Hammer-Fired, Metal Frame CCW Pistol?

When you look at smaller pistols for concealed carry use these days, you’re generally going to be talking about polymer frame striker-fired pistols. Sure, there are a few revolvers out there that people choose to carry for different reasons, but that part of the gun market is dominated by polymer frame striker-fired pistols.

Some people, though, really prefer something other than the norm, and some people really want a metal-framed pistol or a hammer-fired pistol, and it hasn’t always been so easy to get your hands on one of those choices in a small everyday carry gun.

What if you could get both of those choices (metal framed and hammer-fired) in one pistol that is still small enough to be your everyday concealed carry gun? Would that be something that you’d want?

Smith and Wesson is betting that at least some folks want exactly that combination of features in a concealed carry pistol, so, they released the CSX model. Elwood Shelton writes,

Introduced in 2022 to relatively muted fanfare, the trim little 9mm is tailored perfectly to EDC offering a unique and reliable defensive system.

Reminiscent of the company’s M&P striker guns, the CSX has a very familiar feel—all the way down to a similarly textured backstrap. However, the gun shuns polymer, instead, utilizing a durable aluminum alloy for the frame tending to leave a more substantial impression in the hand. This isn’t a complete trick of the mind, given the pistol is hefty for a micro-compact—weighing in at 19.5 ounces unloaded. Despite this, the single-action is nimble as ever in presentation, target acquisition ad target transition.

As expected from a single-action, the trigger is snappy as ever, enhanced by a flat-faced shoe. Though, the fact it requires a thumb safety to carry it loaded might leave many cold, after decades of acclimation to pistols sans a manual safety. At least Smith & Wesson has opted for an ambidextrous switch. A few other nice touches are the EZ tab at the rear to aid cocking, a comfortable 18-degree rake to the grip and glare-reduction serrations atop the slide. It’s on the light side for capacity for its class, shipping with 12- and 10-round magazines. But for many, that’s more than enough for a concealed carry gun. MSRP: $609

Now, being a hammer-fired pistol, some will automatically assume that the CSX is a mini-1911, and that isn’t the case. This gun is much smaller and (for many people) much more concealable than a 1911. You can see this pistol in action in the video below.

If you prefer metal frames over polymer or if you prefer hammer-fired over striker-fired for your everyday carry gun, the Smith & Wesson CSX may be one to consider. Is that you? Give us your thoughts in the comments below.