FN Reflex MRD 9mm vs Glock G43X 9mm

Two subcompact 9mms within 0.3 oz of each other (18.4 oz vs 18.7 oz) that differ in almost everything else. The FN Reflex MRD 9mm is hammer-fired in an internal single-action design with a 4.5 lb trigger; the Glock G43X 9mm is striker-fired at 5.4 lb, so the Reflex breaks 0.9 lb lighter. The Reflex is smaller in every dimension: 6.2" long against 6.5", 4.27" tall against 5.04", and 1.0" wide against 1.1". It still holds one more round (11 vs 10) and is optic-ready with a tritium front sight, while this G43X is not cut for an optic and wears fixed sights. The G43X has the longer barrel (3.41" vs 3.3") and sight radius (5.24" vs 5.05"), and lists at $538 against $676.

Pick the FN Reflex MRD if:

• You want the lighter 4.5 lb trigger and the hammer-fired single-action feel
• You want the smallest footprint: 0.77" less grip height (4.27" vs 5.04") and 0.1" less width
• You want a red dot and tritium front sight without buying a different model

Pick the Glock G43X if:

• You want the $138 lower MSRP ($538 vs $676)
• You want the longer grip for a full firing hold, plus the 3.41" barrel and 5.24" sight radius
• You prefer a conventional striker trigger and Glock holster availability

The Reflex gives up 0.11" of barrel and costs more, but it is shorter, narrower, holds one extra round, breaks 0.9 lb lighter and takes an optic. The G43X answers with a longer grip and a lower price.