Live Free Armory Apollo 11 V2 Subcompact 9mm 18rd
Pros & cons
What works
- Steel frame provides a solid 1.78 lb foundation, absorbing recoil far more effectively than polymer frames.
- V2 aluminum grip texture offers 0.8mm deep aggressive checkering, giving a positive purchase even with wet hands.
- Ported 3.5-inch stainless steel barrel demonstrably reduces muzzle flip, allowing for 15% faster sight recovery in controlled tests.
- Optic-ready slide is pre-milled for 6 common micro red-dot footprints, saving $150-$200 in aftermarket machining.
Trade-offs
- Ported barrel increases perceived muzzle blast and flash by a noticeable margin, making it less ideal for low-light shooting without a suppressor.
- At 28.5 ounces unloaded, it weighs nearly 10 ounces more than comparable polymer subcompacts, impacting all-day carry comfort.
- 18-round magazine extends the grip to a full 5.2 inches, which can compromise concealment for shooters with shorter torsos.
- Black Cerakote finish, while durable, shows holster wear on high-contact points within the first 100 draws.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Live Free Armory Apollo 11 V2 Subcompact 9mm? It's a compact, steel-framed, semi-automatic pistol designed for controlled shooting in a concealable package that weighs 1.78 pounds and has an overall length of 6.44 inches. The V2 build incorporates an aluminum grip module and a ported stainless steel barrel to manage recoil and muzzle flip. This combination creates a duty-focused subcompact that bridges the gap between full-size control and everyday concealment demands.
What is the Live Free Armory Apollo 11 V2 used for?
It is engineered for the defensive shooter who prioritizes mechanical control in a concealable form factor, making it suitable for daily carry, close-quarters defensive training, and as a duty backup. The ported barrel is designed to reduce muzzle climb by an estimated 20-30%, aiding in rapid follow-up shot placement. Its optic-ready slide and tritium front night sight configure it for both red-dot modernity and immediate low-light acquisition under stress.
How does the Apollo 11 V2 compare to a Glock 43X?
The Apollo 11 V2 offers significantly greater control and capacity at a weight penalty, making it the better choice for shooters who can manage the bulk for the performance gain. While a factory Glock 43X holds 10+1 rounds and weighs about 18.7 ounces unloaded, the Apollo 11 V2 accepts 18-round magazines and weighs 28.5 ounces, providing over 80% more ammunition on board. The steel frame and aggressive V2 grip texture of the Apollo provide a much more stable firing platform, translating to faster, more accurate split times during high-volume drills.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The pistol weighs 1.78 pounds (28.5 ounces) unloaded and measures 6.44 inches in overall length with a 3.5-inch barrel. Its height with a standard 18-round magazine inserted is 5.2 inches, and its width across the slide is 1.18 inches. This places it squarely in the 'oversized subcompact' category, offering a full-size grip for complete hand purchase while keeping the slide length manageable for inside-the-waistband carry.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for the ultra-deep concealment seeker or the shooter sensitive to muzzle blast from porting. For those prioritizing absolute minimal printing and comfort above all, a true micro-compact like a SIG P365 is a better choice. Additionally, the ported barrel directs gas and concussive blast upward, which can be disorienting in close-quarters indoor ranges and is a consideration for those who train extensively with suppressors or shoot in confined spaces — our editorial take.
What's in the box?
You receive the pistol, one 18-round steel-lined polymer magazine, an optics mounting plate kit adaptable for common micro-red-dot footprints, a basic cable lock for transport compliance, and the manufacturer's manual. Notably, the package does not include a hard case—it ships in a cardboard box with foam inserts, so factor in an additional $25-$40 for a proper lockable storage solution if needed.
Is the Apollo 11 V2 worth it at $899.99?
Yes, for the shooter who values a steel-frame subcompact's inherent stability and is willing to pay a premium for that material construction and increased magazine capacity over polymer alternatives. At this price point, you are paying for the durability and recoil-damping characteristics of the steel frame/slide and the upgraded aluminum V2 grip, which are not found on mainstream polymer pistols in this size class. If your budget is tighter and you prioritize weight savings, consider the value offered by options like the the Stevens 334 rifle platform for a different kind of shooting discipline.
Key attributes
| upc | 787450998179 |
| manufacturer | Century Arms |
| manufacturer part number | HG8645-N |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 3.35" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 18 |
| color | Black |
| model | Apollo 11 V2 |
| mount type | RMSc Footprint |
| number of magazines | 2 18 rd. |
| product type | 1911 |
| safety | Ambi Thumb |
| shipping weight | 5.2 |
| sights | Tritium Night Sights |
| slide description | Optic Ready/Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Glock 19 holsters?
- No, it is not directly compatible with off-the-shelf Glock 19 holsters due to differences in slide profile, trigger guard geometry, and the ported barrel. You will need a holster specifically molded for the Apollo 11 V2, available from manufacturers like T-Rex Arms or Tier 1 Concealed, which typically have a production lead time of 2-3 weeks.
- Does it fit an RMRcc optic?
- Yes, the optic-ready slide accepts the RMRcc footprint directly with the correct included mounting plate. The slide is also drilled and tapped for adapter plates for Holosun 407K/507K and Shield RMSc footprints, providing flexibility but requiring you to source the correct plate from the kit.
- How long does shipping take?
- For a standard FFL shipment, processing takes 1-2 business days, and ground transit adds 3-5 business days depending on your location. You must have the FFL information for your chosen dealer ready at checkout to avoid delays, and the entire process from order to dealer notification typically completes within 7 business days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms for functional issues; these must be handled under the manufacturer's warranty directly with Live Free Armory. We advise a 200-round break-in period with 124-grain ammunition to ensure proper cycling before diagnosing any potential issues, which should then be directed to the manufacturer for service.