Phoenix, Arizona-based Patriot Ordnance Factory (POF-USA) has carved out a significant niche in the firearms industry since it was founded by aerospace engineer Frank DeSomma twenty years ago in 2002. DeSomma, who had no previous firearms design experience, had looked to solve the common issues of carbon fouling and timing issues with gas impingement system-based firearms when used in dusty conditions. The result was a respected line of modern sporting rifles, and those were among the first to utilize a gas-piston-operated weapon system on an AR-style rifle.
Now to mark its 20th anniversary, the Phoenix is rising, but not from the ashes of a failure. Rather, POF-USA has announced an all new 9mm subgun, the Phoenix. It was built from the ground up, and the result is a smooth shooting 9mm perfect for target shooting or plinking, yet is designed and built for professionals.
It is also meant to honor the legacy of Frank DeSomma, who was killed in a June 2020 automobile accident.
“We’re extremely pleased with the final result and couldn’t be happier to bring another one of Frank DeSomma’s visions to the market,” said Jeremy Selting, vice president of sales and marketing at POF-USA. “He worked tirelessly on this design over the years, and the team couldn’t be more proud to finish it.”
The Phoenix 9mm is built around the direct blowback system that has been proven around the world in combat firearms, while POF-USA has adapted it with its own unique enhancements. The upper and lower receivers were built with aerospace-grade aluminum, while the firearm offers a completely ambidextrous design with familiar AR15 controls. It is also compatible with AR15 Mil-Spec triggers, grips, and selectors, while the monolithic upper receiver is M-LOK compatible with an ambidextrous forward charging handle and integrated sling mounts. The Phoenix will ship to retailers as a pistol with a 1913 Picatinny rail at the rear of the receiver, which will offer the operator the option to add a brace if they choose to.
Phoenix 9mm Specifications
Caliber: 9mm
Action: Semi-auto
Weight: 4.6 lbs. (empty)
Barrel: 8.5”
Rifling: 1:10, 1/2-28 muzzle threads
Length: 17.5-inch
Finish: Black anodized
Handguard: Monolithic upper receiver with M-LOK
Muzzle Device: Dual Chamber Muzzle Brake
Trigger: AR15 MilSpec trigger
Grip: Mission First Tactical
Fire Control: Ambidextrous
Magazine: 35 round proprietary
MSRP: $1699
The Phoenix 9mm will make its rising at this week’s 2022 SHOT Show (Shooting, Hunting, Outdoor Trade Show) at Patriot Ordnance Factory’s booth. The compact 9mm will ship to retailers later in the first quarter (Q1) of 2022 and it will include a proprietary 35 round magazine, magazine loader, muzzle brake, single-point adjustable sling, and hand stop. Dealers are advised to contact Patriot Ordnance Factory or their distributor to order.
Peter Suciu is a Michigan-based writer who has contributed to more than four dozen magazines, newspapers and websites. He regularly writes about military small arms, and is the author of several books on military headgear including A Gallery of Military Headdress, which is available on Amazon.com.
