The last few years, there has been an explosion of popularity with 9mm subcompact pistols. This popularity came right after the .380 ACP subcompact reign. Manufacturers realized that shooters wanted subcompact pistols, and that 9mm wasn’t too much in smaller guns. The advancement of ammunition also helped, as new technology made 9mm self-defense rounds much more effective, even in subcompacts.
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Now, this popularity with shooters has brought advancements in subcompact pistols, as well as new manufacturers. In fact, just last month Naroh Arms made a splash at the NRAAM in Indianapolis with its N1 pistol. This is the company’s first entry into the gun market after years of producing machined components for the firearms industry.
This concealed-carry pistol features a 7075 aluminum hard coat anodized receiver with full length slide rails and a 1913 accessory rail. It also has front and rear slide serrations for ease of manipulation. It comes with glass-reinforced polymer grips, along with polymer 3-dot (white) sights that are compatible with G43 aftermarket sights. This DOA pistol comes with an internal drop safety, which allows disassembly with pulling the trigger, in either all black or two-tone stainless steel. The company even coated all internal components for corrosion and wear resistance.
It’s pretty obvious that Naroh Arms is going after the subcompact 9mm market, which has already has some great guns. So, we decide to find out how the N1 compares against two of the more popular models — the SIG Sauer P365 and the Glock 43.
Naroh Arms N1 Pistol Versus SIG P365
One of the most popular subcompact pistols available in the SIG P365. Part of the reason is because its made my SIG, but also because this pistol comes with some really nice features. These features include XRAY3 Day/Night sights and a 10-round, flush-fit magazine, with an extended 12-round magazine available.
In regard to dimensions, these two pistols are very similar. The N1 measures .3 inches longer in overall length than the P365, while width and height differences are negligible. However, the SIG weighs just over an ounce more unloaded, which goes up a little more with capacity, as it holds three additional rounds.
More distinctly, the N1 uses an internal hammer, while the SIG is striker fired, but neither requires pulling the trigger for disassembly. Another feature that stands out of the N1 is its red, anodized aluminum trigger. This provides an interesting look, especially against the stainless-steel slide, which SIG does not provide on the P365. For more information about the SIG P365, visit sigsauer.com.
Versus Glock 43
Glock pistols used to be just like the old Ford Model T. Shooters could choose any color they want, as long as it is black. Today, of course, Glock produces pistols with other colors, but most Glocks still come only in black. The G43, however, can be found in a few colors, if one looks hard. Of course, those really interested in a silver slide can pick up a G43X, which also adds a few more rounds.
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Again, these pistols have similar dimensions. The G43 measures only a little longer and a little higher. The main differences in dimensions are in width and weight. The G43 weighs almost 2 ounces more and measures over an inch in width, compared to the N1’s .98 inches. Another difference between the two are the sights, because of the Glock U. The N1 has white, three-dot sights, while the G43 comes with a white front sight dot and a white U on the rear sights. Some folks like the standard Glock sights, while other don’t. This is why there are many aftermarket Glock sights available. However, many shooters feel the same about three dots, so Naroh made the N1 where it could accept aftermarket Glock sights.
The N1 carries one round more than the G43 with its standard magazine, but extended magazines are available for the N1. One major difference between these guns is shooters musts pull the trigger for disassembly on the G43, which isn’t required on the N1. Some shooters really dislike this feature, but others don’t seem to mind. For more information about the Glock 43, visit us.glock.com.
Final Thoughts
All three of these subcompact pistols make excellent concealed-carry guns, as each has the dimensions for easy, all-day carry. In fact, most shooters will make their choice because of manufacturer name. Some just prefer one brand over another. Of course, price also matters, as does capacity and features. The N1 and P365 both have accessory rails, which the G43 lacks. Only individual shooters can decide if that matters.
One thing that might really help the N1 is price. It is available for less than $400, while the G43 can typically be found for around $500, with the P365 costing almost $600. Of course, it is entering a very competitive market, which is why the company put some nice features on a very affordable gun.