The Comprehensive Review of the Flux Raider: An Unconventional Pistol-Caliber Carbine
In this detailed analysis, the host dives into the world of the Flux Raider, a unique platform that has yet to receive widespread acclaim or recognition. With a mix of humor, technical insight, and practical testing, the review aims to evaluate whether this unconventional firearm truly deserves a fair shake, especially considering its affordability and versatility.
At its core, the Flux Raider is a pistol caliber carbine (PCC) that essentially involves replacing the frame of a P320 or Sig Sauer M17/M18 with a specialized chassis. The transition is straightforward: you swap out the slide and fire control unit from your existing pistol and fit them into a custom frame designed for the Flux Raider.
Key features include:
The ability to convert a standard P320 or M17/M18 into a more compact, rifle-like platform.
It adds a grip, front magazine holder, and the option for a stock or brace, transforming a pistol into a versatile carbine.
The system is designed to be easily swappable, allowing quick transition back to a standard pistol.
This setup offers an intriguing option in the PCC market—especially given its low cost relative to traditional carbines.
Price and Weight Comparison
One of the most compelling aspects of the Flux Raider is its affordability. Compared to other PCCs, it stands out as a budget-friendly option:
Cost: Approximately $500 for the Flux Raider chassis, plus around $500 for a Sig P320, totaling roughly $1,000 for a functional PCC—a significant saving compared to other systems that often range from $1,500 to over $4,000.
Weight: The assembled system weighs around 40 ounces, making it lighter than comparable options like the T's TP9 (about 49 ounces) and significantly lighter than the MP5K (about 70 ounces). This weight advantage enhances maneuverability and ease of carry.
These factors make the Flux Raider attractive to budget-conscious shooters seeking a versatile, lightweight platform.
Construction and Functionality
The host begins a comprehensive disassembly and analysis, starting with the slide and fire control components:
The slide from a Sig Legion (integrally compensated) was used, which helped mitigate recoil during testing.
The fire control unit from the P320, which is non-serialized, is simply swapped into the chassis, making it easy to switch back to a standard pistol if needed.
The system's simplicity allows assembly or disassembly in under a minute.
Handling and Control
The recoil is remarkably manageable, benefiting from the compensator and well-designed ergonomics.
Practical takeaway: The Flux Raider is not the best choice for ongoing suppression—better suited as a concealable or secondary system. However, it performs well as a compact, reliable option for general use without suppressors.
Accuracy, Recoil, and Reliability
Over thousands of rounds, the system proved to be reliably functional, with zero jams or failures. It is well-made, with proper springs and components, making it a dependable shooter.
Recoil characteristics:
The system exhibits smooth recoil with minimal felt kick.
Using a high-quality compensator reduces recoil even further.
When paired with a good fire control unit (like the Legion we tested), the system fires fast and accurately, even surpassing some heavier or more expensive pistol-caliber carbines.
For operators, especially those in tactical or military roles, customized configurations like the "Maritime" or "covert" setups are tested. These modifications include:
Shaving off parts of the optic mount for better profile.
Use of different slides for concealment or specialized operations.
Configurations with low-profile optics for night vision compatibility.
Suitability and Practical Applications
The host emphasizes that while the Flux Raider isn't suitable as a main combat weapon, it excels in specific niches:
Concealed carry and personal defense: Its size and weight make it ideal for backpack or car gun setups.
Home defense: As a secondary or backup system, it offers rapid-fire capability in a compact package.
Maritime operations: Its lightweight and modular design are excellent for boarding parties and tight spaces.
In summary:
The system is affordable, lightweight, and reliable.
It performs impressively against more traditional PCCs, especially when considering trigger quality and control.
Its greatest weakness lies in suppressor use and initial learning curve due to its unique mechanics.
Final Thoughts
After extensive testing, the host admits to being surprised by how much they liked the Flux Raider. Initially dismissed as a gimmick, it has become one of their preferred personal systems for everyday carry, backup, or recreational shooting.
Limited optic compatibility in certain configurations
Recommendation:
If you own a P320 or similar platform, the Flux Raider is an excellent upgrade to create a versatile, affordable, and fun PCC. It's perfect for those who want a reliable secondary weapon or a highly portable option for various scenarios.
Closing Remarks
The review emphasizes continuous training: "If you're not training with it, you're still going to suck," a reminder of the importance of practice regardless of how innovative or affordable the platform may be.
Finally, the host ends with a humorous note about hydration and a shoutout to their supporters, reinforcing the connection between consistent training and overall firearm proficiency.
Final Verdict
The Flux Raider is a surprisingly capable and versatile platform that challenges conventional notions of PCCs. Its affordability, light weight, and functional design make it a compelling option for shooters looking for a small, adaptable system—whether for everyday carry, home defense, or specialized missions. Despite some limitations, especially with suppressor compatibility, it sets a new standard for accessible, modular firearm platforms.
Part 1/11:
The Comprehensive Review of the Flux Raider: An Unconventional Pistol-Caliber Carbine
In this detailed analysis, the host dives into the world of the Flux Raider, a unique platform that has yet to receive widespread acclaim or recognition. With a mix of humor, technical insight, and practical testing, the review aims to evaluate whether this unconventional firearm truly deserves a fair shake, especially considering its affordability and versatility.
What Is the Flux Raider?
Part 2/11:
At its core, the Flux Raider is a pistol caliber carbine (PCC) that essentially involves replacing the frame of a P320 or Sig Sauer M17/M18 with a specialized chassis. The transition is straightforward: you swap out the slide and fire control unit from your existing pistol and fit them into a custom frame designed for the Flux Raider.
Key features include:
The ability to convert a standard P320 or M17/M18 into a more compact, rifle-like platform.
It adds a grip, front magazine holder, and the option for a stock or brace, transforming a pistol into a versatile carbine.
The system is designed to be easily swappable, allowing quick transition back to a standard pistol.
Part 3/11:
This setup offers an intriguing option in the PCC market—especially given its low cost relative to traditional carbines.
Price and Weight Comparison
One of the most compelling aspects of the Flux Raider is its affordability. Compared to other PCCs, it stands out as a budget-friendly option:
Cost: Approximately $500 for the Flux Raider chassis, plus around $500 for a Sig P320, totaling roughly $1,000 for a functional PCC—a significant saving compared to other systems that often range from $1,500 to over $4,000.
Weight: The assembled system weighs around 40 ounces, making it lighter than comparable options like the T's TP9 (about 49 ounces) and significantly lighter than the MP5K (about 70 ounces). This weight advantage enhances maneuverability and ease of carry.
Part 4/11:
These factors make the Flux Raider attractive to budget-conscious shooters seeking a versatile, lightweight platform.
Construction and Functionality
The host begins a comprehensive disassembly and analysis, starting with the slide and fire control components:
The slide from a Sig Legion (integrally compensated) was used, which helped mitigate recoil during testing.
The fire control unit from the P320, which is non-serialized, is simply swapped into the chassis, making it easy to switch back to a standard pistol if needed.
The system's simplicity allows assembly or disassembly in under a minute.
Handling and Control
Part 5/11:
The trigger, especially with upgrades like the Legion fire control unit, is sharp and allows for rapid firing.
The weight distribution makes it easy to keep on target, outperforming heavier PCCs like the MP5K in rapid fire scenarios.
Suppressor Compatibility and Challenges
Suppressing the Flux Raider presents some challenges:
It uses a pistol slide mechanism with a short recoil operation, which isn't ideally suited for suppressor use.
Add-ons like suppressors can increase recoil or cause cycling issues, particularly with lower-quality suppressors.
The host notes that systems like the B&T TP9, with blowback operation, tend to suppress more reliably and consistently.
Part 6/11:
Practical takeaway: The Flux Raider is not the best choice for ongoing suppression—better suited as a concealable or secondary system. However, it performs well as a compact, reliable option for general use without suppressors.
Accuracy, Recoil, and Reliability
Over thousands of rounds, the system proved to be reliably functional, with zero jams or failures. It is well-made, with proper springs and components, making it a dependable shooter.
Recoil characteristics:
The system exhibits smooth recoil with minimal felt kick.
Using a high-quality compensator reduces recoil even further.
When paired with a good fire control unit (like the Legion we tested), the system fires fast and accurately, even surpassing some heavier or more expensive pistol-caliber carbines.
Part 7/11:
Comparison tests included:
The MP5K, which exhibited less recoil (due to its roller-delayed blowback system) but weighed considerably more.
The TP9, which is heavier but still not as controllable or fast as the Flux Raider due to trigger and ergonomics.
Controls, Compatibility, and Ergonomics
The host elaborates on control tactics:
Magazine changes are facilitated by a front mag release, which can be operated quickly but requires some practice.
The stock release and safety are straightforward, comparable to standard pistols.
Laser and light setup is flexible, with attachments like the Surefire or X300 fitted seamlessly.
Part 8/11:
For operators, especially those in tactical or military roles, customized configurations like the "Maritime" or "covert" setups are tested. These modifications include:
Shaving off parts of the optic mount for better profile.
Use of different slides for concealment or specialized operations.
Configurations with low-profile optics for night vision compatibility.
Suitability and Practical Applications
The host emphasizes that while the Flux Raider isn't suitable as a main combat weapon, it excels in specific niches:
Concealed carry and personal defense: Its size and weight make it ideal for backpack or car gun setups.
Home defense: As a secondary or backup system, it offers rapid-fire capability in a compact package.
Part 9/11:
In summary:
The system is affordable, lightweight, and reliable.
It performs impressively against more traditional PCCs, especially when considering trigger quality and control.
Its greatest weakness lies in suppressor use and initial learning curve due to its unique mechanics.
Final Thoughts
After extensive testing, the host admits to being surprised by how much they liked the Flux Raider. Initially dismissed as a gimmick, it has become one of their preferred personal systems for everyday carry, backup, or recreational shooting.
Pros:
Cost-effective
Lightweight and compact
Consistent performance
Part 10/11:
Cons:
Not ideal for suppressor use
Learning curve for magazine changes and controls
Limited optic compatibility in certain configurations
Recommendation:
If you own a P320 or similar platform, the Flux Raider is an excellent upgrade to create a versatile, affordable, and fun PCC. It's perfect for those who want a reliable secondary weapon or a highly portable option for various scenarios.
Closing Remarks
The review emphasizes continuous training: "If you're not training with it, you're still going to suck," a reminder of the importance of practice regardless of how innovative or affordable the platform may be.
Part 11/11:
Finally, the host ends with a humorous note about hydration and a shoutout to their supporters, reinforcing the connection between consistent training and overall firearm proficiency.
Final Verdict
The Flux Raider is a surprisingly capable and versatile platform that challenges conventional notions of PCCs. Its affordability, light weight, and functional design make it a compelling option for shooters looking for a small, adaptable system—whether for everyday carry, home defense, or specialized missions. Despite some limitations, especially with suppressor compatibility, it sets a new standard for accessible, modular firearm platforms.
@mightpossibly what happened here?