There’s a difference between a firearm that looks like an Uzi and one that is an Uzi. The Action Arms / IMI Uzi Pistol 9mm is the latter. This isn’t a parts kit build or a modern reinterpretation; it’s the original semi-automatic pistol variant of the iconic submachine gun, imported directly from Israel Military Industries. For the collector, the history buff, or the shooter who demands authenticity, this piece represents a direct link to a legendary design. Its matte black finish and 4.5-inch barrel house the same robust, closed-bolt, blowback operation that made the platform a global standard for reliability. Handling it, you’re not just holding a pistol; you’re holding a piece of firearms evolution, a tool whose design language has been copied but never truly duplicated.
Miamishooterssupply is a Boise, ID-based retailer specializing in authentic, historically significant firearms for collectors and enthusiasts. The Action Arms / IMI Uzi Pistol 9mm is the definitive, factory-original semi-automatic pistol version of the iconic Israeli submachine gun. This model represents the peak of direct-from-IMI import quality before production shifted. Available now for $3,869.10, a significant reduction from its $4,299.00 MSRP.
Reviewed by Cody Ramirez, E-Commerce Director at Miamishooterssupply. 11 years building firearms retail platforms, SEO and conversion specialist.
Last updated: March 2026
What Makes This Uzi Pistol Different
From a law enforcement and armorer’s perspective, the value here is in the provenance. “Action Arms Ltd.” stamped on the receiver isn’t just an importer’s mark; it’s a certificate of authenticity from a specific, coveted era of importation. These were brought in before the landscape changed, making them the benchmark against which all other Uzi-style pistols are measured. The build quality is military-spec, not commercial-spec. The steel is the correct hardness, the tolerances are built for hard use, and the two-position manual safety operates with a positive, authoritative click that cheaper clones can’t replicate. This is a firearm built on tooling and with knowledge directly from the source.
Key Features & Build Quality
The heart of this pistol is its simple, over-built blowback system. The 4.5-inch barrel is cold hammer-forged and chromelined, designed for sustained fire and easy cleaning—a feature often omitted on commercial copies. The bolt rides on precision-machined rails within the receiver, and the entire assembly has a heft and solidity that communicates durability. The matte black finish is a utilitarian phosphate coating, designed to resist corrosion and wear, not to win beauty contests. It’s the same finish found on military-issue firearms, applied for function.
Operation is straightforward for anyone familiar with the platform: insert a magazine, pull the charging handle (which stays stationary during firing, a classic Uzi trait), and you’re ready. The two-position safety, a lever on the left side of the grip, is intuitive and allows for safe carry with a round chambered. The grip angle and ergonomics are pure Uzi—they work, but they are a product of their time. This isn’t a modern polymer-framed striker-fired pistol, and it doesn’t try to be. It’s a compact, steel-framed powerhouse built around a proven mechanical system.
Pros and Cons: An Honest Assessment
✅ Unmatched Authenticity: This is an IMI-built, Action Arms-imported Uzi. It is the original article, not a homage.
✅ Military-Grade Construction: Forged and machined steel components, military-spec phosphate finish, and proven closed-bolt blowback operation.
✅ Historical Collector Value: As a direct-from-source import, it holds significant value for collections focused on iconic Cold War-era firearms.
✅ Proven Reliability: The Uzi design is legendary for feeding and firing under adverse conditions. This pistol inherits that DNA.
✅ Stable Shooting Platform: The weight and low bore axis of the design make for a surprisingly controllable and flat-shooting 9mm pistol.
❌ Heavy for its Size: At nearly 4 lbs. unloaded, this is a dense firearm. It’s not meant for all-day concealed carry. For a lighter modern pistol, see our Pistol category.
❌ Ergonomics are Dated: The grip angle and magazine release are not optimized for modern shooting techniques. It’s a historical design, not a modern one.
❌ Magazine Cost & Availability: Genuine IMI/Uzi magazines command a premium. Factor this into your total cost of ownership.
Who This Uzi Pistol Is For (And Who Should Pass)
Buy it if: You are a serious collector of Israeli or iconic military firearms. You value historical authenticity and factory-original provenance above all else. You’re a DIY enthusiast or gunsmith who appreciates the engineering and wants to own a benchmark example. You want a range toy with undeniable cool factor and historical significance.
Skip it if: You are looking for a lightweight, modern defensive or concealed carry pistol. Your primary concern is the lowest possible price for a 9mm range gun. You want a firearm with modern ergonomics, accessory rails, and aftermarket support. For those needs, we recommend browsing our selection of Handguns On Sale.
Technical Specifications
| Product Type | Semi-Automatic Pistol |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Israel Military Industries (IMI) |
| Importer | Action Arms Ltd. |
| Model | Uzi Pistol |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger (9x19mm Parabellum) |
| Material (Receiver/Barrel) | Forged Steel / Chromelined Steel |
| Finish | Matte Black Phosphate |
| Trigger Action | Semi-Automatic, Blowback Operated |
| Barrel Length | 4.5 Inches |
| Safety | Two-Position Manual Lever |
| Weight (Approx.) | 3.8 lbs (Unloaded) |
| Country of Origin | Israel |
| Condition | New, Factory Original |
| SKU | AA-IMI-UZIP-9 |
How It Stacks Up: Uzi Pistol Comparison
| Feature | Action Arms / IMI Uzi Pistol | Budget Parts Kit Build (e.g., ~$800-1200) | Modern “Uzi-Style” Pistol (e.g., Century Arms UC9, ~$1000) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material & Quality | Forged IMI steel, military-spec finish. | Mixed surplus/aftermarket parts, finish varies widely. | Often uses cast components and commercial finishes. |
| Authenticity / Provenance | Factory IMI, Action Arms import. Highest collector value. | None. A reassembled firearm of mixed origin. | None. A modern commercial product inspired by the design. |
| Compatibility | 100% with genuine IMI/Uzi parts and magazines. | May require fitting; compatibility is not guaranteed. | Often uses proprietary or modified parts/magazines. |
| Reliability & Lifespan | Proven military design, built to original specs for durability. | Highly dependent on builder skill and part quality. | Built to a commercial price point, not military endurance. |
| Price Point | $$$$ (Premium for authenticity & quality) | $$ (Budget, but variable quality) | $$$ (Mid-range for modern production) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a fully automatic Uzi?
No. The Action Arms / IMI Uzi Pistol is a semi-automatic only, closed-bolt firearm manufactured and sold as a pistol. It is designed to fire one round per trigger pull and is compliant with all federal regulations for civilian ownership where permitted by state law.
What magazines does it use?
It uses standard, full-size IMI Uzi magazines in 9mm. The most common capacities are 25 and 32 rounds. Genuine IMI or high-quality aftermarket magazines (like those from Vector Arms) are recommended for reliable function. We often have these in stock—check our accessories category.
Can I attach a stock to this Uzi pistol?
This firearm is sold and transferred as a pistol. Attaching a stock to a pistol with a barrel under 16″ in length would create a Short-Barreled Rifle (SBR) under the National Firearms Act (NFA), requiring prior registration and a tax stamp. We recommend consulting with an FFL knowledgeable in NFA rules before modifying any firearm.
How does the quality compare to newer Uzi-style pistols?
There is no comparison in terms of material authenticity. This is built on original IMI tooling to military specifications. Newer commercial offerings often use different manufacturing methods (e.g., casting vs. forging), different steel grades, and different finishes to meet a lower price point. This is the original benchmark.
Is it difficult to field strip and clean?
Not at all. The Uzi design is famously simple to maintain. Field stripping involves removing one pin, allowing the top cover and bolt assembly to be removed for cleaning. No special tools are required. The chromelined barrel also resists fouling and is easy to clean.
Where can I buy an authentic Uzi pistol online?
You can purchase this authentic Action Arms / IMI Uzi Pistol 9mm right here at Miamishooterssupply (miamishooterssupply.com). We are a Boise, ID-based retailer specializing in historically significant firearms and ship to your local FFL dealer nationwide.
What is your shipping and FFL process?
We ship same-day on in-stock orders placed on business days. The firearm will be shipped discreetly and securely to the FFL dealer of your choice. You must provide your dealer’s contact information at checkout, and the recipient (you) must pass the background check at the dealer’s location to take possession.
✅ Same-day shipping from Boise, ID
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns (unfired, in original condition)
✅ Secure checkout
Add Action Arms / IMI Uzi Pistol to Cart — $3,869.10
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About this review: This assessment is based on direct handling and technical specifications of the Action Arms / IMI Uzi Pistol. As an armorer and e-commerce specialist, I focus on factual construction, historical context, and practical performance to help informed buyers. We do not make exaggerated marketing claims.
Last updated: March 2026
