Canik TP9SFX Review: Is This the Best $500 Handgun?

If you are looking for a bang-for-your-buck handgun that won't break the bank then you are in the right place. The gun market today offers plenty of options, but few deliver as much value as the Canik TP9SFX. This Turkish-made 9mm has created quite a buzz in the firearms community. It offers features typically found on pistols costing hundreds more.

But does it live up to the hype? Let's find out if this budget-friendly option deserves your hard-earned cash.

Quick Specs and Features

Before diving into the details, here's what you need to know about the Canik TP9SFX:

• Capacity: 20+1 rounds of 9mm
• Weight: 1.83 pounds
• Dimensions: 8.29″ x 1.38″ x ~6.2 
• Barrel Length: 5.2"
• Finish: Tungsten Grey Cerakote

What makes the TP9SFX stand out? It comes optics-ready with included mounting plates, sports a crisp trigger, and ships with two 20-round magazines—all for around $500.

Who Makes the Canik TP9SFX?

Canik operates under SYS, a defense company with aerospace and precision engineering expertise. . Much like how certain American firearms manufacturers have roots in other industries, Canik brings precision engineering from aerospace to the gun world.

For about a decade, they've partnered with Century Arms to import their TP series pistols into the United States. The reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with many users praising the guns' performance relative to their cost.

Turkey has long produced firearms, though their reputation in the US market has been mixed. Turkish shotguns, for instance, run the gamut from budget-friendly options to high-quality pieces that rival premium European brands.

Who Should Buy the TP9SFX?

The TP9SFX shines for people who compete in action pistol matches. Its full-size frame, 20+1 capacity, and optics-ready design make it perfect for the USPSA Carry Optics division. The TP9SFX fits Carry Optics guidelines, but ensures your optic and accessories keep the gun within USPSA’s 59 oz weight limit (with an empty magazine). 

It's too large for concealed carry, but works beautifully as a range gun. With a few modifications, it can serve as a capable home defense option too.

Keep in mind that the magazine capacity exceeds the limit for USPSA Production division (which caps at 10 rounds), so this gun finds its sweet spot in Carry Optics where you can take full advantage of those 20-round mags.

Fit, Feel & Ergonomics

Pick up the TP9SFX and you'll notice its substantial presence—this is a full-size pistol with a 5.2" barrel. The heft feels balanced, though, and the gun points naturally.

The grip texture deserves some criticism. Those dots on the backstrap look like they should provide excellent purchase, but they fall short—especially if your hands get sweaty. The factory stippling on the sides also lacks the necessary bite for confident handling during rapid fire.

For a quick fix you can even add some Talon grip tape for a more secure hold.

The controls earn better marks. The slide stop features an extended ledge that gives you plenty of purchase—at least if you have normal to large hands. Folks with smaller hands might struggle to reach it comfortably.

The magazine release can be swapped for left-handed use, which is a nice touch. However, the slide release (or stop) is only on the left side and not ambidextrous, so southpaws will need to master the slingshot method for reloads. 

Aesthetically, the TP9SFX scores high marks. The slide serrations and porting look sharp, and the optics cut blends nicely with the overall design even if you choose not to mount a red dot.

Range Performance

Reports from numerous users indicate the TP9SFX runs flawlessly with a variety of ammunition types, from premium brass to budget steel-cased rounds. Many owners report zero malfunctions even after thousands of rounds—impressive for any pistol, let alone one at this price point.

The gun earns praise for its flat-shooting characteristics. Follow-up shots come quickly thanks to minimal muzzle flip and a trigger with an exceptional reset. Though the initial pull might feel slightly long, the reset is short and crisp, allowing for fast, accurate strings of fire.

Accuracy reports have been stellar. Multiple users have posted impressive groups at various distances. The 5.2" barrel provides a longer sight radius than compact pistols, helping even average marksmen place shots with precision.

Sights and Optics Mounting

The factory fiber optic front and black rear sight are a solid baseline, though not as adjustable or luminous as some aftermarket options. 

The four included mounting plates accommodate many popular red dots, though some models like the RMR may need aftermarket plates or adapters. 

This adds tremendous value to the package. Getting a slide milled for an optic typically costs $100-200, sometimes approaching the price of the red dot itself. Having this capability straight from the factory—with quality metal plates, not plastic—puts the TP9SFX ahead of many competitors.

For those looking to add a red dot, the Holosun 507C X2 ACSS makes an excellent pairing with this pistol.

What's in the Box

Unbox a new TP9SFX and you'll be pleasantly surprised by the included accessories:

• Two 20-round magazines
• Four mounting plates for various optics
• Cleaning kit
• Extra backstraps
• Magazine loader
• Basic holster

This is an impressive array of extras for a $500 pistol. Most manufacturers at this price point include one or two magazines and maybe a basic cleaning tool—certainly not mounting plates or a holster.

The included holster is a basic paddle-style unit that may work for range use, but most users upgrade quickly for improved comfort and retention. . It gives you everything needed to get started at the range or in competition without additional purchases.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Generous 20+1 round capacity
• Flat-shooting design reduces muzzle flip
• Reports of malfunctions are rare, with many users praising the TP9SFX’s reliability across ammo types. 
• Optics-ready with included metal mounting plates
• Excellent value at around $500

Cons

• Grip texture needs improvement for wet conditions
• Stock sights are merely adequate
• Slide stop can be difficult to reach with smaller hands
• Included holster is basic quality

Recommended Upgrades

Even the best value guns can benefit from a few tweaks. Here are some popular upgrades for the TP9SFX:

1. Red Dot Sight: The Holosun 507C X2 ACSS Vulcan makes an excellent companion to this optics-ready pistol.
2. Weapon Light: For home defense use, adding a Streamlight TLR-1 HL transforms this competition-oriented pistol into a capable nighttime defender.
3. Grip Tape: Talon Grips or similar texture enhancement solves the TP9SFX's biggest ergonomic weakness.

These additions can turn an already good gun into a great one, tailored to your specific needs.

How It Scores

Reliability: 5/5  

Two words: it runs. Zero malfunctions reported across numerous users and ammunition types. This gun simply works when you pull the trigger.

Ergonomics: 4/5  

Oversized ambidextrous controls and multiple backstrap options earn it high marks. The grip texture is the main drawback, but that's easily fixed with aftermarket solutions.

Accuracy: 4/5  

The TP9SFX delivers impressive groups from its 5.2" barrel. Many users report the gun outperforms their own shooting ability – always a good sign.

Customization: 4/5  

Note that while the TP9SFX has excellent out-of-box features, it has very limited aftermarket support for customization and, its modularity is limited compared to platforms like the Glock or Sig P320. 

Value: 5/5  

Hard to find more bang for your buck anywhere in the firearms industry. The included accessories alone would cost $100+ if purchased separately.

Overall: 4.5/5  

An exceptional package that delivers performance well beyond its price point. A few minor improvements would make it perfect, but at $500, it's tough to complain.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth $500?

Dollar for dollar, the Canik TP9SFX offers an exceptional value that's hard to beat in today's market.

What other pistol gives you 20+1 capacity, an optics-ready slide with multiple mounting plates, two magazines, a serviceable holster, and excellent out-of-box performance for around $500? The answer is... not many.

Compare it to competitors like the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0, Glock 17, or Springfield XD, and the TP9SFX typically offers more features at a similar or lower price point.

Is it perfect? No. The grip texture could be better, and the included holster won't win any awards. But these minor issues are easily addressed with inexpensive aftermarket solutions.

For the money, it's tough to find a more complete package. The TP9SFX delivers competition-ready performance, generous capacity, and the flexibility to add modern accessories without breaking the bank.

So, is this the best $500 handgun on the market? Based on the combination of features, performance, and included extras—yes, it makes a compelling case for that title. Few pistols in this price range offer so much right out of the box.

Whether you’re running the Canik TP9SFX for competition or as part of your defensive setup, pairing it with the right ammunition makes all the difference. For tested recommendations, see our guide on the best 9mm ammo for the range and self-defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Canik TP9SFX good for beginners?

Yes! The TP9SFX makes a great first full-size pistol. Its manageable recoil, excellent trigger, and accurate shooting make it forgiving for new users. Just keep in mind it's too large for concealed carry.

2. What red dots fit the Canik TP9SFX?

The TP9SFX comes with mounting plates that accommodate most popular red dots including Trijicon RMR, Leupold DeltaPoint, Vortex Viper, Burris FastFire, and various Holosun models.

3. How does the TP9SFX compare to Glock 17?

The TP9SFX offers more features out of the box than a standard Glock 17, including an optics cut, better trigger, and higher capacity magazines. The Glock has a more established aftermarket, but costs more for a comparable setup.

4. Can the TP9SFX handle +P ammunition?

Yes, the TP9SFX can handle +P ammunition. However, like with any firearm, sustained use of +P loads will accelerate wear on components over time.

5. Are Canik magazines expensive or hard to find?

Canik magazines typically cost $30-40 each, which is comparable to other brands. Availability has improved in recent years, though they may not be as readily available as Glock or Smith & Wesson magazines.

6. How difficult is it to install a red dot on the TP9SFX?

Installing a red dot on the TP9SFX is straightforward. Select the appropriate included mounting plate, attach it to the slide using the provided screws, then mount your optic to the plate. The process takes about 10-15 minutes with basic tools.