Century Arms Models

Century International Arms, founded in 1961, has carved out a unique space in the U.S. firearms industry. Initially headquartered in Vermont before relocating to Florida in 1995, the company may not have the deep history of some of its competitors, but it boasts an impressive lineup of firearms and a fascinating origin story. 

The company's roots lie in an unexpected twist of fate. William Sucher, a typewriter repairman with no connection to firearms, found his business slowing down. A series of fortunate events led him to explore sourcing surplus rifles to sell for profit. Partnering with his brother-in-law, Sucher uncovered firearm supply opportunities across various countries, and by the 1970s, Century Arms had become North America’s largest firearms importer. 

Production wasn’t part of the original plan, but as surplus firearms dwindled, Century Arms pivoted to manufacturing its own firearms. Today, while still importing select models, the company is best known for producing modern interpretations of iconic firearms, continuing its tradition of adaptability and innovation.

Canik Pistols

Produced in Turkey, Canik pistols have gained widespread recognition in the firearms world. Originally imported into the U.S. by Century International Arms, these firearms have become synonymous with quality and affordability. Over time, Canik pistols have grown to be some of the most iconic products associated with the Century Arms name.

The Origin of Canik Firearms

Canik pistols are largely original designs, though some models draw inspiration from other firearms. For example, the TP9 series shares similarities with the Walther P99, but Canik has earned a reputation for delivering quality pistols at an accessible price point.

Are Canik Pistols Worth It?

While they might not rival the craftsmanship of high-end brands, Canik pistols are widely regarded as excellent value for money. They offer a solid balance of reliability, performance, and cost-effectiveness, making them a popular choice for both new and experienced shooters.

The Canik Pistol Lineup

Here’s a closer look at the standout models in the Canik lineup:

• Mete SFt The Mete SFt is designed with ambidextrous slide lock levers and supports multiple calibers, including .380 ACP, .40 S&W, and 9mm. It has undergone several generational updates, each introducing minor refinements.
• Mete SFx Once a prominent choice, the Mete SFx has fallen out of favor. It features low-profile sights that are less practical, but the serrated rib between the sights adds a touch of functionality.
• SFx Rival This long-slide pistol is crafted for competitive and practice shooting. While its performance stands out, its appearance is more subdued, leaving aesthetics enthusiasts wanting more.
• TP9 Series The TP9 is arguably the most recognizable model under the Canik brand. It’s celebrated for its steel construction, robust front sight, and overall reliability. The TP9 series includes a variety of variants, each introducing slight tweaks or improvements. While many of these changes are incremental, the TP9 remains a fan favorite for its durability and practicality. Popular variants include:
  • TP9 SF
  • TP9 SA
  • TP9 SFx
  • TP9 v2
  • TP9 SF Elite
  • TP9 Elite SC
  • TP9 Elite Combat
  • TP9 Elite Combat Executive
  • TP9 SFL
  • TP9 DA
  • TP40 v2

Canik pistols are produced by the Samsun Domestic Defense and Industry Corporation, operating under the Aral Industry Corporation umbrella in Turkey. Renowned for their commitment to intelligent engineering, the company has solidified Canik’s reputation as a global leader in accessible, high-performance firearms.

Century Arms

Century International Arms has built its reputation on improving and reimagining existing firearms, often addressing flaws in the original designs to enhance performance and usability. Here’s a breakdown of some of their standout models:

C308

The C308 is a highly reliable battle rifle inspired by the CETME rifle. Known for its clean design and rugged durability, it’s a favorite among military forces in over 70 countries, making it a go-to for challenging conditions.

C39 and C39V2

Both versions of the C39 are modernized clones of the legendary AK-47. These models maintain the reliability of the AK platform while incorporating enhancements that make them stand out in the market.

L1A1

This self-loading rifle uses the 7.62x51mm NATO caliber and has a long production history, from 1954 to 1999. With numerous variants, including squad automatic weapons, the L1A1 is a versatile option for various applications.

RAS47

Modeled after the classic AKM, the RAS47 is chambered in 7.62x39mm and features gas-operated functionality. Its clean design and precision make it a popular choice among enthusiasts.

SKS

A semi-automatic rifle originally designed by the Soviets in 1945, the SKS is chambered in 7.62x39mm. While not unique to Century Arms, it remains a popular import due to its historical significance and reliability.

SSG 82

Known in some regions as the Scharfschützengewehr 82, this precision rifle was developed in 1982 and uses the 5.45x39mm caliber. It’s highly regarded for its accuracy and engineering.

vz. 24

Originally produced in Czechoslovakia, the vz. 24 is a bolt-action rifle chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser. It builds on classic designs with notable improvements.

vz. 50

This semi-automatic pistol, also from Czechoslovakia, is chambered in .32 ACP. It’s celebrated for its practicality and straightforward design.

WASR Series

Manufactured in Romania, the WASR series includes a variety of rifles that Century Arms imports for the North American market. These firearms have gained a loyal following for their durability and affordability.

Zastava M57

Initially developed for military use in Yugoslavia, this semi-automatic pistol was introduced in 1957 and remains a classic in the Century Arms catalog.

Zastava M70

A budget-friendly alternative to the AK-47, the M70 uses the 7.62x39mm caliber. It was designed to deliver the same reliability at a lower cost.

VSKA

A robust AKM clone, the VSKA stands out with a redesigned bolt carrier and a durable front trunnion, making it one of the most resilient firearms in the lineup.

BFT-47

Borrowing elements from RPK-style firearms, such as its reinforced front trunnion, the BFT-47 is a versatile AKM variant with improved durability.

Red Army Standard Ammunition

In addition to firearms, Century International Arms is a key importer of Red Army Standard Ammunition, catering to a wide range of shooting needs. 

Century International Arms has excelled in importing surplus firearms and ammunition, bringing iconic designs to the North American market at accessible prices. While their proprietary production focuses on enhancing well-established firearm designs, their contributions have made them a cornerstone of the firearms industry.