Experience the Hi-Point 995TS Carbine: Reliability Meets Affordability
For individuals seeking a dependable, easy-to-manage, and cost-effective firearm solution, the Hi-Point 995TS Carbine stands out as a compelling choice. This 9mm Luger carbine, specifically the 995FGFLTS model, is engineered for practical performance, offering a unique blend of features that cater to a wide range of shooting enthusiasts, from first-time firearm owners to seasoned veterans looking for an economical yet robust plinking or home defense option. If you're wondering "What's a good entry-level carbine?" or "Is there an affordable 9mm rifle for home defense?", the Hi-Point 995TS is frequently the answer that emerges from discussions around value and utility.
What sets this carbine apart is its commitment to functionality and durability without the prohibitive price tag often associated with other firearms. Manufactured with 100% American parts and assembly, Hi-Point ensures a product that's both accessible and reliable, standing behind their firearms with a reputation for straightforward, rugged construction.
Who is the Hi-Point 995TS Carbine Designed For?
The Hi-Point 995TS 9mm carbine is an ideal fit for several types of users and scenarios:
- First-Time Firearm Owners: Its manageable 9mm recoil, straightforward operation, and economical ammunition cost make it an excellent platform for learning firearm safety and marksmanship fundamentals.
- Budget-Conscious Shooters: For those who want to maximize their range time without breaking the bank on ammunition or the firearm itself, the 995TS offers an unparalleled value proposition.
- Home Defense: The carbine's longer barrel provides increased velocity and improved accuracy over a pistol, making it a viable and controllable option for personal and home protection. The included weapon-mounted flashlight is a critical feature for identifying threats in low-light conditions, enhancing defensive capabilities.
- Range Shooters and Plinkers: Enjoy extended sessions at the shooting range with affordable 9mm ammunition. The carbine's design promotes comfortable shooting and makes hitting targets consistently a rewarding experience.
- Individuals Seeking a Reliable Truck or "Bug-Out" Gun: Its all-weather durability and robust construction mean it can withstand various environmental conditions, making it a practical choice for preparedness.
- Enthusiasts of Pistol Caliber Carbines (PCCs): Discover the unique advantages of a PCC – the reduced recoil and increased accuracy of a rifle-length platform, combined with the common and affordable ammunition of a pistol.
Unpacking Key Features of the 995FGFLTS Model
The Hi-Point 995TS 9mm Luger carbine, specifically the 995FGFLTS configuration, is thoughtfully equipped to provide a comprehensive shooting experience right out of the box. Let's delve into its standout features:
Caliber and Performance: 9mm Luger Advantage
Chambered in 9mm Luger, the 995TS benefits from one of the most widely available and economical ammunition calibers in the world. This translates directly into more practice sessions without significant expense. Furthermore, the 995TS carbine is explicitly +P rated, meaning it's designed to safely handle higher pressure 9mm Luger loads, offering versatility in ammunition choice for various applications, including self-defense. The ability to accept all factory ammunition underscores its reliable feeding and chambering capabilities.
Barrel Length and Accuracy: Precision in a Carbine Form
With a 16.50-inch barrel length, the 995TS carbine significantly enhances the ballistics of the 9mm cartridge compared to typical pistol barrels. This increased barrel length contributes to:
- Higher Muzzle Velocity: Leading to greater energy transfer on target.
- Improved Accuracy: A longer sight radius and stable rifle platform make it easier to achieve consistent groupings, especially at moderate distances, where a pistol might struggle.
- Reduced Muzzle Blast: The longer barrel typically directs more gas downrange, resulting in a less intense muzzle flash and concussion for the shooter.
The overall length (OAL) of 31 inches balances maneuverability with the stability offered by the longer barrel.
Robust Construction: All-Weather Molded Stock and Durable Components
The carbine features an all-weather, polymer skeletonized stock in a sleek black finish. This synthetic material is known for its resilience against moisture, temperature fluctuations, and impact, ensuring the carbine performs reliably in diverse environments. The skeletonized design reduces overall weight, making the carbine easier to handle and transport, while maintaining structural integrity. An internal recoil buffer is integrated into the stock, effectively absorbing felt recoil and contributing to a more comfortable shooting experience, especially during extended range sessions.
Integrated Accessories for Enhanced Utility
The 995FGFLTS model comes factory-equipped with valuable accessories that boost its tactical and practical utility:
- Forward Folding Grip: This ergonomic grip provides an additional point of contact for the support hand, enhancing control, stability, and aiming precision. The folding mechanism allows for compact storage or transport when not in use.
- Weapon-Mounted Flashlight: Essential for low-light situations, this integrated flashlight allows for target identification and situational awareness in dimly lit environments. For home defense scenarios, a mounted light is paramount for positively identifying a threat.
- Multiple Weaver-Style Rails: Strategically placed Weaver-style (compatible with Picatinny) rails open up a world of customization. Users can easily mount additional accessories such as optics, lasers, or other tactical tools to tailor the carbine to their specific needs.
- Sling and Swivels: Included from the factory, these allow for comfortable and secure carrying of the carbine, freeing up your hands when moving or transitioning between positions.
- Scope Base: While the carbine comes with excellent iron sights, the pre-installed scope base provides a direct mounting point for various optics, including red dot sights or low-power variable optics, for those desiring enhanced precision or faster target acquisition.
User-Friendly Operation and Sights
Hi-Point prioritizes ease of use and safety in the 995TS:
- Quick On/Off Thumb Safety: Located conveniently for quick and intuitive engagement or disengagement, promoting safe handling.
- Grip-Mounted Clip Release: This ambidextrous release mechanism allows for swift magazine changes.
- Last Round Lock Open Feature: A vital safety and operational feature, the bolt locks open after the last round is fired, signaling an empty magazine and facilitating faster reloads.
- Fully Adjustable Sights: The carbine is equipped with a post front sight and a peep rear sight. This sight configuration is highly regarded for its precision and ease of use, allowing shooters to quickly acquire targets and make precise adjustments for elevation and windage to ensure accuracy. The contrast between the front post and the rear aperture aids in rapid sight alignment.
Magazine and Compatibility
The carbine includes a 10-round magazine, a common capacity that meets various regulatory requirements. It's important to note the specific compatibility: the magazine included with the 995TS carbine is not compatible with the Hi-Point C9 pistol, which uses a different magazine design. This distinction is crucial for owners of both platforms.
Why Choose a Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC)?
Many users ask, "What are the benefits of a 9mm carbine over a 9mm pistol?" The advantages are significant:
- Enhanced Accuracy: The longer barrel and rifle-like ergonomics of a PCC offer superior accuracy, especially at ranges beyond 25 yards, compared to a pistol.
- Reduced Recoil: The increased mass of the carbine and its design (including the internal recoil buffer in the Hi-Point) significantly dampen felt recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods and easier for new shooters.
- Improved Control: Two-handed rifle-style grip and a shoulder stock provide much greater stability and control during firing, leading to faster follow-up shots.
- Ammunition Commonality: If you already own a 9mm pistol, using a 9mm carbine means you only need to stock one type of ammunition, simplifying logistics and potentially saving money when buying in bulk.
- Versatility: PCCs bridge the gap between pistols and traditional rifles, offering a compact yet powerful platform suitable for various applications, from plinking to home defense.
Maintaining Your Hi-Point 995TS Carbine
Caring for your Hi-Point 995TS is straightforward due to its robust and simple design. Regular cleaning and lubrication are key to ensuring its longevity and reliable operation.
- Cleaning: After each shooting session, especially if you've fired many rounds, clean the bore, chamber, and bolt assembly to remove powder residue and fouling. A standard 9mm cleaning kit will suffice.
- Lubrication: Apply a thin coat of firearm lubricant to moving parts, such as the bolt carrier, charging handle channel, and recoil spring, to reduce friction and prevent wear.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect your carbine for any signs of wear, loose screws, or damage. Pay particular attention to the barrel, sights, and magazine well.
- Storage: Always store your firearm unloaded in a secure location, such as a safe or locked cabinet, inaccessible to unauthorized individuals.
The Hi-Point Promise: American-Made Value
Hi-Point firearms are known for their commitment to being 100% American-made. This not only supports domestic manufacturing but also speaks to the quality control and accessibility of parts and service. The brand's philosophy revolves around providing reliable, functional firearms at a price point that makes shooting sports and personal protection accessible to a broader audience. The Hi-Point 995TS carbine embodies this philosophy, offering a practical and dependable solution for various shooting needs.
Where to Find Your Hi-Point 995TS
The Hi-Point 995TS Carbine, including the feature-rich 995FGFLTS model with its forward folding grip and weapon-mounted flashlight, is a popular choice for its reliability and value. For those looking to acquire this American-made firearm, it is available through reputable dealers like DEGuns, ensuring you receive a genuine product with reliable service.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Hi-Point 995TS Carbine
Users often have practical questions when considering a firearm like the Hi-Point 995TS. Here are some common inquiries addressed:
- Is the Hi-Point 995TS reliable? Yes, the 995TS is widely regarded for its mechanical reliability, especially when using standard factory ammunition. Its simple blowback operating system contributes to its robust performance.
- Can I use any 9mm ammunition? The carbine is +P rated and designed to accept all factory 9mm Luger ammunition, offering great flexibility.
- Is it accurate? For a carbine in its price range, the 995TS delivers surprising accuracy, especially with its longer barrel and adjustable sights. Many users report excellent groupings at typical pistol carbine ranges (25-50 yards).
- What kind of optics can I mount? Thanks to its integrated Weaver-style rails and scope base, you can mount a wide variety of optics, including red dot sights, holographic sights, and even compact scopes, depending on your preference.
- Is it good for home defense? Yes, its 9mm caliber, reduced recoil, integrated flashlight, and ability to mount additional accessories make it a very viable and controllable option for home defense scenarios, offering advantages over a handgun in terms of stability and accuracy.
- How does the folding grip work? The forward folding grip can be deployed for enhanced control during shooting or folded away to make the carbine more compact for storage or transport.
- What’s the weight of the carbine? The Hi-Point 995TS has a weight of 6.25 lbs, contributing to its stable shooting platform and recoil absorption.
The Hi-Point 995TS 9mm Luger carbine, particularly the 995FGFLTS model, offers a compelling package for anyone seeking an affordable, reliable, and versatile firearm. Its combination of practical features, user-friendly operation, and American-made quality makes it a smart choice for various shooting disciplines and personal defense needs.
Hi-Point 995TS Carbine Specifications
| Brand | Hi-Point |
|---|---|
| Series | Carbine |
| Model | 995TS |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger |
| Barrel Length | 16.50" |
| Capacity | 10+1 |
| Stock Finish | Black |
| Stock Material | Synthetic |
| Stock Desc. | All Weather Molded |
| Action | Semi-Automatic |
| OAL | 31" |
| Weight | 6.25 lbs |
| Sights | Adj Post Front / Peep Rear |
| Barrel Finish | Black |
| Receiver Finish | Black |
| Safety | Thumb |
| Grip Type | Black Polymer |
| SKU | 995FGFLTS |
| UPC | 752334099921 |
