Türkiye’s CANIK unveils first US-made handgun at Shot Show 2025

CANIK, a subsidiary of Samsun Yurt Savunma (SYS), has unveiled its first U.S.-made handgun, the METE MC9 PRIME, at the ongoing Shot Show 2025 in Las Vegas. Recognized as one of the world’s largest events for shooting, hunting, and outdoor industries, the show runs until January 24.

The METE MC9 PRIME, introduced ahead of the event, features a built-in compensator, a 90-degree flat trigger, and a sleek design. The package includes a custom holster developed by renowned brand G-CODE, which received significant attention from attendees.

This handgun is the first to carry the “Made in USA” label from CANIK, manufactured at its fully operational production facility in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Production milestones in the US

With an annual production capacity of 460,000 handguns, CANIK plans to produce 60,000 units in the U.S. in 2025. The Florida facility aims to position CANIK as a key player in U.S. defense contracts.

In addition to handguns, the company plans to produce 30x113mm light-recoil cannons in the U.S. as part of its expanded product offerings.

MECANIK debuts MO4 reflex sight

Another highlight of the event was MECANIK’s introduction of its MO4 Micro Optic Reflex Sight, displayed alongside the METE MC9 PRIME.

This closed-system optic will be available in Türkiye by April, 2025.

Investments and strategic expansion

SYS Group General Manager Cahit Utku Aral emphasized the importance of this launch, stating, “This is not just a handgun unveiling but also the official debut of our CANIK USA company. This project, realized through a $40 million investment over three years, proves Türkiye’s growing production and technological capacity in defense.”

Aral expressed optimism for the company’s growth: “The start of CANIK USA’s production and the development of high-value-added products set the stage for even greater achievements in 2025. We hope this will be a successful year for all Turkish defense companies.”

Advancing in the US market

CANIK USA President William Sucher highlighted the significance of the U.S. market, noting, “The U.S. is the largest market for firearms, serving both the military and civilians. Competing here requires not just the best products but also local production facilities.”

Sucher added, “Our U.S.-made products with the ‘Made in USA’ label will enable us to compete in government contracts. The increased production capacity will support CANIK’s strategy to strengthen its position in the U.S. market. Additionally, our larger-caliber firearms will meet the needs of U.S. government agencies.”