Took the vtac out for its first range trip today. 150 rounds with no issues whatsoever. I found that the sights weren't distracting, and we're very user friendly. I personally like the deep notch and while they didn't produce match accuracy (probably my fault as well), the were certainly minute-of-bad guy. This gun is quickly becoming one of my favorites. I will say I am a little concerned about the finish. It doesn't appear to be all that durable. I hate that because the weapon finish is very nice and adds some flair. But my guns work and don't spend a lot of time in the safe, so not overly concerned with a little character, just surprised to see wear already. I would also like to track down a small pro backstrap to break up the FDE. I can't find one for sale anywhere. Does anyone have any ideas? I would also like input from other vtac owners.

I'm a newb to the M&P line up so I'll apologize upfront for the newb question...are the Pro series backstraps different than the standard versions?

If not Speed Shooters Specialites has both small FDE and black in stock.

I'm waiting for my VTAC to get in. Seems the early PVD wear comment is pretty standard...shame. I'd think kydex would increase the wear vs. leather...or leather lined (Garrett Industries).

Not so far as I know, the Pro Series backstrap has a more aggressive stippling job though.

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Take your time, fast. J.Hughes

Hello there. Saw this thread and I couldn't help but make a suggestion. I prefer "markers" on my firearms or something that will allow me to quickly be able to differentiate my firearm and magazines from those of other students who attend tactical courses. Although the VTAC is uncommon as far as the S&W M&P's go (at least from my experience), I still insist on having a marker on it so in the event that I am shooting alongside a fellow student that happens to have the same gun (and has good taste in tactical firearms), I can know immediately which firearm is mine in the event I need to set my firearm down. So I think your Pro backstrap method will serve a double purpose. As far as where to find a Pro backstrap... bud, your guess is as good as mine. However, I would like to suggest that you look at the Hogue M&P backstrap. I have one on my VTAC9 and I love it to death. It was cheap, feels great, and in the event I need to set my firearm down while I'm being taught (I will forever be a student) I will be able to determine which pistol is mine at a glance. I shall include a picture of my current setup. Sorry for the long response but just felt like I'd add my thoughts.

Pistol: S&W M&P9 VTAC (9mm) (manufactured in Oct. 2013)
Grip: Hogue M&P (Olive Drab)
Holster: Bravo Concealment RTT (FDE) (mag holster not shown)
Holster: Glocktech MIC (Olive Drab)

Attached Images

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Keep an eye on that sucker (grip). They tend to loosen up over time and depending on what you're using the M&P for (range/play vs. duty/SD) it could fail you at the wrong time.

I've seen the hogues completely come off a Glock during weapons retention drills many times. Our agency eventually 'banned' the use of any slip-on style grips.

Jiman, this grip can't fall off because it replaces the backstrap on the M&P. It wraps around the pistol grip but also replaces whatever backstrap you have on. Once you have placed the Hogue M&P backstrap/grip on, you replace the takedown tool that locks it in place, just as you would with the stock backstraps. It is a royal pain in the *** to install but is totally worth it. But make sure you get the Hogue backstrap/grip for the M&P because they also make them for the Springfield XD's (and it replaces the backstrap on those firearms as well). I highly recommend these backstrap/grips. I've attended many a tactical course and have never had a problem. In fact, others that use M&Ps ask me where I bought mine because they want one for themselves.

That's interesting. Cool.

Finger grooves were never my taste, but the concept is very innovative for sure.

Learn something new everyday