Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	AMT-High Standard Manufacturing Co. More Info

About the Gun

The AMT Backup in .38 Super, 9mm Parabellum, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP uses the large-frame platform with recoil-operated semi-automatic action (locked-breech in higher-pressure calibers) and double-action-only trigger. All versions feature all-stainless construction, fixed minimalist sights machined into the slide, bottom-mounted button magazine release, and removable checkered black polymer grip panels.

Production

Production began in the early-to-mid 1990s and continued through 2001.

Market value

Last known MSRP for this gun was around $550. Used market value in 95% condition is currently around $350–$450.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	9 mm Luger
Alias:	9 mm Parabellum
More Info

Analysis

These large-frame Backup variants were developed to apply the compact backup concept to higher-pressure centerfire cartridges. The .38 Super and 9mm provide higher velocity and flatter trajectory than the .380 small-frame model, with 6-round capacity offering a slight increase in rounds available. The .40 S&W delivers greater energy and bullet diameter for potentially larger wound channels, though recoil snap is more pronounced in the compact frame. The .45 ACP supplies the highest muzzle energy and stopping potential in the group, but felt recoil is substantial and muzzle flip more challenging to manage due to the short barrel and limited mass. All four share a heavy DAO trigger pull (often 10–12+ lbs or more), which supports safety for pocket carry but can reduce precision and follow-up speed. Reliability depends on proper lubrication to reduce stainless galling, with consistent function on standard FMJ loads after break-in; some examples show feeding or ejection variations with certain hollow points or if maintenance is limited. Production volumes were low across these calibers, resulting in greater scarcity than the .380 variant and interest from collectors for their role as ultra-compact options in larger calibers, though practical use is constrained by recoil control and ergonomics relative to more recent designs.