Make: Claridge
Model: AS-9 (Alloy S-9)
Serial Number: 902592
Year of Manufacture: 1990-1993
Caliber: 9mm
Action Type: Closed Bolt, Semi-Automatic Blowback fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the frame is marked "CLARIDGE HI-TEC 902592". The right side of the receiver is marked "9mm NATO PAT.PEND NORTHRIDGE. CA. U.S.A."
Barrel Length: 5" proprietary threaded Match Grade button rifled barrel. 7" with Ribbed Cone Barrel Extension.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable hooded post sight. The rear sight is an adjustable rectangular notch.
Stock Configuration & Condition: Tubular stainless steel forged one piece upper. The frame is one piece alloy integral with the pistol grip and trigger guard. Magazine is fed through the pistol grip. Charging handle on the upper left side and bolt catch. Threaded barrel for barrel shroud extensions. The stock rates in Excellent condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1x modified Mec-Gar M9 15rd steel 9mm magazine in Excellent condition. Uses modified Beretta 92 pattern magazines.
Type of Finish: Stainless Steel, Black, Alloy
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 100% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. The markings are crisp. Overall, this pistol rates in about Like New Condition.
Mechanics: The actions function correctly. Telescoping bolt cloned after the SA-VZ23 submachine gun. We did not fire these pistols. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Claridge Hi-Tec Factory Box with serial matching label, Thread Protector, Ribbed Cone Barrel Extension, sight adjustment tool and takedown tool, owner's manual, and total of one magazine.
Our Assessment: The Claridge Hi-Tec AS-9 represents a short-lived but highly distinctive chapter in American firearms design, produced in limited numbers during the early 1990s out of Northridge, California. Built around a tubular steel upper with a telescoping bolt system derived from the Czech SA-VZ23 submachine gun, the AS-9 follows the same unconventional engineering path as its steel-framed counterparts while introducing an aluminum alloy lower for reduced weight and improved handling characteristics. The Claridge line gained notable recognition not only for its engineering but for its unmistakable appearance, which translated seamlessly onto the silver screen and into popular culture, further cementing its identity as both a firearm and a visual icon. The Claridge line-up has graced the screen in the hands of cinematic titans such as Mark Wahlberg in "Planet of the Apes" and Arnold Schwarzenegger in "Total Recall." Throw in an appearance in Iron Man 2, Point Blank, Firefly, Direct Hit, Once Upon a Time in Mexico, Leprechaun, Assassins and you have a resume that reads like a box office blockbuster film list.
This example comes directly from the Claridge Family Collection and represents one of the final opportunities to acquire a piece from this historically significant grouping as it nears its end. Configured with a 5" match grade threaded barrel and accompanying ribbed barrel shroud extension, this AS-9 retains its original finish in like new condition, with a bright bore and sharp rifling. The pistol includes its factory box with matching serial label, thread protector, barrel extension, sight adjustment and takedown tools, owner’s manual, and a Mec-Gar Beretta 92 pattern magazine, forming a complete and highly desirable package. Combining distinctive engineering, limited production, and direct family provenance, this AS-9 stands as a compelling example of innovative American firearms design from the late twentieth century.
