SAINT Victor 9mm Carbine: A Smart Choice for Home Defense

In my 2017 post, “Gun Review: Springfield Armory’s SAINT AR-15 Rifles,” I highlighted the first two AR-15s in the SAINT line. I now have the SAINT Victor 9mm carbine and can’t help but think what a great firearm this is for home defense and target shooting. 

Sponsored by Springfield Armory

SAINT Victor 9mm Carbine

In December 2022, Springfield Armory introduced the SAINT Victor 9mm carbine, also referred to as a PCC (pistol caliber carbine). Here are some of the features we have come to expect from the SAINT Victor line and more:

  • M-Lok full-length free-floated handguard
  • Flat trigger 
  • SA Muzzle Drum directs sound, concussion and debris toward the target, minimizing blast and recoil
  • Low profile, spring-loaded flip-up iron sights (adjustable for windage and elevation)
  • QD mounts for any sling configuration
  • Five-position adjustable stock
  • Ambidextrous safety
  • 32-round magazine
  • 6-pounds, 15-ounces
  • 31.75- to 35-inches in length

Carbines for Home Defense

Having any firearm on hand (pistol, shotgun, carbine) for home defense puts you ahead of the game when a threat to your security shows up. However, if given the option, there are many benefits to making a carbine your first choice. 

four points of contact
(Ken Laugel photo)

A carbine gives you four points of contact with your body, allowing for better control and recoil. 

  1. Cheek to stock 
  2. Buttstuck to shoulder
  3. Support hand on the handguard 
  4. Strong hand on the grip
Springfield Saint 9mm

Accessorizing a carbine to fit any and all your needs is pretty much only limited to the length of your handguard and the number of M-Lok slots available. Following are some accessories many people add to home defense carbines.

  • Flashlight
  • Laser
  • Red dot
SAINT 9mm ammo

Another important reason to choose a carbine for home defense is the amount of ammunition each magazine holds. The more the better … right!

Why the PCC

Hopefully, by now I’ve convinced you of the many reasons a carbine is a choice for home defense. Now, here are some reasons the SAINT Victor 9mm carbine is an excellent option for both seasoned and new shooters.  

  1. If you or someone you train is new to the AR platform, the SAINT Victor 9mm carbine has less recoil than a larger caliber. Less recoil means less flinching or anticipation, which makes learning easier and more pleasurable. 
  2. If you decide to purchase a larger caliber SAINT Victor, you already will have learned to shoot an almost-identical firearm. 
  3. You save money on ammunition – 9mm ammo costs less than 5.56. Cha-Ching! 
  4. If you own another SAINT Victor in a different caliber, you can use your 9mm for training and practice. This makes range time more affordable. Another cha-ching!
Cerino porch 9mm carbine
(Ken Laugel photo)

Michelle’s Takeaway

I was really excited when I finally had the chance to head to the range with the SAINT Victor 9mm carbine. It’s been on my wish list for a while now, and shooting a PCC just made sense. Whether teaching, training or just plinking, I usually have 9mm ammunition with me. Now, I can pack the Victor 9mm carbine with my gear in case there is time at the end of the session to bring it out and not have to worry about having the correct ammunition. 

saint-victor-9mm-carbine-2

Now, I have to decide what accessories I want to add to my PCC. Yes, I’m going to have to purchase this one.

Read more about the SAINT Victor 9mm carbine here.

Also available in low capacity and California compliant. 

MSRP: $1,299

  • About Michelle Cerino

    Michelle Cerino, aka Princess Gunslinger, first entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and trainer at a national training company. She immediately began competing in both 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol, becoming a sponsored shooter. Michelle is currently a columnist and Managing Editor of Women’s Outdoor News, as well as owner of Pervenio LLC. She also manages social media for Vera Koo and GTM Original. Michelle encourages others to step out of the comforts of home and explore.