First Shots: Zev/Magpul FDC-9 Folding Carbine

Is this the ultimate backpack gun?

by
posted on October 22, 2024

The new Zev/Magpul FDC-9 is the culmination of a years-long collaboration between Zev Technologies, known for making high-quality Glock-compatible firearms and Magpul, a leader in firearms accessories. The FDC-9 folds into a lightweight (just 3.25 pounds), compact (10.75 inches when folded) SBR that’s easy to carry and, most importantly) doesn’t look like a gun until it’s opened. In addition to this, the FDP-9 will be available soon after SHOT Show 2025, and it will be a true large-format pistol without a brace. 

The FDC-9 and the FDP-9 both can use Glock 17-round magazines or Magpul 21-round magazines. The trigger mechanism on both guns is disabled when folded, making them both safe to carry with a round in the chamber. In addition to this, there is a manual safety switch on the right side, and an ambidextrous charging handle on top. 

Inside of both firearms is a 7-inch barrel with a 1:10-inch right hand twist. The overall of length of both guns is 20.125 inches when unfolded, and both ship with two Magpul PMAG 17-round magazines. 

On top of both guns is a short section of Picatinny rail. The guns ship with a carry handle which has integrated iron sights, and there is a shorter section of Picatinny rail on the handle. The handle is easily removed, allowing you to mount whichever combination of sight or accessory such as a laser or light you prefer. 

The beauty of the FDC-9/FDP-9 system is that it allows you to carry a something that packs more firepower into an easy-to-carry package that doesn’t scream “gun” to those around you. The small size and light weight of these guns make them dead-simple to slip into a backpack for off-body carry or to keep them safely stowed in your vehicle until something more than your carry pistol is needed to protect what is most important to you. 

The FDC-9 will be available at your local Zev dealer and all the usual locations on January 21st, 2025, the opening day of SHOT Show 2025, and the FDP-9 will be available soon after that.

Latest

SIG Sauer Opens Jacksonville Arkansas Ammunition Center
SIG Sauer Opens Jacksonville Arkansas Ammunition Center

SIG Sauer Opens Jacksonville Arkansas Ammunition Center

SIG adds more than 200,000 square feet to its ammunition-making capacity.

Review: Colt Viper Revolver

Colt’s new .357 Mag. Viper is worth serious consideration as an EDC option.

First Look: New Rifles From Arsenal

Three more AK platform rifles in two different calibers.

First Look: JV Training Dry Fire Magazine Inserts

Add more realism to your dry-fire practice.

Review: Meprolight MPO PRO-F Closed Emitter Pistol Optic

Keep the dot shining, no matter the wind or weather. 

Hickok’s Mistake

There’s a time to lower your defenses, and it’s not when you’re out and about. 

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.