Century Arms Apollo 11 V2 Compact 9mm 4.15″ 18+1
About this product
The Century Arms Apollo 11 V2 Compact is a 9mm semi-automatic pistol that delivers full-size magazine capacity in a compact frame designed for daily carry and practical use. Built on a hybrid aluminum/polymer frame with a 4.15-inch cold hammer-forged barrel, this model represents Century's attempt to capture the duty-oriented compact market dominated by the SIG Sauer P320 and Glock 19. The configuration reviewed includes an optic-ready slide, tritium night sights, and an 18+1 capacity—a specification that directly challenges common 15-round standards.
What is the Century Arms Apollo 11 V2 Compact used for?
The Apollo 11 V2 Compact serves primarily as a daily carry pistol for users who prioritize magazine capacity and accessory mounting without moving to a full-size duty gun. Its 4.15-inch barrel and 7.28-inch overall length place it firmly in the 'compact' category, making it suitable for concealed carry in a quality IWB holster, while the 18+1 capacity—the same as many full-size models—makes it viable for home defense or range use. The ambidextrous thumb safety and optic-ready slide widen its appeal to left-handed shooters and those running red dots, though its 27.8-ounce unloaded weight requires a purpose-built belt.
How does the Century Arms Apollo 11 V2 Compact compare to the SIG Sauer P320 Compact?
The Apollo 11 V2 Compact offers a higher standard capacity (18+1 vs. typically 15+1) and includes metal night sights and an optic-ready slide from the factory, whereas most P320 Compacts ship with polymer sights and require a separate optics plate purchase. Where the SIG platform excels is in aftermarket support and a proven military track record; the Apollo 11's aftermarket is minimal by comparison, meaning holster and accessory selection is limited. For a shooter seeking a complete optics-ready package out of the box, the Apollo 11 provides better value; for someone who plans to heavily customize, the P320's ecosystem is superior.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Apollo 11 V2 Compact weighs 27.8 ounces (788 grams) unloaded with an empty magazine, which is 1.2 ounces heavier than a Glock 19 Gen5 (26.6 oz). Its overall length is 7.28 inches (185 mm), height is 5.25 inches (133 mm) with the flush-fit magazine, and the slide width is 1.18 inches (30 mm). The grip circumference measures 5.75 inches (146 mm), falling between the slim profiles of single-stack carry guns and the fuller grips of duty pistols like the Stevens 334 Rifle.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for shooters on a tight budget who cannot afford the $949.99 MSRP plus the cost of a quality holster and additional magazines, nor is it suitable for someone seeking a deep aftermarket for customization. It's also a poor choice for new shooters intimidated by an 18-round double-stack magazine; the grip width may be challenging for smaller hands. If your primary use is deep concealment, a micro-compact like the SIG P365 or Springfield Hellcat will be more appropriate due to their significantly thinner profiles.
What's in the box?
The package includes one 18-round steel magazine with an anti-tilt follower, a basic soft-sided zippered pistol case with no internal organization, a cable lock for transport compliance, and the standard owner's manual/warranty card. Notably absent is a second magazine—most competitors in this price range include at least two—and any form of optic mounting plate. You'll need to purchase additional magazines separately ($35-45 each) and source the correct mounting plate for your specific red dot from Century Arms, which can add $40-60 to the total cost.
Is the Century Arms Apollo 11 V2 Compact worth it at $949.99?
At $949.99, the Apollo 11 V2 Compact is a competitive value only if you specifically need its combination of factory-installed night sights, optics-ready slide, and 18-round capacity in a compact format. It undercuts a similarly equipped SIG P320 X-Compact by approximately $80-$120, but the SIG retains higher resale value and proven reliability. Its worth hinges on whether you prioritize out-of-the-box features over long-term aftermarket flexibility and brand reputation. For a shooter building a dedicated optic-equipped carry gun who doesn't plan to swap components, this pistol can justify its price. For general use, a more established platform like a Glock or Stevens shotgun often makes more financial sense.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Holds 18+1 rounds—3 more than standard Glock 19 capacity
- Includes tritium front night sight with white ring—600+ hour glow life
- Weighs 27.8 oz—1.2 oz heavier than a Glock 19 for added stability
- Optic-ready slide milled for common RMR/Holosun footprint—saves $150+ in aftermarket work
Trade-offs
- Includes only one magazine—competitors like the SIG P320 Compact bundle two
- No optics mounting plate included—adds $45-60 and additional installation step
- Limited aftermarket holster support—requires custom order from niche makers
- Black Cerakote shows holster wear faster than nitrided or DLC finishes
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 787450998148 |
| manufacturer | Century Arms |
| manufacturer part number | HG8643-N |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 4.15" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 18 |
| color | COPPER |
| model | Apollo 11 V2 |
| product type | 1911 |
| safety | Ambi Thumb |
| shipping weight | 5.3 |
| sights | Tritium Night Sights |
| slide description | Optic Ready/Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Glock 19 holsters?
- No, the Apollo 11 V2 Compact's slide and frame dimensions differ from the Glock 19, requiring a dedicated holster. Most major holster manufacturers like Vedder or Tier 1 Concealed do not list specific molds for this model, though some universal polymer holsters with adjustable retention might function. You should plan to order a custom Kydex holster from a maker that specifically supports the Century Arms Apollo 11.
- Does it fit Trijicon RMR optics?
- Yes, the optic-ready slide uses a common mounting pattern, but it does not come with the necessary mounting plate. You must purchase the specific Trijicon RMR adapter plate (Century Arms part #CA-AP11-OPTIC-RMR) separately, which typically costs $45-60 and requires proper installation using a torque wrench set to 15 inch-pounds. Without the plate, direct mounting will damage both the optic and the slide.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping to an FFL from Ironclad Armory's warehouse typically takes 3-5 business days for processing plus 2-7 business days for transit via UPS or FedEx, depending on your location. Delivery times can extend to 10-14 total calendar days during peak seasons or promotional periods. Once shipped, you will receive a tracking number and must coordinate transfer with your chosen FFL dealer.
- Can I return it if I don't like how it shoots?
- No, Ironclad Armory's policy, consistent with federal regulations, prohibits returns or exchanges on firearms once the transfer is completed at your FFL, except for verifiable manufacturer defects. You can inspect the firearm at your FFL before completing the background check; if you refuse transfer at that point, a restocking fee of 15% ($142.50 on this model) applies. Always test-rent a similar model at a range before purchasing.
- Does this work with aftermarket Glock magazines?
- No, the Apollo 11 V2 Compact uses proprietary steel magazines with a unique feed lip geometry and magazine catch cutout. Only Century Arms manufactured magazines (part #CA-AP11-18RD) are compatible. Attempting to modify or use aftermarket Glock magazines will cause failures to feed and may damage the magazine well. Always verify magazine compatibility by part number before purchase.