel performance.
Competition-Relevant Precision
Both pistols excel in USPSA Production and IDPA contexts where flat recoil and fast sight recovery matter most. The Type B's aggressive styling and steel chassis appeal to competition-focused shooters. The Type D's traditional profile suits sport shooting contexts preferring conservative aesthetics.
Stage times remain comparable between models when shot by equivalent skill levels—the shared AF-Speedlock system provides the fundamental performance advantage in both pistols.
What's the Real Value Proposition and Total Ownership Cost?
The Type B costs $850-950 while the Type D runs $900-1,000, placing both in premium compact 9mm territory significantly above budget options but below fully custom builds. Total five-year ownership costs converge within $200-300 between models when factoring ammunition, magazines, accessories, and maintenance expenses.
Initial Purchase Cost vs Features Received
The Type B's $850-950 price delivers steel chassis modularity, aggressive performance styling, and excellent factory trigger. Out-of-box features rival pistols costing $1,200+ when upgraded equivalently. The steel construction justifies premium pricing through potential longevity advantages.
The Type D's $900-1,000 cost reflects its straight slide machining, polymer-forward construction, and traditional duty aesthetics. The slightly higher price compared to Type B suggests lower production volumes or targeted European sport shooting markets commanding premium pricing.
Both pistols deliver superior factory triggers, quality sights, and AF-Speedlock performance that would require extensive modifications to match in conventional pistols.
Resale Value Patterns
Both platforms face limited resale markets compared to Glock or SIG pistols. Expect resale values of 60-70% of original purchase price due to smaller buyer pools and limited brand recognition outside informed communities. Enthusiasts who understand AF-Speedlock technology pay fair prices, but finding buyers takes longer than mainstream alternatives.
The Type B's earlier market entry and flagship status may maintain slightly stronger resale values. The Type D's newer introduction means resale data remains limited.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Type B 5-Year Breakdown:
- Firearm: $900
- Magazines (4 additional): $220
- Holsters (IWB, OWB): $225
- Optic: $300
- Weapon light: $125
- Ammunition (3,000 rounds): $900
- Maintenance: $100
- Total: $2,770
Type D 5-Year Breakdown:
- Firearm: $950
- Magazines (4 additional): $220
- Holsters (IWB, OWB): $225
- Optic: $300
- Weapon light: $125
- Ammunition (3,000 rounds): $900
- Maintenance: $100
- Total: $2,820
The $50 difference represents less than 2% variance over five years. Ammunition costs dominate total ownership expenses, making shooting volume and practice frequency more significant than initial purchase price differences.
Which Archon Pistol Works Best for Your Specific Use Case?
Your choice between Type B and Type D depends primarily on whether you value maximum modularity and aggressive performance styling (Type B) or traditional aesthetics and polymer-forward ergonomics (Type D). Both deliver identical AF-Speedlock recoil advantages and comparable accuracy, making secondary characteristics the decision factors.
Optimal Use Cases for the Type B
Primary Use: Competition shooting, performance-oriented carry, and applications requiring maximum modularity through grip module changes.
Shooter Profile: Experienced practitioners who've progressed beyond baseline competency and want measurable performance improvements. Those with previous 1911 or custom pistol experience appreciate the refined controls and aggressive styling.
Lifestyle Fit: Dedicated training budgets with 3,000+ rounds annually. Carriers accepting slightly narrower width as advantage for appendix carry. Users who value mechanical innovation over institutional familiarity.
Training Investment: High-volume shooters who'll exploit the flat recoil through regular practice. Competitive shooters wanting factory-ready performance without extensive upgrades.
Optimal Use Cases for the Type D
Primary Use: Sport shooting, duty applications preferring traditional aesthetics, and defensive carry with conservative styling requirements.
Shooter Profile: Shooters preferring traditional duty pistol lines who still want superior recoil characteristics. European sport shooters and users in environments where conservative appearance matters. Those finding aggressive grip texture uncomfortable.
Lifestyle Fit: Moderate to high training volumes (1,500-3,000 rounds annually). Carriers preferring wider grip surface and softer texture. Users needing broader holster compatibility through straight slide profile.
Training Investment: Sport shooters and defensive practitioners wanting better performance than mainstream options without embracing radical designs.
Head-to-Head Scenarios
If you can only own one handgun: Choose the Type B if you want maximum versatility through modularity and plan extensive training. Choose the Type D if you prefer traditional aesthetics and polymer ergonomics with excellent performance.
For backup/secondary role: Choose the Type B if your primary is another Archon for magazine compatibility. Choose the Type D if backup needs favor traditional duty profiles.
If upgrading from Glock 19: Either Archon delivers meaningful recoil improvement. Choose Type B for maximum performance gains. Choose Type D for easier holster transition and familiar feel.
How Do Owner Experiences Compare Between These Archon Models?
Real-world feedback reveals both pistols earn consistent praise for flat recoil and exceptional factory triggers while facing similar criticisms regarding price, magazine availability, and developing aftermarket support.
The Type B shows more extensive user data through earlier market presence, while Type D feedback continues accumulating.
Common Praises by User Segment
Type B - Competition Shooters: Experienced competitors consistently highlight 10-15% stage time improvements after switching from conventional compacts. The steel chassis and flat recoil enable faster splits and better transition times. Multiple reviewers describe the Type B as shooting like a compensated pistol without adding a compensator.
Type B - Performance Carriers: Serious defensive carriers appreciate the factory quality requiring minimal upgrades. The aggressive texture and high beavertail enable confident grip without modification. Users report the pistol feels like a premium European import at mid-tier pricing.
Type D - Sport Shooters: European sport shooting communities praise the Type D's combination of traditional aesthetics with advanced performance. The softer grip texture suits extended range sessions. Reviewers emphasize the classic styling making it acceptable in conservative shooting contexts while delivering competition-level control.
Type D - Duty Users: Users in professional contexts appreciate the straight slide's holster compatibility and traditional appearance. The polymer-forward construction feels familiar to shooters transitioning from Glock or M&P platforms while delivering noticeably better recoil management.
Common Complaints by User Segment
Both Platforms - Magazine Availability: Owners consistently cite limited magazine availability and higher costs ($45-60 per magazine) compared to Glock alternatives. Building spare magazine inventories proves more expensive than mainstream platforms. Some users report needing to order from European suppliers or wait for domestic restocks.
Both Platforms - Aftermarket Limits: Users accustomed to Glock-level aftermarket selection find both Archons limiting. Holster options continue expanding but remain narrower than established platforms. Specialized parts and accessories require more searching or custom ordering.
Type B Specific - Grip Texture: Some extended-session shooters find the aggressive texture abrasive without gloves. The texture provides excellent control but may irritate during high-volume training days. This divides users between those wanting maximum grip and those preferring more forgiving surfaces.
Type D Specific - Limited Track Record: As the newer platform, the Type D faces more skepticism regarding long-term durability. Potential buyers question whether to adopt a platform without extensive 10,000+ round testing data. Conservative buyers await more community feedback before committing.
How Do the Holster and Accessory Ecosystems Compare?
Both the Archon Type B and Type D benefit from growing holster availability across carry methods, with dedicated polymer shells now available from major manufacturers.
Rapid Force Level 3 Retention
Rapid Force Level 3 holsters add third security mechanisms to both the Type B and Type D for maximum retention in uniformed duty or military applications. These holsters provide duty-grade security for either Archon model while maintaining trained accessibility.
Magazine and Accessory Costs
Magazine aftermarket remains non-existent for both pistols—Archon OEM magazines cost $45-60 each compared to $25-35 for Glock alternatives. Building 10-magazine inventories costs $450-600 for either Archon versus $250-350 for Glock equivalents.
Optics compatibility remains identical between models. RMR, RMS, and Acro footprints mount directly in OR variants without adapter plates. Quality red dots run $250-500 regardless of which Archon model they mount on.
Weapon lights mount identically via 1913 Picatinny rails on both pistols. Streamlight TLR-7, SureFire X300, and similar compact lights cost $100-300 and fit either model equivalently.
Complete System Cost
Type B Complete System:
- Firearm: $900
- Red dot: $300
- Weapon light: $125
- Four spare magazines: $220
- IWB holster: $85
- OWB holster: $75
- Magazine pouches: $60
- Gun belt: $100
- 500 rounds defensive ammo: $400
- 2,000 rounds training ammo: $600
- Total: $2,865
Type D Complete System:
- Firearm: $950
- Red dot: $300
- Weapon light: $125
- Four spare magazines: $220
- IWB holster: $85
- OWB holster: $75
- Magazine pouches: $60
- Gun belt: $100
- 500 rounds defensive ammo: $400
- 2,000 rounds training ammo: $600
- Total: $2,915
The $50 system cost difference represents less than 2% variance, making either choice equivalent in total investment terms.
Final Verdict Matrix
| Use Case | Winner | Why | Confidence Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| First-Time CCW | Type D | Traditional aesthetics and softer grip texture more forgiving for new carriers building skills | Medium |
| Competition USPSA Production | Type B | Steel chassis provides maximum consistency; aggressive styling and narrower width suit competition focus | High |
| Duty/Professional | Type D | Conservative styling better suits institutional contexts; straight slide improves holster compatibility | Medium |
| Backup Gun | Type B | Narrower profile suits backup carry positions; modularity enables size adjustment for specific roles | Medium |
| Suppressed Shooting | Tie | Both share identical AF-Speedlock advantages for suppressed use; choose based on aesthetic preference | High |
| Maximum Modularity | Type B | Steel chassis enables grip module changes from compact to full-size; marketed for configuration flexibility | High |
| Traditional Aesthetics | Type D | Straight slide and conservative styling appeal to shooters preferring classic duty pistol appearance | High |
| Sport Shooting | Type D | Softer grip texture suits extended sessions; traditional lines accepted in conservative sport contexts | High |
The decision matrix reveals neither pistol dominates all categories. The Type B excels in competition, modularity, and backup roles where narrower profile matters. The Type D wins duty, sport shooting, and contexts valuing traditional aesthetics. Both tie in suppressed applications where AF-Speedlock advantages shine equally.
Your specific priorities determine the correct choice. Performance-focused shooters wanting maximum modularity should choose the Type B. Users preferring traditional styling with advanced performance should select the Type D.
Both deliver the revolutionary AF-Speedlock recoil management that distinguishes Archon pistols from conventional alternatives—the choice is which packaging better serves your shooting context and aesthetic preferences