First Look: B&T USA Phoenix Redback and Drake Pistols

Both are descendants of B&T’s Sphinx pistol.

by
posted on August 11, 2025
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B&T Pistols

B&T USA is now offering its Phoenix family of pistols in the United States. This new product family is composed of two sub-variants, the Drake and Redback series. Because both the Phoenix Redback and Drake pistols are the spiritual descendants of the Swiss Sphinx pistol, all are based on the classic hammer-fired, metal framed CZ-75 pistol design. This means that the entirety of the B&T Phoenix family bears some visual resemblance to both the Swiss Sphinx and the classic CZ-75 profile, including the signature narrow slide that rides inside the frame.

The B&T Drake and Redback pistols are all full-size performance pistols built with cold-hammer-forged, polygonal-rifled barrels. In addition, like their famous Sphinx ancestor, the new Phoenix Drake and Redback pistols are built to very strict tolerances.

“These pistols embody the discipline and detail that define Swiss firearm manufacturing,” said Chris Mudgett, VP of Marketing B&T USA. “The Redback and Drake are built for shooters who demand excellence yet require longevity and reliability.” Both models are now shipping to U.S. stores, with additional variants forthcoming — all supported by B&T USA’s reputation for quality and service.        

Phoenix Redback

The B&T Phoenix Redback is a DA/SA pistol available in an all-black finish or duotone with stainless steel. Besides its cold-hammer-forged barrel, single-action trigger and exacting tolerances, this competition inspired pistol also includes a quick-change optic plate system, modular G10 grips and fully ambidextrous controls. For organized competition shooting, the Redback is suitable for USPSA Production or Carry Optics divisions. It’s also suitable for use in 3-gun matches.

Phoenix Drake

The Drake is an evolution of the CZ-75, Sphinx and Redback pistols and incorporates a Briley-style spherical bushing and full-length dustcover. This allows the shooter to take advantage of enhanced recoil control and balance. Drake pistols are also compatible with Tanfoglio LF magazines.

Drake models are assembled with lightened slides to reduce reciprocating mass–a feature cherished by serious competitive shooters. This makes Phoenix Drake a good fit for competitive shooters focused on IPSC Standard and Production divisions. Like the Redback, it features a hand-fit slide-to-frame interface and modular options, including palm-swell grips and ambidextrous safeties. Learn more about both of these pistols as well as other products from B&T USA at bt-usa.com.

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