FN TP9SFx
Posted Jun 15, 2023
The FN TP9SFx is one of the latest additions to FN Herstal’s pistol lineup, designed for competition shooters. It’s based on the popular TP9SF platform, but made with a number of competitive features. This includes a trigger that’s adjustable for both pretravel and overtravel, an extended magazine release, extended slide stop, and various other tweaks designed to give the shooter a competitive edge.
For me, the TP9SFx is an impressive pistol. I’m very familiar with the TP9SF platform, as I’ve had a TP9SF Elite for some time now. It’s a great firearm, offering good accuracy and reliability at a good price. The TP9SFx, however, takes those qualities even further. Out of the box, it’s a great pistol – the trigger is excellent, the fit and finish is superb, and the frame and slide are incredibly ergonomic and comfortable. The adjustable trigger is a massive plus for competition shooting, and the extended magazine release makes reloads incredibly quick. The extended slide stop also allows for quicker and more reliable misfires or malfunctions. I particularly like the optics mounting system, which makes it easy to switch out optics without permanently modifying the slide.
The TP9SFx is also incredibly reliable. I’ve only seen 1 malfunction in over 500 rounds, and that malfunction was caused by ammunition that was too old. As long as you use quality ammunition, this pistol should run like a top. And if you do experience a malfunction, the large slide serrations make it easy to manually cycle the action.
On the accuracy front, the TP9SFx is well above average. The trigger is excellent, and the sights are top-notch. At distance, I can consistently keep 2-inch groups with this pistol. It’s definitely capable of what I’d call “competition accuracy”.
In terms of price, the TP9SFx is not cheap. It’s fairly expensive for a production pistol, and you will have to pay for all of the competition features it offers. That being said, it’s still a great value. You get a high quality pistol with features that will put you ahead of the competition.
All in all, I think the FN TP9SFx is an excellent pistol. Its features make it ideal for competitive shooting, and its accuracy and reliability make it an excellent choice for training and everyday carry. In my opinion, it’s one of the best production pistols on the market today. If you’re looking for a competition-oriented pistol, or even just a top-notch production pistol, the TP9SFx should be on your shortlist.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Good accuracy and reliable performance.
- Ambidextrous controls and reversible magazine release.
- Accessible Picatinny rail on the frame providing lots of mounting options for accessories.
- Chromoly slide finished with a ceramic coating.
- Warmer trigger pull and excellent reset.
- Two interchangeable back straps for a customizable fit.
- Excellent safety features with a decocker and trigger safety.
Cons:
- Limited aftermarket support and customization options.
- Heavy, bulky pistol that may not be well suited for concealed carry.
- Magazine capacity is limited to just 10 rounds.
- Slightly more expensive than some other comparable pistols.
Who Should Buy
Those who should buy the FN TP9SFx are shooters who want a practical and reliable Competition/Target Pistol that is also suitable for home defense. This includes competition shooters and recreational shooters.
Those who should not buy the FN TP9SFx are shooters who are looking more for a concealed carry handgun. The FN TP9SFx is larger and heavier than an average CCW handgun, so it may not be the best choice for concealed carry.
Comparisons
| FN TP9SFx | Smith & Wesson Performance Center PC1911 | Wilson Combat CQB Tactical LE | Heckler & Koch HK 416 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm Luger (.355) | .45 ACP (.451) | 5.56mm |
| Barrel Length | 5.2″ Cold Hammer-Forged | 5" Match Grade | 14.5" |
| Weight | 1.83 Lbs | 2.2 Lbs | 6.3 Lbs |
| Overall Length | 8.27″ | 8.7" | 29.5" |
| Capacity | 20 Rounds | 8 Rounds | 30 Rounds |
| Finish | Flat Dark Earth | Black Armor-Tuff | Matte Black |
Features / Specs
• Caliber: 9mm
• Barrel Length: 5.00”
• Overall Length: 8.27”
• Weight: 25.6 oz.
• Height: 5.70”
• Width: 1.35”
• Sight Radius: 6.30”
• Frame Material: Polymer
• Slide Material: Steel
• Accessory Rail: MIL-STD-1913
• Safety: Striker Block/Trigger Safety
• Magazines Included: Two20+1 Capacity
• Action: Striker Fired
• Mode of Operation: Double Action
Popular Accessories
·Optics Mount
·Trigger/Hammer Spring Kit
·Magazine Extension
·Magwell
·Grip Wraps
·Red Dot Sight
·Competition Trigger
·Slide Lock Back Plate
·Recoil Spring Assembly
·Trigger Reset Kit
Accuracy
The FN TP9SFx is considered to be one of the most accurate pistols on the market. This accuracy is mainly due to its 5" hammer-forged barrel and enhanced trigger. The FN TP9SFx also features adjustable target sights that further aid in maintaining an accurate sight picture. This precision muzzle angle, together with the extended barrel length, make the FN TP9SFx capable of pinpoint accuracy even at long range distances. That said, accuracy is always determined by the shooter, and the FN TP9SFx can give a dependable performance when the user is properly trained on its use.
