The Hi-Point 995: A Budget Friendly Pistol-Caliber Carbine

by
posted on November 10, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Hi Point Carbine

It’s easy to understand how some might think carbines that chamber pistol cartridges are a new and radical development in firearm design. They are, after all, selling fast, hard to find in stock and wear a modern, text message friendly acronym—PCCs.

The approach is hardly new, though. It spawned out of necessity during the 1800s as settlers moved west across the nation on horseback and in wagons. Carbines that used the same cartridge as a trusty revolver shaved weight, saved space and provided a logistical advantage when supply lines thinned in the frontier. The Winchester 1873 is a well-known example that survives to this day.

As rifle cartridge performance stretched distances and semi-automatics increased speed, commonality of ammo between a sidearm and long gun fell out of fashion. Add the convenience of those freshly invented vehicles that made weight and space less of a concern, and it’s easy to see why many of the original PCCs disappeared.

The team at Hi-Point never lost sight of that practicality, though. The company introduced its Model 995 carbine in the 1990s. The blowback-operated 9 mm NATO-chambered semi-automatic shipped with a 10-round magazine.

It’s still available today, with a variety of improvements, and a 20-round aftermarket magazine is now available. You can choose from barrel lengths of 16.5" or 19" and both are threaded 1/2x28" for aftermarket muzzle devices. The gun comes with a skeletonized polymer stock, in a variety of color patterns—from basic black to camo. Picatinny rails make attaching lights and lasers a breeze, and each come with a peep sight at the rear and a post up front. The sights are adjustable for windage and elevation and the firearm has a thumb magazine release and manual safety.

Retail price for the basic version is $339. A variety of upgrades are also available, including the 995 FG that comes with an attached fore-end grip. It will set you back $386. You can also add a tactical flashlight, laser, Crimson Trace red dot, 4x32 mm scope and more. The top end Hi-Point 995 carbine has an MSRP of $438.

Of course, 9 mm isn’t the only popular pistol cartridge out there, and Hi-Point offers versions of this carbine that chamber .380 ACP, 10 mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP. The features and manual of arms are identical throughout the lines, but colors and accessories vary, along with prices. The MSRP on the Model 3895 (the .380 ACP version), for example, runs from $315 to $373. The priciest in each of the other chamberings include the 10 mm at $501, .40 S&W $480 and .45 ACP’s decked-out version comes in at $498.

The company also offers the carbine in a special Grand Union Flag, OD, FDE and California-compliant models.

Latest

Cz600 Review Right
Cz600 Review Right

Review: CZ 600 Alpha

One of several models in the CZ 600 series of rifles, the CZ 600 Alpha is an affordable bolt-action design with a unique action that incorporates a lightweight receiver and a "hybrid controlled feed" system.

San Tan Tactical Launches Defender Program

San Tan Tactical has launched a Defender Program to provide increased support for the professional community of law enforcement officers, servicemen and women and veterans.

I Have This Old Gun: The Ortgies Pistol

One of the lesser-known, German-made handguns from the early 20th century, the Ortgies pistol has a fascinating history stretching from the end of World War I all the way to the conclusion of World War II.

New For 2025: Taurus GX4 Strike Bravo

In a collaboration with Strike Industries, Taurus USA has launched its GX4 Strike Bravo, which combines elements of its popular micro-compact handgun with a chassis-frame design capable of accepting a stabilizing brace.

PenFed Touts Successful Three Quarters In 2025

In a quarterly update to members, PenFed Credit Union CEO James Schenck highlighted the company's strong financial position while also sharing some of his financial insights.

2026 NRA Youth Education Summit Applications Open

Applications are now open for the 2026 NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.), an all-expenses-paid, six-day leadership and scholarship program for rising high school juniors and seniors.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.