STOEGER COUGAR 8000F
Posted May 19, 2023
The Stoeger Cougar 8000F is an outstanding pistol for the price range. With its lightweight frame and large capacity magazine, the Stoeger Cougar 8000F offers shooters a pleasant experience at the shooting range. As a result, this pistol is a favorite of both novice and experienced shooters alike.
As a full-size pistol, the Stoeger Cougar 8000F offers a bit more weight and size than most compacts. This gives it greater stability in the shooter's hands, allowing for better control of the weapon during rapid fire shooting. The slide is also larger and meatier than most compacts, allowing for better grip and purchase, and a smoother action. The attractive matte black finish of the Stoeger Cougar 8000F gives it a sleek and modern look that stands out in the crowd.
The Stoeger Cougar 8000F is easy to fieldstrip and maintain. Unlike most pistols, the Cougar 8000F does not require a tool to remove the slide, simplifying maintenance and cleaning. The weapon's two action safeties are standard: manual safety and firing pin safety. The large capacity detachable magazine allows rapid reloading, and is also easy to remove and clean.
In terms of performance, the Stoeger Cougar 8000F is a great shooter. The 4.7-inch barrel is longer than most compacts and delivers outstanding accuracy at the range, even with the relatively short sight radius. The DA/SA trigger is smooth with a short reset, making it well-suited for defensive purposes. The sights are low-profile and classic in style, but adjustable and reliable.
The one area where the Stoeger Cougar 8000F is lacking is in the trigger pull. The long, heavy single-action pull can be difficult for some shooters to master. Additionally, the trigger does not have the same smooth, crisper feel as more expensive pistols, making it well-suited for range shooting, but less ideal for close-quarters defense.
Overall, the Stoeger Cougar 8000F is an excellent value pistol, combining good quality and performance at a very affordable price. Whether you are looking for an affordable recreational pistol or a dependable home defense handgun, the Cougar 8000F is well worth a look. Its outstanding features and impressive performance make it a great choice for shooters on a budget.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Durable and reliable - Stoeger Cougar 8000F is made from tough and corrosion-resistant alloys that make it suitable for rough and outdoor environments.
• Comfortable - The gun has a low-profile slide that allows for an easy, comfortable grip.
• Versatile - This gun can be used in multiple types of shooting, both recreational and defense.
• Easy access - All controls are located near the trigger making access quick and easy.
• Easy to customize - The gun allows for many customization options both in terms of aesthetics and performance.
• Low price - For its features and reliability, the Stoeger Cougar 8000F is one of the most affordable 9mm handguns on the market.
Cons:
• Limited external controls - The gun only has one manual safety and no other external controls.
• Recoil can be harsh - Being a recoil-operated system, the gun will have much more kick than a traditional recoil-free pistol.
• Magazines can be unreliable - Some have reported that the magazines are prone to jamming.
Who Should Buy
The Stoeger Cougar 8000F is an affordable and accessible semi-automatic pistol perfect for those new to handguns and for those who want a reliable and fun recoil handgun for competition shooting. It is a great choice for concealed carry, with its lightweight frame and comfortable grip.
Who Should Buy:
Those looking for a reliable semi-automatic pistol for competition shooting or concealed carry.
Who Should Not Buy:
Those who want a more powerful handgun, such as a revolver. The 8000F is not well suited for self-defense due to its low muzzle energy.
Comparisons
| Model | Capacity | Action | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stoeger Cougar 8000F | 15+1 rounds | Double/Single Action | 24.7 oz. | $420 |
| Mossberg MC1SC | 6+1 rounds | Striker fire | 17.9 oz. | $429 |
| Sig Sauer P938 | 6+1 rounds | Single Action | 16 oz. | $556 |
| Kimber SOLO | 6+1 rounds | Single Action | 17 oz. | $631 |
Features / Specs
• Double-action/single-action
• Semi-automatic
• .45 ACP caliber
• Magazine Capacity: 13 rounds
• Overall Length: 7.6-Inch
• Barrel Length: 4-Inch
• Weight: 28.5-Ounce
• Steel frame and slide
• Polymer grips
• Ambidextrous safety
• Fixed front and rear sights
• Integral picatinny rail
Popular Accessories
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- Recoil Pads/Limbsaver Recoil Pads
- Magazine Extensions
- Grips/Grip Enhancements
- Sights and Optics
- Magazine Springs
- Extended Magazine Releases
- Trigger Kits
- Rails and Mounts
- Flashlights and Lasers
- Trigger Guards
Accuracy
The Stoeger Cougar 8000F is a well built and accurate semi-auto pistol. It is mainly intended for self defense, and as such, accuracy is important. Most experienced shooters have found that the Cougar 8000F is capable of consistent 2.5 to 3 inch accuracy when shot at a distance of 10-15 yards. This means that the gun is capable of consistent first shot placement on a realistically sized target at typical self-defense ranges. With practice and familiarization, the Cougar 8000F can be pinpoint accurate in close quarters defense situations as well.
