It is no secret that the CZ-75 is one of the world's most influential pistols, having spawned many clones and imitators over the decades.
What is a bit of a secret, though, is just how good some of those CZ-75 derivatives are.
Cue the IWI Jericho. On the surface, it may seem like just another traditional DA/SA metal-framed pistol, but if you get some trigger time behind one, you will realize exactly why that isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Aside from being used by the protagonist of one of the best anime shows (you knew it was coming), it just has that "it" factor for me.
Please note that this review will be covering the steel-framed Jericho only. Polymer-framed versions change the characteristics of the gun enough that I feel a separate future review would be necessary.
So let's take a look at some of the specs, features, and other things that set the Jericho apart from the competition.
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Jericho 941 F9 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Affordable
- Extremely low recoil
- Accurate
Cons
- Heavy
- Lack of aftermarket
The Bottom Line
The Jericho 941 is one of my all-time favorite pistols. It is affordable, soft-shooting, accurate, and fun. They are built on a reliable design from a reputable company and are a reminder that quality all-steel pistols don't have to break the bank.
Specs
Features
Source: IWI
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Background
In 1990, Israeli Military Industries (IMI) sought to make a new pistol for domestic security and police use, as well as commercial export.
Instead of creating a brand new pistol from scratch, IMI reached out to the Italian manufacturer Tanfoglio, who were already known for their high-quality CZ-75 clones.
Using supplied parts from Tanfoglio helped circumvent a long design and testing process, allowing IMI to quickly design their own version and produce the gun we know today as the Jericho 941.
The U.S. market saw the introduction of the Jericho in 1990. Various companies have imported the gun under various naming schemes and rollmarks.
In 2005, IMI was privatized and rebranded as Israeli Weapons Industries (IWI), who still produces and imports the Jericho 941 today.
Honestly, there is enough history and minor model variations of the Jericho for an entire article, but I will spare everyone the boring history lesson and get into the nitty-gritty.
Who Is It For?
This is a true shooter's gun, plain and simple. It can function as a duty gun, home defense gun, or just a fun range toy. It covers just about every base, although people looking to concealed carry one might consider a lighter gun.
I find that the Jericho is consistently one of the easiest guns for new shooters to learn on due to its ergonomics and low recoil. These guns really make for a pleasant and rewarding shooting experience regardless of skill level.
Fit & Feel
Being based on the CZ-75 has its benefits, and one of those is outstanding ergonomics.
Like its progenitor, the Jericho's slide rides inside the frame. This gives the gun a very low bore axis. Combined with a solid beavertail and a slightly undercut trigger guard, it allows for a nice, high grip.
For me, it feels like my hand "locks in" naturally.
Unfortunately, the factory plastic grip panels are a bit lackluster when it comes to texture and feel. Additionally, there are vertical serrations on the front and backstraps, but they are not very aggressive.
The grip can feel slightly slippery at times as a result, but the shape of the grip and the beavertail prevent your hand from moving around too much.
Parts fitment is fantastic. I feel like the Jericho 941 has better tolerances than the current base model CZ-75 B pistols. The frame-to-slide fit is excellent, the barrel lockup is great, and everything feels solid.
As with most CZ-style guns, the smaller slide gives you less purchase. A more trapezoidal-shaped slide and a lack of front serrations are noticeable here, but still, the Jericho takes very little force to rack.
The movement of the slide has been exceedingly smooth on every Jericho I have ever handled.
Barrel lengths are available in 4.4-inch or 3.8-inch configurations. Both options still utilize the same full-sized 16+1 capacity grip.
Customers also have the choice between frame safety and slide-mounted safety models. The slide-mounted safety also functions as a decocker, while the frame safety allows you to carry the gun "cocked and locked" in single-action mode.
You have a somewhat long, heavier double-action trigger pull that clocks in around 10 pounds. There is a bit of resistance at first, but the rest of the pull is fairly smooth. In single action, there is some take-up to a wall, then a very tiny amount of creep before a pretty crisp break right around the 5-pound mark.
I personally prefer the frame safety for the ability to carry safely in single-action and due to the fact that the slide safety covers a good portion of the rear cocking serrations.
One thing I find noteworthy that doesn't get mentioned often is how ridiculously easy the slide release is to use. Applying the slightest pressure will send the slide home, which is nice for those who prefer using a slide release.
Current model Jerichos all come with Picatinny rails standard. But if you want to larp as Spike Spiegel, you will have to hunt down an older pre-rail model.
Sights are a pretty standard 3-dot affair, and I find them to be functional without being too large or too small. Older model Jerichos had taller sights, which tend to shoot to a bit higher point-of-impact for me at closer distances (7-10 yards).
A selling point for some is the Jericho's ability to use standard small-frame CZ/EAA 16-round magazines. In my experience, the Mec-Gar CZ/EAA mags function well but require a fair amount of force to seat.
As you can see in the picture below, the IWI-branded magazines stick out a little more and require little effort to seat. The Mec-Gar magazines sit completely flush, and if you don't slam them in, there is a higher risk of not completely seating the magazine and having it fall out during shooting.
How Does It Shoot?
Finally, we are to the good part.
How is it? It is damn awesome. I admit that I have a soft spot for CZ-style guns and the Jericho in particular, but these things are such sweet shooters that most people feel the same way I do after shooting one.
In a nutshell, it is accurate, soft-shooting, and oh-so smooooooooth.
The grip, weight, and bore axis all work together to produce a soft and flat-shooting pistol that tracks well.
Below are a few of my groups at 10 yards. The left and right targets were shot with a newer 3.8-inch railed Jericho 941 using PMC 115 gr FMJ ammo (left) and Hornady 124 gr XTP hollowpoints (right). The middle target was shot with my older 4.4-inch Uzi Eagle using 124 gr Norma FMJ ammo.
The far left group, minus the flyer, is much more indicative of what these guns can achieve. With a better shooter behind the trigger, you can really squeeze some great accuracy out of these guns.
Regardless of what configuration you opt for, it will deliver the goods. There isn't much else to say other than that they are easy and fun to shoot and reward good marksmanship.
I will also note that I have never experienced a stoppage of any kind when shooting any Jericho, whether it be brand new, old, or even surplus Israeli police trade-ins.
What Sets it Apart?
Price to performance is where the Jericho shines. Coming in at anywhere between $450 and $650, it punches well above its class. Everything feels smooth and robust, and it gives the impression that hardly any corners were cut.
IWI Jericho 941 By the Numbers
Accuracy
4..5/5
With a steady hand, you can squeeze some great groups out of these guns thanks to the CZ-inspired design.
Reliability
5/5
As mentioned, I have yet to experience any malfunctions of any kind across roughly ten different Jericho pistols of varying ages and configurations.
Customization
3/5
Unfortunately, this is where the gun falls short. Aside from grip panels, sights, and potential trigger work, there isn't much out there for these guns. Holsters for the newer models are available, but choices may be limited.
Ergonomics
4/5
The grip shape is very comfortable, and the controls are intuitive. I have to knock off a star due to sub-par grip serrations, the grip texture, and a lack of forward slide serrations. 4
Value
4.5/5
Getting a pistol that feels this solid and shoots this well at a reasonable price is honestly one of the biggest draws. It feels like it shoots somewhere between CZ 75B and a CZ 75 SP-01 while costing much closer to the former.
Overall
4.5/5
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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An empty mag does you no good, so don't forget to stock up on ammo!
9mm Ammo in Stock
Final Verdict
It is a bit heavy for those looking for an everyday carry gun, but man is it pretty darned good at everything else. Whether you are newer to the game, or a seasoned shooter, you can have a lot of fun with these guns.
Regardless of the barrel length you choose, or whether you hunt down an older model, performance will be consistent across the board.
If you are looking for a classic hammer-fired DA/SA gun or are even mildly interested in a CZ-style gun, I highly recommend checking the Jericho out.
Do you have any experience with the Jericho 941? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Interested in other hefty guns? Check out our article on the 7 Best Metal Framed Semi-Automatic Pistols!
25 Leave a Reply
I know I'm posting to an older review but I seldom read reviews on something I already know is top shelf. I have owned the FS9 version for several years and it is without a doubt one of the few (maybe only?) 9mm's I would trust to protect me and my family. Put some LOK grips on it and they make a great pistol superb.
This is my favorite pistol, even though I had a rough start with it! Mine came from the factory with a guide rod about a quarter inch too short. Unfortunately I had to get an aftermarket rod since IWI pretty much wasn’t very helpful in sourcing a new one.
Your review of the IWI Jericho 941 9mm was fun to read. Thank you. In 2020 I purchased a NIB all-steel IWI Jericho 941FS 45acp directly from IWI USA. I have three IWI 10-round 45acp magazines. I performed in-depth "due diligence" prior to purchase and anxiously awaited its arrival.
Unfortunately, my Jericho 941FS has under-performed from Day One.
It is fun to shoot, accurate, rugged, attractive, all steel and fits my hand perfectly.
But, I need help!! My IWI Jericho 941FS 45acp is unreliable.. Stovepipes, jams and failure to fire are common, regardless of the Ammo Brand. To date, I have fed my Jericho over 3000 rounds of 45acp, 230gr, FMJ, Brass Case, Ammo from eleven different manufacturers (six Premium USA and five high quality non-USA Brands). Performance is independent of Brand, averaging 87.6% reliability. Definitely not EDC quality.
I want my Jericho to operate reliably. To exceed its capabilities and my expectations!
I have worked with several capable gunsmiths. We have performed detailed analyses of componenent interaction and performance. Minimal fitting and polishing was needed. My IWI Jericho 941FS 45acp is very well built.
My reliability issues appear to be "magazine related". My three magazines are all IWI OEM. They have been examined, cleaned, lubricated, polished and routinely maintained. Failure to feed and routine stovepipes continue.
Has anyone reading this had similar problems AND found solutions? Is there a BETTER ten round 45acp 941FS compatible magazine available?
Your HELP would be appreciated.
"Thank you" in advance.
Ben Miller
Try changing recoil springs. It's the cheapest and easiest thing to at least rule out. I had a very similar issue. 3 point jam( not fully upright; 45°angle where the nose of the bullet would "hang up"on the top of the barrel chamber. Sometimes I could with almost no effort push the back of the slide and it would chamber. Other times not. I do notice my mags (IWI, tanfoglio, and Magnum research)have a slight front to back wobble that will change the angle the round hits the ramp. If you notice this too and think it's excessive maybe the mag catch could be 'adjusted' or modified. These are made by hand for lack of a better word. Of you remove the grip panels and look closer you can see how the metal is welded together. No 2 are the same as I found out when I got a set of Lok grips and had to fit them. Factory replacement recoil springs from IWI are like $7. That made it a lot less frequent for me... Then I got some heavy springs from wolffe and no issues since. Good luck! Let me know if this fixes your problem or if you get fed up... I'll take it off your hands just drop me a line.
Louis
I have the exact same FS45 and have had the same stovepipe problems. I purchased two new IWI magazines and have identified that only one was causing the problem. However, like you, I do not feel that it is 100% reliable and as a result I only use it at the range for fun. Would love to have it in my speed safe for home defense, but it sits in my safe until I hit the range.
You've shown a light on my secret. I've bought 3 original IMI. Under $500 for each of them. Super cheap, already beat up so carrying while fishing streams in the mountains doesn't matter. I'm a 1911 guy who loves the Jericho. Plus getting the Isreali markings is just cool.
I had to reveal the secret at some point, haha. I was fortunate enough to snag my 3 older IMI guns in all three of the different sizes they offered. They are just such great all-around guns that it is hard to only have one!
Jericho F9 Full size Steel Frame, 4.4" barrel, a work horse that never fails.
I replaced both sights with a Meprolight MicroRDS and its Quick Detach (QD) Adaptor and Backup Day/Night Sights. Works very well for me.
On the bottom rail I have mounted a Streamlight TLR 8 (white light & green laser).
To enhance the grip panels texture, I attached to the panels an anti slip tread strips. Sanded it down to my level of comfort and there you go, the Jericho stays still & firm. Bare sweaty hands in a hot summer day, with or without gloves, it just wont move.
For me weight is not an issue, it is a handgun simply irreplaceable.
I just picked up a used Jericho 941 today and I’m loving it! How easy or difficult was it for you to install the Meprolight kit?
I bought a Baby Eagle in 45ACP in 2002. It's the smoothest shooting 45 you will come across. 1000s of rounds through it and maybe a handful of hiccups, and I would put those on the cheap ammo. Best $300 I ever spent, and my grandkids will get to know the pleasure of shooting this handgun whenever they are ready to learn(don't have any yet, and told my son I'm in no hurry to be grandpa). The price has increased, but if you see 1 and are in the market for a 45, I can't think of a better option.
At 300 dollars, that was a hell of a buy, even in 2002. I wish IWI still produced the Jericho in .45 ACP, but they dropped it a while back. Fortunately, Magnum Research still makes the Baby Desert Eagle in .45, but covering all the "almost a Jericho" pistols in this article would have made for a long read. You have a really neat pistol there; she is definitely a keeper.
You didn't mention the original model IWI 941, came packaged with both 9mm & .41 Action Express barrels, and mags! (The .41 AE. Rounds never caught on inthe USA) It was still a cool combo gun kit.
My brushed nickel 941 fits my hand like a glove! The only guns with a better grip are the Walther guns!
Chris, those KBI imported kits with the barrels and included ammo were so cool, but sadly, they are near unobtanium now. I had thought about elaborating more on the .41 AE cartridge, but that could take up a whole article in and of itself. "Fits like a glove" is something I hear a lot from Jericho owners. Glad you like yours!
Probably one of the few guns I keep in constant rotation on range days. Had a P226 Mk25, which in my oversight I unfortunately sold for a Glock.
Resolved that issue with a purchase of an import 941. Best CZ that never was.
The Jericho is far from a CZ, but is one of the better clones.
I've been shooting CZ 7b - through the TS 9mm since 1986. IWI did a decent job but it is a heavy, fat, clunky pistol in comparison.
Thanks Wyatt. Was very excited when i saw your writeup on the Jericho 941 F9 (the first one i've come across when not seeking it out). It was my first firearm purchase, made at a large venue gun show where i literally went through every vendor table trying out pistol after pistol and not finding anything that felt right in my hand. Closing time was approaching and it was looking like i'd be going home still looking for that first handgun. Then the lines of this dark brown pistol caught my eye and my heartbeat literally quickened. I had tried about twenty or so pistols that day, with one or two of them being 'maybes'. When i wrapped my hand around that Jericho i knew i'd found the handgun i was looking for. That was a little over five years ago. No problems, very reliable, it's still more accurate than i am. Though the low profile slide makes brass checks a little more challenging, it is still the pistol i choose to rely in a defense or combat situation. Godspeed
I always love stories like these. The Jericho really seems to be "that gun" for a lot of people who end up handling them. It is an amazing gun to rely on when you need it; I am glad you enjoy yours so much!
Can u get 10 round mags for this gun?
Hi, Chris. You can indeed get 10-round magazines for this gun. They are available directly from IWI and also a number other online retailers.
I have a Jericho 941 FS9 and I completely agree with you on the reliability and ease of shooting. I replaced the rear sight with a MEPRO Bullseye FT and target acquisition is faster and spot on. I recommend using this new type of sight (you only need to replace the rear sight as the front sight is no longer used) for faster acquisition and simpler sight picture. The only downside that I have found is not being able to find a .40 S&W barrel, recoil spring, and magazines for it. If I could find these, then it just might become the perfect EDC (I don't mind the extra weight as my other carry is a Sig 1911 RCS compact in .45). I also carry SOB which also helps with weight reduction. I had both SOB holsters (Jericho and Sig) made for me by Rudy at Black Hill Leather in Laredo, Texas. Rudy does excellent work and molds each holster to the specific gun.
I am glad you enjoy your Jericho as much as I do. Awesome shoutout on the holsters; I might have to see if I can get one made for my pre-rail models!
Great article, Wyatt. I have an older Israeli police trade-in Jericho. It's a polymer frame marked 'Israeli Military Industries' and 'Made in Israel'. I love that gun. I can't think of a single instance when it has malfunctioned on me. It goes everywhere I do and rests by my bed at night.
Thanks, Mikial! A buddy of mine bought one of the older pre-rail SAO stainless Israeli police trade-ins. It had a fair amount of external wear, but it was still very reliable and an absolute tack driver. I've yet to have one let me down yet.
I took an advanced pistol course this fall and shot my IWI Jericho… 3 days on the range, over 1000 rounds. My Jericho shot flawlessly, and accuracy from 2 to 25 yards was great for a combat pistol (as long as I did my part). We even got to shoot in the rain, and the Jericho ran perfectly. This is my preferred CCW pistol (reliability and accuracy), which I carry in an IWI security holster.
That is about as good of an endorsement as it gets! If the weight isn't a big deal for you, they make damn fine carry guns.