Derya DY9 Island: Affordable Island Barrel! Gimmick or Real Deal?

Derya DY9 Island Barrel Review – Full Breakdown
In this video, we dive deep into the new Derya DY9 Island Barrel pistol—an optic-ready, island-barreled, Glock-pattern handgun that delivers serious performance at a price point that’s going to hurt some feelings. Originally introduced to the U.S. market by Rock Island Armory, Derya has since branched out and is now operating under its own name, launching this new model directly from their Jacksonville, Florida facility. The big question: Is this the best value-for-money island barrel Glock clone you can buy right now?

We’ve tested the original DY9 and came away impressed. But now, with this updated slide featuring lightning cuts, a direct RMR cut, and an integrated island barrel, Derya is going all in—and still managing to keep the MSRP around $599, with street prices landing as low as $499. And if that’s not enough to get your attention, they’re also selling the slide separately for around $349–$399, making this one of the most affordable ways to build out or upgrade a Glock 19 Gen 4 platform with some seriously high-end features.

Build Quality: 5/5
Despite the budget-friendly price tag, the DY9 Island Barrel impressed us with excellent machining, tight tolerances, and a solid frame and slide interface. The optics cut is snug—maybe a little too snug—but once mounted, the optic was rock solid. No grit, no flex, and a crisp fit. Even the lightning cuts and design elements serve dual purposes: aesthetics and function. Press checks are easy, and the gun just looks sharp.

Reliability: 5/5
We ran 300–400 rounds through the DY9 Island Barrel during our testing, and this pistol ate everything we fed it. We experienced one round with a hard primer that went off on the second strike—definitely an ammo issue, not the gun. Otherwise, flawless cycling, reliable extraction, and no hiccups across a range of ammunition types.

Feel and Recoil: 5/5
This is where the DY9 Island Barrel really shines. Despite a relatively slick-looking frame, the grip design and magwell angle pull your hand up and keep the gun stable. Even on a hot day in the desert with sweaty hands, the grip stayed locked in. The recoil impulse is surprisingly soft and lacks the snappiness common in Glock 19-sized pistols. That island barrel design and the ported slide reduce felt recoil by about 25%—and yes, it’s noticeable. The result is a push rather than a snap, giving this gun an almost 1911-like shooting experience.

Factory Options: 3/5
Here’s where the DY9 shows it’s still a newer player. Right now, factory options are limited to the original DY9 and this Island Barrel variant. While it does come pretty loaded from the factory with a flared magwell, optic cut, and ports, proprietary parts like the front sight and mags limit easy customization. Derya has mentioned plans for more options, and they’ve been very receptive to feedback, so this score could improve in the future.

Aftermarket Compatibility: 4–5/5
This one’s a split decision. Being Glock Gen 4 compatible, you get access to a huge aftermarket ecosystem for triggers, recoil springs, and internals. But, the proprietary magwell and front sight are exceptions. Glock 17 mags work, but Glock 19 mags can be hit-or-miss depending on baseplates. That said, the slide alone is available for purchase and can be mounted to any Gen 4 Glock 19 frame, which is a huge plus.

X-Factor: 5/5
Let’s talk about what really makes this gun stand out. For under \$500, you're getting an island barrel pistol with excellent reliability, fantastic recoil control, and a full package that includes a soft case, cleaning tools, extra backstraps, and—this is big—**three mags** included from the factory. All packed inside a waterproof ammo can. The presentation alone is impressive, and that “stranded on an island” theme just adds to the fun.

And yes, they actually listened to feedback. The gun comes with a low-sitting RMR cut that doesn’t interfere with ejection (no need for shortened screws), a short crisp trigger, and a uniquely refined shooting experience. And unlike some budget options, this gun isn’t being phoned in. Derya put real thought and effort into making this a gun that punches way above its weight.

Final Verdict:
This is one of the best-value pistols we've tested in a long time. The DY9 Island Barrel not only shoots flat and feels premium—it looks good, too. And the fact that you can either buy the full setup or just the slide gives budget-conscious shooters more options. Whether you're upgrading an existing Glock or looking for a new everyday carry, this is a gun worth serious consideration.

We’re buyers. Full stop. The DY9 Island Barrel is a home run. Get one now before the price goes up.