I think, and this may be a bold opinion, that Rost Martin makes some of the best “affordable” striker-fired pistols on the market. I’ve been shooting and testing them for well over a year now, and I’m still impressed. I’ve spent most of that time with the RM1C Comp and RM1S Comp—both considered the best options for concealed carry.
Unfortunately, I haven’t had much time with the RM1F—the full-size model. If it’s anything like the rest, I’m sure it’s good. When I was at GunCon earlier this summer, I heard whispers of a new series from Rost Martin. About a week before launch, the new model, the RM1X, showed up at my FFL. This is a crossover model like a Glock 45. It’s the slide of the RM1C with the frame of the RM1F. The RM1X might be the best “duty”-ready variant of the bunch. Let’s check it out.
SPECS
The RM1X lineup offers enhanced versatility with a compact slide and a full-size grip, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications. It is available in the following variants: the RM1CX Standard, RM1CX Comp, and RM1CX Tactical.
The standard specs are as follows:
- Model(s): RM1CX, RM1CX Comp, RM1CX Tactical
- Action: Striker-Fired
- Frame: Polymer
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 17+1
- Sights: Black Serrated Rear, White Dot Front (Tactical model ships with higher-profile sights designed to co-witness with a suppressor — see Features below)
- Optic Cut: Optics Ready with Plate (ships with RMR plate)
- Magazines: 2, 1-17, 1-19 (24-rd with the Tactical Model)
- Barrel Length: 4”
- Threaded: Yes, 1/2×28 (Tactical Model Only)
- Overall Length: 7.1”
- Grip Width: 1.2”
- Height: 5.1”
- Weight: 23 oz.
- MSRP: $469-$549 (Depending on Model)
FEATURES
Rost Martin’s RM1X series expands the company’s compact pistol platform with a configuration that balances capacity and concealability. Each model pairs a compact slide and a 4-inch hammer-forged 9mm barrel with a full-size grip. This setup provides a larger grip surface and higher capacity without sacrificing the pistol’s shorter overall profile.
The lineup includes the RM1CX Standard for everyday carry, the RM1CX Comp with a compensated slide to reduce muzzle rise, and the RM1CX Tactical, which adds a threaded barrel and suppressor-height sights. Across the series, shooters get fully ambidextrous controls, an optics-ready Nitrocarburized steel slide, a hammer-forged match barrel, and Rost Martin’s signature grip texture.
The DAS (Double Action Striker) trigger complements the 23-ounce weight and flush magazine, while the pistols measure 7.68 inches long and 5.1 inches high. Magazine configurations include 17-, 19-, and 24-round options, depending on the model, with California-compliant versions featuring 10-round magazines coming soon.
Rost Martin developed the RM1X series directly from customer feedback. “We’re here for our customers, every step of the way,” said Chris Toomer, CEO of Rost Martin. “The RM1X series is a testament to our ongoing commitment to quality, reliability, and supporting the next generation of gun owners.”
California-compliant RM1CX and RM1CX Comp models are coming soon, each shipping with 10-round magazines to meet state requirements. Rost Martin also offers 15-round magazine configurations for other states with capacity restrictions.
ZOOMING OUT
I think, at the price, the Rost Martin packs a ton of value. You get commonly found features on many of today’s options. And this pistol is built in the great state of Texas. What’s not to like? If you are in the market for a new handgun for duty, training, home defense, or carry, check out the RM1X series.
For more new release news, head over to the Cadre Dispatch.
