Crafting Excellence: The Wilson Combat Legacy
Before we examine the EDC X9, understanding Wilson Combat’s ethos is crucial. Founded by Bill Wilson, a man with a profound passion for firearms, the company has earned a sterling reputation for meticulous craftsmanship. Each Wilson Combat firearm is more than just a tool; it’s a piece of art, a testament to a commitment to precision and attention to detail rarely found in the mass-produced market. They are known for their exceptional accuracy, reliability, and the use of premium materials. Wilson Combat’s dedication to this level of quality ensures that their firearms consistently deliver top-tier performance. This foundation of expertise and dedication is the bedrock upon which the EDC X9 is built.
A Pistol Designed for Concealed Carry
The EDC in the name stands for “Every Day Carry,” perfectly encapsulating the pistol’s intended purpose. The EDC X9 is designed to be a reliable, accurate, and comfortable sidearm for daily carry. This guiding principle shapes every aspect of its design, from its compact dimensions to its ergonomic grip.
Form and Function: Ergonomics and Handling
Picking up the EDC X9 is an experience. The moment it rests in your hand, you understand the level of thought put into its design. The frame, crafted from lightweight yet incredibly durable aluminum alloy, offers a substantial advantage for everyday carry. Its lighter weight reduces fatigue compared to all-steel counterparts without sacrificing any of the benefits of a well-made 1911 variant. The grip, meticulously crafted with Wilson Combat’s X-TAC pattern, is a masterpiece of ergonomics. This aggressive, yet comfortable texture, provides a secure and positive purchase, even with wet hands or under stress. The X-TAC design isn’t just for aesthetics; it actively aids in controlling the pistol during rapid firing. This exceptional grip contributes significantly to a feeling of confidence and control. The pistol’s balance is also superb, making it feel remarkably steady in hand. The EDC X9 feels like an extension of the shooter’s arm. The overall dimensions are optimized for concealability without sacrificing shootability, making it a perfect balance between a compact and a full-sized pistol.
Precision Engineering: Barrel, Slide and Controls
The EDC X9’s performance is not limited to the frame alone. Let’s examine other critical features.
The Heart of Accuracy: The Barrel and Slide
The barrel, typically 4-inch or 5-inch stainless steel (depending on the model chosen) is meticulously crafted, ensuring exceptional accuracy. Wilson Combat is renowned for its rigorous quality control, guaranteeing precise tolerances. The slide, with its unique “tri-top” design, is not only visually striking, but also functional, aiding in weight reduction and slide manipulation. The slide features aggressive front and rear cocking serrations for easy manipulation under stress. The various finish options, such as Armor-Tuff, add a layer of protection against wear and corrosion, ensuring that the EDC X9 remains a reliable and attractive firearm for years to come.
Optimized Controls: A Seamless Experience
The EDC X9 prioritizes ease of use. The controls are well-placed and intuitively designed. If you choose the model with ambidextrous controls, it ensures that the pistol is user-friendly for both right-handed and left-handed shooters. The magazine release is strategically positioned for easy access. The magazines, specially designed for the EDC X9, boast high capacity, offering a generous round count without compromising concealability. The trigger, a single-action design, delivers a crisp and smooth pull. This trigger pull is a significant factor in achieving accurate and consistent shots. Safety features, such as a grip safety and a manual thumb safety (depending on the model), further enhance the pistol’s safety profile. This meticulous attention to the small details results in a smooth and efficient operation.
Putting Performance to the Test
The Wilson Combat EDC X9 isn’t just about looks and feel; its performance must match its premium build.
Accuracy: Hitting the Mark
The EDC X9’s accuracy is a standout feature. The pistol consistently delivers tight groupings at various distances. The combination of the precision-made barrel, the smooth trigger, and the ergonomic grip contributes to exceptional accuracy. The EDC X9 often exceeds accuracy expectations. Wilson Combat often provides an accuracy guarantee, demonstrating their confidence in the pistol’s performance. The EDC X9 consistently delivers pinpoint accuracy.
Dependability: Trust in Action
Reliability is paramount in a concealed carry firearm, and the EDC X9 excels in this area. Wilson Combat’s dedication to quality control and meticulous assembly practices result in a pistol that is built to function flawlessly under demanding conditions. The EDC X9 is engineered to withstand the rigors of daily carry.
Managing Recoil: Control and Comfort
The EDC X9’s well-designed ergonomics and balanced weight contribute to manage recoil. While it’s a compact pistol, the feel is solid. The recoil impulse is manageable, and follow-up shots are quick and accurate. The pistol’s comfortable grip and excellent balance further contribute to a comfortable shooting experience. This combination of features makes the EDC X9 a joy to shoot.
The Everyday Carry Proposition: Size, Weight, and Comfort
The EDC X9 excels in the realm of concealed carry. Let’s analyze these key points.
Discreet Dimensions
The EDC X9 is meticulously designed for concealed carry. The compact size and weight make it relatively easy to conceal under various clothing styles. Comparing the EDC X9 to other CCW pistols is important. The frame is designed to minimize printing and maximize comfort.
Holster Compatibility: Finding the Right Fit
Selecting the appropriate holster is essential for comfortable and safe concealed carry. Fortunately, the EDC X9 is widely supported by holster manufacturers. A variety of holster options are available, allowing shooters to choose the style that best suits their needs and preferences. Popular holster styles include Inside the Waistband (IWB), Outside the Waistband (OWB), and Appendix Carry, all of which have holsters made to fit the EDC X9.
Carrying with Confidence: Adaptability
The EDC X9’s versatility is a great advantage. Its relatively compact dimensions make it suitable for a wide range of carry styles, from strong-side IWB to appendix carry. Whether the shooter prefers deep concealment or quick access, the EDC X9’s design accommodates various needs. Choosing the right carry method is a personal decision.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Like any product, the Wilson Combat EDC X9 has its strengths and weaknesses.
The Positives
The EDC X9 shines in many areas. The exceptional build quality is immediately apparent. Its incredible accuracy and reliability are major benefits. The excellent ergonomics make the pistol a pleasure to handle and shoot. The compact design is perfect for concealed carry.
The Negatives
The most significant downside is its price. The EDC X9 is a premium firearm, and its cost reflects its high-quality construction and handcrafted nature. The availability can also be a factor. Demand often exceeds supply, resulting in longer lead times.
Comparisons: Standing Out from the Competition
The concealed carry pistol market is competitive, with many excellent choices available. How does the EDC X9 stack up?
Competing with Excellence
The EDC X9 competes with other high-end 9mm concealed carry pistols. The comparison between the EDC X9 and other custom 1911s can be made. The EDC X9 often stands out due to its specific blend of features. The EDC X9 offers an exceptional combination of performance, ergonomics, and concealability.
Concluding Thoughts: The Ultimate Concealed Carry?
The Wilson Combat EDC X9 is a remarkable achievement. It’s more than just a firearm. It’s a testament to the dedication of craftsmanship and a commitment to excellence. Its high-quality construction, exceptional accuracy and reliability, and excellent ergonomics contribute to a positive shooting experience.
The EDC X9 is a standout choice for anyone seeking a premium concealed carry pistol. If you value quality, performance, and a comfortable carry experience, the EDC X9 is well worth considering.
