FN Reflex XL 9mm: A Hammer-Fired Micro-Compact Review

FN Reflex XL Overview

• 🎯 The FN Reflex XL is introduced as an "extra large" version of the FN Reflex, featuring a longer grip and slide.
• 💡 The reviewer, familiar with the original FN Reflex, requested the XL version from Davidson's Gallery of Guns for testing.
• 🤝 Support for the channel is acknowledged from Davidson's Gallery of Guns, Silencer Central, SDI, Alabama Holster, and Ballistol.

Shooting Performance and Handling

• 💥 The pistol is tested with Underwood hollow points and fired at various targets including cowboy figures, red plates, and bowling pins to assess cycling reliability.
• 🤔 Acknowledges that target type can sometimes affect firearm cycling, but this is presented humorously.
• ⚖️ The FN Reflex XL is described as light and thin, comparable to a Glock 48, weighing around 20 ounces unloaded.
• 🚶‍♂️ It aligns with the trend of lighter, thinner, and more convenient micro-compact handguns, exemplified by the SIG P365.

Grip and Ergonomics

• 🤏 The reviewer, having large hands, notes a personal struggle with the thin grip of the XL version, causing a tendency to pull left, similar to issues with the Smith & Wesson Shield.
• 👍 For individuals with normal-sized hands, the grip might be ideal, but the reviewer suggests it's something to be aware of if you have larger hands.
• 🛠️ An extra back strap is included, and Talon Grips are mentioned as an aftermarket option to enhance grip.

Features and Trigger

• 👁️ The pistol is optics-ready with a tritium front sight and a blacked-out rear sight that can be used for cocking.
• 👆 The wide trigger is praised for feeling good on the finger and is described as a "wonderful trigger," almost a target trigger.
• ⚙️ As a hammer-fired pistol, the slide needs to be brought fully to the rear to reset the hammer after a malfunction or clear a round.
• 🚀 Features include a cold hammer-forged barrel, a rail, and a reversible magazine release.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

• 🔫 The FN Reflex XL comes with a 15-round magazine, with an 18-round option available.
• 🤔 The reviewer expresses a strong liking for the pistol but reiterates that the grip thinness is a personal issue related to hand size.
• ✅ It's considered a great gun for defense and a fun range gun due to its trigger and size, though the light trigger might be a consideration for a defensive pistol.
• 🌟 The FN Reflex XL is presented as a cool, well-sized option in the current handgun market.