WET WORK
The B&T VP9 is an integrally suppressed, takedown, bolt action pistol, based on a World War II assassination tool. Up until now, the VP9 has been unavailable for purchase in the USA. This combination of the exotic, the diabolical, and the impractical produces a deep lust for the VP9 in any gun guy who’s familiar with it.
B&T came to recognize the demand for its updated remake of the World War II wet work Welrod pistol. But the Swiss-made VP9 is subject to U.S. import restrictions, and for reasons outlined below, B&T USA can’t bring the pistol into the country in its current form. However, the company has a plan to meet the demand of collectors and enthusiasts alike.
It’s releasing a limited run of 250 VP9s in the U.S. market ahead of the debut of the pistol’s importable successor, the Station-IX. The new gun, named as a tribute to the birthplace of the Welrod, will be here later this year in 9x19 and 45ACP flavors, with different magazines and roll-markings distinguishing it from the original VP9.
In the meantime, B&T USA is taking advantage of the expanding footprint of its Tampa machine shop to manufacture 250 VP9 receivers, barrels, and silencers. Manufacturing these parts in Tampa allows the company to avoid the import restrictions faced by the Swiss-made VP9. These U.S. receivers and barrels are mated with small parts brought in from B&T Switzerland to make Tampa roll-marked guns that
