Firearm: Wilson Combat SFX9 3.25-inch 10-round (MSRP: $3,147)
We have the superlative Wilson Combat SFX9 double-stack 1911 pistol in today’s kit for a variety of reasons. First, of course, is the quality and craftsmanship that goes into every Wilson Combat firearm. Yes, the company’s firearms are more expensive than standard offerings from larger companies, but is your protection—and that of your loved ones—a place where you really want to save pennies? Second, and more importantly, is that the SFX9 is a well-made double-stack 1911 with an amazing trigger and top-shelf components.
The version we’ve chosen wears the 3.25-inch barrel, giving the pistol an overall length of 6.75 inches and an unloaded weight of 26.9 ounces. Width is 1.15 inches, and height is 5.25 inches, putting the SFX9 squarely in the compact category. Models can be had with either 10-round magazines for folks in restricted areas or 15-round mags for everyone else, giving the SFX9 the same capacity as many other compact and mid-size handguns. There are versions with accessory rails in addition to the smooth dustcover on the model in today’s kit, and the SFX9 can be machined for red-dot sights.
When it comes to full specs, the SFX9 is truly loaded: Wilson Combat’s proprietary X-Tac treatment is applied to both the front and backstrap; its signature grip geometry helps keep the SFX9 firmly in the hand, while the black Armor-Tuff finish protects the stainless steel Tri-Top slide. Wilson’s Bullet Proof series of components are present throughout in the hammer, thumb safety and magazine release, while its Battlesight rear sight aligns with a red fiber-optic pipe at the front. Add in the fluted chamber and barrel, carry cuts, crisp trigger and a host of upgraded components, and the SFX9 is an attractive option indeed.
Quite visible at the muzzle end of the SFX9 is a new item from Wilson Combat, the Comp Barrel option. Offering decreased felt recoil and muzzle flip at a bare minimum increase in weight, the Comp Barrel does add about an inch to the overall length, which is why we opted for the 3.25-inch barrel SFX9 as the host pistol. This allows the complete handgun with compensator to fit into a standard holster for a 4-inch barrel version without a compensator. Wilson Combat also has options to build the SFX9 from the onset with the Comp Barrel option or to opt for a second slide with the comped barrel.
Holster: Palmetto Leather Works for Wilson Combat EDC X9 Lo-Profile II with Shark trim (MSRP: $159.95)
Available directly from Wilson Combat is the Palmetto Leather Works EDC X9 Lo-Profile II with Shark trim holster, and while it may say “EDC X9,” it also works with the SFX9 series of pistols. As mentioned above, with the addition of the Comp Barrel option to the 3.25-inch SFX9, a holster fit for a 4-inch barrel will work just fine. Reinforcement at the mouth is accentuated with shark trim for an added bit of flair to highlight your custom handgun. This particular holster is not cut for light-bearing or optic-equipped pistols, although a version is available for EDC X9 and SFX9 pistols with accessory rails.
A quick note on the belt-attachment method here is helpful. The loops on the EDC X9 Lo-Profile II holster are integral to the holster itself, making it somewhat of a tight fit for thicker gunbelts. A bit of patience may be required for reinforced belts like the Magpul Tejas we have here. Once the belt has been threaded through the holster, though, the slight curve in the holster’s design really helps it hug the body, making it easier to conceal despite being an outside-the-waistband option.
Knife: Buck Trace Ops (MSRP: $59)
The last item in today’s kit is the Buck Knives Trace Ops, Large pocketknife. Anodized aluminum scales with dark red accents make this an attractive companion to the SFX9 pistol, with the skeletonized design reducing weight without compromising functionality. A 3.23-inch, 7Cr17MoV steel, tanto-profile blade opens with a flipper mechanism and is held in place with a liner lock.
The Trace Ops is ambidextrous, with the pocket clip able to be swapped for left- or right-pocket carry. It’s also attached at the very end of the handle so that it rides low in the pocket, keeping an all-important low profile. In the hand, the Trace Ops has an excellent balance and feel, with jimping on the back of the blade to rest the thumb, while the flipper mechanism provides a rest for the strong-hand pointer finger. Excellent ergonomics and affordable price make this a strong addition to any EDC kit.
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