By: Greg Chabot

Photos Sasha Steadman

The Kriss Vector needs no introduction. Since its debut it has been showcased in movies and video games, attaining cult status in a short period of time.  Is the Vector all it’s hyped up to be?  Or is it overrated? Read on as I put the Vector through its paces.

The Kriss Vector was designed in 2006 using an unconventional delayed blowback system called the “Kriss Super V” that is intended to reduce muzzle climb while firing full auto. This design gives the Vector its unique and futuristic look. The Vector went into production in 2009 and has evolved through multiple generations and various calibers. They are available as carbines or pistols for civilians, with full-auto versions for military and law enforcement. The test sample is the SDP version in 9x19mm with a factory equipped brace by SB Tactical. Testing was over the course of a year in various weather conditions.

Initial Impressions

The sample came in a black plastic case with two 40-round magazines. The fit and finish were good with no slop between the upper and lower. After field stripping, the machine work on the bolt and slider assembly were good with no marks from the tooling. Due to the unique operating system, it is recommended to run a Vector “wet.” I started off with gun butter then switched to EWG grease by Slip 2000. The controls are AR-like, and the Vector features a bolt hold open after the last round is fired. Due to the design the mag release is low on the weapon and if one is not careful, they could release the mag by accident. A vertical foregrip would be preferred; due to the unconstitutional NFA that is not possible on the pistol version. The factory iron sights were easy to pick up and fold down if you use an optic. The action on this weapon is very open to the elements and I could see reliability issues if exposed to sand, mud, etc. The design is simple and easy to disassemble and clean.

Range Test

I ran the Vector with various ammo brands and bullet types. I used the irons and a Swampfox Kraken green dot during testing. I used various Glock mags of different capacities to be thorough. The action is very tight on the Vector, like most weapons it will loosen up with use. The trigger was smooth and broke clean. I was impressed by the accuracy of the 5.5” barrel, combined with the Kraken it was like cheating when the weapon worked.

Problem Child

The first few mags ran great then the continuous problems started. I had a few failures to feed and extract which I attributed to either ammo or mags. Then I had two stoppages when the case got caught behind the bolt requiring me to use a small punch to get it clear. After that, I called it a day and cleaned it. Doing some research, I decided to use grease for the rest of the test period.

To clear stoppages on a Vector, I recommend first putting it on safe, then drop the mag. That should clear it quickly unless you get a case behind the bolt. The next range session, the stoppages got worse with multiple failures per mag. I didn’t bother loading more than 10 rounds per mag and I had to keep myself from tossing the Vector downrange. One benefit, I got plenty of practice transitioning to my sidearm. To resolve some of these issues, I tried a new bolt and replaced the extractor spring on the other bolt with an AR spring and polymer insert. It didn’t help much with reliability. With the new bolt the failure rate went down but not enough for my standards. After a miserable 2k rounds over the course of a year, I concluded testing. I didn’t bother dropping it in snow, sand, or mud as it wouldn’t run clean or with good ammo.

Pros/Cons of the Kriss Vector

Pros:

  1. Very little recoil when it works.
  2. Accurate for its size.
  3. Looks cool and fun to shoot, you’ll be the center of attention at the range (if you like that sort of thing).
  4. You’ll get good at transition drills.
  5. They hold their value when you go to get rid of it.

Cons:

  1. High MSRP.
  2. Unreliable.
  3. Not much for aftermarket support.
  4. Awkward controls for some.
  5. Heavy for its size.

Final Thoughts

I had high hopes for the Vector but sadly it failed miserably. Unlike many writers, I am not afraid to be honest. I take no pleasure in writing a negative review — people work hard for their money. If my words can help them make an informed purchase, so be it. The Kriss Vector, despite having a unique look and design, failed to perform on the range. With consistent failures to feed or extract I can’t recommend this weapon at all for self-defense. It was all show and no go, which doesn’t win in a dangerous situation. For the MSRP it should work right out of the box as it has been out long enough to work out design flaws.

The Vector cult will disagree, but I would be curious as to how many Vector fans have actually owned or shot as video games don’t count in the real world. No major agencies or armies use the Vector which is also telling. I suggest a prospective buyer rent or borrow a Vector and you’ll see just how overrated they are. There are plenty of cheaper and proven PCCs on the market that will run reliably and won’t let you down in a self-defense situation. The money you will save by not buying a Kriss Vector can be spent on ammo and training — see you in the woods.