Shoud You Even Consider the FN Reflex? - Full Review w/ Apex Comp

Published on May 3, 2026
Duration: 15:28

This comprehensive review by Brett of Nightwood Guns delves into the FN Reflex MRD, a micro-compact pistol with an internally hammer-fired, single-action-only mechanism. The review highlights its surprising accuracy, excellent grip texture, and direct optic mounting, while also addressing concerns like its thinness, magazine release placement, and potential reliability issues. The integration of Apex Tactical upgrades, including a comp and barrel, is a key focus, significantly enhancing shooting performance and addressing concealability challenges.

Quick Summary

The FN Reflex MRD is a unique micro-9 pistol featuring an internally hammer-fired, single-action-only mechanism that appears striker-fired. It offers surprising accuracy and excellent grip texture, enhanced by Apex Tactical upgrades like a compensator and barrel, which improve shooting performance and concealability. While generally well-regarded for its features, potential buyers should be aware of its thinness, magazine release placement, and past reliability concerns.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction: FN Reflex Worth Considering?
  2. 00:18FN Reflex Unique Features: Hammer-Fired Micro-9
  3. 00:42Ammunition and Holster Support
  4. 01:30Positive Features: Accuracy and Ergonomics
  5. 01:53Direct Optic Mount and Iron Sights
  6. 02:38Grip Texture and Slide Serrations
  7. 03:53Recoil Impulse and Shooting Performance
  8. 04:34DPM Recoil Reduction System
  9. 05:12Apex Comp and Barrel Performance
  10. 05:43Compensator for Concealed Carry Comfort
  11. 06:27Apex Comp Installation
  12. 07:04Magazine Versatility and Capacity
  13. 08:15Single-Action Only Hammer-Fired Trigger
  14. 09:26Negatives: Reliability and Ergonomics
  15. 09:51Thinness and Support Hand Grip Issues
  16. 10:49Magazine Release Placement
  17. 11:22Snappiness with +P Ammunition
  18. 11:54Magazine Lock-Open Reliability Issues
  19. 13:25OEM Barrel Loaded Chamber Port
  20. 13:51Magwell Design
  21. 14:21Overall Enjoyment and Conclusion
  22. 14:39Support the Channel: Patrons and Subscriptions

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the FN Reflex unique among micro-9 pistols?

The FN Reflex stands out because it's internally hammer-fired and single-action only, yet visually resembles a striker-fired pistol due to its concealed hammer. This design offers a different feel and trigger characteristic compared to many competitors in the micro-compact market.

How does the Apex Tactical comp and barrel affect the FN Reflex's performance?

The Apex Tactical compensator and barrel significantly enhance the FN Reflex's shooting performance. They reduce recoil impulse, making the pistol feel more like a larger firearm, and also contribute to better concealability by extending the pistol's length below the belt line.

What are the main ergonomic criticisms of the FN Reflex?

The primary ergonomic issue is the pistol's thinness front-to-back, which limits the support hand's ability to grip effectively and utilize the excellent texture. Additionally, the magazine release can be inadvertently covered by the middle finger when gripping high, potentially hindering reloads.

Does the FN Reflex have reliability issues?

The FN Reflex has an earned reputation for reliability issues, particularly from earlier production runs. However, the reviewer tested 1000 rounds without major malfunctions, though some magazine lock-open failures were noted, suggesting potential improvements or break-in requirements.

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