Canik's MC9LS Flying Ace Debuts With Laser-Etched Cerakote Nose Art

Canik has officially launched the METE MC9LS Flying Ace, confirming that the "Flying Ace" name teased on its accessory pages belongs to a WWII aviation-themed version of its MC9LS carry pistol, finished with laser-ablated Cerakote artwork instead of a printed or dipped graphic.

Key points

• The finish: the nose-art design is burned into the Cerakote layer via laser ablation, which Canik says preserves fine detail better than surface-applied graphics.
• The look: weathered earth tones and fighter-plane styling, billed by Canik as a factory-original Canik Creations design rather than an aftermarket job.
• The gun underneath: standard MC9LS specs apply — 9x19mm, 17+1 capacity, optics-ready slide, reversible mag catch, Canik's trigger system, polymer frame with steel slide and barrel.
• What's in the box: a weatherproof case, holster, cleaning kit, toolkit, and two magazines, with an MSRP of $549.99 through Canik dealers nationwide.

Quick take

The MC9LS already has a solid reputation as a shooter, so this is really a bet on whether buyers want to pay for cosmetics on top of a gun that didn't need help selling itself. Laser ablation is a more durable way to do a theme finish than most alternatives, and the included gear list is generous for the price. Whether WWII nose art belongs on an everyday carry pistol is a matter of taste — TFB's own writer says he's not sold on the look at all.

Read the full story: Eric B