This is the next article in a series on Truck Guns, or the firearms you might want to keep nearby in case of an emergency (or zombie invasion, whichever comes first). This all started when Tom R. posted an article about the new Springfield Kuna. Unlike many articles and videos about the compact sub gun (ehem, “large-format pistol”), he framed the weapon as a truck gun. That idea led me down a rabbit hole exploring what constitutes a truck gun, why someone might need one, and the different applications available. Someone living in the country versus someone in suburbia has different needs.
The first article in this series covered a Ruger American in 300 BLK, perhaps the perfect truck gun for rural environments or urban sniping. Since then, I’ve covered a Mossberg 590, a Flux Defense Raider X, and a Rossi R95 in 30/30. For this article, let’s focus more on the budget end of the spectrum and talk about an item that nearly everyone can afford. But, by going with a budget rifle—I mean pistol—will we sacrifice too much in the way of ergonomics and performance? Let’s find out.
A truck gun—at least in my mind—refers to any weapon stored in your vehicle for defensive, hunting, or survival purposes. These firearms possess key characteristics, including versatility, compactness, and lethality. Of course, this definition is somewhat ambiguous, with many variables to discuss.
**Legal Warning** If you are interested in pursuing this concept, I would be remiss if I did not warn you to check local laws concerning the transport of weapons in vehicles, particularly long guns and NFA items. States with concealed carry or constitutional carry tend to favor handguns. Things can get spicy when long guns and other scary items are loaded in vehicles.
The Hi-Point 995P 2XRB
Hi-Point isn’t about chasing Instagram fame. It’s all about providing affordable firearms for everyday people. With a bit of customization, the 995P 2XRB can go from a bulky range toy to a reliable truck gun that’s ready when you need it.
The 995P 2XRB is a pistol-style version of Hi-Point’s well-known 995 carbine, chambered in 9mm. It features a straightforward blowback system, a tough polymer frame, and iron sights that do the job—just barely. The recoil can feel a bit sharp for a PCC, and the factory setup leaves room for upgrades. That’s kind of the point.
Priced under $400, it’s a blank slate that can be transformed into a budget-friendly truck gun. It comes with a brace, two 20-round magazines, and a sling. If you want to keep it even cheaper, the base 995P is available for around $300.
The Spec Sheet & Build Out
Once I picked up the 995P from my local firearms dealer (FFL), I spent some time on the range with it. During the first 200 rounds, I experienced no malfunctions, but I did notice that the recoil was a bit sharper than I expected. The interface between the buffer tube and the back of the frame was quite annoying. Part of this issue involved the sights, which require you to press your cheek into the buffer tube to get proper alignment. I also tested it with a suppressor, and it worked well! The firearm has left-side ejection, so there isn’t much blowback from the ejection port. That said, here’s a list of everything I added to enhance the weapon (with links in case you’re interested):
- Vortex Crossfire Red Dot: The first upgrade addressed the weak factory sights. After removing the front sight and rear sight body (three screws and a bolt—done), a Vortex Crossfire red dot in tan was installed. It’s affordable, rugged, and easy to use—great for quick target acquisition under stress, and fits the budget-friendly nature of this truck gun build.
- Inforce WML: No defensive firearm is complete without a light. Enter the Inforce WML, mounted on the bottom pic rail. It’s simple to operate with an integrated angled pressure pad and offers multiple modes, including momentary, constant-on, and strobe. Although the mounting is somewhat unorthodox, I can easily manipulate it with my support hand pointer finger.
- Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling + Magpul QD Pic Mount: To finish it off, a lightweight sling was added from Edgar Sherman Designs. It connects to the rear sling slot on the brace and a Magpul QD pic mount placed just forward of the optic. It may not be unconventional, but it’s functional.
- Cheek Pad: I have no idea if this is going to work, but it was cheap on Amazon. I plan to cut it to shape and then adhere it to the top of the brace. Mainly to add a bit more comfort.
Overall, this was an easy one to assemble. Only a few tools and a gun vice were needed.
But How Is It as a Truck Gun
Once set up, the 995P handled drills smoothly with minimal issues. The blowback action still produces that signature thump, but with the red dot sight and sling attached, transitions were seamless, and repeat shots were quick. It remained reliable during extended sessions with both FMJ and defensive rounds. No malfunctions. No fuss. Just solid performance.
The addition of the cheek pad improved comfort and worked better than I expected. While it doesn’t look pretty (I’m a writer, not an artist), it’s functional. Also, I want to mention the extended magazines—they look funky, almost like boomerangs. But surprisingly, I never had a problem. Throughout most of the testing, I used 124-grain ammo, mostly FMJ with a few defensive rounds to ensure reliable feeding. Reliability and functionality don’t have to come at a high cost.
Final Thoughts
Sure, there are nicer guns. Smoother guns. Lighter, more refined options. But those usually don’t fall under $600 after upgrades. This Hi-Point 995P 2XRB build came in well below that—and provided performance that makes it a reliable, trustworthy truck gun. For anyone wanting a firearm they can stash behind the seat, beat up, and still trust to go bang when needed, this setup makes a strong case.
Ugly? Sure. Refined? Ehh. Effective? Absolutely.
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