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Ruger RXM Review: Just Another Glock Clone?
The release of the Ruger RXM was one of the biggest firearms stories of 2024. A collaborative effort between Ruger and Magpul, the RXM combines Ruger’s storied history of firearms production with Magpul’s innovative approach to design.
The two-tone aesthetic is a nice touch.
The result is a striker-fired, polymer framed pistol that combines classic, Glock Gen 3 components and design elements with contemporary enhancements, like the Fire Control Insert (FCI) and optics-ready slide, to make a firearm that stands on proven firearm concepts and is at the same time innovative. The RXM has positioned itself as a versatile contender in the compact pistol market.
What We Like About the RXM
Ergonomics and Grip Texture
The RXM utilizes Magpul’s Enhanced Handgun Grip (EHG), which provides a texture that is aggressive enough to secure a firm hold without discomfort. Without naming names, I can think of at least one gun I own that I don’t like to shoot any longer simply because the grip texture is uncomfortably aggressive. That is definitely not the case with the RXM.
Trigger Performance
The RXM has a flat-faced trigger that offers a consistent break and a tactile reset. I like the crisp feel of both the break and the reset. Compared to my Glocks, I find it is better than the Gen 4 triggers and is very similar in quality to the triggers on my Gen 5s. There is some stacking on the RXM trigger before the break, and the reset can be long, but that is simply my nitpicking.
The RXM’s trigger is nothing to sniff at, especially for an out-of-the-box trigger.
Optics-Ready Slide
Pistol optics are more popular than ever, and the RXM jumps on the train, which I think is a good thing. Firearms customization is one of the best aspects of ownership, and letting each user decide for themselves if they want a red dot is great. The RXM can accommodate most red dots without needing an adapter plate. This is an excellent example of how Ruger built the RXM for modern shooting.
The optics-ready slide can mount your favorite optics without an adaptor plate.
Magazine Compatibility
“Does it take Glock magazines?” This question has almost become a given when discussing a new firearm. Happily, the Ruger RXM does. The RXM comes with Magpul PMAG 15 GL9 mags in the box, assuming you live in a free state, and is compatible with basically all Glock-style magazines. One thing to note: when using OEM Glock magazines, stick to Gen 3 and newer.
Flaws and Potential Deal Breakers
Loaded Chamber Indicator (LCI) Design
Some have expressed concerns about the LCI design. They feel that gas and debris could be expelled through the LCI and build up on a mounted red dot. If you shoot enough with your RXM, this is something to monitor, but it isn’t a deal-breaker for me.
Early Barrel/Quality Control Issues
Early in the production cycle of the RXM, the barrels for select pistols came with faults in the rifling. Ruger’s top-notch customer support remedied these issues, and pistols no longer appear to be arriving with these faults. At the same time, there were reports of inconsistent accuracy from the RXM. However, I haven’t experienced either issue.
How We Tested
The only way you can truly test a pistol is to shoot it. As such, I put a mix of 115 & 124-grain FMJs from Monarch, Sellier and Bellot, and Blazer Brass. For defensive rounds, I shot Hornady American Gunner and Hornady Critical Defense through it. I’m happy to report that the RXM performed great with all of it!
Hornady American Gunner 9mm +P 124gr XTP Hollow Point Ammo
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I was able to keep consistently tight groupings within defensive distances, so after I put more rounds through it, I would be confident in its ability to serve as a defensive pistol.
Specifications
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Capacity | 15+1 |
| Barrel Length | 4 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.15 inches |
| Height | 5.3 inches |
| Width | 1 inch |
| Weight | 5.5 pounds |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Modular Design – The FCI allows for grip module customization
- Optics-Ready Slide
- Ergonomic Grip – I like the shape and feel of the RXM’s grip
- Glock Mag Compatibility
- Reliable – No failures during my testing
Cons
- Loaded Chamber Indicator Concerns
- Reports of Inconsistent Accuracy Over 25 yards
Features
Fire Control Insert (FCI)
The RXM utilizes a Fire Control Insert as the serialized part on the gun. The FCI allows you to have multiple frames without the hassle of purchasing and transferring a second firearm. Want a Glock 17 or 26-sized pistol? Move the FCI from the Glock 19-sized frame that the RXM comes as into the appropriately sized frame.
Many firearms manufacturers are using this style of serialized part for their pistols, and Ruger utilizing an FCI in the RXM is a good design decision. It enables end users to customize their pistols even further.
Magpul Frame
I like the grip angle and texture of the RXM’s Enhanced Handgun Grip a lot. While I like Gen 4 & 5 Glock pistols, I never was a big fan of Gen 3s because of how the frame fit my hand. The RXM, despite being a Gen 3 Glock clone, fits my hand very well. It feels very natural, and I have been able to shoot the pistol well.
Accessories and Aftermarket
The Ruger RXM is relatively new to the market, appearing during the summer of 2024. Still, given its compatibility with Gen 3 Glock parts, it already has a robust aftermarket to let you customize your pistol.
You’ll be able to find plenty of aftermarket sights that are compatible with the RXM.
The RXM has a very similar footprint to that of a Glock 19. In theory, this means you should be able to use Glock 19 holsters for your RXM, but it is best to test your pistol in the holsters before since the Magpul EHG grip module isn’t an exact clone of the Glock 19 frame.
The optics cut on the RXM features a multi-footprint slide cut. Many popular pistol red dots like the Trijicon RMR, Holosun 507C & 507K, Swampfox Sentinel II, and Shield Sights RMS2 will mount directly to the slide.
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Magazines
Magazine compatibility is the big one for me. I own multiple Glock pistols, as well as several other guns that use Glock-pattern double-stack magazines. As a result, I own a good number of Glock-pattern magazines and like being able to purchase a new firearm without having to spend a significant amount of money on new proprietary magazines.
Plus, you can get the right capacity from 10-round compliant magazines to 33-round fun sticks to drums.
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Last Words
The compact 9MM handgun market is a crowded one. The Ruger RXM is a compelling entry into the market for all the right reasons. It has an outstanding balance of price, performance, and customizability.
The RXM looks excellent. I look forward to years of quality service from it on my farm.
The RXM is a solid contender for someone wanting a concealed carry pistol, a range toy, or someone who just likes to take a gun and customize it endlessly.
