Republic Arms RAP 440

In the late nineties, the South African police issued a requirement for a compact, concealable pistol chambered for 9×19 ammunition. In 1997, the contract for a new police pistol went to the Republic Arms Company, which had developed the RAP-401 pistol, a relatively compact sidearm suitable for concealed carry. From 1999 to 2002 Republic Arms also produced a .40 calibre version of the same pistol, intended for export. This was designated RAP-440. It seems that RAP pistols were influenced by the Spanish Astra A-75. RAP pistols are favored for their reliability and mild recoil; on the other hand, these pistols are somewhat heavy for their pocket size. Compact D.A. locked breech pistol, all steel construction, hammer drop safety, automatic firing pin safety, high contrast sights.