The MAC-11, designed by Gordon Ingram for the Military Armament Corporation in the 1970s, is a compact machine pistol, a smaller derivative of the MAC-10. Chambered primarily in .380 ACP, it’s infamous for its exceptionally high rate of fire and diminutive size, making it easily concealable. Its straight blowback action contributes to its simplicity, but also to its reputation for poor accuracy and controllability. The weapon’s history is complex, marked by production shifts between companies like RPB Industries and Cobray following MAC’s demise, and the emergence of variants, most notably those chambered in 9mm Luger, often mistaken for the original.

The MAC-11’s legacy is intertwined with its civilian sales and its prominent role in popular culture, solidifying its image as a compact, high-firepower weapon. However, its high rate of fire, while a defining feature, often resulted in difficulty maintaining control, contributing to its notoriety. The weapon’s production history, involving multiple manufacturers and variations like the M11/9, adds layers to its story, distinguishing it as a firearm with a complex and often controversial past.