So how ENHANCED is it? Smith & Wesson CSX-E review.

Published on October 26, 2025
Duration: 14:49

This review of the Smith & Wesson CSX-E highlights its improvements over the original CSX, focusing on an enhanced trigger, better grip texture, and an optics cut. While the CSX-E offers more capacity and a more refined feel, the reviewer notes the trigger remains heavy (over 7 lbs) and has a unique, somewhat difficult-to-master mechanism. The improved grip texture is beneficial but still leaves areas prone to slippage. The firearm is compared unfavorably in shooting performance to the Kimber CDS9 Classic, primarily due to trigger and grip differences, though the CSX-E is considered a significant step up from its predecessor.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson CSX-E improves upon the original with an enhanced trigger, better grip texture, and an optics cut, coming with 12, 15, and 17-round magazines. While a significant upgrade, its trigger pull remains over 7 pounds and its unique mechanism has a learning curve. In comparisons, the Kimber CDS9 Classic often demonstrated superior shooting performance due to its more intuitive trigger and stable grip.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: CSX vs CSX-E
  2. 00:37Original CSX Shortcomings
  3. 00:49CSX-E Enhancements: Grip & Muzzle
  4. 01:01Magazine Count and Cost
  5. 01:26Trigger Assessment: Old vs New
  6. 02:25Grip Texture and Rotation Management
  7. 03:28Optics Cut and Sights
  8. 03:50Magazine Options and Sleeves
  9. 04:45Backstrap Adjustment
  10. 04:58Ammo Bag Recommendation
  11. 05:45Comparison Setup: CSX-E vs Kimber CDS9
  12. 06:3525-Yard Accuracy Test: CSX-E
  13. 06:5025-Yard Accuracy Test: Kimber CDS9
  14. 07:50CSX-E Redemption Shooting
  15. 09:05Bill Drills at Distance: CSX-E vs Kimber
  16. 10:15Bill Drills Up Close: CSX-E vs Kimber
  17. 11:08Kimber CDS9 Advantages
  18. 12:30Learning Curve of the CSX-E Trigger
  19. 13:30CSX-E vs Original CSX: Step Forward?
  20. 13:44Overall Assessment of CSX-E
  21. 14:11Preference Over Striker-Fired Pistols
  22. 14:35Final Thoughts and Viewer Experience

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main improvements in the Smith & Wesson CSX-E compared to the original CSX?

The CSX-E features an enhanced trigger, improved grip texture with more traction on the front strap, and an optics cut. It also comes with three magazines (12, 15, and 17 rounds) compared to the original's two, addressing previous criticisms.

What is the trigger pull weight of the Smith & Wesson CSX-E?

Despite feeling lighter than the original, the CSX-E's trigger pull consistently measures over 7 pounds. It has a unique hybrid hinge and sliding mechanism with a trigger safety that requires some getting used to.

How does the grip texture on the CSX-E compare to the original?

The CSX-E has significantly improved grip texture, especially on the front strap, offering more traction. However, the reviewer notes that bare areas on the frame can still lead to rotation, particularly if the hand is wet.

Is the CSX-E optics ready?

Yes, the CSX-E comes with an optics cut. However, the rear sight is retained by the optic plate, meaning it does not function as a backup iron sight unless the mounted optic includes its own rear sight.

How does the CSX-E perform in shooting tests compared to the Kimber CDS9 Classic?

In head-to-head shooting tests, the Kimber CDS9 Classic generally outperformed the CSX-E. The Kimber was easier to shoot accurately, especially at distance, attributed to its trigger, grip, and slightly fatter profile, making it more stable.

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