Shooting the Springfield Armory Kuna 9mm: A Suppressor Ready PDW That Surprised Me

As someone who has spent years behind the trigger of everything from classic 1911s to modern PCCs, I did not expect to be so thoroughly impressed by a new 9mm PDW. But the Springfield Armory Kuna, released in 2025, caught me off guard in the best way. It is compact, smooth, and surprisingly refined, especially when suppressed. After putting a few hundred rounds through it, I am ready to share my honest thoughts on what makes this roller delayed pistol a standout in today’s crowded market.

First Impressions: Built for More Than Looks

The Kuna is Springfield’s take on a modern PDW, built in partnership with HS Produkt in Croatia. It is named after the European pine marten, agile, fast, and predatory, and that spirit is baked into the design. With a 6 inch barrel, a full length optics rail, and M LOK slots for accessories, it is clearly built for versatility. The included Strike Industries brace adds stability without bulk, making it ideal for home defense or range fun.

The design is sleek and modern, but it is not just about looks. The Kuna is built around a lightweight aluminum upper and a durable polymer lower, with fully ambidextrous controls that make it a great fit for both left and right handed shooters 

Let us talk about what really sold me...shooting the Kuna suppressed. Thanks to its roller delayed blowback system, the Kuna handles suppressed fire like a dream. Unlike direct blowback systems that can get gassy and snappy with a can attached, the roller delayed action keeps things smooth and controlled. There is noticeably less blowback to the face, and the recoil impulse is soft, almost MP5 like, but in a much more modern package.

I ran it with a SilencerCo Omega 9K and was blown away by how quiet and flat it shot. Follow up shots were fast, and the action stayed clean even after extended use. If you are looking for a suppressor host that does not punish you for using it, the Kuna is a top tier option.

What I Really Like

1. Roller Delayed Blowback
This is the heart of the Kuna’s performance. It is rare to see this system in a pistol sized platform, and it makes a huge difference in recoil management and suppressor compatibility. The roller system temporarily locks the bolt into battery, reducing felt recoil and improving accuracy for fast follow up shots 

3. Magazine Design
Yes, they are proprietary, but they are also affordable, translucent, and built with metal feed lips for durability. I will take that over overpriced Glock mags any day.

4. Suppressor Ready by Design
The roller delayed system is not just a gimmick, it is what makes this gun so enjoyable to shoot suppressed. It is quiet, clean, and consistent.

5. Build Quality and Style
The Kuna is not just functional...it is beautiful. The fit and finish are top notch, and the styling is aggressive without being over the top. It feels like a premium firearm in every way.

A Few Drawbacks

1. Limited Space for Vertical Foregrips
While the handguard has M LOK slots, it is compact. There is not really enough space to comfortably mount a vertical foregrip without crowding your support hand.

2. Proprietary Mags With a Silver Lining
Some folks will balk at non Glock mags, but Springfield did it right. They are reliable, affordable, and well built.

Final Thoughts: A Modern MP5 Alternative

The Springfield Armory Kuna 9mm is more than just another PDW. It is a thoughtfully engineered firearm that blends old school roller delayed MP5 smoothness with modern ergonomics and suppressor friendly performance. Whether you are a home defender, a range junkie, or a suppressor enthusiast, the Kuna delivers.