SCCY CPX2 Review + VIDEO: Read this before buying

As a seasoned shooter, I’ve been on the lookout for a budget-friendly 9mm pistol. That’s how I stumbled upon the SCCY CPX-2 9mm. However, as with many things in life, there can be a trade-off in quality and performance when you’re saving some money on a product. So, I decided to do a full SCCY CPX-2 review to see if it earned my seal of approval.

Now, here’s the thing. I originally reviewed this gun 4 years ago. However, over the years, I have had more time with the gun, and have found more information on it that lead me to update this article so as to ensure it is fully representative of what it is today.

So, let’s jump into the updated review of the SCCY CPX-2.

SCCY CPX-2 9mm: A Pistol Under Fire

At first glance, the SCCY CPX-2 handgun looks like it could be a strong candidate for those looking for a cheaper option when it comes to handguns.

It’s a sleek-looking pistol that seems to have improved from the major design complaint (the manual safety) of its predecessor–the SCCY CPX-1. The SCCY weighs in at right around 15 oz. and measures out to just above 5″ making it relatively comfortable as a carry gun.

But… that doesn’t necessarily mean that the SCCY CPX pistols are a great option.

A horrible trigger and serious reliability issues make this gun less than optimal.

At any price point, a gun should not sacrifice its basic purpose: to provide the shooter with a safe and and reliable way to fire a gun.

As a former operations sniper, I firmly believe that regardless of cost, a gun must never compromise its fundamental purpose: to offer the shooter a safe and dependable means to fire it.

SCCY CPX-2 Key Features and Changes

1 Double Action Trigger

The SCCY CPX has a heavy trigger pull, about 9 pounds. Even though it’s long and heavy, it still feels pretty smooth.

2 Removal of Manual Safety

The Manual Safety was removed from CPX-2 after complaints against the previous model’s safety placement.

3 Internal Hammer Firing System

The SCCY CPX is equipped with a double action firing system. The hammer is a semi-internal component coupled with an inertial firing pin to prevent accidental discharge in the event of dropping.

SCCY CPX2 Review – My Take

Here’s a quick summary: Based on my testing, I do NOT recommend the SCCY CPX 9mm pistol. And please note, this isn’t because I am a gun elitest and only like the expensive stuff. I fully understand the need for budget guns and how to grade them. If you’d like to see a review of a budget pistol that I did like, check out the Canik TP9SF Review.

What I liked about the SCCY: 

I loved the idea of a budget handgun. Despite what you might see/read online, not everyone needs the best handgun for CCW, home defense, or range use. Sure, a nicer handgun is better (to a point) but not everyone can afford $500’ish and up for a handgun.

So, I purchased and tested a SCCY CPX in 9mm hoping that it would be a great budget option. More on this below.

I also liked the color options – I got the SCCY CPX with a bright orange frame and a stainless steel slide. I thought it might be a great gun to pack away in an emergency kit and the high visibility and corrosion resistance might come in handy.

What I didn’t like about the SCCY CPX: 

This is the worst trigger I’ve shot on a handgun – especially one that is supposed to be for CCW/defensive shooting. Sure, a long and heavy double action trigger isn’t normally desirable but I was willing to overlook it because of the price point of this gun. Also, the SCCY seems to be for new shooters so the heavy trigger might (repeat, might) be a little safer for those who haven’t had proper training.

My biggest problem with the SCCY 9mm trigger was the reset. It is super easy to “short stroke” this trigger by not allowing it to return all the way forward. This is because the trigger has to travel a long way to reset and there’s no clear indication when it does. Also, the spring that pulls it back is too weak. Sometimes, even a light touch on the trigger stops it from resetting. The only way I could get the trigger to reset was to completely remove my finger from the trigger after every shot. Also, because the trigger is too weak, even a small amount of dirt or grime could stop the trigger return spring from working properly.

Despite the bad trigger, there is another major problem with the SCCY pistol I tested: it wouldn’t function for more than a couple of rounds in a row.

It was heartbreaking because I wanted to like this pistol. However, I can only base this review on my personal experience and when I tested it, I had more than one malfunction for every magazine I fired using factory 9mm Magtech ammunition that we use in every other gun we test without a problem.

And for those who will comment saying either this isn’t true, or its operator use – please refer to the video. You can clearly see it happen. For those who claim that it must of just been an unlucky gun or a bad batch, you can also see from the grades and comments readers have left, that others have experienced this too.

Now, let’s move on to the ergonomics or feel of the gun. Although the gun looks ergonomic, shooting it isn’t comfortable. At 15 pounds, it’s not a lightweight gun. Its hefty weight makes it uncomfortable to hold and challenging to keep steady, which directly affected my shooting accuracy.

I also question its longevity and choice of materials for this gun. Simply taking the gun out of the box on delivery to inspect it and then opening the box one week later on range day resulted in rust on the “stainless” slide. This is unacceptable for a pistol. I’m not sure if it is actually stainless steel or if it is just a color.

Final Verdict

I really wanted to like this gun as a budget option for those who can’t afford something nicer. If I didn’t have any hope for it, I wouldn’t have purchased it.

However, Having tested the SCCY CPX pistol, my only advice is to stay away from it. I understand that you might be tempted by the price point but a gun that doesn’t work reliably is dangerous. And again, as you can see from other readers, this isn’t an isolated problem either. Sure there are some users who haven’t run into any of these issues, but there are definitely others that have.

So, if you’re looking for a budget firearm, take a look at the Canik instead – it is the same/similar price and it is a great firearm.

SCCY CPX-2 Pros and Cons

Better CCW’s in its Class to Check Out

As you know, I’m not a fan of the SCCY CPX 2. Out of all the SCCY pistols I’ve tested, it’s probably the least desirable option.

I am not trying to be mean or vindictive, however when you are talking about a firearm (even a budget gun) that you want to carry and use for self defense…that firearm MUST be reliable in every sense of the word.

In my usage, the SCCY was not reliable, as you could tell from my review and videos. So below, we have some better options for you to review. The guns we have below have MUCH better grades and I feel much more confident in recommending.

SCCY CPX2 Review – FAQS

Can I install a red dot sight on the SCCY CPX-2?

No, you can’t install a red dot sight on the SCCY CPX-2. It lacks an optics-ready design to accommodate such sights. The handgun features fixed three-dot sights and does not have a mounting system for attaching additional optics.

Does the SCCY CPX-2 have finger grooves on the grip?

Yes, the SCCY CPX-2 does feature molded finger grooves on the grip frame. These grooves are designed to improve your grip and comfort while handling the firearm.

Is the SCCY CPX-2 suitable for concealed carry?

While the SCCY CPX-2 is compact and lightweight, which might make you consider it for concealed carry, its reliability problems and discomfort when shooting could make it less ideal. It’s important for you to prioritize reliability and comfort when choosing a concealed carry firearm. Other options like the Glock 43X or Sig P365 are specifically designed for concealed carry and might be better choices.

Is the SCCY CPX-2 suitable for a first gun purchase?

Considering its affordability, the SCCY CPX-2 might catch your eye as a first-time buyer. However, it comes with reliability issues and can be uncomfortable to shoot. Before deciding, it’s wise to weigh these factors carefully. Seek guidance from experienced shooters and explore other options that fit your needs, training level, and budget more effectively.

The Glock 43X is way above the SCCY CPX in my opinion It is a mixture of the Glock 48 and Glock 43. I don’t like that it has a smaller capacity compared to the P365 but I did love its accuracy amongst other things You can see more by READING HERE.

Here’s what I can tell you, for sure… this handgun is the absolute best concealed carry option for me. But, you can read MORE HERE.

Also, I am giving you some possible options to upgrade your SCCY CPX 9mm. These suggestions are specific to the SCCY:

Best Holster for the SCCY CPX

If your getting a CCW or any handgun, a holster is most likely needed. Keep in mind some tips when choosing a proper holster. First, you don’t need anything fancy, just practical. Get something you don’t mind wearing around and you can easily draw your firearm. Next, you need to be sure it will fully conceal your firearm. When it comes to my CCW, I think practical and ease of use first, before any other factors.

Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster

Check Amazon Price

EDITORS CHOICE: I am a fan of Kydex made holsters because they are well made and are known to hold your firearm perfectly. This holster is perfect for the SCCY, you will get great use out it. Check Amazon Price

How to Care for Your SCCY CPX

The most important thing I can do for my firearm is to keep it clean and maintain it. The SCCY CPX or any firearm needs to be taken care of in order to keep it operational. By keeping up with the maintenance, it helps extend the life of the firearm! To help you do this, here is a video on field stripping and cleaning the SCCY CPX.

To start cleaning your gun right away, here is the recommended cleaning kit for the SCCY CPX:

• Gloryfire Universal Cleaning Kit on Amazon

Important Links And Manuals For Your SCCY CPX

• SCCY CPX Website
• SCCY CPX Videos
• SCCY CPX Operators Manual