Back in 2006 I went to a local GS to purchase a Glock 17. Having previously owned and loving a Gen-1 G17 I had no doubts another was the gun for me. I told the salesman I wanted a Glock 17. He mentioned there were a couple of other options including the Springfield XD and the M&P9. I first looked at the XD. I did not care for it. The sights set high and it just didn’t “float my boat”. Next he handed me the Smith & Wesson M&P9. I slid it into my right hand, stood with a two-handed grip….WOW! It felt fantastic. I proceeded to check out the Glock 17 however even though it cost $20 more than the Glock I purchased the M&P9. I have not regretted it.
This is not a review of the M&P rather it’s just a report on my experience with it. I’ve shot it fast and slow. I’ve shot it in sweltering heat and frigid temperatures. I’ve shot it clean and I’ve shot it dirty. I’ve gone several hundred rounds between cleanings. It has never….ever…failed to go bang when intended.
Over the course of these past 10 years 6 magazines have been used randomly. Every imaginable type of ammunition has been used except for reloads and steel cased. Over 4,000 rounds are estimated to have been fired. Reliability has been simply outstanding.
The trigger smoothed out noticeably after 1000 rounds or so and feels similar to the new M&P9 2.0 recently released.
The Melonite finish has held up nicely. I can see a little wear/discoloration on the front of the slide. I am assuming this is from many holster presentations.
Over the last 10 years I’ve been introduced to many defensive pistols and the Smith & Wesson M&P9 continues to be my favorite. I plan to get the 2.0 this summer as it has everything I like about the M&P9 plus some minor – but welcomed – improvements.
I’ve seen the gen 1 M&P’s on sale for under $500. Good deal and highly recommended.
Rourke