Varan PMX90: Ambidexterity in South Africa

Published on October 3, 2018
Duration: 10:39

This guide details the field stripping and reassembly process for the Varan PMX90, a pistol developed in Rhodesia and South Africa. The process is noted to be similar to a Browning Hi-Power, involving the removal of a slide stop pin to separate the slide from the frame. The video highlights the pistol's unique manufacturing innovations and its ambidextrous features, while also discussing its historical context and production challenges.

Quick Summary

The Varan PMX90 is a 9mm pistol developed in Rhodesia and South Africa, noted for its ambidextrous features like a reversible slide release and safety. It utilized innovative manufacturing with a hybrid frame and won an industrial award, though its polymer magazines were prone to fragility.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction to Varan PMX90
  2. 00:26Designers and Context
  3. 00:49Pistol Overview & Models
  4. 01:46Manufacturing Innovation
  5. 02:30Magazines & Issues
  6. 03:40Ambidextrous Features
  7. 04:16Safety Functions
  8. 05:01Sights and Markings
  9. 05:29Disassembly & Internals
  10. 06:47Ejection Port Evolution
  11. 08:57Production Numbers & Market

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Varan PMX90?

The Varan PMX90 is an automatic pistol developed in Rhodesia and later South Africa, with development beginning in 1980 as the PMX80. It was designed by Tony Blackshaw and Stuart Beecham and is known for its ambidextrous features and innovative manufacturing.

What were the key design features of the Varan PMX90?

The Varan PMX90 emphasized ambidextrous design, featuring a reversible slide release and safety. It also incorporated a hybrid frame (cast and stamped metal) and polymer grip assemblies, winning an industrial innovation award for its manufacturing processes.

What were the issues with the Varan PMX90 magazines?

The original 16-round transparent polymer magazines were prone to cracking and discoloration. Later black polymer magazines were developed but remained fragile and susceptible to damage on the feed lips.

How was the Varan PMX90 disassembled?

Disassembly of the Varan PMX90 is similar to a Browning Hi-Power. The slide stop pin can be removed from any position, allowing the slide to be moved forward off the frame, followed by the recoil spring, guide rod, and barrel.

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