I think the M&P 45's are some of the softest shooting 45's around. I normally shoot and carry a 1911, have and shoot a Glock 21 and bought M1.0 full sized and M1.0 compact M&P 45's. To me the M&P recoil impulse is just smoother. The grip of the M&P 45's isn't as squarish as a Glock and the size is slightly fuller than a 1911. I really like my Shield 45 also and it is beginning to share daily carry duties with my Micro 1911 45.