It has been nearly two decades since the firearm industry first laid eyes on the FMG-9 at the 2008 SHOT Show. At the time, the "Folding Machine Gun" concept felt like a prop pulled directly from a science fiction set—a polymer briefcase that could transform into a functional firearm with a single flick. For a long while, however, it seemed the project had been shelved indefinitely, leaving enthusiasts to wonder if the lunchbox gun would ever see a production line or if it would remain a permanent resident of the vapourware archives.

Interestingly, while the real steel world waited, the airsoft community decided to take matters into its own hands. For over a decade, hobbyists have been running various iterations of this design, starting with the Magpul PTS KWA FPG in the early 2010s. More recently, brands like Maruyama and AEGIS have kept the dream alive for those who prefer plastic pellets over lead. It is a rare moment in the industry when the training-tool market precedes the actual firearm by fifteen years, but the airsoft world effectively served as a long-term beta test for the ergonomics of a folding chassis.

The silence finally broke in 2019 when Magpul announced a partnership with ZEV Technologies. This collaboration signalled that the concept was moving out of the "experimental" phase and into a concrete engineering project. By merging Magpul’s expertise in polymer housing with ZEV’s reputation for high-end Glock-pattern internals, the project evolved from the FMG-9 into what we now know as the Folding Defensive Platform (FDP). The goal was to create a reliable 9mm system that could be carried discreetly without sacrificing the functionality of a traditional sidearm or sub-gun.

Now officially entering the market as of SHOT Show 2026, the FDP is being offered in two distinct configurations: the FDP-P (Pistol) and the FDP-C (Carbine). The system utilizes a proprietary folding mechanism that allows the firearm to collapse into a compact, rectangular form factor. While it may look like a large power tool battery or a small lunchbox when closed, it is designed to deploy rapidly into a stable firing platform. This makes it an interesting option for those who prioritize storage efficiency in vehicles or discreet bags.

The engineering behind the FDP centres on a blend of materials chosen for their specific roles. The exterior housing is constructed from Magpul’s signature reinforced polymer, which is selected for its ability to handle impact and resist corrosion in various climates. Inside, the heart of the machine consists of 4140 steel ZEV internals. These components are finished with a black nitride coating to provide a durable surface that stands up to high-round counts and the friction inherent in a folding chassis system.

Operating the FDP is designed to be a straightforward affair, regardless of which hand you favour. The platform features an ambidextrous charging system and a reversible magazine release, ensuring that left-handed shooters are not left fumbling with awkward controls. When the unit is folded, it remains locked and secure, preventing accidental deployment. Once triggered, the transformation is intended to be fluid, putting the firearm into a ready-to-fire state with a clear sight picture almost immediately.

For those who prefer modern optics over traditional aiming methods, the FDP includes a 1913 Picatinny rail integrated into the top of the chassis. This allows for the mounting of various red dot sights or lights, though the height of the optic must be considered to ensure the unit still folds correctly. For those who like to keep things simple, the FDP comes equipped with adjustable iron sights built directly into the carry handle, providing a functional backup or a primary sighting solution right out of the box.

FDP-C (Carbine)

FDP-P (Pistol) 

The utility of a folding 9mm platform extends to professional and civilian applications alike. While military and law enforcement personnel might see it as a niche tool for specialized security details, civilian shooters may find it useful for home defence or as a compact travel companion. Its ability to be stored in spaces where a traditional rifle or even a large handgun might be cumbersome is its primary selling point. It is a tool designed for the "just in case" scenarios where portability is as important as performance.

As of the current production cycle, the MSRP for the FDP is set at $1,699 with the first batch already sold out. While this puts it in the higher tier of 9mm platforms, the price reflects the specialized engineering required to make a firearm fold in half without losing zero or reliability. After years of being teased as a concept and then being "airsoft exclusive," the transition to a mass-produced firearm suggests that Magpul and ZEV believe the market is finally ready for a defensive tool that fits in a glove box.

The package comes relatively complete for the end user. Each unit includes two Magpul PMAG 21 GL9 magazines, which provide a generous capacity while maintaining a profile that fits the folding geometry. Additionally, the FDP arrives with custom laser-cut foam designed to drop directly into a Pelican 1450 case for those who want a hard-shell transport option. For more casual carry, an FDP soft case from Overpass Bags is also available, ensuring the "box gun" remains protected until it is time to unfold.