Micro-Compact Showdown: FN Reflex XL vs Masada Slim Elite vs HK CC9 vs SIG P365

When it comes to everyday carry pistols, the micro-compact-plus category is where form meets function — and recently, I took four standout options to the range to see how they really stack up. In this hands-on comparison, I put the FN Reflex XL MRD, IWI Masada Slim Commander Elite, HK CC9, and the SIG P365 (base model) through a series of drills and carry tests to figure out which pistol not only performs best, but earns a legitimate spot in your EDC rotation.

Testing Conditions & Setup

All pistols were evaluated with weapon lights installed to keep weight and balance consistent — with one exception: the SIG P365. I ran the base model in its original configuration, no red dot and no light. It’s a well-known platform with massive aftermarket support, but for the sake of fairness, I wanted to see what the OG version could do out of the box.

This was a non-sponsored, live-fire review done in controlled conditions at my home range in Arizona.

Concealability

The SIG P365 took the top spot here, thanks to its tiny footprint and light weight. The HK CC9 came in close behind with its slim width and minimalist profile. The FN Reflex and Masada Slim are larger, with the Masada being the heaviest and least concealable — though that weight pays off in other areas.

Ranking:

1. SIG P365
2. HK CC9
3. FN Reflex XL
4. Masada Slim Commander Elite

Shootability

This category is where the Masada Slim really shined. With its aluminum frame, G10 grip panels, and crisp flat-face trigger, it stayed flat under recoil and inspired confidence in follow-up shots. The FN Reflex also performed well — that 2.5 lb trigger is lightning fast, though maybe a little too light for some carry setups. The CC9 impressed for its size, and the P365 — while accurate — was the least forgiving in hand, especially with larger grips.

Ranking:

1. Masada Slim
2. FN Reflex XL
3. HK CC9
4. SIG P365

Build Quality

HK took the win here, no question. The CC9 feels like it was carved from a block of steel and then over-engineered for abuse. The Masada Slim’s 7075 aluminum frame and clean machining gave it a solid second place. FN held its own with decent construction and finish. The P365, while durable, felt the least refined of the bunch.

Ranking:

1. HK CC9
2. Masada Slim
3. FN Reflex XL
4. SIG P365

Ergonomics

Again, the Masada Slim stood out. It’s incredibly well-contoured, and the grip texture walks the line between aggressive and comfortable. The Reflex XL felt natural in hand, though it could benefit from a more assertive texture. The CC9 was decent, but compact. And the P365, while iconic, suffers for those with medium to large hands — it’s just a small gun.

Ranking:

1. Masada Slim
2. FN Reflex XL
3. HK CC9
4. SIG P365

Modularity & Customization

The P365 platform wins this one without contest. SIG’s modular fire control unit and massive aftermarket make it the most customizable pistol in this group. The Masada comes in second with modularity built into its chassis and grip system. The FN Reflex offers some customization, while the CC9 is basically what-you-see-is-what-you-get.

Ranking:

1. SIG P365
2. Masada Slim
3. FN Reflex XL
4. HK CC9

Value

In terms of price-to-performance, the P365 is still hard to beat. The Reflex XL also gives you solid bang for your buck. The Masada Slim, while higher-end, delivers quality that justifies its price. The CC9, though premium in every way, comes in last here based on its limited modularity and high cost.

Ranking:

1. SIG P365
2. FN Reflex XL
3. Masada Slim
4. HK CC9

Magazine Capacity (Out-of-the-Box)

The FN Reflex leads the pack here, offering both 15- and 18-round mags in the box. The Masada Slim comes close with a 13-round flush and 17-round extended. The CC9 ships with 10- and 12-round mags, while the P365 includes two 10-rounders.

Ranking:

1. FN Reflex XL
2. Masada Slim
3. HK CC9
4. SIG P365

Final Thoughts

If you're just looking at consistent overall performance, the Masada Slim Commander Elite placed in the top two for five of the seven categories and never ranked last. The FN Reflex XL held strong across the board with no major weaknesses. The SIG P365 remains a modular, affordable, deep-concealment favorite — but it shows its age when run next to more modern designs. And the HK CC9, while arguably the best-built of the group, suffers when weighed against cost and flexibility.

For my full video breakdown and live range footage, check out the comparison on my YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@RazorMP_Official

Thanks to all of my channel members and to Scottsdale Tactical for supporting the review. You can always find gear lists, parts info, and additional reviews right here at www.razormp.com

Stay sharp, stay safe, and as always — I’ll see you on the high ground or in the next video.

— RazorMP