The Canik Mete MC9L is a sub-compact striker-fired 9mm with a 3.18-inch barrel. The slide wears a nitride finish and is cut for an optic, the frame is polymer, and the slide release works from either side. Two magazines and a holster come in the package. The listing uses a stock photo.

At this size the MC9L is a pistol New Jersey owners will reach for as a nightstand gun or as a compact range pistol that takes little room in a range bag. The optic-ready slide lets you add a red dot without machining, and the ambidextrous slide release suits left-handed shooters. New Jersey permit applicants have had to show an approved safety course taken within the previous four years since July 2022, and a small 9mm with simple controls is a sensible first pistol on which to put that training to use.

Key features

• 9mm sub-compact striker-fired, 3.18-inch barrel
• Nitride-finished slide, optic ready
• Polymer frame
• Ambidextrous slide release
• Two magazines and holster included

Handguns go to a New Jersey FFL dealer, where the transfer paperwork and background check are completed before you take it home.