Description
Novritsch SSP5 4.3 Hi-Capa Split Slide GBB Pistol
There have been some speedy Hi-capas around for some time, but as far as mass-produced replicas are concerned, few come close to the cyclic rate and double-tap potential of the SSP5. This is the most compact variant of the original SSP5, known as the “4.3” variant, and is equipped with a shortened barrel for a quicker draw from a holster and a more CQB-friendly muzzle velocity. If you want an ultra-fast compact Hi-capa without doing all the homework required to build one yourself, this is the best option!
Starting at the tip of the outer barrel we can see 12mm CCW female threads, meaning with the correct adapter (available here) you can add a tracer unit or suppressor to the SSP5 to hone it in for the battlefield role you set for it.
The outer barrel is also spiral fluted, and although the front of the slide doesn’t move we are treated to a glimpse of the fluting through the faux compensator ports on either side of the fore-slide. The design of the front end of the SSP5 looks like nothing else on the market, so even if you want to build one yourself you won’t be able to get this look easily!
As mentioned, the front of the SSP5 4.3 slide does not reciprocate, as in other split-slide designs. This has several advantages, including a faster cyclic rate, better gas efficiency and snappier follow-up shots which are easier to control thanks to the reduced mass of the slide. The downside is that the recoil is somewhat reduced compared to full-slide Hi-capas, but if you are a performance seeker this is a fair price to pay for the edge it will give you on the field.
Moving rearwards along the fore-slide we come to the optics cutout, which allows a red dot sight to be mounted on the stationary section of the slide using Novritsch’s Premium Mount Plate. This means unlike other red dot-equipped pistols, you will not have to reacquire the dot between shots as it stays stationary while the rear of the slide moves. Rapid follow-up shots are a go with the SSP5 4.3 thanks to the considerate design mimicking the best qualities of real steel competition shooting pistols.
Following the optics cutout we come to the grub screw adjuster of the TDC HOP-up unit, making a vast change from the standard Hi-capa which requires a field strip to adjust the HOP-up. The TDC style unit also has the advantage that it provides direct pressure to the top of the HOP-up nub which minimises side-to-side shot deviation for better accuracy and consistency down range.
The moving segment of the slide meets the fixed fore-slide seamlessly, to the extent that it is hard to tell without racking the pistol whether it is a full slide or a split! This is a testament to Novritsch’s build quality which is consistent across the entire replica. The side mounts the rear open iron sight which is fitted with light-enhancing green inserts, pairing well with the front sight and allowing for easier sight acquisition in low light. When the pistol is fired, the front sight doesn’t move, allowing you to send a follow-up shot down range far faster than with a full-slide pistol.
The frame layout is that of a standard Hi-capa 5.1 with the same modular frame/grip assembly and familiar but extended controls. The grip itself has oblong style recesses and is slightly textured, making for a comfortable feel in the hands whether you skirmish with gloves on or you prefer a more intimate experience and all the knuckle pain that goes along with it! The rear of the grip, known as the “hammer spring housing” is constructed from high density polymer and has a square-based pyramidal texture, adding even more grip to keep the SSP5 4.3 firmly in your grasp during energetic movements.
The slide release catch is extended and textured on its surface so your speed won’t be limited if you have smaller hands and the safety catch is also extended and present on either side. At the rear of the grip, the standard 1911/Hi-capa beavertail grip safety is present but is an extended design to ensure you are always able to disengage the safety quickly with a proper grip. The magazine release is a relatively low-profile design but is easily reached from a firing grip and has the advantage that its low profile prevents accidental mag drops in the field.
At the front of the frame, we are treated to a 20mm Picatinny frame rail meaning you can add an aiming laser or tactical flashlight to the SSP5 4.3 with no need to source extra adapters or other fiddly bits. The frame rail is recessed in the centre to reduce weight, and inside the recess, you will find the Novritsch branding, F mark and model details. Along the left side of the frame, we can take note of the line of 5 threaded holes; these are designed for Novritsch’s minimalist holster mount, allowing you to holster the SSP5 4.3 even when it is dressed up with a suppressor, tactical flashlight, red dot and tracer unit!
Whether you are a CQB speedster looking for a lightening fast and compact Hi-capa to HPA or you are a sniper looking for a sidearm to keep the enemy at bay within minimum engagement distance and beyond, the SSP5 4.3 is one of the best options out there. Benefitting from a shorter and lighter build than its bigger brothers but packing the same pre-upgraded parts, the SSP5 4.3 gives you all the performance but none of the fitting, installation and technical headaches!
Features
- Full metal construction
- 4.3 Model – Shorter barrel length and slide, lower weight and a faster draw
- 6.01mm Tightbore inner barrel – Superb accuracy, high-grade BBs required!
- Split slide design – Super snappy cyclic rate, great gas efficiency
- 12mm CCW Female threaded outer barrel – Tracer/Suppressor ready with adapter
- Optics cutout on the slide – Optics ready with Novritsch mount plate
- Light-enhancing open iron sights – Green inserts, great for low-light shooting
- 20mm Picatinny frame rail – Ready for a tactical flashlight or laser
- Textured pistol grip – Oblong style dimples, comfortable and grippy
- Ambidextrous manual safety catch – Use the safety on the left or right side
- Extended slide release – Easy to reach when working under pressure
- Built-in magazine well flare – Makes reloads easier and faster
- Beavertail grip safety – Prevents the pistol from being fired if held incorrectly
- Skeletonised steel external hammer – No chance of this breaking!
- Textured trigger guard front – An extra point of control for the “European grip” style
- Compatible magazines: Novritsch SSP5 Green Gas Magazine | Armourer Works/WE Hi-capa 5.1
- NOT compatible with Army Armament Hi-capa magazines
Package Includes
- Novritsch SSP5 5.1 Hi-capa Split Slide GBB Pistol
- 29rnd SSP5 Green Gas Magazine
- User manual
- Valve tool
- Allen key
Special Instructions
Based on advice from Novritsch, we recommend switching to CO2 magazines when the ambient temperature drops below 10°C for more reliable cycling under rapid fire.