SHADOW SYSTEMS DR920
Posted Jun 15, 2023
9mm
Shadow Systems is a relatively new firearms company founded in 2018. Their mission, as stated on their website, is to “create world-class firearms for the most discriminating shooter.” The Shadow Systems DR920 9mm is their full-sized, semi-automatic pistol.
At first glance, the Shadow Systems DR920 has a classic look and feel. It has a black polymer frame with a Picatinny rail for accessories and a stainless steel suspension slide and barrel. The slide features serrations in the front and rear for quick slide manipulations. Several different grip stippling options are available, and the DR920 also features aggressive texture and an undercut trigger guard for improved ergonomics.
The DR920 uses a standard double-stack 9mm magazine with a capacity of 17+1 rounds. In my experience, I found the magazine to be incredibly reliable, insert and feed well, and eject cleanly. The DR920 also has an ambidextrous magazine release for easier reloading.
The trigger is one of the DR920’s selling points. It has a smooth, consistent pull. The break is clean and crisp with minimal take-up and reset. Overall, I think it compares favorably with other at the price point (Shadow Systems states that its triggers are tuned to 4.5lbs). And one advantage that the Shadow Systems pistol has over many of its competitors is that it does not require any additional tools to adjust the pull.
The DR920 also features a low-profile slide release and takedown lever, both of which are ambidextrous. This is definitely a plus for both range shooters and CCW holders.
In addition, the DR920 comes with a set of Novak sights which are installed from the factory. The sights are fiber-optic and contrasted, allowing for quick target acquisition. I found them to be very reliable and easy to use.
Lastly, the DR920 ships with one 17-round magazine and an integrated tool that makes disassembly and reassembly easy.
In terms of accuracy, I found the DR920 to be impressive. I was consistently able to hit my target at 25 yards with minimal shot-to-shot deviation. That said, the pistol is not match-grade, so don’t expect it to perform like one. But its long barrel and adjustable sights mean it will still perform well for competition shooting.
In terms of reliability, I found the DR920 to be excellent. Both factory ammunition and reloads functioned flawlessly during my testing. I put more than 1,000 rounds through the DR920 without a single malfunction or issue.
Overall, I have been really impressed with the Shadow Systems DR920. It is well-made, reliable, accurate, and features many of the elements of a more expensive firearm. The adjustable sights, decent trigger, and ambidextrous controls make it a great choice for range shooting, defensive use, and even competition shooting.
The DR920 isn’t perfect; I would like to see a more wide array of grip options as well as an improved takedown tool. But overall, I think the Shadow Systems DR920 is an excellent pistol at a great price. It is well-built, reliable, and comes packed with features normally found only on more expensive firearms. Highly recommended.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Fast and intuitive interface – The SHADOW SYSTEMS DR920 has a user-friendly and fast graphical user interface, making it easy to use and navigate.
• Lots of features – The system boasts a huge number of features, including onboard GPS, OBD-II data logging, and much more.
• Flexible operation – With the user-friendly Linux operating system, the system can be customized to fit the needs of any user.
• Easy installation and setup – The SHADOW SYSTEMS DR920 comes preconfigured, and all that’s needed to get up and running is to plug it in and start using it.
Cons:
• Expensive – With its large feature set and customizability, the system does have a higher price tag than other similar systems in the market.
• Rigidity – The system is not as flexible as some other systems, so a user who wants to customize features may find himself unable to do so.
• Durability – The DR920 system does not have the greatest durability rating in the market, which could be a potential problem for those who are using it in harsh environments.
Who Should Buy
The SHADOW SYSTEMS DR920 is a 9mm pistol designed for self-defense and competitive shooting. This pistol is suitable for anyone looking for a highly reliable and performance-oriented handgun. Beginner shooters would benefit from a pistol of this caliber due to its manageable recoil, easy to learn controls, and adjustable grip. Experienced shooters would enjoy the pistol for its superb accuracy, ergonomics, and reliable operation.
However, those who are inexperienced with firearms should avoid purchasing the SHADOW SYSTEMS DR920. This pistol is designed for experienced shooters, and requires a high level of proficiency and skill to use effectively. Additionally, the DR920 is priced fairly high so it may not be within the budget of those who are new to guns.
Comparisons
| SHADOW SYSTEMS DR920 | SMITH & WESSON PC1911 | WILSON COMBAT CQB TACTICAL LE | HECKLER & KOCH HK416 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm/ .40 S&W | .45 ACP | .45 ACP | 5.56 NATO |
| Capacity | 10+1/ 15+1 | 8+1 | 8+1 | 30+1 |
| Trigger Pull Weight | 3-5 lbs | 4-6 lbs | 4.75- 5.25 lbs | 6.5-7.5 lbs |
| Barrel Length | 4.25 inches | 5 inches | 5 inches | 10.4 inches |
| Sights | Tritium Dot Rear | Dovetail/ Novak Cut | White Dot Front/Heinie Rear | Rail Mounted Optics |
| Finish | Black Nitride/ PVD | Matte Stainless | Armor-Tuff | Hardcoat Anodized |
Features / Specs
• Caliber: 9mm
• Finish: Black nitride slide and satin matte frame
• Slide: FDE slide with or without windows
• Barrel: 4.25” 416 stainless steel button rifled
• Trigger: 4.75 – 5.0 lb trigger pull
• Sights: Glock pattern or Trijicon HD
• Optic ready: Trijicon RMR & Holosun 507C
• Capacity: 17 rounds
• Safety: Double-action hammer fire system
• Frame: Polymer 80 with self-lubricating properties
• Magwell: Rounded edges for easy reloads
• Weight: 23.9 ounces
• Length: 7.7” overall
Popular Accessories
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- Shadow Systems Magazines – Shadow Systems magazines are designed to provide reliable performance and optimal feeding for the Shadow Systems DR920.
- Shadow Systems Holster – The Shadow Systems holster is designed to securely hold the DR920 while allowing for easy access and comfortable carry.
- Shadow Systems Sights – Shadow Systems sights provide unparalleled accuracy for improved target acquisition.
- Shadow Systems Grip – The Shadow Systems grip is unique and ergonomically designed to provide maximum stability and control when shooting.
- Shadow Systems Magazine Extension – The Shadow Systems magazine extension allows users to add additional rounds to their magazine for uninterrupted shooting.
- Shadow Systems Grip Tape – Shadow Systems grip tape provides better contact and improved traction for improved accuracy.
- Shadow Systems Match Grade Barrel – Shadow Systems match grade barrels ensure long-lasting accuracy and precision for every shot.
Accuracy
The accuracy of the SHADOW SYSTEMS DR920 is excellent. This makes it a great option for competitive or defensive shooting. The 4.4” barrel provides a very tight and reliable grouping, so you can make sure that you hit your target every time. The trigger on the DR920 is crisp and responsive, letting you enjoy a consistent and accurate shot break every time you pull the trigger. All in all, the DR920 has been well-received amongst shooters and is known for its accuracy and ergonomics.
