I'm looking for your opinion on what the best style Semi-Auto for production/limited class Steel Challenge would be. I only shoot small local stuff now but intend on spreading out into USPSA. I currently use a 4.25" M&P9. I was looking into an M&P 5" Pro Series but wonder if a 1911 would be a better choice. Being ignorant and just learning, I could use all the advice I could get.

I change back and forth from an m&p pro and a 1911 depending on what I have for reloads. You can't goering with either for steel but for usps shoots I prefer the m&p. Pins are 1911 work.

I got my A rating using a basically stock Glock 21 with watered down .45 ACP handloads using a cast 200 gr. RF meant for cowboy action shooting. I use the 3.5 connector and at the time I was using a fiber optic front sight. I think the fiber optic sight was the key for me. I always used the IDPA legal Blade Tech holster and the shorter gun came out of the holster and on target much quicker for me. Funny thing is I was always faster and more accurate with my revolvers but I was losing a tremendous amount of time on the draw with the longer barrels and the conventional holster. I always refused to get a speed holster and used my IDPA and USPSA Production legal holsters. I don't know where you are in PA but the PA Steel League puts on great matches. I would join if it weren't for my work schedule.

Dave Sinko

I appreciate the response Dave, and although I'm not getting a Glock, i had been thinking a fiber optic front site would be helpful as a replacement on my M&P. I may pick up on this week.

As far as the PA Steel League, I live less then a mile from the Burlington-Bristol Bridge north of Bensalem. Someone else mentioned the league to me and I looked into it but most events are quite a drive for me. Before I undertake those matches I think its best to stay within a 1hr max drive for me.

One question though, What's a 3.5 connector?

The 3.5 connector is simply a replacement part that provides a slightly lighter trigger pull for the Glock pistols. The difference is not very significant. There are similar aftermarket parts for the M&P. I know Dillon sells them. I refuse to use any parts that require the use of the more sensitive Federal primers exclusively.

The PA Steel League is a great experience if you have the time to shoot the required number of matches. I can't do it with my work schedule or else I would.

Dave Sinko

I couldn't put in the time or the travel miles to do that whole series. Just to far of drives all the time. Sad, I wish there were more around here.

Pa STEEL LEAUGE MATCH JUNE 30th @ guthsville rod and gun. About an hour from you near Allentown not far from turnpike give it a try. Hope to see ya there!

I will consider it and see whats going on that weekend. Thanks for the heads up and I will ask around for you if I come up.

You might want to check out Brian Enos' forum.

If you like the M&P shape/grip, then I would say go for the 5" pro. My second choice would be the Glock 34. The full size you have will work just fine also...yes a front fiber optic sight would help...along with a good trigger job and holster.

I've shot a lot of Steel Challenge with my FS9 with Trijicon HD Sights.

If you want a dedicated competition gun, get an M&P Pro 5". You will be good to go.

Some people go for Apex trigger upgrades. I find the stock trigger just fine.

Competition shooting is addictive, soon you will find your way into IDPA and USPSA matches. A M&P Pro is a great place to start in these games too. These matches also have specific divisions that require different gun than the Pro. You will be able to try other shooters guns to get a feel before you buy.

Have fun...

Owning both the std length M&P and a pair of Pro's, I would offer that the 3/4" barrel length difference between your current gun and the pro is in the weeds and on it's own doesn't justify the "upgrade". What gives the pro the edge is the FO front sight and (greatly) improved trigger. Both of these can be added to your current gun for under $100.
As for a 1911, as much as I love mine, I find the M&P simpler to master for gun games as it has no thumb and beavertail safety to fumble.

That said, let it NEVER be said that I EVER talked anybody out of a new gun purchase. if you want either a M&P pro or a new 1911, I'd recommend you buy both and sort out the differences for yourself. :-0

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Dave

I have to disagree. That 3/4" barrel does make a difference. But is that enough of a differnce to pay for a new gun...only you can answer that question.

If you had a choice, which one to buy for Steel Challenge,,, Would it be a 4 1/4 or 5 inch? If someone was just starting out and is looking to buy a gun for that purpose?

"Best" is subjective. What works for one person, may not work with another.

Jerry Miculek makes a revolver look pretty competitive, but few people can shoot at his level.

Find a gun that is an extension of your hand, one that points naturally.

I have the M&P 9 full size (purchased a few months ago). One of the first things I did was order a Novak adjustable rear with a matched fiber optic front blade the improvement was great...once you get to used to seeing that really bright spot sitting up front. I've played with the idea of getting a lighter trigger, but I'm waiting till I feel the original trigger is fully "broken in".