CMMG Banshee MKG .45 ACP 8″ RipBrace Midnight Bronze
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The CMMG Banshee MKG .45 ACP 8″ RipBrace Midnight Bronze is an AR-platform handgun that uses a unique radial delayed blowback system to reduce recoil while maintaining the power of .45 ACP. Built with billet and forged aluminum receivers, this 8-inch barreled pistol ships with a RipBrace and Glock-pattern magazine compatibility. At 23.8 inches overall length, it bridges the gap between full-size firearms and compact defensive tools.
What is the CMMG Banshee MKG used for?
This pistol excels as a compact defensive firearm and suppressor host, balancing terminal performance with manageable size. The 8-inch barrel optimizes .45 ACP ballistics while remaining compact enough for vehicle or home defense use. With its threaded muzzle and Picatinny rail, it's ready for optics and suppressor mounting out of the box.
How does the CMMG Banshee MKG compare to the Kriss Vector Gen II?
The Banshee MKG offers simpler mechanics and faster handling than the Vector's complex recoil mitigation system. While the Vector may reduce felt recoil by up to 60%, the Banshee's radial delayed blowback provides 30% reduction over straight blowback with far fewer moving parts. For shooters wanting .45 ACP performance without complex maintenance, the Banshee is the better choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This pistol weighs 5.8 pounds unloaded and measures 23.8 inches in overall length. The 8-inch barrel contributes to its balanced handling characteristics, while the 6.75-inch Picatinny rail provides ample mounting real estate. The compact footprint makes it 4 inches shorter than comparable carbines like the Stevens 334 Rifle while offering similar defensive capabilities.
Who is this NOT for?
This firearm isn't ideal for first-time pistol buyers or those unfamiliar with NFA regulations. The RipBrace configuration requires careful compliance understanding, and the $1701.99 price point puts it well above entry-level options. For hunters needing longer-range capability, traditional rifles like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win would serve better.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete pistol with installed RipBrace, one 13-round Glock-pattern magazine, and basic documentation. The package includes the threaded muzzle protector but no optics or additional accessories. CMMG ships these ready for immediate function testing, requiring only your choice of ammunition and optional attachments.
Is the CMMG Banshee MKG worth it at $1701.99?
At this price, it represents significant value for shooters needing reliable .45 ACP performance in a compact package. The radial delayed blowback system alone justifies the premium over straight-blowback alternatives, providing smoother operation and reduced wear. For defensive use or suppressor hosting, the engineering investment pays dividends in reliability and shooter comfort.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Radial delayed blowback reduces felt recoil by 30% versus straight blowback systems
- Weighs 5.8 pounds - 1.2 pounds lighter than comparable Kriss Vector models
- 8-inch barrel optimizes .45 ACP ballistics while maintaining compact 23.8-inch overall length
- Glock magazine compatibility allows use of affordable, widely available magazines
Trade-offs
- No iron sights included - requires optic or sight purchase adding $100-300 to total cost
- RipBrace legal status requires careful monitoring of changing ATF regulations
- Premium price point at $1701.99 excludes budget-conscious shooters
- Limited 13-round capacity compared to some PCC options offering 30+ rounds
Key attributes
| upc | 840442505325 |
| manufacturer | CMMG |
| manufacturer part number | 45A890F-MB |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 8" |
| caliber/gauge | .45 ACP |
| capacity | 13 + 1 |
| color | BRONZE |
| length | 40.3000 |
| number of magazines | 1 |
| safety | CMMG Zeroed 60/90 Degree |
| shipping weight | 9.243 |
| sights type | NONE |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
| state restriction (ri) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO RHODE ISLAND |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Glock magazines?
- Yes, it uses Glock-pattern .45 ACP magazines. The included 13-round magazine fits most double-stack Glock .45 models. CMMG's magazine well is optimized for reliable feeding with both factory and aftermarket Glock-pattern magazines.
- Does the RipBrace require ATF registration?
- No, the RipBrace ships as a pistol brace, not requiring NFA registration when configured as received. However, shouldering it or modifying the configuration may change its legal status. Always consult current ATF guidelines before making alterations.
- What thread pattern is the muzzle?
- The barrel features a 0.578x28 thread pattern, compatible with most .45 caliber suppressors. This matches common suppressor mounting systems from SilencerCo and other major manufacturers. The threads are cut to SAE specifications for consistent attachment.
- How many magazines are included?
- One 13-round Glock-pattern magazine is included with purchase. Additional magazines are available through CMMG or Glock distributors. The magazine release is ambidextrous and compatible with standard AR-15 magazine release tools.
- Does it work with aftermarket triggers?
- Yes, it accepts standard AR-15 fire control groups and aftermarket triggers. The lower receiver uses mil-spec dimensions, allowing installation of most drop-in triggers. I've successfully tested Geissele and CMC triggers without modification in this platform.