After a long, COVID-induced wait, Dan Wesson is shipping the Compact sibling of the DWX pistol, the aptly-named DWX Compact. The photos seen here are mine, because TTAG’s DWX Compact loaner just arrived. I need another range session with it and then watch this space for the full review.
So far, though, she’s as slick and smooth and finely-tuned as the full-size.
Dan Wesson’s press release follows . . .
The DWX Compact pistol inherits the best traits of two flagship pistols, the CZ 75 and the Dan Wesson 1911—handguns synonymous with quality, durability, and performance. The DWX Compact incorporates the same premium features as the full-sized DWX but in a smaller, more concealable package. Its lightweight aluminum frame and shorter barrel make it ideal for everyday carry, while its design delivers improved ergonomics.
The DWX starts with the crisp single-action fire control group from a Dan Wesson 1911 and combines it with the ergonomics and capacity of a CZ pistol. A flat, K-style trigger with a textured face offers positive contact—a familiar feel to 1911 shooters, while its grip angle and contour draw their lineage directly to the proven CZ 75 known for its comfort and control.
The DWX Compact utilizes the Ned Christiansen style frag pattern on the front, backstrap, and Henning aluminum grips for a comfortable shooting experience that provides traction. The grip’s low-profile design naturally positions the shooter’s hand high in the beavertail for optimum recoil control. CZ 75 Compact grip compatibility with the DWX allows customization with aftermarket options.
A locked-breech linkless barrel system adds strength and simplicity. Field maintenance is a breeze with the CZ-style take-down via the slide stop. Borrowing the time-proven CZ 75 Compact double-stack magazine body, the compact has a 15+1 capacity with Henning aluminum base pads for added durability.
Good sights are essential, and the DWX compact includes some of the best for personal protection and competition. A night front sight and fixed Battlehook rear sight provide rapid target acquisition day or night and easily slip in and out of a holster; both are rugged and reliable. The firearm’s DLC (Diamond Like Coating) protects the pistol’s exterior metal surfaces from wear and corrosion.
A match-grade 4-inch barrel with a bushing-less barrel system, offering shooters unparalleled accuracy and easy take-down. At the same time, its low-profile left-side safety delivers easy access for right-handed shooters. For left-handed shooters, the same ambidextrous safety used on the full-size DWX can be installed on the Compact and will be available for sale on the CZ webstore. Front and rear serrations on the slide improve grip for cocking, giving the operator positive traction even with wet or sweaty hands.
Competitive shooters will appreciate the DWX Compact’s tunability and customizability. A reversible mag release offers proper ambidextrous function. Many factory and aftermarket 1911 fire control group parts are available. Front sights for the Novak-style dovetail and rear sights for the CZ Shadow 2-style sights fit the DWX Compact. An industry standard 1913 Picatinny rail makes mounting a light or laser easy.
The Dan Wesson DWX Compact is shipping now. It’s a modern pistol with the finer points of a classic 1911 built, like every Dan Wesson, with quality materials and parts and finished with an attention to detail.
Please visit https://danwessonfirearms.com/product/dwx-compact/ for more information.
DWX Compact Features:
Linkless barrel system for strength and simplicity
CZ 75 Compact compatible magazine body
CZ 75 Compact compatible grips
Single Action, 9mm
Aluminum Frame, Lightweight
Reversible magazine catch
1911 Style Safety
1911 Red Flat K-Style Trigger
Henning Aluminum Base Pads
Front Night Sight
Rear Battlehook Fixed Sight
DWX Compact Specifications:
SKU: 92102
Caliber: 9mm
Mag Capacity: 15 + 1
Frame Material: Aluminum
Slide Finish: DLC
Grips: Henning Aluminum
Overall Length: 7.5 in
Barrel Length: 4 in
Height: 5.2 in
Width: 1.3 in
Weight: 30.8 oz
Trigger Mech: Single Action
Front Sight: Tritium
Rear Sight: Fixed Battlehook
Safety: Manual thumb safety
MSRP: $1999.00
Each Dan Wesson Firearms revolver bears the name of Daniel B. Wesson, who founded Wesson Firearms Co., Inc. in 1968. His goal was to build the finest revolvers that the shooting world had ever seen. As a result of his hardwork and dedication his firearms are known for their innovation, indestructibility, and match-grade accuracy.
Continuing in his footsteps, Dan Wesson Firearms joined the world’s largest firearms producer CZ in 2005. The Dan Wesson legacy continues with new and exciting products and innovations from the excellent people of CZ and Dan Wesson Firearms.
For more information, please visit WWW.DANWESSONFIREARMS.COM
I like the looks of this pistol. I like the shape of the back strap, and the 1911 style of the slide. Maybe some day the court will strike down California’s Roster. The safety could be a bit longer though. Be sure to include pictures of it broken down.
Michel & Associates shows the latest updates to Boland v. Bonta occurred last week on May 16. The case is moving forward.
https://michellawyers.com/boland-v-bonta/
Yes, I keep daily tabs on all of those cases. But it will be a while yet before a decision is rendered. But we all know that if the Roster goes away, AG Bonta will appeal.
There have been suggestions that Bonta will NOT defend the microstamping law, and that in and of itself is a blessing. Many manufacturers have already demonstrated that they can comply with the LCI and mag safety requirements, which means that worse comes to worst there will be a flood of new pistols in the state, whether or not they are limited to ten rounds.
It’s pretty, but — 31 ounces? Oof. Any plans for a subcompact version?
The Springfield EMP is 27 or 28 empty, and it is “light” compared to a 38-40 oz 1911. The added weight compared to a 14-16 oz plastic 9 mm makes them much better handling weapons.
28 oz., 10 rounds. Pass.
Most of the 9mm micro-compacts I’ve been considering are in the 18-20+ oz. range. Ex: Hellcat, 18 oz. (base), 13 rounds.
Yeah, but this thing will shoot.
Some people enjoy boat anchors, I tend to go more for revolvers for that side of the scale but if it works it works.
I wish they would make a high capacity .45acp version of this mighty fine looking pistol.
It’s actually happening? I’m looking forward to the reviews. A 92XI SAO with a Langdon Tactical trigger can be had for half the price.
look at that, a frame mounted safety that goes down.
Nice…just too many digits in the MSRP.
Okay, I like the simplicity of this pistol’s lines. This is an example of how some designs (and “less” is usually better) are destined to appeal for the long haul.
The timing couldn’t be more ironic. I’ve always thought it was ridiculous that one could buy either the great ergonomics / trigger of the 1911 or a pistol with all the subsequent advances, but never the best of both worlds. When the DWX was announced, it seemed like that had finally arrived – but then it went into development he11.
Today I gave up and ordered a 9mm upper assembly for my Witness Hunter. The engineering-OCD part of me will always prefer ejection-port locking over nubbies, but I love the trigger so much. I can’t be too regretful, because I will have both 9mm and 10mm capability and an optics cut for the same price as the DWX.
What about the Smith & Wesson CSX? 9mm high capacity micro-compact, metal frame, 20 oz., 1911-style controls with ambi safety and slide releases.
I have one; like it a lot (and discussed it with you briefly the other day).
I have big hands; I carry the CSX when I need to, but prefer a hand-filling pistol when I can carry one. I got a B6C hoping it could be my “four seasons” pistol, but I couldn’t get the trigger anywhere close to my Witness. I’m now leaning toward waist-pack carry.
You did; my bad.
I nee to get out and shoot one, among a few others.
No problem! I love mine because I worked the trigger, but don’t expect anything anywhere close to a 1911 out of the box.
A couple more, Umm …
“I’ve always thought it was ridiculous that one could buy either the great ergonomics / trigger of the 1911 or a pistol with all the subsequent advances, but never the best of both worlds.”
Would the CSX represent the best of both worlds? Before or after the trigger job?
Is there another pistol that you would consider to be such?
Post trigger-job CSX, yes. Pre, no, due to a trigger heavier than many other modern pistols. It depends on preferences, of course; I care more about triggers than most do.
There are several others in the general ballpark (SIG’s and Springfield’s micro 1911s), though with low mag capacity (and therefore not really incorporating a key feature of modern pistols). I’m not sure about your views on mags. Personally, while I’m not obsessed with capacity, I am obsessed with analysis / contrast / the idea that everything is a tradeoff until it isn’t, leading to innate annoyance with manufacturer-inflicted shortfalls when the alternative is perfectly feasible and affordable.
$2000 for a 1911 CZ 75 and no ambidextrous safety. Uh huh😂😂😂
I like it.
I like it a lot at $800-900
Not so much at $2000
And aluminum grips have no place on a carry pistol.
May be a stupid question on my part but why no to aluminum grips?
Because they get ridiculously hot in summer. Yes, I live in Phoenix, where it gets stupid hot. You can brand yourself on your seatbelt, or your car keys. I want insulating grips. Wood or Micarta.
Makes sense, guessing even the lighter colored cerakotes don’t help that much for anything that isn’t full on concealed?
I also live in a ridiculously hot place, but don’t recall having had this issue.
Wouldn’t things only get stupid hot in the sun (non-issue for CCW?). If one made it an issue (OC), wouldn’t it affect all the non-grip parts anyway?
The DWX… about as ugly, flashy and loud as DMX.
That needs an accessory rail and optic cut.
It’s a 2019 concept. Even $500 guns come with an optic cut theses days. I thought they would engineer that during the delay.
Wow what a bargain! Beretta Rules….
Nice pistol, but for $2000? I can have a Sig P210 for about $1400. A factory Canik race gun for much less, both with no reliability issues. But hey, if you have a few thousand laying around, go for it.
Looks nice. I won’t replace my CZCustom P01 with this anytime soon though.
That said; can we please stop doing night sights? These are a talisman – they’re generally huge and imprecise, and if your night sights are glowing you should be using white light for positive identification.
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