FN Reflex XL MRD Shooting Impressions

Published on May 3, 2025
Duration: 21:00

This review of the FN Reflex XL MRD micro-compact pistol covers initial shooting impressions, full magazine plus one testing, and extensive ammunition compatibility. The reviewer notes the pistol's comfortable ergonomics and high capacity for its size, but expresses mixed feelings regarding the trigger feel and concerns about early finish wear on the barrel. The video emphasizes practical accuracy and reliability across various ammunition types.

Quick Summary

The FN Reflex XL MRD is a micro-compact 9mm pistol featuring a 3.8-inch barrel and higher capacity than standard compacts. It offers comfortable ergonomics and a visible orange front sight. While demonstrating broad ammunition compatibility, concerns were raised about early finish wear on the barrel and a trigger that rolls through its break without a distinct wall.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to FN Reflex XL MRD
  2. 00:41Range Setup & Challenges
  3. 01:59Ammunition Details (124 Grain PMC Bronze)
  4. 02:43First 10 Shots Impressions
  5. 03:32Target Analysis (First Shots)
  6. 03:48Full Magazine Plus One Test
  7. 04:37What's for Dinner Table: Ammo Testing Setup
  8. 05:26Practical Accuracy Setup (7 Yards)
  9. 06:10Ammo Test: 100 Grain Fiocchi
  10. 06:32Ammo Test: 115 Grain Hornady American Gunner
  11. 07:04Ammo Test: 115 Grain Specialty Cartridge
  12. 07:35Ammo Test: 124 Grain Federal HST
  13. 08:04Ammo Test: 124 Grain Sig Elite Defense
  14. 08:32Ammo Test: 124 Grain PMC Suffix SFX
  15. 08:56Ammo Test: 130 Grain Federal Cintech PCC
  16. 09:32Ammo Test: 135 Grain Hornady Critical Duty +P
  17. 10:06Ammo Test: 147 Grain Fiocchi Defense Dynamics
  18. 10:41Ammo Test: 165 Grain Ammo Inc.
  19. 11:06Ammunition Testing Summary & Finish Wear
  20. 11:44Spinner Target for Sights & Trigger Control
  21. 12:20Spinner Target Performance
  22. 12:40Trigger Analysis
  23. 14:44Practical Accuracy Test (7 Yards, 1-Inch Square)
  24. 15:29Practical Accuracy Results
  25. 15:39Trigger Learning Curve & Expectations
  26. 16:02Comfort & Size Discussion
  27. 17:11Barrel Finish Wear Details
  28. 17:37Carryability & Training Considerations
  29. 18:00Concluding Thoughts & Mixed Feelings

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the FN Reflex XL MRD micro-compact pistol?

The FN Reflex XL MRD is a micro-compact 9mm pistol with a 3.8-inch barrel, offering higher capacity than typical compacts while remaining smaller. It features a comfortable grip, an attention-grabbing orange front sight, and is designed for concealed carry. The MRD designation indicates it's optics-ready.

How does the FN Reflex XL MRD perform with different types of ammunition?

The FN Reflex XL MRD demonstrated broad ammunition compatibility, reliably cycling with loads ranging from 100 to 165 grains, including various bullet types and case materials. Only one specific 115-grain load experienced a chambering issue, suggesting good overall reliability.

What is the reviewer's assessment of the FN Reflex XL MRD's trigger?

The trigger on the FN Reflex XL MRD is described as hammer-fired with a crisp break but lacking a distinct wall, causing it to roll through the pull. This characteristic may require adjustment for shooters accustomed to staging triggers, but could be effective under stress.

Are there any durability concerns with the FN Reflex XL MRD?

Yes, the reviewer noted significant finish wear on the barrel and barrel hood of the FN Reflex XL MRD after only about 30-40 rounds. This early wear was considered surprising and a potential disappointment for an FN firearm.

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