SHOT Show has been interesting this year on the floor, you didn’t know who was going to be here or not. Holosun didn’t disappoint with their booth and products. They came with some new RDS’s and a new line of Weapon Mounted Lights for pistols.
They’re calling it the P.ID or Positive Identification Device.
There are two models, the first is the P.ID, which is a white light only model that puts out 1,000 lumens. The second is the P.ID+ which adds on an optional visible Green laser.
The beam is user programmable to either 500 or 1,000-lumen output. It uses a 18350 Rechargeable battery and a CNC 7075 Aluminum Housing. According to Holosun, it is IP67 Certified Waterproof.
I got to check out the P.ID at the Holosun booth.
Holosun booth at SHOT Show 2022.
It was attached to a Heckler and Koch VP9, which also had on a SCS MOS low profile RDS. First off, the light body on the P.ID is slim, much slimmer than traditional weapon lights that run with two CR123s side by side and is the same length or shorter than those WMLs. That means that it will fit most holsters molded for pistols with weapon lights. The switches are on the sides and are tactile, you can tap it and it will be on constant; if you hold it down it is momentary until you release it. There was also a strobe function, which my friend switched on somehow. I found the buttons to be easily reachable by my index finger.
The P.ID I was looking at seemed to me to be in the 500-lumen range. The beam had a slight blue tint and good-sized hot spot that would work well for close range.
The mount is a single cross bolt and looks to be simple to use. I wasn’t able to get a solid MSRP yet for it but I think it’ll be reasonable, like all of Holosun’s products.
This is another Weapon Mounted Light option for pistols and the more options available, the better.
This is another Weapon Mounted Light option for pistols and the more options available, the better.
Stay tuned for more from Holosun and from SHOT Show 2022!
Holosun reflex sights on display at SHOT Show 2022.
Finally, it’s time for Range Day, arguably the most wonderful time of the year. It’s where primadonna media types like myself get to play with new guns, gear, and optics on the manufacturer dime. Among a great many new guns and calibers, we have the gear. Lots of nice optics, and Holosun showed out with two, sorta three, new optics aimed at the pistol market. Remember how Holosun dumped the number configuration with the AEMS? Well, they’ve done the same with their new optics, the Holosun SCS, and EPS.
The good news for you is I got the skinny on these new optics and what they bring to an already crowded market. The Holosun SCS and EPS both offer very capable handgun-sized red dots that do a lot more than most. They innovate, expand, and push forward what a handgun red dot should be.
The Holosun SCS
For many, the Holosun SCS is the star of the show. It’s a red dot aimed at the full-sized and compact red dot market. It outfits guns like the Glock 19, the Glock 45, Glock 17, IWI Masada, and many more. The first question you likely have is, what’s the footprint?
A little range time with the Holosun SCS showed its potential.
Well, good question and I don’t have the answer you want. The optics will be built around the various footprints currently on the market. For example, the Glock model will attach to MOS guns without the need for a plate. Holosun’s rep told us they have the IWI Masada and HK models ready and will be expanding to CZ, S&W, and more in time.
The Holosun SCS Mounts directly to the Glock MOS series.
The SCS is Holsoun SCS stands for Solar Charging Sight. This little red dot uses nothing but solar power and an internal battery—no need to worry about 2032 or 1632 batteries. The internal battery lasts for 20,000 hours, so in low-light situations, you won’t be outgunned.
The Holosun SCS will charge entirely from the solar panel and only have auto-adjusting brightness. I typically don’t care for auto-adjusting optics because they tend to wash out with weapon lights. However, the Holosun SCS uses multiple sensors that talk to each other and adjust for the presence of a weapon light.
What About The Reticles?
Solid question. Holosun is known for its multi reticle system, and that’s present here. You get the 2 MOA dot and a 32 MOA circle with 2 MOA dot. A very small single button controls the dots and makes it easy to swap if you prefer one over the other. The Holosun SCS will come in either red or green as well.
One of the big benefits of mounting directly to a universal system like the MOS is how low the optic can sit. With the optic positioned super low, you can ditch the suppressor height sights. The Holosun SCS co-witnessed perfectly with stock Glock height sights. Hell, the optics are specifically designed to match the slide design, so the Holosun SCS features the serrations that blend it perfectly with the Glock slide.
Look how those serrations align.
As we’ve come to expect, the reticles are crisp, clear, and easy to see. I dialed into a number of tiny targets and rang their bell over and over with the 32 MOA dot and 2 MOA dot. Let’s not forget the titanium housing that gives you a rugged and strong optic with a low weight.
The system worked perfectly, and I think it could be the next push forward in red dots.
The Holosun EPS
The Holosun SCS wasn’t the only new dot on display. I won’t lie when I say I’m a little bit more excited for the next dot. The new Holosun EPS joins the ranks of red dots and aims to equip your little guns. You know those subcompact guns, like the P365, Glock 43X/48 MOS series, and similar footprints.
The little EPS provides an enclosed optic for the subcompact handgun.
They fall into that Shield RMSc footprint and work perfectly on micro compacts. What they do differently than most other subcompact optics is utilize an enclosed emitter. An enclosed emitter means nothing gets between the emitter and the piece of glass, so the optic’s reliability ratchets up in the rain, snow, and hellish sandstorm you might find yourself in.
Honestly, carrying IWB every day over and overexposes your gun to dirt, lint, and debris. Any of that can slip between the emitter and lens and cause all sorts of chaos. The Holosun EPS provides an enclosed emitter option for your subcompact pistol.
Enclosed optics enhance reliability.
The Holosun SCS might offer the lighter open emitter design, but the EPS is meant to go to hell and back. It’s like the 509T, but much smaller and more compact. Still, you get the solar panel, the dual buttons, and more.
In Use
The Holosun EPS and EPS Carry are technically two different optics. The EPS Carry integrates an additional rear sight for cowitnessing purposes. The dot is a generous 6 MOA dot that appeared crisp and clear at the range. It’s also super easy to see and pick up. That big dot makes it easy to fly on target and start putting lead down quickly and efficiently.
Notice how it hangs over the edge, just ever so slightly.
The big dual buttons allow for quick adjustment. The solar panel offers your battery a backup, and the shake awake keeps things ready for when you need it. Adding a second lens is potentially perilous to your sight picture, but the glass appears clear. Putting lead on target wasn’t a challenge, even out to the most distant targets.
The one weird downside will be the fact the optic slightly overhangs the slide. Not a major deal, but it triggered my own OCD. Still, the reliability an enclosed optic offers is way more valuable than the lie we tell about clean lines and perfect integration.
Shine On
Both the Holosun SCS and EPS offer something new in a crowded and ever-growing market. These handgun-sized red dots are granting shooters a higher level of durability, a new low profile format, and a rock-solid set of features that brings Holosun to the front line of carry optics.
We hope to see both of these optics on the market soon. Watch this space for a full review.
The Smith and Wesson CSX 9mm pistol is officially one of the most talked-about new guns of 2022, albeit slightly less so than the Shield EZ 30 Super Carry. Its design, as you’ll read, is more than a little different from other Smith and Wesson pistols. And for that matter, all other micro-compacts we’ve seen to date.
We first took note of the weapon after the Primer Peak Blog noticed a Reddit post about the new handgun and reported on it. This was prior to the official release of the weapon, which came some days later. The original photo of SW’s new concealed carry photo apparently came from someone working at an S&W retailer, who posted it to social media. Those posts were subsequently taken down, but not before discussion of the CSX was all over Reddit, forums, and other social media channels. Many such conversations referred to the weapon as a “hybrid”; not in the way that a Glock 19X is a hybrid, but rather that it looks to be an alloy of the Shield EZ and 1911 style frames.
We eventually received additional details of the CSX (which btw kinda looks like a Colt Mustang to me) mostly confirming the speculations of “gun people” on the internet, to wit, it is:
Chambered in 9x19mm
Hammer-fired (vs. striker-fired micros like the SIG P365, Hellcat, Shield Plus, Mako, GX4, et al)
Single Action Only (SAO)
Flat face trigger
An all-metal aluminum alloy frame
“The new Smith & Wesson CSX pays homage to metal frame micro compacts of the past but brings the classic style to the 21st century.” Smith & Wesson
Perhaps more importantly — since I love old snubbies — we learned that CSX stands for Chief’s Special X. That won’t make it shoot any better or function any more reliably, and you might not think that’s important information, but this is my article and I think it’s cool so I’m listing it as an important feature.
Named for the old Chief’s Special revolvers.
Here’s a video overview.
Smith & Wesson CSX
The following is part of the various CSX press and social media announcements.
Featuring Smith & Wesson’s classic design characteristics, the aluminum alloy frame has an optimized 18-degree grip angle. Likewise, the textured grip includes a textured front strap and a removable textured polymer back strap. As a result, every shooter can customize the level of concealment and ergonomic fit, dialing in the personal experience.
Promoting enhanced manipulation in adverse conditions, the slide features both forward and rear cocking serrations. In addition, a flared design accentuates the rear serrations, so you can grip it and rip it with ease. Running along the bottom of the slide are ambidextrous slide release and manual safeties for right- and left-handed shooters. Likewise, the CSX ships with two changeable magazine release buttons, for right- and left-hand configuration.
The CSX sends rounds downrange through the 3.1-inch barrel with a one-in-ten twist, via a flat-faced trigger. Moreover, the single-action-only flat-faced trigger provides a crisp, clean and consistent trigger pull.
Smith & Wesson CSX Pistol Specs
Caliber: 9mm Luger Capacity: 10+1, 12+1 Overall Length: 6.1 inches Front Sight: Metal White Dot Rear Sight: Metal White 2-Dot Action: Single Action Grip: Interchangeable Backstraps Barrel Material: Stainless Steel with Armornite Finish Slide Material: Stainless Steel with Armornite Finish Frame Material: Aluminum Alloy Slide Finish: Matte Black Frame Finish: Matte Black Barrel Length: 3.1 inches (7.9 cm) Overall Weight: 19.5 ounces Width: 1.12″ Height: 4.6″ Weight: 19.5 oz MSRP: $609.00
S&W says, “We are proud to finally introduce the SMITH & WESSON® CSX, the most innovative metal pistol we have ever built. The durable micro-compact, all-metal hammer-fired pistol has a staggering 9mm capacity of 10+1 or 12+1, crisp & light single-action trigger, and superior ergonomics.” Alas, there’s no rail or optics cut…at least not in this version.
S&W detailed the new handgun thusly in a blog post:
The first thing that might draw your eye is the single-action external hammer. This provides a crisp and consistent trigger press while the visual and physical control of the hammer offers additional confidence for concealed carry, especially while reholstering.
Below the hammer, you’ll find the ambidextrous safety. The innovative design incorporates external safeties pinned inside the grip and located under the hammer. These steel ambidextrous safeties hinge along the back of the grip for efficient access and positive engagement for different hand sizes and shooting grips.
Once your eye drifts down the back of the pistol past the hammer and safety, you’ll notice the interchangeable backstraps. The CSX pistol comes with two interchangeable backstraps to suit your ideal grip and concealment preferences. The standard backstrap fills the hand for comfort. The smaller backstrap offers not only a reduced size grip for owners with smaller hand sizes but also a lower profile for concealment.
This was the picture that let the Smith and Wesson CSX cat out of the proverbial bag.
The aluminum alloy frame also features a truly ambidextrous steel slide stop, accessible to both right and left-handed users. The low-profile ridge design allows for easy activation into the up position while tactile grooves along the top ridge make for efficient deactivation. For all of the left-handed shooters, the mag release is changeable. Offering options for both right and left-hand access, the CSX pistol ships with two, easy-to-change magazine release buttons. The textured design and slight rise of the aluminum button on the frame make it easy to depress while also helping to reduce the chance of an unintentional release.
We also carried over some of everyone’s favorite features from the newest Smith & Wesson products in our assortment. The CSX pistol offers a highly desired flat-faced trigger with a trigger safety extending across the face of the trigger for a consistent feel. The CSX pistol features appropriately placed serrations on both the front and rear portions of the slide. The serrations on the rear portion of the slide feature a flared design for easier manipulation.
Learn more online at: smith-wesson.com/subcategory/csx
The original post was appropriately entitled Look, it’s not another M&P! and was made by u/RAMRODtheMASTER late in the day on 12/30/21 in the r/guns subreddit. In the text accompanying that post — which as of our initial writing was the only information available — advised the following:
9mm, 10 and 12 round magazines, Single Action Only, Frame appears to be aluminum, Ambi safety and slide stop, Mag release appears to swap, 3 dot sights, M&P style backstraps
Trigger has a short travel but mildly stiff break. Trigger pull overall is not bad. The reset is atrocious though. False reset then real reset. Hope that wears out.
Haven’t shot it but it feels great in the hand as well as solid.
Initial speculation that it uses Shield Plus magazines from another Reddit user was answered with, “Different mags, I tried.”
We now know the CSX takes proprietary magazines in either 10- or 12-round capacity.
NOTE: This is a much larger caliber CSX. Unlike any other firearms anywhere, this CSX actually does possess that often cited term, “knockdown power”. Even more so than WWII era 1911s and anything an ANGLICO would have to deal with. (PC@sdw788359)
Some of our crew will no doubt put hands on the CSX at SHOT Show 2022. We can give you some more feedback then.
As you can see, the grip and backstrap are (not surprisingly) very M&P-esque. Alas, no rails. There will be many who decry the SAO trigger of the S&W CSX, but even the faintest hint of 1911ism will be a strong attraction to some.
JuileG, part of Team Smith & Wesson takes a quick specification overview of the new Smith & Wesson CSX 9mm pistol.
Julie Golob on the Smith & Wesson CSX
by Patti Miller
Smith & Wesson is well known for its large line pistols. They recently announced their newest pistol, the Smith & Wesson CSX pistol, chambered in 9mm. In the video below, Smith & Wesson team shooter Julie G talks through all the specs of the new pistol and why you will probably want one.
JulieG TV Youtube channel went through the new Smith & Wesson CSX pistol and she said she is stoked to share the information. She stressed that because she is a team shooter for Smith & Wesson, this is not a review but essentially an announcement for the pistol.
The new CSX pistol seems to fit the small niche hole between the full-sized Shield pistol and the Shield EZ. The CSX pistol is a nod to the old Chief Special pistol and is a micro-compact aluminum alloy frame pistol chambered in 9mm. The pistol is a striker-fired single-action pistol with lots of little touches that make it a versatile pistol.
The CSX pistol from Smith & Wesson, chambered in 9mm Luger, comes with a 3.1” barrel and the pistol is only 1.12” wide overall, including the controls. The main takeaway for the pistol has no grip safety but has ambidextrous safety. This ambi safety is smaller than the regular Shield but larger than the Shield EZ. Also present on the CSX is an ambidextrous low-profile steel slide stop that is accessible from both sides.
Continuing with her overview of the new Smith & Wesson CSX, Julie talked some more about the frame and grip. The CSX has a magazine release button on the left side of the frame, but they include the right-side button so left-handed shooters can swap it out to fit their needs.
The texture present on the button helps feel the button easy enough, but the button itself is not so big that you will accidentally hit it. Also, in the box from the factory is two interchangeable backstraps, one standard size and one a smaller size. The grip texture Julie says is nice for shooting and not too sharp on the hand. The texture also extends around on the front and back of the grip as well.
Present on the slide are front and rear slide serrations. Julie says they are good-sized, but not crazy. She goes on to say also present on the CSX is the rear slide flair, which is also present on the Shield EZ. She said it is a subtle detail that you can feel, but it doesn’t catch on to things. The slide doesn’t feel too tight, not Shield EZ easy, but is still nice.
Julie G, a part of the shooting team for Smith and Wesson, wants to make it very clear that this video is not a review but an announcement, i.e. a product reveal.
While the CSX is not optic-ready, it does have three-dot night sights. Also present on the slide is a loaded chamber indicator, which Julie loves, and serrations along the top to help reduce the glare to the shooter.
To round out the pistol announcement, Julie talked about the trigger. The trigger features a fully flat face, and the trigger safety extends across the full face giving it a smooth surface. The trigger feels crisp and consistent with not a lot of travel with the pull. Because of the presence of the internal firing pin block, she recommends that you practice maneuvering the thumb safety in your drills, so you are comfortable with the different feel.
The Smith and Wesson CSX pistol is a micro-compact 9mm pistol with a 3.1” long barrel and just over 1.12” overall width, including the controls.
Coming from the factory with two magazines, a 10-round and a 12-round magazine and sleeve, the Smith & Wesson CSX pistol is a versatile option for anyone looking for a micro-compact pistol. The MSRP for the CSX is $609.
Magpul has expanded their Pro 700 Lite stock with a version for Short Action Remington 700s. It has Magpul’s Pro 700 chassis, blended with the PRS Lite stock for a simple, sleek design.
The Pro 700 Lite SA is a pound less than the original Pro 700.
“Keeping the most important features of our original Pro 700, the Pro 700 Lite SA strikes a balance between features and cost without sacrificing performance. The Pro 700 Lite SA blends the original Pro 700 chassis and the PRS Lite stock to create a simplified rear end with a strong foundation, passing on the value and weight savings to you. The streamlined design weighs in at 4.4 pounds, a full pound less than its predecessor. It provides an optimized shooter interface with 0.8” of comb height and 1.4” of LOP adjustments. The low-profile rubber butt-pad is adjustable for height and cant, providing an extremely stable interface with the shooter’s shoulder. The Pro 700 Lite SA surrounds it’s billet aluminum chassis with Magpul polymer for enhanced ergonomics, strength, and sound mitigation. Built around the user, it is fully ambidextrous at the swap of a bolt retainer plate, and the vertical grip can be adjusted for various trigger reaches. Extremely versatile and adaptable, the Pro 700 Lite SA turns your 700-pattern rifle into the perfect bolt action precision machine. ”
Pro 700 SA Features:
Fully machined aluminum forend and bedding block
AICS compatible bottom metal
Vertical grip with adjustment for trigger reach
Large trigger guard accommodates gloves and aftermarket triggers
Compatible with left and right-handed actions
Comb height, LOP, and butt pad adjustment from PRS Lite
Injection-molded polymer grip with 5-degree forward edge sweep and enlarged palm swell with 7 degrees aft edge sweep for enhanced user comfort combined with a .75″ fore/aft adjustment range using a common hex wrench
Additional grip option included with a more aggressive sweep and enlarged palm swell for the shooter that is more inclined to a less vertical grip interface (8 degree forward / 20 degree aft edge sweep)
The billet aluminum chassis with Magpul polymer enhances ergonomics, strength, and sound mitigation. The Pro 700 Lite SA is offered in Black, FDE, and OD Green. It weighs 4.4 pounds, has a .8’ comb height adjustment, and 1.4 inches of LOP adjustments. The Pro Lite 700 is adaptable and is made in the USA.
This has been a collaborative effort by two or more members of The Mag Life contributor team: to wit, a JWOT (Joint Writing Operations Team). We’ll advise which specific contributors in the text of the article. Subscribe to GunMag TV and follow GMW on Instagram, @gunmagwarehouse. Connect on Facebook, /gunmagwarehouse/.
Vortex Optics, an industry giant in the optics field for the last few decades, has announced the latest addition to their large family, the Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 FFP riflescope. Building on nearly 30 years of experience in the field, they wanted to create a balance between providing the tools and features that a shooter needs for long-range accuracy with the clutter-free, intuitive controls they need for decisive actions.
Vortex Optics announced the newest optic in their Razor line of long-range precision riflescopes, the Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 riflescope.
The new Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 FFP riflescope offers all the magnification you need to go long-range while staying “…crisp and incredibly clear” throughout the magnification range. The optical system is designed with the balance of magnification and field of view in order to provide the resolution and contrast you need to clearly identify targets.
Weighing in under 4 pounds, this new optic, they say, “packs a punch and then some”. The overall length is 15.3 in. and has an anodized stealth shadow finish. The Razor HD Gen III is an HD optical system that is also waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
The newest reticle for the Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III riflescope is an edge-to-edge field with a 6-36 magnification viewing but still maintains an unimpeded field of view in the higher magnification.
This First Focal Plane, or FFP, reticle presents a clear sight picture while providing ample wind holds and ranging information. The FFP provides consistent subtensions at all magnification settings. The Razor HD Gen III EBR-7D reticle, offered in both MOA and MRAD options, also has cross plex illumination.
The L-Tec Zero Stop System with micro-adjust dial means, as they describe it, “…a rapid return to an ultra-fast, fine-tuned zero. Round it out with a rugged build designed for the field and you have the long-range tactical solution you’ve been waiting for.”
While both the Gen II and the Gen III are high-performance riflescopes, the newer Razor HD has the next generation of L-Tec Zero Stop giving quicker access to return to the zero stop with just one set screw, instead of multiple with the Gen II.
So, what’s different between Gen II and Gen III, you ask? Well, both optics are of excellent optical quality in the package that you get with exposed locking elevation and windage turrets along with the locking illumination dial and parallax adjustment knobs. But with Gen III, you get the higher magnification and an improved optical system and features.
The new features that the Razor HD Gen III has over the Gen II are the edge-to-edge view field and better low light performance. Additionally, the L-Tec Zero Stop feature is more advanced and easier to use – only one set screw on the Gen III. The parallax adjustment goes down to 10 yards whereas the Gen II only goes down to 32 yards. While Gen III is the next generation of the Razor optic and is bigger than the Gen II, it comes in 3.5 ounces lighter than the Gen II.
The First Focal Plane, or FFP, presents a clear sight picture while providing ample wind holds and ranging information.
Included in the box from the factory are a 3” sunshade, battery, custom throw lever, and turret tool, just to name a few things. MSRP for the MOA and the MRAD version is $3,999.99.
Ridgeline Defense, out of New Hampshire, has released their latest rifle sling, the HOGleash. This two-point adaptive sling has three key features designed with the precision rifleman in mind and is in collaboration with Edgar Sherman Designs with help from Cole-Tac.
Ridgeline Defense announced the newest gear to their line, the HOGleash rifle sling. This slimline was designed with the precision rifleman in mind.
With over a decade of trial and error, and apparently buying beer for riggers to stitch up mods to an OG VTAC sling, this sling has an integrated snap-shackle and a custom-made, carbon fiber inline rifle support. Additionally, everything was designed and produced in the state of New Hampshire, making it Berry Compliant. (For those that might not know, that means that the pieces and parts are all made in the US of US-made components.)
“When I was going through the USMC SOTG Urban Sniper Course, we were using our old issued cuff slings for the M40s,” says Ridgeline Defense’s Alex Hartmann. “We would attach the cuff to our belt, but it wouldn’t adjust very well. So, one weekend, I worked with a rigger to modify an OG Viking tactics V-Tac sling to work better. When I went back to class the next week, I was performing better.”
The HOGleash is Berry compliant, meaning that it is designed and produced in the United States by parts made here as well.
Over the course of multiple deployments, Hartmann kept tweaking the design until it was exactly what he wanted and needed. Part of the drive to make it was to use it while instructing at Ridgeline Shooting and illustrating to his students what he used and why it is important.
The quick-release snap shackle, which is similar to a Helo retention lanyard, allows the shooter to clip in or out of the sling quickly and with one-handed operation. When attached to the beltline, the shackle is used to apply tension to a supported rifle. To apply tension and stabilize your rifle either on a tripod or other support, attach the sling to the front of the rifle and attach it to any available belt loop on your beltline.
The sling attaches one-handed to the belt through a snap shackle to help stabilize the rifle in certain positions. The shackle also attaches to an accessory loop when not needed to keep it out of the way.
Ridgeline says that it is faster and easier for quick setup and breakdown when compared to a carabiner. In a shooting position that doesn’t need it, the snap shackle is captured by an accessory loop and stays out of the way.
The back of the sling is made of carbon fiber-composite material meaning it weighs very little and stays against the user until it is needed. The front of the sling is purposely left barren of hardware.
Available in four colors: black, coyote, green, and Multicam, this sling is a versatile addition to anyone’s gear set.
Once installed and adjusted correctly, it adapts to any shooting position and cinches down to secure the rifle in cases of fast-roping, climbing, rappelling, or other dynamic movements. The 1-inch nylon webbing features high-quality ITW Nexus findings and is compatible with any sling attachment hardware.
The Ridgeline HOGleash is available in black, green, coyote, and Multicam. It comes with a lifetime warranty and a price tag of $120.
Ridgeline Defense announced the newest gear to their line, the HOGleash rifle sling. This slimline was designed with the precision rifleman in mind.
The Holosun SCS is an interesting evolution of the red dot sight (RDS): SCS stands for Solar Charging Sight, and the name explains exactly what the auto-adjusting pistol optic is about (or most of it anyway).
Holosun Optics explains,
This product brings the next level of our Solar Failsafe system to the red dot user. Being an auto-adjusting only system, it uses multiple sensors to be able to accurately adjust the brightness level of the reticle to the correct setting, even when using flashlights! Furthermore, the system does not require the user to replace batteries. It uses the ambient light not only to power itself but maintains charge to an internal battery for when low-light situations arise. All this is uniquely fitted in an ultra-low system that is not only compatible with standard height BUIS but is uniquely shaped to direct fit to an existing manufacturer’s slide profile and still offer features you expect from Holosun such as M.R.S. (Multi-Reticle System) in a Grade 5 titanium housing.
A solar-powered (well, rechargeable) weapon optic? Maybe not the best choice for people in Utqiaġvik, Alaska (or for any troglobiont anywhere), but for the rest of us? If it works as intended this could be a very significant leap forward in RDS technology — and it might be what’s required to change the opinion of those who dislike an auto-adjusting optic.
Here’s what we’re thinking for specifications. Note: this is currently just speculation based on some information we’re seeing on commerce and info pages in other countries.
Holosun SCS-MOS
Reticle: 2 MOA dot – 32MOA Circle dot. Reticle Color: Red. Magnification: x1. Brightness adjustment: +/- button. Parallax: Without. Made of Grade 5 Titanium. Graduation: 1 click = 1 MOA. Operating temperature: -30°C to +60°C. IP67 certified red dot. Window dimensions: L: 20mm, W: 15mm, . Weight: 37g.
Steve Fisher of Sentinel Concepts says, “I was never a fan of the old crop of auto-adjusting RDS optics. This is by far the best one [auto-adjustment] yet.”
Here’s what Aaron Cowan has to say about the HS SCS.
(Note: this is just from a social post, we’ll update once he posts his full review.)
Holosun SCS / Sage Dynamics
Ultra low-profile mounting option that is a direct fit for the Glock MOS platform and any OEM footprint Holosun decides to make one for.
The Holosun SCS is a pistol-sized little red dot sight that is solar charged.
Because the overall height of the optic body is low, standard height sights can be used. The real game-changer here is that the SCS has an internal battery that is recharged anytime the solar cell gets light. Add that to the multiple light sensors as part of the auto-adjust only brightness, and you get the smartest auto-adjust optic on the market.
Using an HS-SCS in certain operational areas would lessen its usefulness (sorry Eben Oleson), but it certainly could be useful in other places.
Low light, no light, and smart enough to adjust for WML and rapid lighting condition changes. As far as battery life goes, I’ve had an SCS for a year without being able to “kill” the battery, sometimes going a week or more with the optic stored in a safe. Pull it out, it’s on, bright, and ready to carry. So yeah, it’s pretty neat. As for durability and “duty rated” you’ll have to wait for a video drop.
TLDR; it is. Aaron Cowan
We’ll provide additional information as we get it.
With SHOT Show 2022 approaching fast, new product releases are all the rage. Smith & Wesson is near the front of the pack with their new CSX subcompact pistol. Aimed squarely at the concealed carry crowd, the Smith & Wesson CSX looks to challenge the Sig Sauer P365XL and the Glock 48X for market share. That’s some stiff competition, so Smith & Wesson, not content to just toss out a clone of those guns, or a revamped M&P Shield, has gone back to a tried-and-true design that should appeal to the gun community.
In the video above, Allen from Olde English Outfitters gives us a quick rundown of the CSX’s features and his first impressions of the gun. The first thing Allen points out is that the CSX is a 1911-style single action only hammer fired gun. Chambered in 9mm Luger, the CSX, as noted above, is the latest in the trend of small guns with higher capacity. Because of its styling, Allen places the gun as the successor to the Colt Government .380, the Sig Sauer 238 Series, the Springfield Armory 911 Series, and the Kimber Micro 9 Series.
Allen from Olde English Outfitters gives us his first impressions of the new Smith & Wesson CSX subcompact pistol.
Here’s a quick look at the CSX’s specifications:
Caliber: 9mm Luger 9mm
Hammer fired single action only
Overall length: 6.1 inches
Barrel length: 3.1 inches
Thickness: 1.12 inches
Height: 4.6 inches
Weight: 19.5 ounces
Capacity 10+1 or 12+1
Barrel and slide material: Armornite finished stainless steel
Frame material: Aluminum alloy
MSRP: $609.00 per S&W website
The new S&W CSX looks like a slick little carry gun.
Allen estimates the price at around $550.00 and, with the listed MSRP of $609.00, he’s probably pretty close on that. The barrel and slide feature Smith & Wesson’s Armornite finish so, as Allen says, they should be very durable and rust-resistant. The CSX is, unusually for a small carry gun, all-metal, making it a bit heavier than other guns of its size. But Allen says, and I agree, that extra weight is okay, as it probably helps a bit with recoil and, at 19.5 ounces, still isn’t heavy by any means.
The CSX features a low-profile slide release, 1911 style thumb safety, and a nice grip
The CSX has lots of nice features as well. As Allen says, “This is a lot of gun.” Here’s a list of those features:
Adjustable metal front and rear sights with the rear sight being squared off
Glare reducing texture on the top of the slide
Front and rear cocking serrations
Small cocking ears on the rear of the slide, similar to the M&P Shield EZ
Ambidextrous 1911-style frame-mounted thumb safety
Low profile slide release
Reversible mag release button
Interchangeable backstrap
A nice long beavertail
Allen was impressed by how the CSX handled.
The metal sights are nice, especially with the square profile rear sight. They should be very durable. I really like the inclusion of the cocking ears. As I get older, I wish more guns had those. The reversible mag release is actually a different part that comes with the gun. You just switch them out if you want. The gun ships with one extra backstrap that requires a tool to depress the plunger holding it on the grip. The tool is provided. It looks pretty stiff but, realistically, how often are you going to the change the backstrap? The beavertail is plenty long to guard against hammer and slide bite.
The CSX has a nice long beavertail.
There are a few things on the downside, but they’re minor. First, there’s no front rail. Personally, I don’t generally hang stuff from the front of guns this small, so it’s no big deal to me. But some might, so it would be nice to have the option. Second, the 12-round mag extends further from the grip, so it has a sleeve to fit in the space between the bottom of the grip and the mag floorplate. The sleeve isn’t anchored, and it slides up and down the mag, which Allen didn’t like. But he took it off with no ill effects and suggests that S&W anchor it in the future. There’s no loaded chamber indicator, though there is an inspection hole on top for press checks. No big deal to me, but it might be for some. Finally, the CSX is not optics-ready. Maybe that’s a thing for you, maybe not.
The CSX comes with an extra backstrap and the tool to change it.
The trigger is described as being “pretty flat” with an integral safety blade for the internal firing pin lock. Allen said the trigger was a little gritty at first but got better as he fired it more. The trigger pull is light, as you’d expect from a single action gun.
Overall, Allen was very impressed by the CSX. He says, “It sits in the hand really well. Doesn’t bounce around much.” The recoil was mild for a gun this size and it shot very well. He didn’t put it on paper but expects it to group well. “They’ve done a good job on this,” he says. “If you like the single action gun…hammer fired pistol, this is a good thing to look at. It packs a lot into a pretty small package. We’re going to tip our hats to Smith & Wesson on this.”
The Smith & Wesson CSX adds a new dimension to the small, higher-capacity gun market.
It’s pretty standard for companies to jump into trends to sell some guns while things are hot, like the small, higher capacity carry guns are right now. But it looks like S&W has not only jumped in but offered something that adds to what’s out there instead of just copying it. It’s probably a good move and, as we all know, it’s nice to have options.
Electronic hearing protection runs the gamut price range-wise. You can find a good set of earmuffs priced anywhere from tens of dollars to several hundred dollars. This massive price difference makes it intimidating at times. Many cheap things in the gun world often suck, so how does ear protection do? Well, today, it’s all about saving money, and we are doing so with the Walkers Razor Slim ear muffs.
These cheap headphones cost around fifty bucks, so they land squarely in that budget category for earmuffs. With that said, are they worth a damn? Protecting your hearing is pretty dang important, so it’s worth saving some bucks over. Let’s dive into it.
The Importance of Electronic Hearing Protection
The Walker’s Razor Slim earmuffs provide budget-grade electronic hearing protection. You might be thinking that a set of normal, non-electronic earmuffs are even cheaper. True, but electronic hearing protection can be an invaluable tool.
Electric ear protection allows you to maintain a high level of situational awareness. That’s inherently valuable when it comes to dealing with firearms. Being able to hear range commands, ceasefires, and more isn’t just a convenience but a potential lifesaver in a bad situation.
The Walkers Razor does a great job at reducing noise, including the noise of the 500 Auto Max.
If you take classes, you are paying for an instructor to teach. Teaching involves speaking, and if you are paying an instructor to teach, you better be able to hear what they have to say. A set of electronic ear protection allows you to hear commands, instructions, and more on the fly when a half dozen other students are shooting around you.
Electronic hearing protection also makes you a better competitive shooter. Again, you are dealing with range commands, matches working on strict timelines, and your ability to win depends on your ability to hear that BEEP.
These have a muff design that fully encompasses your ears and provides a high level of hearing protection to the individual user. Muffs beat plugs on the protection rating, but earplugs typically beat muff comfort-wise.
Shotguns aren’t an issue either!
The Walker’s Razor Slim ear muffs do provide a noise reduction rating of 23 decibels. That greatly lowers the sound of gunfire to a hearing-safe level for the vast majority of firearms. Admittedly, if you take a .308 caliber pistol with a muzzle brake to the range, you might want to double up. For everything else, the Walker’s will provide a high level of protection to keep your ears from gaining that loud, high-pitched ring that causes you to require a fan for white noise so you can sleep at night.
The Walker’s Razor earmuffs have a single control. It’s a knob that both turns the earmuffs on and adjusts the volume as necessary. You do get a 3.5mm audio jack that allows you to plug into an external audio device, but that does kill some of your attention span and adds a second layer of volume control to your earmuffs.
The Comfort Level
Earmuffs tend to be less comfy than earplugs, but the Walker’s Razor muffs aren’t exactly a pain in the head. A set of padded cups— well, they cup your ear and are a very comfy set of muffs. They encompass your ear entirely, and a soft polymer coats the outside of the muffs. This polymer coating provides a level of protection to the earmuffs.
Loud guns need good ear pro and the Walkers are a great go-to, especially for the money.
This prevents water absorption and generally gives the muff part a much longer lifespan. The cups are thick, well-padded, and provide a high level of comfort and the heavily padded headband is surprisingly comfortable and doesn’t rub my head raw.
I got a big head, guys, and guess what? A lot of muffs pinch my head. These don’t. For my fellow big-headed kings, the Walker’s Razor earmuffs give us a pinch-free experience.
Wear and Use
The slim nature of the Razor earmuffs makes them a fair bit more comfortable when using a rifle stock. You can rest your head against the stock and get a decent cheek weld when firing and handling a rifle. It’s not perfect, and plugs will get you tighter on the stock, but it’s better than a lot of other earmuffs I’ve used in the past.
They do provide excellent protection, even at indoor ranges. I’ve never walked away with ringing ears, even after using rifles indoors. At SHOT, one year, we were handling a lot of binary trigger-equipped rifles inside a small range, and I didn’t so much as develop a flinch.
Holy crap does it hit hard…in both directions.
As electronic ear muffs, the Razor Slims have a set of mics that allow you to hear external audio. If a noise reaches above a certain threshold, the device will automatically shut the noise off. It’s faster than we can perceive and occurs within .02 of a second.
The budget nature of the Walker’s Razor slims does mean you don’t get the best audio quality. Don’t get me wrong. Everything is audible and understandable. I have no problems hearing people speaking, talking, taking instruction from a tower, and whatever else comes my way. However, I’ve experienced clearer audio with other electronic hearing protection. Keep in mind those muffs cost at least as twice as much as the Walker’s Razor muffs.
Hearing Around
The mics in the Walkers Razor Slim earmuffs are omnidirectional. This does help you find the source of the noise in most cases. Omnidirectional can only go so far, but it’s better than the old school earmuffs with a single mic and surprising for a budget friend set of electronic earmuffs.
A short, braked 308 was still comfy with the Walkers.
The Walker’s Razor slim earmuffs work wonderfully for the price point. These kinds of muffs have two jobs. First, to protect your hearing. Second, to provide you with enhanced situational awareness. On those two fronts, the Walker’s Razor Slim earmuffs excel. On top of that, they provide a surprising level of comfort at the same time.
Color me impressed. Actually, I was impressed enough to purchase two pairs. They serve as my backup earmuffs and my spares when I take friends and family shooting. For the price point, they offer you an entry-level set of earmuffs that are well worth the investment, in both your ears and situational awareness.
The Smith and Wesson CSX 9mm pistol is officially one of the most talked-about new guns of 2022, albeit slightly less so than the Shield EZ 30 Super Carry. Its design, as you’ll read, is more than a little different from other Smith and Wesson pistols. And for that matter, all other micro-compacts we’ve seen to date.
We first took note of the weapon after the Primer Peak Blog noticed a Reddit post about the new handgun and reported on it. This was prior to the official release of the weapon, which came some days later. The original photo of SW’s new concealed carry photo apparently came from someone working at an S&W retailer, who posted it to social media. Those posts were subsequently taken down, but not before discussion of the CSX was all over Reddit, forums, and other social media channels. Many such conversations referred to the weapon as a “hybrid”; not in the way that a Glock 19X is a hybrid, but rather that it looks to be an alloy of the Shield EZ and 1911 style frames.
We eventually received additional details of the CSX (which btw kinda looks like a Colt Mustang to me) mostly confirming the speculations of “gun people” on the internet, to wit, it is:
• Chambered in 9x19mm
• Hammer-fired (vs. striker-fired micros like the SIG P365, Hellcat, Shield Plus, Mako, GX4, et al)
• Single Action Only (SAO)
• Flat face trigger
• An all-metal aluminum alloy frame
“The new Smith & Wesson CSX pays homage to metal frame micro compacts of the past but brings the classic style to the 21st century.” Smith & Wesson
Perhaps more importantly — since I love old snubbies — we learned that CSX stands for Chief’s Special X. That won’t make it shoot any better or function any more reliably, and you might not think that’s important information, but this is my article and I think it’s cool so I’m listing it as an important feature.
• Named for the old Chief’s Special revolvers.
Here’s a video overview.
Smith & Wesson CSX
The following is part of the various CSX press and social media announcements.
Featuring Smith & Wesson’s classic design characteristics, the aluminum alloy frame has an optimized 18-degree grip angle. Likewise, the textured grip includes a textured front strap and a removable textured polymer back strap. As a result, every shooter can customize the level of concealment and ergonomic fit, dialing in the personal experience.
Promoting enhanced manipulation in adverse conditions, the slide features both forward and rear cocking serrations. In addition, a flared design accentuates the rear serrations, so you can grip it and rip it with ease. Running along the bottom of the slide are ambidextrous slide release and manual safeties for right- and left-handed shooters. Likewise, the CSX ships with two changeable magazine release buttons, for right- and left-hand configuration.
The CSX sends rounds downrange through the 3.1-inch barrel with a one-in-ten twist, via a flat-faced trigger. Moreover, the single-action-only flat-faced trigger provides a crisp, clean and consistent trigger pull.
Smith & Wesson CSX Pistol Specs
Caliber: 9mm Luger Capacity: 10+1, 12+1 Overall Length: 6.1 inches Front Sight: Metal White Dot Rear Sight: Metal White 2-Dot Action: Single Action Grip: Interchangeable Backstraps Barrel Material: Stainless Steel with Armornite Finish Slide Material: Stainless Steel with Armornite Finish Frame Material: Aluminum Alloy Slide Finish: Matte Black Frame Finish: Matte Black Barrel Length: 3.1 inches (7.9 cm) Overall Weight: 19.5 ounces Width: 1.12″ Height: 4.6″ Weight: 19.5 oz MSRP: $609.00
S&W says, “We are proud to finally introduce the SMITH & WESSON® CSX, the most innovative metal pistol we have ever built. The durable micro-compact, all-metal hammer-fired pistol has a staggering 9mm capacity of 10+1 or 12+1, crisp & light single-action trigger, and superior ergonomics.” Alas, there’s no rail or optics cut…at least not in this version.
S&W detailed the new handgun thusly in a blog post:
The first thing that might draw your eye is the single-action external hammer. This provides a crisp and consistent trigger press while the visual and physical control of the hammer offers additional confidence for concealed carry, especially while reholstering.
Below the hammer, you’ll find the ambidextrous safety. The innovative design incorporates external safeties pinned inside the grip and located under the hammer. These steel ambidextrous safeties hinge along the back of the grip for efficient access and positive engagement for different hand sizes and shooting grips.
Once your eye drifts down the back of the pistol past the hammer and safety, you’ll notice the interchangeable backstraps. The CSX pistol comes with two interchangeable backstraps to suit your ideal grip and concealment preferences. The standard backstrap fills the hand for comfort. The smaller backstrap offers not only a reduced size grip for owners with smaller hand sizes but also a lower profile for concealment.
This was the picture that let the Smith and Wesson CSX cat out of the proverbial bag.
The aluminum alloy frame also features a truly ambidextrous steel slide stop, accessible to both right and left-handed users. The low-profile ridge design allows for easy activation into the up position while tactile grooves along the top ridge make for efficient deactivation. For all of the left-handed shooters, the mag release is changeable. Offering options for both right and left-hand access, the CSX pistol ships with two, easy-to-change magazine release buttons. The textured design and slight rise of the aluminum button on the frame make it easy to depress while also helping to reduce the chance of an unintentional release.
We also carried over some of everyone’s favorite features from the newest Smith & Wesson products in our assortment. The CSX pistol offers a highly desired flat-faced trigger with a trigger safety extending across the face of the trigger for a consistent feel. The CSX pistol features appropriately placed serrations on both the front and rear portions of the slide. The serrations on the rear portion of the slide feature a flared design for easier manipulation.
Learn more online at: smith-wesson.com/subcategory/csx
The original post was appropriately entitled Look, it’s not another M&P! and was made by u/RAMRODtheMASTER late in the day on 12/30/21 in the r/guns subreddit. In the text accompanying that post — which as of our initial writing was the only information available — advised the following:
9mm, 10 and 12 round magazines, Single Action Only, Frame appears to be aluminum, Ambi safety and slide stop, Mag release appears to swap, 3 dot sights, M&P style backstraps
Trigger has a short travel but mildly stiff break. Trigger pull overall is not bad. The reset is atrocious though. False reset then real reset. Hope that wears out.
Haven’t shot it but it feels great in the hand as well as solid.
Initial speculation that it uses Shield Plus magazines from another Reddit user was answered with, “Different mags, I tried.”
We now know the CSX takes proprietary magazines in either 10- or 12-round capacity.
NOTE: This is a much larger caliber CSX. Unlike any other firearms anywhere, this CSX actually does possess that often cited term, “knockdown power”. Even more so than WWII era 1911s and anything an ANGLICO would have to deal with. (PC@sdw788359)
Some of our crew will no doubt put hands on the CSX at SHOT Show 2022. We can give you some more feedback then.
As you can see, the grip and backstrap are (not surprisingly) very M&P-esque. Alas, no rails. There will be many who decry the SAO trigger of the S&W CSX, but even the faintest hint of 1911ism will be a strong attraction to some.
JuileG, part of Team Smith & Wesson takes a quick specification overview of the new Smith & Wesson CSX 9mm pistol.
Julie Golob on the Smith & Wesson CSX
by Patti Miller
Smith & Wesson is well known for its large line pistols. They recently announced their newest pistol, the Smith & Wesson CSX pistol, chambered in 9mm. In the video below, Smith & Wesson team shooter Julie G talks through all the specs of the new pistol and why you will probably want one.
JulieG TV Youtube channel went through the new Smith & Wesson CSX pistol and she said she is stoked to share the information. She stressed that because she is a team shooter for Smith & Wesson, this is not a review but essentially an announcement for the pistol.
The new CSX pistol seems to fit the small niche hole between the full-sized Shield pistol and the Shield EZ. The CSX pistol is a nod to the old Chief Special pistol and is a micro-compact aluminum alloy frame pistol chambered in 9mm. The pistol is a striker-fired single-action pistol with lots of little touches that make it a versatile pistol.
The CSX pistol from Smith & Wesson, chambered in 9mm Luger, comes with a 3.1” barrel and the pistol is only 1.12” wide overall, including the controls. The main takeaway for the pistol has no grip safety but has ambidextrous safety. This ambi safety is smaller than the regular Shield but larger than the Shield EZ. Also present on the CSX is an ambidextrous low-profile steel slide stop that is accessible from both sides.
Continuing with her overview of the new Smith & Wesson CSX, Julie talked some more about the frame and grip. The CSX has a magazine release button on the left side of the frame, but they include the right-side button so left-handed shooters can swap it out to fit their needs.
The texture present on the button helps feel the button easy enough, but the button itself is not so big that you will accidentally hit it. Also, in the box from the factory is two interchangeable backstraps, one standard size and one a smaller size. The grip texture Julie says is nice for shooting and not too sharp on the hand. The texture also extends around on the front and back of the grip as well.
Present on the slide are front and rear slide serrations. Julie says they are good-sized, but not crazy. She goes on to say also present on the CSX is the rear slide flair, which is also present on the Shield EZ. She said it is a subtle detail that you can feel, but it doesn’t catch on to things. The slide doesn’t feel too tight, not Shield EZ easy, but is still nice.
Julie G, a part of the shooting team for Smith and Wesson, wants to make it very clear that this video is not a review but an announcement, i.e. a product reveal.
While the CSX is not optic-ready, it does have three-dot night sights. Also present on the slide is a loaded chamber indicator, which Julie loves, and serrations along the top to help reduce the glare to the shooter.
To round out the pistol announcement, Julie talked about the trigger. The trigger features a fully flat face, and the trigger safety extends across the full face giving it a smooth surface. The trigger feels crisp and consistent with not a lot of travel with the pull. Because of the presence of the internal firing pin block, she recommends that you practice maneuvering the thumb safety in your drills, so you are comfortable with the different feel.
The Smith and Wesson CSX pistol is a micro-compact 9mm pistol with a 3.1” long barrel and just over 1.12” overall width, including the controls.
Coming from the factory with two magazines, a 10-round and a 12-round magazine and sleeve, the Smith & Wesson CSX pistol is a versatile option for anyone looking for a micro-compact pistol. The MSRP for the CSX is $609.
![Steve Fisher of Sentinel Concepts says, "I was never a fan of the old crop of auto-adjusting RDS optics. This is by far the best one [auto-adjustment] yet."](https://gunmagwarehouse.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Holosun-SCS-Solar-Charging-System-red-dot-sight_Steve-Fisher.jpg)
