Concealed Carry Featuring: Brand-New Mossberg MC2c 9mm Handgun is Here, How Does it Compare to the MC1sc?

 

by Matthew Maruster 

Mossberg follows up their 2019 release of the MC1sc sub-compact, 9mm handgun, with a new compact version called the MC2c. Here is a quick look at the latest offering and a breakdown of its specs.

The Mossberg, MC2c 9mm, semi-automatic, compact, handgun.

MC1sc Vs. MC2c:

The MC1sc is Mossberg's version of the single-stack, sub-compact self-defense handguns such as the Glock 43, Ruger LC9, Springfield XD-S, Walther PPS, et Cetra.

With the MC2c, Mossberg aims to compete with the increasingly popular double-stack sub-compacts like the Sig P365, Springfield Hellcat, Glock 43 X.

The gun appears to be primarily the same as MC1sc, with similar grip texturing, trigger, and controls like magazine release and slide stop. It also is available with the same cross-bolt safety as the MC1sc. More on the safety in a minute.

The Mossberg, MC1sc 9mm, semi-automatic, sub-compact, handgun.

There are apparent differences in size and capacity, as indicated in the table below. The MC2c also has more aggressive slide serrations and lightning cuts.

Unfortunately, the MC2c suffers from the same blind spot. The lack of an optic-ready model. The primary market for both handguns is self-defense, everyday carry (EDC). There is an apparent demand for gun manufacturers to offer a gun that can accept an optic straight away.

Specification Comparison:

Conclusion:

I mentioned the peculiar cross-bolt safety of the Mossberg handguns. The safety is similar to what you would find on a trusted Mossberg 500 shotgun. Located on the grip, the safety mechanism is situated just above the magazine release. Pressing from right to left deactivated the safety, while pushing it the other way activates it. I see some issues with accidental activation, and while one could likely learn how to deactivate the safety during the draw stroke, it doesn't seem intuitive. It could also be more difficult for left-handed shooters to work the safety consistently and maintain a good shooter's grip.

That said, I haven't seen a slew of hatred for the cross-bolt design. Furthermore, Mossberg offered it again on the Mc2c, so it would appear there was enough interest in it with the MC1sc to offer it with the new design. In other words, maybe I'm in the minority of folks who don't really dig the safety.

I am not a fan of the cross-bolt safety design.

I don't own one, but it seems like the MC1sc has been a pretty solid gun so far in terms of reliability. The MC2c MSRP is at around $500 but likely will be available for slightly less from your local gun dealer.

We will have to wait and see how well the MC2c does. If you have experience with the MC1sc, let us know in the comments.

Mossberg isn't the only manufacturer who has released a new handgun this month. A few days ago, Rock Island Armory announced the release of their STK100. A 9mm striker-fired handgun aimed at the self-defense, EDC market.