While polymer pistol production has been proceeding apace across the industry, Remington had been busy pushing their R1 line. And why not? Remington’s been producing 1911’s for the U.S. Government since World War I; selling that history is easier than pushing another plastic fantastic. That was then, this is now. Remington has joined the GLOCKs, Springfields, Smiths, FNs and Walthers of the world with the new polymer-framed striker-fired RP9. Right answer?

The first thing you notice about the new gun: its styling. When I opened the box I thought someone at the gun shop swapped a new RP9 with a Walther PPQ M2 Everything about Big Green’s black gun screams “European import.” American handguns tend to feature more sharp edges and clean corners (e.g., the Smith & Wesson M&P or the FN FNS-9). Remington designed the RP9 with a more substantial slide with smooth edges and softer curves. It’s less Kate Moss, more Kim Kardashian.

The RP9’s slide’s smooth and perfectly rounded edges give it significant hand appeal and make it easy to insert and remove the gun from a holster. The serrations on the slide’s front and back are aggressive enough to provide a good grip, but not so much that they ruin the style or make it uncomfortable to handle or carry.

Again, it’s all very familiar. Mind you, setting out to be a value-priced American-made Walther PPQ is a good thing, not a bad thing. The PPQ is a fine gun, well-loved by a number of the TTAG writers for its crisp trigger and not-a-GLOCK ergos. But by my calculations the PPQ has some serious issues. Which Remington has addressed.

High on the list of things I don’t like about the PPQ or the H&K VP9 (which RF thinks more closely resembles the RP9): finger grooves. Just about every European handgun — from H&K, Walther and even GLOCK to a small yet annoying extent — has grooves on their grips. They’re designed to increase the average shooter’s comfort.

Those are the key words: “average shooter.” My meaty paws are significantly larger than the average bear’s. For me, getting in the groove makes the guns uncomfortable to shoot. Remington Americanized that part of the design with a straight-sided grip that better fits the hands of every shooter — not just the average pistolero.

The RP9 comes complete with interchangeable backstraps to make the palm swell fit your hand’s dimensions. The slim grip’s sides are textured just enough to provide some extra adhesion, but not so aggressively they degrade comfort. The mag release is equally well-judged; the all metal 18-round magazines drop free with ease. The magazine’s baseplate sits just proud of the magazine well, providing tactile reassurance that the mag is properly seated when slammed home.

One of the biggest concerns new shooters have about semi-autos: slide bite. The RP9’s exaggerated beavertail naturally guides your hand to perfectly placement and makes sure that the slide won’t take a chunk out of the webbing of the shooter’s hand. I’ve got nothing but happy feeling about those design choices.

Polymer-framed striker-fired pistols tend to fall into two groups: higher-priced guns with excellent triggers (e.g., the Walther PPQ, SIG SAUER P320) and value-priced guns with lousy triggers (e.g., S&W M&P9, GLOCK 17). The four-and-a-half bills RP9 trigger is deliciously crisp and sparklingly clean. The trigger has a touch of take-up but it breaks like a proverbial glass rod, with very little over travel. The RP9’s flat trigger blade offers a safe space for your trigger finger to do its thing.

That said, the tactical trigger reset is longer than a Donald Trump rally speech. To reset it you have to release the go-pedal nearly halfway. That’s a common issue with striker-fired handguns; the trigger pulls the striker back to the full-cock position before releasing it. The Remington RP9 may not have the best trigger in this class, but it’s smooth and certainly on the upper end of the scale.

Unlike the extended slide lock lever found on the H&K VP9 and similar Euro-style models, the RP9 uses the small flat slide lock more common on American designs like the SIG SAUER P320 and FNS-9. If you intend on using the RP9’s lock lever to release the slide — a technique shunned by many gun gurus — you won’t be pleased. If you accept their recommendation and place your hand over the slide to “slingshot” it closed (gross motor skills uber alles), the Remington RP9 gets it right.

The RP9’s takedown lever is a big improvement on handguns requiring owners to hold down two tabs on either side of the gun (GLOCK, I’m looking at you). Like Gaston’s gat and most of the recent entries into the pantheon of polymer pistols, the RP9 sports an under-barrel Picatinny rail for lights and lasers.

I’m one of the first to complain about high bore axis on handguns like the P320 or the PPQ. The higher the barrel sits above the gun’s frame, the harder it is to conceal the pistol. And the goofier it looks. So I’m complaining. That said, there are plenty of handguns (e.g., the double decker bus-like Springfield XD) with a high bore axis. And let’s not forget that a low bore axis means less mass in the slide. The increased mass of the RP9’s slide absorbs some of the gun’s recoil and makes the shooting experience much more enjoyable.

Other things I like: the chunky external extractor on the side of the gun that doubles as a loaded chamber indicator. The RP9’s sights are big and clear, adjustable for windage. They can be drifted out for aftermarket replacements if, for example, you want taller sights to see over a suppressor.

To put the RP9 through its paces, I took Remington’s box-fresh blaster to a private shooting event. Dozens of shooters put hundreds of rounds through the gun. Despite a deliberate lack of lubrication, there were zero malfunctions. Everyone who shot the gun considered it one of the softest-recoiling and smoothest-firing firearms they’ve handled. The combination of the RP9’s terrific trigger, ergonomically excellent grip dimensions and (relatively) heavy slide helped make it a solid hit with both experienced and newbie shooters.

On the downside, there’s a little bit of play in the slide. The RP9 doesn’t seem to be as precisely machined as it could be, resulting in some minor wobblyness where the slide mounts to the frame. It doesn’t seem to impact accuracy, but a couple of shooters mentioned loosey-goosiness when returning the gun. Personally I’m not offended; this ain’t no thousand dollar 1911.

So where does the RP9 fit in in the crowded polymer-framed striker-fired handgun market? Its ergonomics are better than the Walther PPQ M2’s (for big-mitted me). Its styling is better than the H&K VP9’s. Its trigger is better than the GLOCK 17’s. The bottom line? The Remington RP9 is $200 cheaper than the PPQ or the VP9 and over $100 cheaper than a GLOCK 17. At a hair under $400 realistic retail, the RP9 is a bargain.

Specifications: Remington RP9

Caliber: 9mm
Barrel: 4.5″
Overall length: 7.91″
Capacity: 18+1
Height: 5.56″
Width: 1.27″
MSRP: $489 (found online for $399.99)

Ratings (out of five stars):

Style * * * *
Remington has been on a roll recently with stylized firearms that look good and actually function. I’d put the R51 Gen 2 in that category, along with their V3 shotgun. The RP9 looks as good as any of the European imports with an American twist.

Customization * * *
The RP9 is your basic customizable polymer pistol. The sights drift out, the backstrap is removable, the undersnout Picatinny rail beckons the lights and laser crowd.

Reliability * * * * *
Over 500 different rounds with dozens of different shooters — not a single issue. Didn’t clean or lube it once.

Accuracy * * * * *
The gun shoots as accurately as I can.

Overall * * * *
If the Remington RP9 cost as much as the rest of the plastic fantastic firearms competing for striker-fired fame and fortune, it would earn three stars. It’s not perfect, but considering the price, the RP9’s four stars all the way. A surprisingly solid, sensible choice.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR

148 COMMENTS

    • Indeed it is. Taking the gigantic R off the grip would do it a ton of favors.

      Then again, after the R51 fiasco I’m sure Remington was happy producing a pistol that actually worked

    • I don’t own 1, just to be clear. A close friend bought 2 on sale for 189.00 each for his family to use for range practice. Both have been fine, except when his wife shoots, she gets an occasional fte, we think she may be limp wristing. He, his 2 sons and myself, had no issues at all. Both were brand new with only a quick cleaning of the bbl and inspection. We were using 124 gr fmj nato type ammo by s&b. I agree they are not 600.00+ heirlooms , but for 189.00 they shoot well. He did not buy these as show pieces but as work horses and for that they do well, and looks don’t really come into play in this regard. Again I don’t own 1 but , have shot them, and feel that they are fine for the money,

      • I know gun prices have dropped, but there has to be a reason they are selling these for$189.00. I suspect the reason isn’t a good one.

  2. Regarding finger grooves on Euro pistols. Don’t those count as a ‘sporting feature’ (or some such nonsense) for import purposes? Specifically, your pistol needs to have a certain number of ‘sporting features’ in order to get approved for import by the ATF?

    • Is that why there is a slight bump below the (average) forefinger on Five Seven’s? If so, kudos to FN for the minimalist approach to get around a dumb rule.

    • They may be having some issues because there seem to be two camps of opinion. I wonder if all the bashers really have one? Since Clay at GunsAmerica had his tirade about the RP9 and if I recall, did not even fire it there are more bashers than pistols sold if you get my drift.
      I took mine out of the box and used the trigger pull scale. 5 pounds even. Very clean. No jams, but I use 124 fmj NATO most of the time. I like it. Great sights. I will buy the RP45 when it is released.
      I am a collector so I buy pretty much everything. Do I like the RP9? Yes. Is it my favorite striker fire pistol? No, that honor goes to the Ruger American 9mm. I have an American in .45 with a 4.5 pound trigger also. REALLY nice. I have the M&P PRO and its trigger was crap. I put an Apex hard sear in it and now it is pretty good.
      My impression is that most do not like the appearance of the RP9 and that is why it is getting bad rapped. That doesn’t mean there are not folks who have had problems, just not as many as some think. There was a Youtube video showing an American they claim was gouging all the shooters hands. Never saw any other claims of that and I tried every way possible to do it and could not. After a thousand flawless rounds fired it is my go to pistol.

      • While I don’t own any Remington firearms, but do use a lot of their ammo, I also wondered if the bashers even bought/owned one of their guns. To add fuel to the fire, they are probably glock fans.

        • my wife and I both own RP9 Remington’s. We shoot a 124 grain X-treme bullet on top of 5.0gr of CFE pistol. Each gun has at least 2000 rounds as there is an indoor range 4 miles from our house. I have never had a problem with either gun. And keep in mind these are reloads.
          Sorry to say ,nothing bad to say.

  6. I see Remington and Ruger will be fighting for the general consumer market and not the law enforcement market. Between this and the Ruger American Pistol. I’ll stick with my Blue Label $398 Glock 17 and Glock 22. But for those that can’t qualify for the better plastic fantastic due to not being a GSSF member or in one of the qualified career fields that Glock allows for the Blue Label pricing. Maybe this works for them. I’d rather John Q Citizen have a handgun than nothing at all and the RP9 and RAP9 is a far better choice than nothing.

      • You wouldn’t know “Reliability” if it smacked you on the ass.

        Remington can’t currently make a reliable version of the shotgun that they’ve made for half a century. The R51 was a pile of shit when it was wheeled out the first time and remained such when it was “debugged” and reintroduced. The M4s they sold the Philippines were dogshit too.

        Now they come out with an obvious and unoriginal Walther/HK mashup and expect people to buy it?…….LOL……

        Fuck Big Green, I’ll stick with what’s been proven to work (Glock).

    • My LGS has these things for $199 plus the $100 rebate, RM380s too. They can’t give them away, mainly because people can shoot before you buy, and they’re rental counter tells everyone that they’ve had a 100% return to Remington rate. So they’re trying to dump the last few they were required to buy.

      A buddy had one that ran fine on 124 NATO ball, and it was…fine. Not as good as the Ruger, or literally anything else, take a used Taurus full size 809 over it every time, and it wouldn’t extract 115 range ball. So if it was this or a sharp stick, I’d take this provided I had some hot defense ammo, and have a sharp stick around just in case. Or spend the same and get a Maverick 88, about the same size, yeah, the RP9 is pretty friggin’ huge for a polymer gun, or get a cheap S&W SD9VE, and actually have something reliable.

      Also, I don’t know where they’re shopping, but in KY, you can pick up a VP9, PPQ, M&P, for $500, or less, Glock’s are actually more than all of them without Blue/GSSF discounts. Maybe because we have Buds and KYGunCo, don’t buy Buds, kind of douchey and have had “issues” with CCards getting billed multiple times, even when I go into the store.

      • Tried to buy one from KyGunCo and they had sold out the 500 they had. After rebate they would have been about the price of a HiPoint. Thinking this was a too good to pass up offer, I went on an internet shopping trip and found them ten dollars higher at Brownells. With free shipping and (shhhh) no state tax I placed my order. Got my RP9 three days later and managed to get out to shoot it yesterday I was using 115g FMJ Winchester white box from Wal-Mart didn’t get through my first two shots before I had my first malfunction (a fail to go into battery) which continued until I had shot all 100 rounds. After every shot I had to rap the back of the slide with the palm of my hand. there were also a couple of fail to ejects as well as a couple of fail to lock open on last round problems. Another wierd thing is that if you slam a mag in hard the slide will drop chambering a round don’t know if that’s a flaw or by design. I went back out today with Remington 115g FMJ after thoroughly cleaning and lubing the gun it did perform a bit better with only ten failure to go into battery out of fifty rounds. Then I tried Federal 115g FMJ and the gun went completely bananas, and started getting a round hung up under the feed ramp which totally locks the gun up until you drop the mag which is hard as hell to get released while the bullet is jammed up under the feed ramp. this problem happened four times out of 25 rounds before I gave up. Obviously my gun is going back to Remington. At this rate I would have better spent my money buying a HiPoint.

  7. That said, the tactical trigger reset is longer than a Barry 0bama all-about-me-always speech. FIFY.

  8. It looks ugly, but reliability, accuracy, and ergonomics are what really matter. Sounds like this pistol brings it. And it’s hard to argue with a gun that really works well at that price point.

    • Ruger has been doing it for decades–reliable & affordable–I could buy whatever I please, and I choose AMERICAN MADE toughness–want no part of your Euro stuff–the new Rem looks good so far, hope it turns out great–same way with vehicles, keep your expensive, unreliable Euro stuff

  9. This & the Ruger American are days late & hideous to boot. No thanks, unless they literally stop making Glocks, Sig, H&K, CZ, and S&W’s. In the long run an extra $100/$200 for a proven, better looking, non-cheesy handgun is a freakin bargain.

      • “Do not want & would never own any the makes you mention–overpriced, overrated”

        …Quoth a guy named “junkman” about Glock, SIG, H&K, CZ, and S&W.

        Says it all, doesn’t it?

      • You know junkman, I’m a Ruger fan and all but their centerfire service pistols have always left quite a bit to be desired aesthetically *and* functionally – including the recent American line.

        And CZs are hardly “overpriced”, or overrated.

    • I’m a collector and a shooter. Reliability is number one with me and how the gun(s) fits my hand number 2. I like my 1911s but when someone tried to break into my house at 2 AM, I grabbed my Glock 23 (.40) loaded with Federal Hydra Shok Ammo. Both “suspects” were caught by me with one mumbling incoherently as he looked up the barrel of my Glock with my finger on the trigger.

      Anyway, I prefer Glocks, Sigs, and CZs, not necessarily in that order. I really do like CZs but I only have four. I also have four small Walthers too that seem to fit my hand quite well. But they are sensitive to dirt, so they’re fun guns, not ones I depend on. I also like 1911s as long as there is a Colt or Sig Sauer logo on the slide.

  10. I’m pretty sure the market will quickly decide the worth of this pistol.

    Right now, I’m waiting for this one to be listed on CDNN for $275 in about 9 months.

    I might buy one at that price. It can keep my PPX company (I love the PPX).

    I’ll stick to the SR9c for toting. (love it more).

    • That’s what I’m most interested in.

      How does the RP9 compare to Ruger’s SR series? The 9E is a looker, and even cheaper. The SR9C is even better, because nobody carries full size poly guns.

      I like it when gun reviews are done thru the lens of competitive options.

      • Own the 9E & SR9C–makes a fabulous pair–the 9C is easy to carry with the 10 round mag & takes the same 17 round as the 9E–extremely accurate guns; shoot like an extension of your arm–no problem to rapid fire entire mag & stay on target–hope Remington does well with the RP9 at the expense of the Euro guns

        • Me too! I have a variety of Glocks in various calibers and sizes. I have a Glock 30SF which I really like, but found a Glock 21SF at a local Gun and Knife Show. I had to have it, so it’s now part of my collection although I haven’t fired it yet.

      • I’ve got SR9 and SR9c. Like em both but shoot the 9c better. Go figure.

        I also have the Walther PPX and Beretta 92. The Beretta is most accurate for me at distance. (Over 25 yards)

        The SR9C is the best jack of all trades for me. I shoot it better than a Glock 26 or 19. I use the safety but it’s unobtrusive if you don’t like it. I wish they made a pro model with no LCI or mag safety. I took the mag safety out. Great gun.

        • the mag safety is almost an option; the way the gun is designed is so that if you not want it, just leave it out from a cleaning disassembly–does not effect any other operation of the gun

        • The SR9c got a better trigger than the original early SR9 had, so that may have something to do with it. I’ve heard the newer SR9’s have the improved trigger, but can’t confirm it.

          My SR9c is a winner overall, but I’d also prefer it in a no-safety version. I doubt we’ll ever get it, with the RAP Compact now filling that niche

      • To answer Frank’s question. The SR9 got the upgraded SR9c trigger and I believe all the SR now use the same trigger. The easiest way to know if an SR9 has the better trigger is to look at the mag release. If it is a circular mag release it is an older model with the not so great trigger. If the mag release is shaped like a D then it has the upgraded far superior trigger.

        • All SR9,SR9C & the 9E in production use the same trigger–correct about the shape of the mag release to determine old or new trigger (D shape newer)–with the LCP, if there is no ‘hyphen’ in the serial # it is a 2nd Gen gun with much improved trigger–the 1st gen trigger was not great, but still miles ahead of the Rem RM 380, S&W Bodyguard & a bunch of others

    • !!!!

      Nice Call!

      Palmetto 299.99

      $249 after Remington Rebate.

      F A L L I N G P R I C E S EVERYWHERE….

      • I got one on that same deal! I’m impressed by how accurate the RP9 is, and I don’t understand all the slagging it has received. I’ve put more than 500 rounds(multiple brands) through mine with NO issues…

  11. IDK, I’d probably take the Ruger American or SR series over this one due to the simple fact of Remington’s current reputation. Assuming that most of the RP9’s run as well as the one in this review, I am glad to see a fair price though. It seems like this could be a good “first” handgun for beginners who want a *hopefully* decent, reliable pistol for a reasonable price. I don’t foresee many “gun guys” going to line up for this one though.

  12. Looks okay, priced right and performs well for folks who want a full-size pistol.
    But when is some American company (and Colt, you could use the help) going to make a copy of the HK P7M8 ?
    Sell it in the $500 range (steel or plastic frame) and I’d stand in line for one for 3 days.
    After all, if we’re copying Euro pistols anyway…..

    • 2nd this idea! And if you’re doing it, why not the P7M13 9mm as well as the P7M10 40 S&W version as well?

  14. Arnold Schwarzenegger once starred in a movie about Remington firearms.

    Yeah, I think it was named “Total Recall.”

  15. Oooor, you could just buy a Glock and have all the same features that are actually proven to work…..

    Manufacturers need to start suing over copy rights.

    • You could. However, some of us don’t prefer Glock ergonomics or layout.

      I prefer a pistol that was made for a human hand with large knuckles. I can shoot a Glock but prefer something better.

      Reminds me of the old days when the standard smug response was to buy a S&W model 10. They worked for everybody cause the department, agency, or Uncle Lou said it did.

      Breathe the free air and shoot what you like…..or don’t.

    • “Manufacturers need to start suing over copy rights.”

      If you mean Glock should sue everybody who makes a plastic striker-fired handgun, that’s pretty much a non-starter. Any patents Glock may have held on the original G17 have long since expired (that design is over 30 years old now). Heck, Glock didn’t even pioneer the concept of polymer striker-fired handguns, so if there are lawsuits to be filed, everybody (including Gaston Glock) owes HK some money.

    • I think you’re talking about a patent, you could copyright the name RP9, but the design would be a patent. And Glocks have been out of patent protection since 2002ish, hence you can buy a 100% not-glock glock interchangeably from lots of folk. S&W had a small issue where the Sigma was a direct copy, but came out before the patent expired and had to pay licensing for it.

  16. Any idea on the 45? There is a hole in the market for a 15 round stiker fired 45, always thought the FNX would have a FNS brother.

    Another poly 9mm is meh, after 4 or 5 its all just a blur, you have to try to get interested, Steyr FTW.

    • They can’t sell these, I don’t think you’ll ever see the 45, although it would at least have a niche, like the FNX-45.

    • When the Belgian Army stopped buying many of their guns, and the US Army and Marine Corps started buying a lot of them?

    • Around the same time Harley sold out to Honda, chevy started using Mexican cast blocks and parts, and Ford started using Nissan engines and Chinese transmissions….

      Don’t confuse a companies “home” with where the products of components of that product are made. For something to be “made in the USA” it only has to be assembled here.

      • You know that Harley sold to AMF, then was repurchased by Willie Davidson, and actually filed a complaint with the International Trade Commission against Honda. Never foreign owned.

        • Dude, rumors and people’s inability to even do basic google-fu. Don’t expect people to know things on a comment board.

          Did you know that Obama is now on the board for Vista group? In fact he may become CEO of Remington, since he’s the best firearms salesman of all time.

          Not true, but shhhh, lets see how long it takes.

    • A humorous reply about Belgium. I was stationed there as an DOD teacher. After retiring from the military.
      Yep, Belgium is pretty darn close to being American. Plus the Belgians are such a thankful nation. To this day,
      for what we Americans did to help free them during WWII. The Dutch are just as America too. I am VN Vet and everyone was so kind to me. Now the humor: even the US Army and US Air Force personnel were kind to me,
      an old Marine (1964-1991).

        • Scared he’d eat our crayons and try to mate with the camp mutt. Just remember the term dependapotamus started with the jarheads.

          Note: DEPENDAPOTAMUS- (NOUN) DEROGATORY TERM REFERRING TO THE RATHER LARGE MILSPOUSES COMMON TO MARINE INSTALLATIONS ALTHOUGH, THEY CAN BE ON ANY BRANCH’S POST. THEY PREY ON LOWER ENLISTED AND HAVE A 3 PART LIFE CYCLE.

          1. LARVA- USUALLY SMALL, EXCEPTIONALLY SKILLED IN LURING YOUNG PRIVATES IN WITH THEIR ATTRACTIVE COLORATION AND REVEALING CLOTHING.

          2.PUPAE- USUALLY OCCURS WHEN LARVA HAS ATTACHED ITSELF TO ITS PREY’S BANK ACCOUNT AND BECOMES A COHABITANT IN BASE HOUSING OR THE LOCAL TRAILER PARK. GENERALLY STARTS TO PRODUCE SMALL HUMANS OF QUESTIONABLE ORIGINS DURING THIS STAGE.

          3.MATURE- SHE HAS COMPLETELY TAKEN OVER YOUNG PRIVATE’S LIFE. SHE OWNS THE BANK ACCOUNT (POSSIBLY HALF HIS SH*T TOO), CONTROLS HIS ENTIRE LIFE, AND WEIGHS APPROXIMATELY 757,000 TONS.

          Yours truly,
          US Army Vet. OIF5

  19. “Its styling is better than the H&K VP9’s.”

    not sure what this means… but are you saying that if i find the VP9 to be a better-looking handgun, i should buy that instead? because that seems reasonable.

    • The VP9 and PPQ look better with formal wear, while a Glock or Rp9 is better suited for business casual.

  20. Remington has not been producing 1911s for the US Government SINCE WW I. They barely produced them for a year and only delivered just over 21,000 in 1918 and 1919.

    • One of the first surplus 1911’s I owned. Squeezed the slide in a vice – burnished it with some valve grinding compound and kicked ass.

  21. Sort of hard to take seriously a review written by someone with such an irrational bias against Glock as made evident by lumping the Glock trigger into the “lousy” category with S&W M&P’s. Yes the Sig P320 has an excellent factory trigger that’s far and away better than any other striker fired pistol, but to suggest a Glock trigger comes anywhere close in the lousy category to the M&P trigger is laughable. Other clues that this review is a tad bit on the ridiculously biased side is Nick bestowing a stellar rating for style on a pistol with a giant gawdy “R” scribed across the grip like the mark of Zorro, and then having the audacity to even mention “R51” anywhere in a review intended to lure consumers back to a Remington 9mm pistol.

    • Agree that a Glock trigger is way better than the S&W–the Smiths have some of the worst triggers I have ever tried

    • Agreed. I actually like Glock triggers out of the box and really don’t understand the hype,behind how great the HK VP9 and Walther PPQ triggers are. My Glock 34 trigger is excellent. The Glock trigger is no where near as bad as that M&P hinge mess.

    • Most Glocks have a out of the box trigger of about 6.5 to 7 pounds. I averaged 22 of them at the shop for a Glock “fanboy” who insisted that they are all 5.5 pounds. The average was 6 lbs, 10 oz, and not one of them was below 6 lbs. Glock specs are anywhere from 5.5 to 7.5 pounds (it is on their website). The original S&W M&P’s were around 7 lbs with not much variation. So in terms of weight, they are pretty similar. Now in terms of travel, reset and overall spongeyness (yes, that’s a word), they are completely different.

      So, compared to the 5 lb pull on the PPQ and the 5.5 lb pull on the VP9, with the addition of shorter reset and consistent pull, yes, the trigger on a Glock and an M&P are “lousy.” Even both Ruger pistols have lighter triggers than the Glock and M&P.

      Granted, I guess you can buy the $100 trigger upgrade, and then the Glock would only be $50 more than the PPQ and pretty much the same price as the HK. I wonder how much that lifetime warranty on the two German guns is worth compared to Glock’s 1 year?

  22. No sample target photo or even a mention of group sizes? Seems like a glaring omission in a gun review.

  23. So how much did Remington pay TTAG to write this rather glossy positive review? This is a company that deliberately put out a gun they knew didn’t work (R51), and that can’t keep 870s reliable anymore.

    But yeah; I’m sure this pistol is great…

    • It’s doubtful there was any cash transaction involved, payola in the firearms industry usually doesn’t work that way. Back in the day it was rumored that training officers who influenced bulk purchases of BIg Green products received guided hunting trips in Colorado or New Mexico. You’d think this blow sunshine up our @$$ effort at creative writing ought to at least be worth a case or two of ammo.

      • don’t try to kid yourself about how contracts are won sig sauer has proven they can win government contracts with guns that don’t meet basic standards. most all contracts are won based on price and benefits to the purchaser which in turn boosts civilian sales

  24. Looking to hear more about the .45 variant since it tops out the round count at 15, a count that’s been unique only to FN’s offering.

  25. I’ll admit bias since I carry a P320c but why did he say that the P320 costs considerably more than a Glock? I’ve always found them to be fairly competitive in price, at least here in WI.

    All things considered, I’m more excited about the CZ P10c. I’ll wait long enough to not be a beta tester but I’ll probably sell the G19 MOS that sits in my safe to fund it because the Glock ergos make me want to cry. XD

    • Correct – the P320 isn’t more expensive than a Glock Gen 4 in my area. In fact, you can get a P320 with night sights for about $575 at the gun shop near my home town.

  26. Late to the party as usual, but count me as another fan of Ruger’s SR9C. It was my first gun purchase, and it’s still my favorite. Just fits well, and I shoot very tight groups with it. Very controllable for me on double and triple taps as well. I’ve shot Glocks, S&W, etc. The S&W M&P pistols were just as good feeling to me, but I’d already bought the Ruger so stuck with it. Everything else, they just didn’t feel as good in my hand. Especially Glocks. Great guns, but I’d have to retrain my muscle memory because it points different in my grip. I know I could do it, but at this point, why would I do it?

    If I didn’t have another full size handgun (an EAA Witness P-S that also shoots rather nice), I’d give this one a look, though. I’m not so concerned about looks, I want economical reliability that I can put rounds on target with. This one seems to hit that mark according to the review. After all, the target that gets hit doesn’t care whether the round was fired by a Glock, a Ruger, or Remington.

    • I tend to stick with Ruger, 100% American Made & reliable. Used to have a bunch of other brands & got rid of them for not performing as needed. I have renamed S&W Scrap & Worthless; awful triggers, inconsistent QC & a general feeling of cheapness to them. Also have too many recalls/issues; new Victory already recalled, new TC Compass already recalled, recall on the M&P 22 rifle & other issues. I would consider the Remington if I did not have so many Rugers, but probably would end up selling anyhow.

  27. It may sell well enough, because of its lower price point, and to those who like Remington products. At the end of the day – just ANOTHER 9mm pistol..

  28. True, M&P triggers sort of suck out of the box, but I think the Glock trigger is not bad out of the box and is easily and cheaply made better DIY. Why is the RP9 reset so long if the trigger is single action? Doesn’t that mean that the striker is fully cocked when the slide is actuated?

    The RP9 ought to shoot softly if it’s going to weigh damn near what an aluminum alloy framed pistol weighs at about the same size. Only time will tell, but I’m somewhat skeptical of Remmingtons quality track record of late. The R51 seemed to be a complete disaster and has had problems even after a recall and second release.

  29. Got my RP9, it works just fine – after one minor adjustment (Later). Also have and use SR9, SR9C, G17, & G19 among others.

    RP9 Sights are good, the trigger has a nice take-up and break. BUT – had a mushy inconsistent reset out of the box. I found that the small coil spring that returns the trigger bar to the rest position was twisted on its forward mount. A simple push down on the outer edge of the hook rotated the hook it to be horizontal. Now the reset is consistent and distinct. Not a pronounced snap or click like a Glock, but an audible clear distinct consistent reset.
    .

    • Thanks 308Tom…reset is much crisper after turning spring. Initially had from fte with 115 grain ammo. 124 grain ran flawlessly..heavy slide perhaps? I guess it broke in..runs everything well now. Good ergonomics and no recoil. I shoot this better than my Glock 22. 40 vs 9, I know.

    • No offence but you guys didn’t get it right on this one as far as I am concerned. Have put several hundred rounds of ball ammo through mine both 155 and 125 grain and it performs flawlessly. one in the chamber and 18 in the mag and not one problem. acurracy was exllecnt as well at 7,15, and 30 yards. Hollow points do work well too. I can’t wait for the 45 to hit the market. I selll guns for a local FFL and have sold a few too with no problems with the folks we sold them to. We would have sold more but a few reviews such as yours have people backing off a bit. Not sure what you are doing wrong but way off base on this one. I case you are wondering, the day I brought mine home, I toook it out of the box down to my range and started firing without cleaning or any other preperation. 115 grain Winchester White Box and was impressed from the get go. One of our regualr customers showed me your review so I had to see whaat was wrong and could find nothing. I am going to pujt better sights on it becausde at 56 my old eyes dont see things as well as they used to but it didn’t stop me from several bullseys at all the above mentioned yardage.

  31. Generally I like your reviews, but you missed the mark with this review. You lost me when you started bashing the PPQ and VP9, comparing them to this ugly/heavy block of metal. PPQ Navy model can be had for $540 with a threaded barrel, and VP9 runs around $520. Trigger is unreal on both pistols, and who cares about finger grooves. I have huge hands too, never had a problem with the ergos on either pistol.

    Remington is a train wreck. Look what they did to Marlin, most of their rifles are garbage now. They could sell this pistol for $100 and I wouldn’t buy it. For my money I’ll be waiting on the CZ P-10C

    • I have to agree with you, on losing my confidence in the review for the same reasoning. The PPQ and H&K VP 9, are both universally recognized as two of the best 9mm on the market, in that pricing bracket and even against more expensive 9mm’s. If it was stated that it was just his opinion, it wouldn’t be so divisive. But having shot both and owning the PPQ M2, I can tell you that they are well worth their price tags. Also, after being excited on the news release of the RP9, my enthusiasm has bottomed out since watching the gun in action in review video’s. There has been a possible recall, I’ve heard both ways, due to a design flaw on the left handed slide release (it doesn’t work) and the numerous FTF’s and FTE’s on this pistol, it has fell off my radar forever. I do not have much confidence in a gun, that a manufacturer has put so little testing into, prior to release. I would think that any manufacturer would test right hand and left hand shooting at the very minimum.

  32. I made the mistake of buying one of these and then seeing the reviews on line. Not sure what this reviewer was shooting but my RP9 had issues after about 4 mags. Halfway into my 5th mag it started jamming up on me, just like in the videos I have seen. I should have gone with my first instinct and gotten a Bersa. I have their Thunder 380 and it is the best gun I own. Gonna get their Thunder 9 pro HC and see if I can sell this Remington piece of crap. Very disappointing considering their history. I have a 3200 and an 870, both great shotguns. But also both older that 20 years.

  33. Its not often you hear anyone say a single bad thing about the PPQ. But leave it to the “experts” at TTAG to do so. They are so wise. Give me a break. The PPQ is universally revered. By literally everyone. Stop with the bullshit. This website is slipping farther and farther down on my list of sites i can trust for accurate and reliable info. And has been for some time. Case in point. He gave this gun 4 stars…

      • Yet he knocks it in his commentary here. He makes no sense. I agree. But then again, Nick Leghorn makes some of the most idiotic, contradictory comments of almost anyone on the here. Remember, this is the same moron that suggested during his review of the Zenith/MKE Z-5P to grind off the block in the receiver so you can drop a full auto trigger group into the gun, which is HIGHLY ILLEGAL and could land your ass in prison for several years. It is VERY VERY ILLEGAL to alter a semi auto receiver to accept full auto parts. And this guy literally told everyone reading what to do and how to do it. Without mentioning you shouldn’t do this. The fact he even mentioned doing this should have destroyed any and all credibility he had. I still am stunned he said this. There are a lot of people out there that dont know the ATF’s complex and complicated laws and regulations. And some could take this comment as him saying this is perfectly ok and legal to do. I mean he never mentioned it being illegal. He honestly should have been banned from doing any gun reviews based just on this alone. I wonder what the ATF would think of that comment if they were made aware of it. But besides that, he routinely will knock a gun about a feature, then praise it later or in his final wrap up, or visa versa. Or he will say a gun is literally perfect, then give it 3 and a half stars. These are just a couple of examples. Go read his reviews and you will see many other examples of him contradicting himself. All in all I would suggest anyone who reads his reviews to not take a single thing he says serious. Hes proven himself to be someone who types before he thinks. Again, the fact he suggested a very illegal altercation tells me he’s someone who needs to be relieved of his gun reviewing duties.

  34. When someone is trying to harm you I don’t give a rats ass what this thing looks like. Paying $389.99 and shooting a 3 inch group at 25 yards this is a fantastic deal. If I am going to a fashion show I will take My Wilson combat 1911. Which
    by the way only shoots a tad bit better.
    Always remember it’s not always the arrow. Most times its the Indian.

    • Bought 2 1 for me and 1 for my wife. My wife not liking recoil is very pleased with the heavy slide to control muzzle jump. As for me I have about 2500 rounds through mine every one reloads I did on a Dillon Rl550. Not one problem. For the price of this gun you can’t go wrong. Just wish it came in Tan or Dark Earth.

  36. My rp9 started jamming the first time that I took it to the range. Could not get a shot out of it, changed to another magazine and it did the same. I WOULD NOT WANT THIS PIECE OF JUNK FOR FREE.I took the gun back to BASS PRO SHOP. They gave my money back. I will not buy a Remington gun ever.

    • Not sure what you are doing wrong but I have one and it has not failed once. one of the most accurate pistols I have shot in a very long time. I have fired a wide variety of grains, new, reloads, hollow points etc through mine. i am up to about 1000 rounds and not one glitch. I work for a gun dealer and we have sold several and not one complaint, quite the opposite. Every one of our customers that bought them were very pleased. Sorry you had such a bad experience.

    • Don’t believe this is a failure of the operator, but of the firearm. There are numerous reports of similar failures, so it is either an issue with Remington quality control or design…

    • Not sure what you are doing wrong but every one I have shot, not including my own has been flawless. I work for a gun dealer and sold several and had the opportunity to fire several of my customers as well as my own and Not one problem. You either did get unfortunate with a bad unit, ( which I might point happens with every manufacturer, even Sig, and HK have defective guns occasionally). Or you are doing something wrong with the gun itself.

      • I have had an PR9 for about 10 months. Between my wife and I we probably have about 1800 rounds through it. I reload on a Dillon RL550b and the gun has never seen a new round. Really don’t know what all the fuss is about. Hope you get to like yours.

      • What could he POSSIBLY be doing ‘wrong’ with the gun? Mine works beautifully, but it’s possible he actually GOT a bad one…

  37. I’m tempted for this price: Palmetto State Armory is selling these for $299 and Remington has a $50 rebate offer:

    http://palmettostatearmory.com/remington-rp9-9mm-pistol-18-round-capacity-96466.html?trk_msg=LSDEOL2QAR9435F7AT3PHV86OS&trk_contact=1N9U0V56TGQQ8TKF9N49ROSRPO&trk_sid=4F00STI3T6O5MKGOQLQI100JJO&utm_source=Listrak&utm_medium=email&utm_term=http%3a%2f%2fpalmettostatearmory.com%2fremington-rp9-9mm-pistol-18-round-capacity-96466.html&utm_campaign=Daily+Deal+Email&utm_content=12%3a00+Email

    • I considered it too at that price, but I just can’t stomach giving the Freedom Group any of my hard earned money after what they did to Marlin. Not now. Not ever.

    • Up to 2500 rounds. Flawless performance.
      The wife is getting one for her birthday present

  38. Plastic~Smashtic, quite frankly not a fan, I’am a fan of Iron and Wood.
    Having said that there are Two Fantastic Plastic Pistols I have Liked, One I came close to liking .

    1a.My opinion The Heckler & Koch , hands down is the best and is Deadly Accurate and reliable and easy Field Strip.
    and in .45 acp was comfortable to shoot.

    They are not cheap, but are worth every penny.

    1b. One of the best 9mm Parabellums on the Market, Most likely the easiest field stripping Pistol, Laser like Accuracy, loved the Trap sights, the frame is a steel skeletal insert into the plastic frame grip, thus adding rigidity and strength, my only knock on this pistol in the slide searations could use major improvement.

  39. I bought one. I had failures from the 4th round shot, and about every 3rd or 4th one after that, using both magazines. Returned it to the retailer, as I would not trust my life to a failure prone tool such as this. They told me I must not know how to shoot a handgun. Guess not, I only carried and qualified with semi-autos for 25 years as LEO. Am NRA Certified Pistol Instructor. NRA Pistol Distinguished Expert. Own and shoot (several times weekly) pistols by S&W, Colt, Ruger, Sig, RIA, Remington R1, Walther, Glock, Beretta, KelTec). But will not include the RP9 ever again…

    • I had same bad experience. Blame the gun disfuntion on the customer, Seriously? It seems that this review just paid advertising. The gun has engineering flaws. Completely misleading review.

      • I’ve seen a couple comments here on the same theme recently, so I’ll just hijack your comment real quick.

        TTAG truthfully reviews firearms that come into our possession. In this case, the firearm performed exactly as advertised. We cannot write a review saying a firearm malfunctioned when the firearm we tested had no such malfunctions.

        We admit that our reviews are based on a sample size of one unit. Whether this gun was a fluke, or if the malfunctions y’all are reporting are the fluke, we can’t tell. But we will definitely be leaving your comments in place so that any future buyer coming across this review will be aware of your reported issues and can adjust their decision accordingly.

        • So whats your excuse on suggesting an illegal altercation to a semi auto receiver with a block on it? I mean Nick, did you or didnt you suggest in a review of the Zenith the following…

          “For those thinking about simply grabbing a trigger group off GunBroker and slotting it into the gun, MKE is a half a step ahead of you. They have welded a small bar onto all of their magazine wells which only works with MKE’s semi-automatic trigger housing. Full auto trigger groups will not fit without first grinding that little nub off. I’m not gonna ding them on it since it’s easy to fix for those who actually have a registered MP5 trigger pack and want to enjoy some full auto fun, but it’s something that prospective buyers should be aware of.”

          Smooth move there bud. Now a bunch of people have probably done this just based on your suggestion and have unknowingly committed a federal offense which is punishable up to 10 years, in federal prison. I mean, ya never mentioned this as being wrong did you?

          My suggestion is this. Before you write another one of your cute blogs or reviews, with your hilarious little comments and quips, sit down and make sure you know what to say and what not to say or “suggest”. I would also seriously consider you review, in detail, the various ATF regulations and rules concerning certain guns, devices and any altercations that could potentially be illegal for others to do. And if you do mention something that is a HUGE NO NO, you mention that doing this could land them in some serious trouble. It is ILLEGAL to alter any semi auto receiver, or one that has some sort of block on it, to accept full auto parts or to give it full auto capability. And the very fact you suggest this, makes you lose ALL credibility. Every ounce. You shouldn’t be allowed to continue until your given an extensive lesson on ATF rules and regulations.

          I feel everyone should see this idiotic and dangerous morons comments for themselves. So below is a link to the review where he suggests committing an illegal altercation. Enjoy.

          http://www.thetruthaboutguns.com/2015/12/foghorn/gun-review-zenith-mke-z-5p-pistol/

  40. For clarification, the Remington that made 1911s for the government during the war was Remington Rand which is in no way associated with Remington Firearms. Common mistake, but Remington Firearms did not make 1911s for the war. Just a similar name but not even the same company.

  41. This review is not accurate at all. This guns failed miserably on every magazine, it is very picky on the type of ammo you can use. You can’t just use 9 mm Winchester white box or even their own Remington ammo. I completely agree to the first review of this gun with the military arms Channel. Although i bet Remington called him or gave some money to say that the gun is better than it actually is, the negativity on the review was toned down big time on his last video. This is one of the worst morst unreliable guns i ever try. If you want to buy your self a cheap gun that is a headache, buy it, you will see what i mean.

  42. The market place will tell us all if the R9 is any good or another substitute for a paper weight. I also urge us to consider how the individual shooter will like the way it handles for THEM. This is apart from reliability. If this gun takes up where the R51 left off it will be another disaster for Remington. Lets wait awhile. I remember the early Kel-Tecs were innovative but not reliable. Some worked well many others did not. The weapons designers and Kel-Tec manufacturing have finally gotten on the same page. They don’t seem to announce new models years before they’re actually in stores as much as they once did. Quality control is always a key factor here. The last piece is the thing we all will agree upon, namely, choose the right ammunition and spend lots of time at the range.

    Safe shooting!!

  43. I have this RP9 pistol and absolutely adore it. First of all I paid $259 for it shipped! And that was before the $50 rebate! So $209 pricetag. I also own an HK VP9 as well as the Walther PPQ (albeit in 45 acp) I would rate the triggers in this order: 1) PPQ by a slim margin 2)RP9 (almost tied for first) 3) VP9 (has the shortest reset of all three and would be first if its actual pull matched the 4.4# advertised ) As far as accuracy, even with $7.30 a box Tula 9mm (14.6 cents a round), at 25 feet and not even from a bench rest, I was able to stay under an inch with 5 round groupings. Low cost, decent ergonomics for my big mitts, excellent accuracy make this my favorite value in the gun industry right now. Can’t recall being happier at a range visit than my most recent one with the RP9. I was a little put off when I saw the huge “R” on both sides of the grips, but after experiencing the gun, Remington deserves to put its initial so prominently displayed!

  44. Very helpful thread. I saw the RP9 at the Miami gun show today for $299. I liked the feel of it in my hand and was seriously considering it, luckily I always do my homework and research before I commit to anything (except a wife or two, but that’s another story).
    Based on the negative comments, this is not a gun I will now be considering. I was interested to see the very positive comments about the SR9C, that Is my every day carry gun, I really like it and can shoot pretty well with it. I did just buy a Canik TP9SFx with a 5.2 inch supposedly match grade barrel, comes with two 20 round magazines, Warren Tactical sights with red and green fiber optic fronts and 4 different mounting plates to take optional red dot sights. I got it at my local shooting center for $499, cheapest I could find it anywhere.
    Only had it at the range once so far, shoots nicely, but if I can’t shoot it better than my SR9C i’ll probably sell it and buy the full size SR9 or 9E.
    But I know I’ll definitely not be buying an RP9.

    • I have the Ruger SR9C & 9E (along with a large # of other Rugers). The 9C & 9E are exceptionally accurate, reliable guns. When you can do mag dumps as fast as you can pull the trigger from 25 yards keeping all shots on target, I think that’s pretty good. I also prefer to buy American whenever possible; Henry, Honor Defense, and Ruger are some of few that make this possible, but I only own Rugers. I was even tempted by the Rem RP9 when I saw it for only $250, but decided to pass; I demand unquestioned reliability.

    • You are missing out on a great gun. All the reviews are way off. I have one and am going to buy a second. I have had mine for about 5 months and have about 2500 rounds through it of various weights, casings, etc. and it has been flawless. very comfortable to shoot as well, with minimal felt recoil. I work for a gentleman at guns shows on weekends and have several regular customers. 2 couples that buy from us on a regular basis, bought one, then both came back for seconds. With as low as the price has gotten on them, I think you are really missing out. Not sure why the reviews were so bad. I think several of the big “Gun Experts” Have it out for Remington and can’t bring themselves to admit they built a great gun this time.

  45. If I liked full-size 9 pistols, I would surely buy an RP9. I DO like most of “Big Green’s” products. However, for a full-size pistol, I humbly prefer a full-size cartridge (read 45ACP). Love Rugers also!

  46. Give up this fascination for striker fired plastic frame junk and get a .45 CZ or a metal frame SIG. If you want something really impressive get a Sig Hammerli P240. If you are buying a handgun for self defense isn’t your life worth more then $500?

  48. ” value-priced guns with lousy triggers (e.g., S&W M&P9, GLOCK 17)”
    “value-price […] Glock 17”

    What?

  49. fabulous. over a buck and a quarter worth of poly striker opinions.

    big fat slide soaks up recoil? so do steel frames.

    i hope i’m slightly more comfy when a stressful situation rears its head.

  53. Seriously. Guys. Stop reviewing anything Remington. Please!!! I think its safe to assume they are as close to dead as a gun manufacturer can get without going belly up. I can not trust any review about Remington that is even decent, let alone a good one. Sorry, they are so inconsistent with their quality control and there are just so many poorly made, sloppy and absolutely no attention to detail Remington’s floating around that even if you guys got one that worked, chances are for every 1 that does work, 2 dont. Thats how bad Remington is. And they show no signs of really fixing the issues. All they do is buy out smaller brands, then slap Remington name on it. So anything decent they do actually own, which at this point is pretty much their 1911 line up and nothing else, its usually something that they never designed and just bought out. And its pretty hard to screw up a 1911. All they have to do is copy all the others that have been around for decades. They are a fucking joke. So stop trying to convince any of us otherwise. Seriously, just stop with reviewing Remington.

  54. Like the review, but a couple things. Can’t belive you think the styling is better than the VP9, this looks like an airsoft knock off of it.

    The price is right, no doubt this is a decent value. However, you mentioned it wasn’t machined as well as it could be, people noted it was ”loosey goosey” after using it. That’s why you buy the VP9. Especially for something you might end up trusting your life too.

    If finger grooves didn’t work for me, I’d custom cut talon grip material to flatten them out. Using heat youcould make it work really well with a bit of effort. Those grooves work well for most people so it’s nice they are there, the minority can use other solutions, why decrease the ergonomics to appeal to a minority?

  55. Well for $230 after rebate I bought one. I like its looks and ergonomics. Reminds me of my Walther PPX. Trigger is fine, palpable reset, breaks Fine. Shot 180 rounds of reloaded 115gr copper plated round Point with titegroup charge of about 4.4gr. Not a single misfire ftf fte or stovepipe. Not one. Right out of the box. I realize it isn’t 10,000 rounds but based on some of these you tube videos you get the impression it won’t go through a magazine without a dozen mishaps. What exactly is the problem?

  56. My Remington RP45 works great. It has night sites and the slide stops work on both sides. I use Remingtons 230 gr jph and it fires every time You squeeze the trigger. I am very well satisfied with this fine American made handgun. I love the 15 rd magazine capacity and the handgun fits my hand perfectly.

  57. just picked up an RP9 for under $200. read the manual. field stripped it, cleaned it, and lubed it. at the range it digested over 100 rounds with 100% reliability. with both magazines. trigger pull measures 4lbs 15oz. +/- 1.5 oz. very little trigger overtravel after the sear release and the reset is tactile and not too long. was easier to field strip after the range session. accuracy was as good as i can shoot, which was 6″ group for a 50 rounds box @25 yards. maybe some match ammo would improve that (or it could just be me).

    pros: outstanding value. nice trigger for the genre. 100% reliability. reasonable 25 yard accuracy. simple to field strip.
    cons: getting the 17th and 18th round in the magazines was not easy. maybe this will get easier with use?

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