The Archon Type D is a finely engineered compact 9 mm that turns the AF-Speedlock® non-tilting barrel concept into a practical, duty-ready pistol. If you want match-level accuracy and flat, race-gun-style recoil in a compact package — and you’re OK paying a premium for a relatively new platform — the Type D belongs on your shortlist.
The Archon Type D is Archon Firearms’ compact, second-generation offering that refines ideas first seen in the Type B: a low bore axis, a straight-line AF-Speedlock® barrel/lockup, and a focus on control and precision.
Released as part of Archon’s Gen-2 refresh, the Type D pares back some visual complexity in favor of a simplified, flat slide and improved ergonomics intended for duty, carry, and serious range use.
Archon positions the pistol as a compact, duty-capable platform that brings European engineering into a U.S.-market package via PTR import partners.
Archon Type D Specifications
| Item | Spec |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 9×19 mm Luger |
| Barrel length | 4.3 in (109 mm) |
| Overall length | 7.7 in (196 mm) |
| Height | ~5.1–5.2 in (132 mm) |
| Width | ~1.4 in (36 mm) |
| Weight (unloaded) | ~29.6 oz / 840 g |
| Frame | Polymer with internal steel chassis |
| Slide / barrel | Nitrided or DLC-coated stainless steel |
| Mag capacity | 15-round flush; 16- or 19-round extended options; Glock-style compatibility |
| Safeties | Trigger safety + internal striker/drop safeties (no manual) |
| Optics / variants | Optics-ready (ACRO/RMS cuts) and SR/OSR suppressor-ready/threaded options |
| Accessory rail | MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny |
| Trigger pull | ~5.0–5.5 lb reported |
| MSRP / street | Launch MSRP ~ $900–$1,000; street varies by dealer/region |
These numbers put the Type D in the compact-9 segment (Glock-19 / P320 Compact class) but with a heavier, more machined slide/barrel and a noticeably lower bore axis.
Design & Build Quality of the Archon Type D
Frame & slide:
The Type D uses a polymer frame with an internal steel chassis and a machined stainless steel slide/barrel finished in nitride or DLC.
The Gen-2 build shows tight tolerances and clean machining consistent with PTR’s U.S. production runs. The slide is intentionally flattened and simplified compared to some Archon variants, giving it a conservative look while retaining technical advantages.
Ergonomics & grip:
Interchangeable backstraps and a modular grip geometry let you tailor fit. Archon softened some edges and undercut the triggerguard for a cleaner draw and more natural index — users commonly report a “naturally pointing” feel with the updated modules.
The texture can be aggressive; a minority of shooters report it feels abrasive during long range sessions without gloves.
Controls:
The controls are straightforward: a trigger safety plus internal striker/drop safeties, a conventional slide stop, and a reversible magazine release.
There’s no manual thumb safety on standard configs. Trigger pull is reported in the mid-4 to mid-5-pound range with a short, tactile reset — reviewers often say it feels crisper than many factory striker systems.
Accessories & optics:
Archon offers multiple optic cuts (RMS/ACRO/P-2) and SR/OSR suppressor-ready variants (threaded barrels with appropriate timing).
The pistol ships with a MIL-STD rail for lights; sights use a Glock-pattern dovetail so aftermarket options are plentiful. This makes the Type D flexible for duty/light-bearing or suppressed applications.
Variants & model differences
Archon sells the Type D in several trims:
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Standard Type D: optics-capable slide, standard sights, typical compact configuration.
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OR (Optics-Ready): pre-cut for popular micro-dots (RMS/ACRO etc.).
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SR (Suppressor-Ready): threaded barrel variants to accept silencers.
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OSR: combined optic + suppressor readiness in one package.
Compared to the Type B, the Type D generally swaps the more sculpted slide for a flat, snag-free profile and tightens the ergonomics for carry — the internals and AF-Speedlock® principle remain. That makes the Type D a sleeker, slightly more carry-oriented complement to the Type B
What Are the Direct Competitors of the Archon Type D?
The Archon Type D competes most directly with compact and duty-size striker-fired 9mm pistols such as the Glock 17/19, Walther PDP Compact, Smith & Wesson M&P 9 M2.0, and CZ P-10C/F. These models occupy the same space as reliable, high-capacity polymer pistols intended for duty use, home defense, and serious range work. Like the Type D, they emphasize shootability, durable construction, and consistent trigger systems rather than concealment-first design.
Gun owners should care because the Type D brings a different mechanical approach into a familiar category. Its non-tilting barrel and low bore axis reduce muzzle rise and soften recoil impulse, which can translate into faster follow-up shots and better control under stress.
Comparing it to established platforms helps shooters decide whether they value proven aftermarket depth and institutional adoption, or innovative recoil management and shooting characteristics that can offer a tangible performance edge.
Archon Type D Performance
Accuracy:
The straight, non-tilting AF-Speedlock® barrel stays aligned with the slide/receiver through the cycle, which delivers tight groups off the bench and consistent point-of-impact across rapid strings.
Reviewers comparing it to typical striker compacts report match-grade or near-match groups at 25 yards when using quality ammo and optics.
Recoil & follow-up speed:
The Type D’s low bore axis (reported around 12 mm) plus the linear AF-Speedlock motion produces a “push” recoil impulse with very little muzzle flip.
Observers note rapid sight re-acquisition and easy follow-up shots — often compared favorably to tuned competition pistols. This is the single feature most shooters highlight.
Reliability:
Independent testers and reviewers have put several hundred to a few thousand rounds through Gen-2 Archons with very high reliability — many report essentially 100% cycling with modern factory ammo in short-term tests.
PTR’s US import/service network and the pistol’s simple striker system appear to be robust in early trials. That said, long-term +10,000-round data is not yet widely published for Gen-2 platforms.
Trigger:
The factory trigger breaks at a clean 4.5–5.5 lb with a short reset; testers generally praise its tactile feel and crisp break, often saying it feels “cleaner” than many stock striker triggers from mainstream OEMs.
Durability & finish:
Nitride/DLC finishes on slide and barrel have held up well in range tests (thousands of rounds) with limited holster wear reported in reviews. Machining tolerances appear tight; PTR’s QC is referenced positively.
Ammunition compatibility
Grain weights:
The Type D performs well with a wide range of 115–147 gr loads. For defensive use, 124–147 gr +JHPs (properly tested) balance muzzle energy and shootability.
Testers run typical 115–124 gr duty loads for reliability and 124–147 gr for reduced recoil impulse and improved terminal performance.
+P usage:
There are reports of safe +P use, but like any modern pistol, follow manufacturer guidance and test for specific ammo brands in your sample.
No widespread feeding or extraction issues with +P have been broadly reported in short-term tests.
Feeding/extraction notes:
Archon’s Glock-style mag interface and feed geometry mean widely available factory and aftermarket mags will generally work — though early adopters flagged magazine supply as a constraint (limited spare mag availability compared to Glock ubiquity). If you buy a Type D, secure spare OEM mags early.
Early adopters and reviewers sum it up nicely: the Type D is “a compact that shoots like a race gun.” If that description excites you more than it scares you (and you don’t need every accessory to be already on the shelf), take one for a test drive at a range that rents or offers demos — the handling difference is the point of purchase decision for most buyers.
Use-case suitability
Concealed carry / daily carry:
The Type D’s slimmed slide, 4.3-inch barrel and compact footprint make it carryable, especially for users who prioritize shootability over ultra-small concealability.
At ~29.6 oz unloaded it isn’t the lightest compact, so consider holster/garment choices. Overall: very capable for CCW if you accept its size/weight tradeoffs.
Home-defense / duty:
Excellent — the pistol’s ergonomics, capacity options and light rail make it a viable duty or home-defense gun. The option for threaded barrels and robust optics cuts further enhances its role as a professional tool.
Competition (IDPA/USPSA):
The flat recoil and fast resets make it attractive for action shooting. Depending on division rules and modifications, it can be competitive out of the box or as a base for modest tuning.
Suppressor host:
The SR/OSR options, combined with the straight-line AF-Speedlock action, make the Type D an excellent suppressor host — reviewers ran suppressed strings without needing a booster and praised the consistent cycling. If suppressor use is a priority, this is one of the platform’s strongest selling points.
Range toy vs workhorse:
The Type D straddles both: it’s fun to shoot (race-gun feel) and engineered for real duty use. For serious, long-term heavy-use duty, the platform’s relative youth and aftermarket limitations are considerations — but PTR’s warranty and early durability reports are encouraging.
Best holsters for Archon Type D
(When buying, match the exact slide/optic/threaded configuration — OSR/OR/SR models will need specific holster cuts.)
The RAPID FORCE® Level III Duty Holster for the Archon Type D sets a new benchmark in professional-grade retention and reliability. Purpose-built for law enforcement, military, and armed security personnel, this holster balances uncompromising security with lightning-fast access under pressure.
Engineered around the Archon Type D’s compact, low-bore-axis profile, it delivers a precise fit that ensures consistent retention without sacrificing draw speed. The triple-locking retention system secures your firearm until intentionally released, providing total confidence in high-stress environments.
A reinforced MRDS hood protects most red-dot optics and can be removed or replaced as needed, while the oversized light channel supports a wide range of full-size duty lights. Every element—from its rugged polymer construction to the Quick Disconnect System—is designed for modularity and long-term durability.
Trusted by professionals who demand both speed and security, the RAPID FORCE® Level III Duty Holster for the Archon Type D delivers maximum retention, effortless draw control, and mission-ready performance in any environment.
Archon Type D Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptionally flat, controllable recoil thanks to AF-Speedlock® low bore axis.
- Match-grade accuracy potential from non-tilting barrel and tight tolerances.
- Optic and suppressor-ready variants are available out of the box.
- Solid build quality, robust finishes (nitride/DLC).
Cons
- Higher MSRP / street price vs mainstream compacts (Glock, Canik, S&W).
- Spare magazine availability and aftermarket parts lag compared to Glock platforms.
- Some users find grip texture abrasive in long sessions.
Final verdict
The Archon Type D is not an incremental “me too” pistol — it’s a thoughtfully engineered compact that brings a race-gun feel to a practical package. For technically minded shooters, competitive shooters who want a compact training gun, or professionals who value low muzzle flip and suppressor compatibility, the Type D is a compelling option.
Who should buy it
- Shooters who prioritize recoil control and fast follow-ups.
- Users who want optics and suppressor readiness from the factory.
- Range-centric owners who will appreciate match-grade accuracy and crisp triggers.
Recoil
Who might skip it
- Budget shoppers who want the cheapest, most supported spare-mag ecosystem (Glock still wins there).
- Owners who demand the broadest aftermarket (holsters exist, but custom parts/accessory selection is still growing).
Value for money: At around $900–$1,000, the Type D sits at a premium relative to entry-level compacts but undercuts many fully bespoke race builds. If the features — low bore axis, optics/suppressor readiness, and superior out-of-the-box control — matter to you, the price is justified. If you prioritize ubiquity of parts and magazines above raw performance, a mainstream platform may offer better value.
Long-term ownership & support: PTR’s U.S. import presence, Archon’s growing dealer network, and positive early durability reports suggest reasonable support. Still, as with any newer premium platform, plan for initial accessory scarcity (spare mags, boutique parts) and budget for OEM magazines early.