Smith and Wesson CSX Problems: The Smith & Wesson CSX is a small handgun made from a mix of lightweight aluminum alloy and changeable polymer back straps. This lets you adjust how well it’s hidden and how comfortably it fits in your hand.
It uses 9mm bullets and can hold an impressive 12+1 rounds. You also get an extra magazine with 10 rounds for even more discreet carrying. Even though it’s quite small, the CSX has buttons on both sides for releasing the slide and safety.
CSX is Smith & Wesson’s newest addition to their very compact guns. This CSX is a very small 9mm handgun with a metal frame, and it can hold more bullets in its magazine than other similar guns.
Despite being really liked, CSX has had some issues. These issues have caused arguments and worry among new users since the gun was first sold in January 2022.
In this article, we will talk about the most important problems CSX has and give you ways to fix them. So, if you have this gun or want to get one, keep reading to find out about the possible problems and how to solve them.
Specifications & Features of Smith & Wesson CSX
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson, Springfield, Massachusetts, United States |
| Designed | 2021 |
| Produced | January 2022 – Present |
| Models | 2 (Smith & Wesson CSX 9MM and Smith & Wesson CSX 9MM 10RD) |
| Grip | Interchangeable Backstraps |
| Product Weight | 19.5 ounces |
| Safety | Ambidextrous Manual Thumb Safety |
| Product Length | 6.1 inches |
| Magazine Capacity | 10+1, 12+1 |
| Barrel Length | 3.1 inches |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel with Armornite Finish |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel with Armornite Finish |
Common Smith and Wesson CSX Problems with Solutions
The Smith & Wesson CSX firearm shows great potential. It’s known for being lightweight, reliable, and equipped with various features designed for discreet carry.
Nevertheless, upon its release in January 2022, some noteworthy problems came to light. Let’s delve into the common problems that users experienced with the Smith & Wesson CSX:
Problem #1. Magazine Trouble
Despite having a magazine capacity of 12 rounds, users faced problems where the 12-round magazine didn’t fit properly into the grip. Additionally, releasing the magazine also proved to be quite challenging.
This arose because Smith & Wesson had made modifications to the magazine design. They altered the way the follower attaches to the magazine’s spring.
In the CSX magazine, a spring leg goes across the top coil at a 90° angle. The follower includes a hole for the spring leg, which is inserted into the tube. Afterward, the base plate is attached.
The problem arises from the fact that Smith & Wesson’s magazine assembly team sometimes fails to insert that small spring leg into the follower’s hole.
As a result, the magazine’s spring becomes too long, preventing the gun from accommodating the specified number of rounds without causing the magazine tube to warp and expand.
Solution
To address this issue, the magazine design needs to be revamped.
- First, attach the follower to the top coil of the magazine spring’s coil-up configuration. Then, place the assembly into the magazine tube.
- Lastly, attach the base plate to reassemble the gun.
Problem #2. Loose Front Strap
Though this problem is relatively rare, some customers reported that CSX’s front strap started to wobble after a short period of use.
This loose front strap creates an irritating distraction while firing and compromises the ability to maintain a comfortable grip.
Solution
- This problem can be permanently fixed by using super glue. Additionally, adjusting the texture of the front strap can provide a better gripping experience.
Problem #3. Moving Grip Sleeve
Users faced difficulties due to the grip sleeve on the 12-round magazine being movable. While this might not cause major shooting problems, it leads to an uncomfortable experience.
This becomes problematic when carrying the magazine with a carrier, as it pinches the user’s finger between the sleeve and base plate.
Solution
- A simple solution involves using super glue to secure the grip sleeve to the baseplate of the magazine.
Problem #4. False Trigger Reset
A common complaint among CSX users was the issue of a false reset on the trigger. After firing a shot, the trigger required extra effort to return to its reset position.
During rapid firing, the CSX often failed to reset properly, causing the trigger to pull back without being properly primed.
The CSX lacked sufficient spring tension to automatically reset the trigger when released. Users couldn’t simply relax their fingers and expect the trigger to reset on its own.
Solution
- In this situation, the best option is to contact Smith & Wesson for assistance. The company needs to enhance its product and focus on quality assurance.
Problem #5. Heavy Trigger
The trigger on the CSX is somewhat heavy, especially considering the presence of manual and trigger safeties.
Smith & Wesson reports that the trigger pull on the CSX, measured from the bottom-middle, is 7 to 8 lbs. This is on a gun that weighs around 19.5 ounces.
Solution
- To address this issue, you should disassemble the slide and check the function of the trigger bar without the slide. Ensure there’s no obstruction. Moreover, lubricate the components and inspect the disconnector.
- It’s also a good idea to examine the striker channel. A thorough disassembly, lubrication, and inspection should resolve the problem.
Problem #6. Grip Texture
The grip texture, especially the aluminum portion, was a source of complaints about CSX. Despite the interchangeability of the backstrap, this grip design proved uncomfortable and affected shooting accuracy.
Solution
- To overcome the grip issue, applying a texture to the entire surface can enhance the grip. This may involve a cost of around $20.
In conclusion, while the Smith & Wesson CSX possesses great potential, it had several initial problems. These included magazine fit issues, loose front straps, movable grip sleeves, false trigger resets, heavy triggers, and grip texture discomfort.
Addressing these problems involves redesigning the magazine, applying super glue, and conducting detailed maintenance on trigger components and grip surfaces.
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User Reviews for Smith & Wesson CSX Handgun
The Smith & Wesson CSX is a recently introduced firearm available for purchase. People have shared a variety of opinions about it. Some individuals are facing difficulties when using it, while others are getting more comfortable with it as they spend more time using it.
Despite a cost of about $600, the Smith & Wesson CSX lacks some of the latest and most advanced features that many people expect in a firearm in this price range. For instance, it doesn’t come equipped for easy attachment of optical accessories, something that many users would find desirable.
A common complaint among CSX users revolves around problems with its magazines. Two significant issues that users have expressed frustration about include magazines swelling and the trigger not resetting properly.
Additionally, there are some minor issues that have contributed to user dissatisfaction with CSX. These include a front strap that can feel loose or wiggly, a trigger that feels heavier than desired, and difficulties with getting a comfortable grip on the firearm. The good news is that these minor issues can be resolved without much trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smith & Wesson CSX Problems
What does Smith & Wesson CSX stand for?
The “CSX” in Smith & Wesson CSX refers to the “Chiefs Special,” a line of small-frame revolvers introduced in the 1950s as backup weapons to larger pistols of that time.
How much does a Smith & Wesson CSX cost?
The Smith & Wesson CSX 9MM is priced at $549.00.
How can the Smith & Wesson CSX false reset problem be fixed?
To fix the false reset issue of the Smith & Wesson CSX, a slight increase in spring tension is required to reset the trigger properly.
What is the weight of the Smith & Wesson CSX without the top?
The Smith & Wesson CSX is relatively light due to its aluminum-alloy frame, weighing just 19.5 ounces.
What distinguishes CSX from other micro-compact guns?
Unlike other micro-compact guns such as the P365, Hellcat, Max-9, Shield Plus, GX4, and Mako, which are all striker-fired, the CSX takes a different approach by being hammer-fired. It is a single-action-only, hammer-fired micro-compact pistol that uses 10 and 12-round magazines.