In early October 2021, I had the privilege of attending the annual Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous in southeastern Idaho. This event, one of my personal favorites, allowed me to mingle with top manufacturers and gain firsthand knowledge of the latest gear in the industry. One such manufacturer was Zev Technologies, known for its exceptional firearms and commitment to quality. It was here that I first laid my eyes on, and briefly shot, the Zev OZ9 Elite. From that moment, I knew I had to test this gun further. What followed was an in-depth experience with this high-end firearm, and what I discovered about the OZ9 Elite will be explored in the article that follows.
The Company Behind the Zev OZ9 Elite
Zev Technologies, founded in Centralia, Washington, has a long history of designing some of the finest handguns on the market. Over the years, they’ve become synonymous with precision, performance, and luxury within the firearms industry. Zev started as a small operation but has rapidly grown to be a name recognized by enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Having had the opportunity to tour their manufacturing facilities in the summer of 2020, I can confidently say that Zev’s operations are nothing short of impressive. Their facility is state-of-the-art, and I was struck by the visible pride and enthusiasm from every employee I met. Zev Technologies isn’t just another gun manufacturer—it’s a company that represents the realization of the American Dream.
Zev Pistol: More Than Just a Tricked-Out Glock
It’s easy to draw comparisons between a Zev pistol and a Glock, but such comparisons miss the mark. While Glocks are functional, reliable, and have a certain utilitarian appeal, Zev handguns are in an entirely different class. The design of a Zev pistol is sleek, modern, and aesthetically bold—qualities you would expect from a luxury vehicle, not a firearm. A Zev pistol is more akin to a Maserati, a combination of precision engineering, performance, and beauty.
Zev’s success is built upon their commitment to listening to their customers. The engineers behind Zev’s firearms have consistently sought to improve on what others have already done, resulting in a product that’s as functional as it is stylish. While you may not find a Zev pistol in every corner gun shop, that’s part of its appeal—Zev manufactures their firearms to order, ensuring every piece is crafted with attention to detail and a deep understanding of what their customers need.
A Manufacturer That Pays Attention
Zev Technologies doesn’t just make pistols—they craft weapons that are designed to meet the needs of every shooter. The engineers at Zev have worked diligently to create a firearm that integrates user feedback with their own innovations. This effort is evident in the Zev OZ9 Elite, a modular and customizable striker-fired handgun that stands out for its quality, performance, and versatility.
The Zev OZ9 Elite is available in a variety of configurations, from full-size models to sub-compact versions. The full-size (duty) model that I received for testing stood out for its beautiful black slide, bronze-colored match-grade barrel, and modular build. As a modular system, the Zev OZ9 allows for customization—an appealing feature for those who want to build their ideal firearm.
The Details: A Masterpiece in Every Aspect
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Zev OZ9 Elite is the attention to detail. From the moment you pick up the pistol, the quality and design are apparent.
Slide Design
The slide of the OZ9 Elite is a marvel of engineering. It features both front and rear press-check serrations, making it easy to manipulate the slide. These features come in handy when racking in the first round or performing remedial actions in stressful situations.
The slide also features two cutouts on either side directly behind the muzzle, helping to reduce weight without sacrificing structural integrity. On top of the slide, there’s a further weight-reducing cut, allowing the beautiful bronze-colored 4.5-inch match-grade barrel to be on full display.
Sights and Optics
The sights of the Zev OZ9 Elite are made to ensure optimal accuracy. The rear sight is a blacked-out Trijicon model, while the front sight features a red fiber-optic design for enhanced visibility in various lighting conditions. If the provided iron sights aren’t to your liking, the OZ9 Elite is compatible with Glock-pattern iron sights.
For those who prefer optics, the pistol comes equipped with a removable top cover plate that allows for easy mounting of an optic of your choice. The Zev OZ9 Elite is optics-ready, making it suitable for everything from tactical use to competitive shooting. Adding an optic, such as the Trijicon RMR (RM06), makes for an even more enjoyable and precise shooting experience.
The Grip Module
The grip module, a polymer lower receiver, can be swapped with other Zev grip options, offering further customization. The grip’s texture strikes a perfect balance—aggressive enough to ensure a secure hold without causing discomfort during extended shooting sessions.
Zev also adds a custom magwell, which further improves ergonomics and ease of use. The enlarged trigger guard accommodates shooters who wear gloves, ensuring a comfortable fit no matter the environment.
But perhaps the most impressive feature of the grip is the trigger.
The Trigger: A Shooter’s Dream
The trigger of the Zev OZ9 Elite is nothing short of extraordinary. Zev has included their PRO flat-faced trigger in this model, and after testing it, I can confidently say it is one of the best triggers I’ve ever used.
The 4-pound trigger press is incredibly smooth, and you’ll find that your finger aligns perfectly with the trigger face—there’s no slippage. The reset is fast, almost as if the trigger is spring-loaded, eager to fire the next round. This trigger is a key component of what makes the Zev OZ9 Elite a joy to shoot.
Range Time: A Shooter’s Paradise
Shooting the Zev OZ9 Elite at the range was an experience I won’t soon forget. From the moment I picked up the pistol, it felt balanced and comfortable in my hands. The extended beavertail allowed me to get a solid grip without worrying about slide bite, something many shooters appreciate.
One of the standout features of the Zev OZ9 Elite is its minimal felt recoil. In comparison to my Glock 17 (Gen 4), which felt much more difficult to control, the OZ9 Elite felt like a high-performance sports car. The gun was more balanced, and the recoil was easier to manage, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
During my testing, I fired approximately 250 rounds through the OZ9 Elite, and I’m happy to report that there were zero stoppages or malfunctions. Even in the frigid 29-degree weather, the pistol performed flawlessly.
Overall Accuracy: Precision at Its Best
When it comes to accuracy, the Zev OZ9 Elite delivers. During my testing, I used various types of ammunition, and the results were impressive.
At an average defensive shooting distance of 21 feet, the Zev OZ9 Elite produced tight shot groupings. The best accuracy came from Hornady “American Gunner” 124gr. XTP +P loads, which achieved a 1.2” grouping on a paper plate. This is more than sufficient for self-defense or tactical use, proving that the OZ9 Elite can deliver when it counts.
Specs of the Zev Technologies OZ9 Elite
For those who prefer to examine specifications, here’s a breakdown of the Zev OZ9 Elite:
- Caliber: 9×19
- Magazine Type: Magpul PMAG 17 GL9, Qty: 2
- Trigger Weight: 4 pounds
- Sights: Optic height iron sights with red fiber optic front sight
- Barrel: Optimized Match Grade Barrel
- Barrel Length: 4.5 inches
- Weight: 27.1 ounces
- Overall Length: 7.75 inches
- Height: 5.5 inches
- Safety: Striker Fired
- Optic: Trijicon RM06 (RMR)
- MSRP: $2235.00 (with optic)
The Bottom Line: Is the Zev OZ9 Elite Worth It?
The Zev OZ9 Elite is a premium firearm that justifies its price tag. With top-tier craftsmanship, excellent ergonomics, and flawless performance, this pistol is designed for shooters who want the best of the best. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a tactical professional, or someone in search of a premium concealed carry weapon, the Zev OZ9 Elite won’t disappoint.
The price tag may be steep, but as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” If you’re in the market for a handgun that combines style, performance, and reliability, the Zev OZ9 Elite is a smart investment. From its luxurious design to its exceptional shooting experience, this pistol is truly a work of art.
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