I know there are numerous reviews and videos regarding the IWI Tavor X95 (a favorite of mine comes from Tim at Military Arms Channel). So, this review is in no way seeking to replace any of those reviews. However, as an “average joe” shooter I want to tell you that this thing is fun, and accurate, to shoot.
The Tavor X95 is the next generation bullpup that embodies some great enhancements from the original SAR including new fire control parts with a 5.5-pound trigger pull. The ambidextrous magazine release has been repositioned to the front of the trigger guard. The X95 forearm features Picatinny rails covered with removable rail covers. The charging handle has also been relocated to position it closer to center mass.
IWI Tavor X95 |
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|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO |
| Action | Gas Piston, Semi-auto |
| Operating System | Closed rotating bolt, Long-stroke gas piston |
| Magazine Type | Polymer NATO STANAG |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Barrel | Chrome lined, Cold hammer forged |
| Barrel Length | 16.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 26.125 inches |
| Weight | 7.9 pounds |
| Optional Equipment | 9mm and .300 Blackout conversion kits |
| MSRP | $1,999 |
I brought the rifle to a range day. In attendance were a number of friends and colleagues. Across the board, we were all impressed. Out of the box, the X95 performed impressively—no jams, no issues, and no nonsense. In fact, after a few mag dumps, I had to remind everyone to either pick a different spot on the target (other than center mass) or to change out the target because they were simply shooting rounds through an empty hole.
However, not everyone just picked up the X95 and began shooting it like a pro. When shooting the Tavor X95, you cannot forget that you are shooting a bullpup. There are a few downsides for those who are not familiar with a bullpup design. For example, reloads are slower than conventional magazine changes and the bolt release is in an awkward spot on the bottom of the stock.
While we did not have any problems, I would imagine that for some, the design might make it difficult to clear malfunctions or unload the rifle. However, this doesn’t mean that this “average joe” shooter and his friends could not adjust and quickly use the rifle. In fact, across the board, it only took each person a few minutes and a quick orientation. The X95 was just as easy to shoot and use as any other rifle on the range.
Certainly, this rifle is not for everyone. However, if you’re looking for a bullpup or simply want to get into a new rifle before the everchanging political winds shift, the X95 may be just what you need.
Are you a bullpup fan? How does the IWI Tavor X95 rank for you compared to other semi-automatic rifles? Share your answers in the comment section.
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I have a new X-95 and lov it owned Aug,AR,AK,SKS,FNFAL etc….. and 95 seems to me to be so far right there with the AR’s.Iron sights on mine were right on at 100yds. On 600yd. range at 400yds. scope 6 power I would not stand up if somebody was shooting at me.62gr. BTHP and 55gr.FMJ both hit man size target. This is one great rifle wish we had them in Nam in 68. Covn. kits for 9mm/300Blackout will have to look in to real soon before the loons in D.C. go complete nuts or GOD help us the Jackasses get control of congress.
I purchased an x95 for christmas. My second outing i had a jam that was hard to clear. 20 rounds later with less than 100 rounds through it, it jammed so tight i had to send it to iwi. They blamed the ammo in the first 2 minuites of the call before i sent it in. 3 other ar’s had no issues with same ammo. After they received the x95 back, they still blame the ammo. Im waiting to get my $1600 paperweight back now. Of course its not “their fault”. Im sure the ammo manufacturer will blame the gun. Customer service was all about laying blame on someone else.
I’ve had similar issues with steel cased ammo but I was able to jam the casing out with a cleaning rod. As a side note I’ve used brass ammo since (like wolf brass case) and I’ve had zero issues since. To be fair I’ve had the same stove pipe issues with steel case in everything but the AK platform rifles as well. Hope it all works out for you
I have the original Tavor and absolutely love it. But I’ve been seriously eye balling the x95 and even more so the newer SBR version with the 13″ barrel being the reviews I’ve read still shave decent amounts of muzzle velocity as opposed to a 10.5 AR platform rifle. Being an owner of many AR platforms, AK, FAL, etc I find the bullpups to be superb rifles for all most any scenario I can think of. The SBR version would likely become my truck/backpack go-to after either throwing a trijicon 4x or aimpoint and magnifier. One other point I’d say is it’s a very stable platform in my opinion. If you employee the Israeli method of 7 points of contact it’s just very stable. Any way short concise and good review and I’d highly recommend this rifle to anyone.
Try one in 9mm. More fun than a box of puppies. Bought mine two months ago. Had a couple of kind of slow feeds in the first ten rounds then ran three hundred without a hiccup. I love this thing. Added a Sig Romeo 5 for sighting … it’s hard to put down.
I have the X95 and the only draw back I have with it, it has been in laying in my vault for a couple of years now and it has not killed any body, I mean not one single person has been shot with it. I thought about sending it back to the factory and getting it checked out but they would just tell me that guns don’t kill people, people kill people.
Sure be glad when our law makers learn that.
I like the bullpup design; same barrel length in a shorter, handier package. Don’t know why they aren’t as wildly popular as the ARs. However, being an arthritic old, fat, guy 7.9 lbs is more than I want to tote; I’m looking at the Kel-Tec SU-16 CA model which is nearly 2 lbs lighter and, not incidentally, about half the price and still has a very manageable overall length. They have gotten very favorable reviews and have some neat features like a forend that converts to a bipod. Plus, with 2-10 round mags in the buttstock and two thirty-rounders clamped together you have 80 rounds of ammo RIGHT ON THE GUN! The only thing missing is a way to attach a modern combat-style sling to the front of the gun-shame no one has come up with that yet.