The CSX Micro 9 is the newest addition to the Smith & Wesson line of pistols. It can pack up to 13 rounds, making it the first high mag capacity among micro-compact guns.
Keep reading to learn about its other features and why it is one of the most talked-about handguns this 2022.
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Smith & Wesson CSX Micro 9: Is It the Best Micro-Compact Pistol?
Gun Specs
The CSX Micro 9 is one of the smallest micro 9mm pistols in the biz. The “CS” stands for top special, while the “X” stands for extended magazine capacity.
It may have almost the same size as other micro-compact pistols, but you will notice that its grip is a bit thicker. This is because CSX has a double-stack magazine.
Here is an overview of its specifications:
- Barrel: 3.1-inch stainless steel
- Overall length: 6.1 inches
- Height: 4.6 inches
- Width: 1.12 inches
- Weight: 19.5 ounces
- Slide: Stainless steel
- Frame: Aluminum alloy
- Finish: Armornite finish
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Capacity: 10+1 or 12+1 rounds
- Grip: Interchangeable polymer backstraps
- Sights: Metal white dot
- Trigger: 5 pounds 12 ounces, single action
- Safety: Ambidextrous thumb safety
- MSRP: $609
Aesthetics and Ergonomics
The CSX Micro 9 features some key designs different from its competitors.
For instance, most micro-compact 9mm guns have a polymer frame. While this build is not bad at all–since it is cheap, straightforward, and long-lasting–the CSX Micro 9 deviates from this norm.
Smith & Wesson offers shooters the most significant break by building the CSX on aluminum instead of the polymer frame.
The CSX also boasts some of the S&W's classic designs, such as the 18-degree grip angle. The grip is the widest part of the gun and comes with a textured panel in front and an interchangeable polymer palm-swell type backstrap at the back.
But do not get intimidated by the textured panels, as they are abrasive and sound, providing a secure and comfortable grip, even if you have sweaty palms.
Versatility
Smith & Wesson made the CSX Micro 9 hammer-fired, another deviation from the common micro-compact 9mm pistols.
Both hammer- and striker-fired pistols are dependable, but hammer-fired means you get a crisper trigger and a more compact slide. It also allows you to carry your gun in a half-cock position.
In addition, there are slide stop and thumb safety levers on both sides of the gun. And even though the CSX has its magazine catch button on its left side, you may still swap it with a right-side button, which is also included in the box.
Performance
The micro-compact pistols of the earlier days may seem shaky and hard to control, but the CSX Micro 9 is a whole different story.
The aluminum frame of CSX may be softer than steel, but it still performs well at the shooting range. The CSX won't give you any problems as it chambers, feeds, or ejects.
Even if you shoot around 300 rounds of different ammunition types, there won't be any function issues or unusual wear on its slide. Aluminum is strong enough to withstand abuse and corrosion.
However, since it has a short slide, you have to rack it more carefully than a handgun with a longer barrel.
The CSX Micro 9 comes with white metal dots, which help you easily acquire sight pictures.
The rear sight is adjustable. You just have to tap it left or right.
You may use the CSX as your self-defense gun. It can fire up to 10 yards controllably. But if you need to use it for long-range shooting, you just need to slow down, pull the trigger, and still get a hit.
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Recoil
The CSX Micro 9 is delightfully comfortable to shoot for its micro-compact size. And even if you use the 10-round magazine and your pinky finger is not engaged, your hand won't feel any weakness as you grip the gun, all thanks to its minimalist and palm-swell type backstrap.
There is still recoil, of course. But managing it is easy–you won't even feel the sights flipping up!
Trigger
Most carry guns suffer from a long take-up, but not the CSX Micro 9. It has a crisp trigger, measuring 5 lbs 12 oz. It is comparable to a 1911 but with a dash of a modern feel. It also has a crisp break that striker-fired pistols cannot seem to recreate.
However, since the pistol is small, your trigger finger placement plays a role in your accuracy.
Additionally, you have to make an effort to go back to the reset after firing the gun. Its reset may be audible, short, and tactile, but you cannot just relax your finger; you have to consciously move it.
Overall Verdict
Smith & Wesson has reinvented their micro-metal pistols in the form of CSX Micro 9. It is Smith & Wesson's first product for 2022, specifically designed for self-defense and home security.
It is also one of the newest micro-compact pistols on the market. And in the crowded world of 9mm pistols, it is tough to be extraordinary. But the CSX has somehow caught shooters' eye, thanks to its unique features.
The CSX retains the classic design of the slide of the S&W M&P line of pistols. But with, its aluminum frame shows that it is not afraid to take the road less traveled.
It features low-profile controls, clean ergonomics, excellent grip, beveled edges, and aggressive serrations. Plus, its incredible high-round capacity makes it an ideal micro-carry gun. It is also something you do not often see in micro-compact pistols nowadays!
Check out another micro-compact pistol from Smith & Wesson, the M&P 9 Shield, through this video by Omaha Outdoors:
The CSX Micro 9 may come in a small platform, but it does not sacrifice its capacity. It is packed with many rounds, making it an excellent gun for pocket carry.
It may just be the most controllable and most reliable micro-compact 9mm pistol you will ever use! This is why in the highly competitive world of handguns, the CSX Micro 9 stands out.
Can you consider CSX Micro 9 an excellent handgun for carrying? How does it compare with your favorite carry gun? Please let us know in the comments section below!
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