The Daniel Defense H9: Striker-fired Meets 1911
When Daniel Defense announced it was releasing its first-ever concealed carry pistol at SHOT Show 2024, it created quite a stir. The manufacturer is well-known for its AR-15-style and bolt action rifles, so the release of a compact 9mm handgun was something pretty exciting.
The Daniel H9 is essentially a striker-fired 1911 and truly is the best of both worlds. Lightweight yet durable, this unique firearm has a low-bore axis, ambidextrous controls, an accessory rail, and a straight pullback trigger. It comes optics-ready and shoots like a much larger gun without all the bulk – what’s not to love?
In this article, we’ll cover all the details about the DD H9 and talk about the pros and cons of using it for concealed carry.
Daniel H9 Specs
9mm
Striker Fired
Compact
Yes
STANAG 4694
5.12"
7.69"
4.28"
1"
29.6 oz
15
$1,299
Daniel H9 Features
Size & Capacity:
The Daniel H9 is a compact pistol with a relatively low weight of 29.6 ounces. It measures 5.12 inches tall, 1 inch wide, and 7.69 inches long with a barrel length of 4.28 inches. Chambered in 9mm, the H9 has a 15-round capacity. It’s also worth noting that the H9’s magazine is one of the thinnest on the market as far as double-stack mags go. In terms of cost, the Daniel Defense H9 price is pretty steep with an MSRP of $1,299.
Ergonomics:
When it comes to ergonomics, Daniel Defense went all out. Designed with a low bore axis, the H9 sits low in your hand, which effectively reduces recoil and speeds up sight re-acquisition. Not only is there less muzzle flip but the DD H9 is said to cycle faster than most, making it that much quicker to fire follow-up shots. It may be lightweight, but this 1911/striker-fired handgun combo shoots like a much larger pistol – equally maneuverable and concealable.
Frame:
The American-made Daniel H9’s frame is made from a durable yet lightweight aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, making it comfortable to carry for long periods. Like the rest of Daniel Defense’s firearms, the H9’s barrel is made from cold hammer-forged stainless steel.
The H9 also features textured G-10 grip panels for a secure purchase, which are designed to be comfortable in the hand and prevent friction against your hand and clothing, and are replaceable if needed. And while it should go without saying, the DD H9 comes equipped with a STANAG 4694 accessory rail.
Sights & Optics:
As far as sights go, this pistol comes with standard dovetail cut sights that match Sig Sauer’s P-series, meaning the H9 is also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket sights if you’d like to upgrade. And while it doesn’t come optics-ready out of the box, the DD H9 comes with a coupon for a free mounting plate that allows you to mount a red-dot optic of your choice if desired. The plate options available include those that can accommodate Trijicon, Shield, Docter, and C-more red dots.
Controls:
The Daniel Defense H9 features an ambidextrous slide-stop latch and reversible mag release to easily accommodate both left- and right-handed shooters. It has a wide straight-pullback trigger with a 1911-style blade to reduce trigger jerk, giving you more control. And while it doesn’t come with a manual thumb safety, the H9 is equipped with a striker-fired-style trigger safety blade.
About Daniel Defense
Based out of Black Creek, Georgia, the family-owned firearms manufacturer Daniel Defense has been in the business of crafting high-quality rifles and accessories since 2000. The company is known for creating AR-15-style rifles, pistols, bolt-action rifles, and accessories for law enforcement, military, and civilian users.
Unlike many gun manufacturers who outsource for supplies, Daniel Defense makes nearly every component part it sells in-house to ensure high-quality, precisely built products that customers love. All the company’s products feature built-in durability and accuracy, customization options, and a lifetime guarantee.
Daniel Defense is, perhaps, best known for its AR-15 rifles and pistols, including the MK12, DDM4, MK18, and M4A1. It also offers an extensive selection of bolt-action rifles like the Pro Chassis System series and Delta 5, as well as a variety of AR10 rifles.
To learn more about the Daniel Defense company, check out its website here.
Summary
The Daniel Defense H9 is the first of its kind. Not only is it Daniel Defense’s first-ever concealed carry handgun release, but it’s also designed with a unique striker-fired meets 1911 style that brings a lot of possibilities to the table.
If you’re looking for a new IWB, OWB, or pocket carry holster for your current carry gun, visit our Holsters by Gun Model page for Kydex holsters that are custom-made for your weapon of choice.
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