Cobray M11/Nine

Go Back to Assault Pistols

Cobray M11/Nine
Weapon: Cobray M11/Nine
Design Family: MAC
Type: Assault Pistol
Country of Origin: United States
Caliber: 9mm Luger
Action: Blow Back Semi-Automatic

The Cobray M11/9, a compact submachine gun, emerged in the late 1970s from the innovative mind of Gordon Ingram. Originally designed for military and law enforcement use, its design was based on Ingram's earlier M10 model, which utilized a blowback operation system. The M11/9, chambered for the 9mm Parabellum cartridge, features a distinctive boxy shape, a top-mounted magazine, and a simple yet effective design that allowed for rapid fire and ease of handling. Its robust construction and folding stock contributed to its appeal as a versatile firearm suitable for various tactical scenarios.

Primarily produced by Cobray, the M11/9 gained notoriety during the 1980s and 1990s, especially as the gun culture in the United States became increasingly polarized. Its affordability, compact size, and high rate of fire made it popular among civilian gun enthusiasts and those interested in military-style weapons. The M11/9 was often seen as a "gangster" weapon, and its association with crime and violence was amplified by its appearance in movies and media. This contributed to its reputation as a symbol of the era's burgeoning gun culture and the criminal underworld, leading to increased scrutiny and regulatory efforts.

1. Military Armament Corporation (MAC) - Original Development

  • 1969-1976: Gordon Ingram and Mitchell WerBell's Military Armament Corporation (MAC) originally manufactured the MAC-10 and MAC-11 in both .45 ACP and .380 ACP, respectively. These early models were mostly aimed at military and law enforcement but also saw some civilian interest.
  • MAC struggled with financial problems and declared bankruptcy in 1976, after which the original MAC-10/11 designs were picked up by various entities.

2. RPB Industries

  • Late 1970s-1982: After MAC's bankruptcy, RPB Industries in Atlanta, Georgia, took over production of the MAC-style weapons, producing a series of open-bolt versions. However, due to legal regulations on open-bolt semi-automatics, RPB halted production, and the company shut down in 1982.

3. SWD/Cobray

  • 1982-1990s: SWD Inc., founded by Sylvia and Wayne Daniel, acquired RPB's assets, including the designs and rights to the MAC line. Under SWD, they branded the civilian semi-automatic version as the Cobray M11/9, chambered in 9mm.
  • Cobray produced a range of firearms using the M11/9 design, notably popular for its compact size and availability on the civilian market. The Cobray name became associated with cheap, easily accessible, and legally compliant (post-1986) semi-automatic versions.
  • The M11/9 earned a reputation for its high rate of fire in full-auto variants (when modified or in NFA-compliant forms) and inexpensive price, making it popular among civilian enthusiasts and in popular media.

4. Post-Cobray Production

  • 1990s-2000s: SWD and Cobray eventually ceased production amid tightening firearms regulations and a declining market for the M11/9. The Cobray brand became fragmented, with several companies and individuals owning different rights to the name and designs. Some firms, like Leinad, produced similar models, and aftermarket parts continued to circulate.

Despite its controversial status, the Cobray M11/9 remains an iconic representation of its time, reflecting broader social issues regarding firearms in America. While it is now subject to stricter regulations and is classified in some areas as a Title II weapon, its legacy persists in the realms of firearms history and pop culture. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to seek it out, fascinated by its unique design and the stories woven into its controversial past. The M11/9 thus stands as a reminder of the complex relationship between firearms, society, and the law.


Related Weapons: Ingram M10 Ingram M11 Cobray M12 Phoenix BXP

Gallery

Relevant Articles:

1980's Assault Pistols and Civilian Submachine Guns


Videos:

Cobray M11/9 Basics