Feeling trigger-punked with FNX9, seeking treatment

[bikemutt]

OK, I had a FNP9 years ago and really liked that gun, until I became a revolver-snob and sold it. I've been getting back into autoloaders recently and stumbled into a good deal on a bi-tone FNX9 which I couldn't resist.

I'm really struggling with the trigger on this one and am hoping I can solve it rather than sell the gun because, other than the trigger, I really like it.

Focusing strictly on single-action shooting, the problem is the break point is so close to my palm, I feel like my finger is cramping because it has to come back so far. The used pistol came with 2 pairs of backstraps, I've got the largest one installed.

I showed this to a couple shooting buds and they agreed; the trigger finger has to travel far enough back to make shooting it feel awkward.

We overlayed a Glock 17 with the FNX9, both cocked, the FNX trigger is a 1/4" or so closer to the frame than the Glock to start with.

The difference may not seem like much but the tendency is to place the middle pad of the trigger finger on the trigger just to get a decent pull on the thing. Of course accuracy goes out the window.

So, I was wondering if there is any fix for this, or maybe this is just not a gun for me and I should sell it?

 

[9mmepiphany]

Try flaring your trigger finger outward, from the palm as opposed to letting it lay along the side of the frame. This should let you place the middle of the first joint on the face of the trigger and you should be able to pivot the trigger finger from the second joint.

A picture of your grip, might bring up other suggestions

 

[bikemutt]

OK, I think these pictures may make it a bit more clear. The first pistol is a Sig Sauer 1911 target, the second is a Springfield EMP and finally the FNX-9. All guns were cleared twice, and one more time, for handling.

With the Sig, the first crease of my trigger finger is hidden, it's barely visible with the EMP, it's fully exposed with the FNX-9. I think too that what exacerbates the problem is FN sculpted the grip frame right above the mag release specifically so the trigger is easier to reach, and that's a good feature in double-action mode where the trigger is much further out front.

When I took the FN to the range it had the most slim backstrap insert installed, I had not thought to bring the others with me. I now have the fattest backstrap installed which has made things better as far as a dry fire exercise can reveal.

Maybe the new backstrap and 9mmepiphany's suggestion will prove to be the magic bullet, I sure hope so

 

[barnbwt]

Don't supposed someone makes a replacement trigger or slip on spacer of some sort? I recall such things exist for 1911's, at least.

TCB

 

[Got_Lead?]

Both of your 1911 types have "extended" triggers, slightly longer than the standard A1. When I shot match with the 1911, my issue target gun was set up with the longer trigger, many people like the slightly longer one. A 1911 is a pretty easy change-out, but you may have a little more difficulty finding an extended trigger for the FNP with a double action.

I just purchased a CZ 75 Omega, and the trigger shape is awful. Unfortunately, there are no alternatives, and standard CZ 75 triggers do not fit the Omega. Since I really like the pistol, but hate the trigger shape, I am going to do some shade tree smithing on the trigger itself by molding JB weld to it, then re-shaping it, followed up with some Dura-Coat.

Don't know if this helps you, good luck.

Dave

 

[Sam1911]

That's the same basic issue I have with Ruger double-action revolvers. By the time the shot breaks I feel like I've pulled so far I'm "doubling back" my trigger finger. Of the many and various "gun fit" issues folks have with different kinds of guns, this is probably the one I've found most annoying.

 

[bikemutt]

Yup, a trigger shoe is something I pondered, I'll look into it.

Also thinking about a Limbsaver grip cover, I know it's mostly meant for recoil management but it just may fatten the grip enough to tip the balance in my favor. Come to think of it, one thing I preferred about the FNP-9 was the less aggressive grip stippling, maybe the Limbsaver will kill two birds with one stone.

 

[9mmepiphany]

Thanks for the pics, they really give me a better idea of the size comparison.

I just pulled out my EMP to compare with your second picture. On the EMP, my trigger finger extends out beyond the trigger guard so that the front of it lines up with the back of the nailbed. The face of the trigger is further back on the finger than in your FNX picture...almost to the middle of the second joint.



For those who may say that there is a difference between this and a pivoting trigger, I offer this picture of how my hand fits on Kahr CW9. Notice that my trigger finger is slightly arched outward; when straightened, the face of the trigger almost aligned with the second crease of my finger



Taking all the above into consideration, I'd say a slight change in your trigger management technique would cure the issue you are experiencing. I'd even venture that it will improve your accuracy. (I'd also recommend that you not lock down your thumb in your grip)

I apologize for the quality of the pictures. It was late in the day when these were taken and my 9 year old daughter wanted to help

 

[bikemutt]

A lot of things to consider. I'll take it all in and report back.

 

[Zaydok Allen]

You know man I have a similar issue with my FNP45. As a result, the extended mag release hits my trigger finger when firing. It kind of hurts.

I am able to mitigate it by consciously flaring out my finger a bit, but if I'm shooting fast I tend to over reach and have the problem again.

Thinking about switching to a XDm 5.25" competition gun.