At SHOT Show 2026, Staccato 2011 unveiled the new Staccato HD C4X, and it looks like they’re aiming to solve the “carry vs performance” dilemma. Co-developed with an elite law enforcement surveillance team, this 2011 pistol blends the compact nature of a carry gun with the flat-shooting characteristics of a much larger pistol. Here is what you need to know about the new flagship of the HD series.
A Race Gun in a Carry-Ready Package
We already know about the HD P4.5 / HD P4 (steel-framed duty pistols) and the smaller HD C3.6, which is great for concealed carry but lacks that extra edge in recoil control.
The C4X sits right in the middle, adopting the frame dimensions of the 3.6 model along with an integrated compensator that vents gas up to push the muzzle down. The comp is actually a one piece with the barrel.
We already saw Staccato push the envelope with the XC model, which shoots incredibly flat. So the idea behind the C4X was to shrink the race gun performance into a package you can conceal carry.
As for the actual performance, early reports from range day in Vegas suggest the HD C4X is fast. The compensator helps the gun cycle quickly and return to zero faster than standard compacts.
Since the HD C4X is built on the architecture we’ve seen in the HD P4.5/HD P4, and HD C3.6, it accepts Glock-pattern magazines. You can grab a Magpul PMAG or use the steel 15-rounders that ship with the gun. For law enforcement officers or anyone who already owns a stack of Glock mags, this change simplifies logistics immensely.
Performance and Price
The C4X hits the market with an MSRP starting at $3,499 for the standard package. To put that in perspective, the duty-sized workhorse Staccato HD P4 starts around $2,500. The HD C3.6, which shares the same frame but lacks the compensator, sits around $2,300.
So, the question begs asking: Does a compensator warrant a $1,000 premium? You could pick up a high-end custom 1911 or a couple of solid striker-fired pistols for the price of the C4X. Some shooters are already eyeing the cheaper HD C3.6 and planning to send it off for aftermarket chunk porting.
However, factory integration carries weight.
Unlike aftermarket porting or threaded compensators, the C4X features a one-piece barrel with an integrated compensator. This design is more complex to manufacture than simply drilling holes or attaching a separate piece. So you get a warranty, guaranteed reliability, and a tuned recoil system right out of the box.
Plus, the C4X features a 7075 aluminum frame, keeping the weight down to a manageable 24.5 ounces unloaded. The C3.6 is also built around the aluminum frame, but it weighs the same 24 ounces, has a shorter 3.6 barrel, and lacks a comp. So yeah, you have to work a little harder to wrestle the sights back on target, especially if you are trying to shoot fast. It’s totally manageable, but it’s not effortless.
Specs:
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 15+1 (Glock-pattern magazines)
- Barrel: 4-inch with an integrated compensator
- Frame: Machined 7075 aluminum (keeps the weight at a manageable 24.5 oz unloaded)
- Capacity: 15 rounds
- Optics: Staccato HD HOST system (direct mount for RMR, ACRO, etc.)
- Controls: Fully ambidextrous safety and slide release
- Dimensions: 7.6″ Length x 1.6″ Width
- Weight: 24.5 oz (unloaded)
Pros:
- Incredible recoil management for a compact gun
- Glock magazine compatibility
- Ambidextrous safety and slide release
- Optic system mounts low
Cons:
- Extremely high price point compared to other HD pistols
- Compensator adds length
- Loud report and muzzle blast (standard for comps)
Photos courtesy of Staccato.
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