Planning in the next couple weeks to buy a new Smith. I have owned a few and have the new Shield in 9 (LOVE IT!!).

This new gun will be a range toy and will replace my current Ruger SR40. I have played with both the M&P and the SD40VE and really like them both quite well. The SD40VE was really light weight and the slide was effortless it seemed, but the low cost kinda scares me considering I SHOOT my guns. Meaning, this gun will NOT be a safe queen, it will go to the range and be shot REGULARLY.

I have not shot EITHER of these and have no way to do so (no rentals in my area). I want to hear from folks on how accurate they are, functionality (a must!!!) and longevity of each gun in comparison. Short and sweet is ok

Thanks!!

DR

The new model SD40VE from everything I heard are great guns for the price point. There used to be real gripes about the cheaper S&W semi-autos but the SD40VE and SD9VE are gtg.

Any M&P is going to be a better firearm but comes with the additional cost.

You should watch this link. Hickock45 put the SD9VE to the test.
Smith & Wesson SD9VE - YouTube

I'd go with the M&P, either full size or compact for easier concealment. I personally own a Sigma 40VE & it's a great gun except for the trigger which really doesn't bother me a whole lot as it's carried for self defense. If you ever shot a Glock 23 the Sigma & its new reincarnation the SD is very similar - again, except for the trigger. I have a later Sigma which is improved over the earlier ones & I assume the SD is an improvement over that. I feel that the price difference between SD & M&P must be for a reason besides my buddy wants to buy my Sigma for exactly what I paid for it.

At this time I have an M&P 40C on order & waiting for delivery. Any complaint you've hear about the M&P trigger can be somewhat disregarded because the ones manufactured in '13 have been improved. The ones I've shot are fine by me & at least almost as good as my old Glock but a bit heavier. Some people still claim that they feel gritty, especially when new. In any event triggers on M&P or SD can be improved with trigger kits like the Apex. I've even heard S&W will make improvements at a cost of about $150 which is not included as normal warranty work but as a factory authorized modification. That would be my recommendation because I'm not sure non-authorized trigger modifications wouldn't negate the factory warrant. That's about the same price as the Apex give or take. You might like the M&P trigger right out of the box. Many do.

__________________
Former USN, Retired US Army

Yeah, if both are options, I would choose the M&P. I prefer an all black pistol and the ergonomics are better. And I like to dress mine up a little so you have more options (stippled grips, lights, holsters, etc).

__________________
It's harder if you're stupid

M&P, hands down... you won't regret it. I'd be willing to bet, that over time, you'd end up selling the SD

__________________
82nd Airborne Div 1980-1986

Love the Stock Trigger

__________________
82nd Airborne Div 1980-1986

Well having a Shield and SD40VE, I must say, I love them both. Which do I prefer to shoot, it's a toss up. Just depends on what day it is. Concealabity, I don't even need to answer. Reliability, the same. The VE is a less expensive gun (read; not cheap). I trust my life with it. The M&Ps are nice too. If it is a thing about money, you won't have problems with the VE. But if you can save up, M&P. But please don't take that to mean the VE is junk because it really is a nice gun. And just about all the M&P holsters fit the VE, also sights too.

If you like to shoot the M&P has more to offer. There's quite a lot more in terms of accessories, parts and customization options. The M&P is deffinately worth the price diffrence. I suggest you go with the M&P. You can't go wrong with the M&P in any caliber either, especially the M&P40.

As to durability and longevity, I use Sigmas for loaners and trainers, and compete in USPSA and IDPA with an M&P: you can shoot the snot out of either without a worry, as neither are fragile.

The M&P is more refined, and naturally costs more. If you can afford it, it is seldom a mistake to go first class, but both are very rugged and come with the identical lifetime warranty. Go ahead and wear one out, if you can shoot that much!

__________________
Science plus Art

I came quite close to purchasing a new 40VE for like $350 on sale. After a little research I settled on a 40c. It's my dual purpose. For CCW with its 10round mag, it conceals quite nicely for me. At night I load a full size 15 round magazine and a Streamlight TLR-4 laser/light combo. I'm one happy M&P owner.

Love my SD40 VE carry it daily Shoot it weekly. I have been wanting to buy an M&P but waiting for ammo and mags to become available again.

I dont think you will be disappointed in the SD at all

I hate the stock trigger Plus, I purchased an APEX DCAEK at the same time I bought my NIB Shield 40 at a LGS, and the install was free.

__________________
Shield40&9C w/ApexDCAEK/TFO's

What's the trigger pull# on the SD40VE? My local Academy have them for around $350. Does S&W make an SD45VE?

__________________
Shield40&9C w/ApexDCAEK/TFO's

I can do either. I'm going to "play" with the M&P more tomorrow. The SD40VE was just very pleasing to my hands and eyes. I kinda figured the M&P would be more refined.

Anyone on accuracy between the two?

DR

On the average I would say around #8, but I've had them come in with as high as #12 triggers.

No 45ve.

3

Appreciate the reply. Good info! Guess I'll stay away from the VE since 8-12 pull# on a S/A ain't my thing. Unless, an Apex DCAEK that it brings it down to under 6# pull is available?

__________________
Shield40&9C w/ApexDCAEK/TFO's

Stock Pull is about 8 poounds however APEX sells a trigger spring kit that brings it down to 5.5 or so.

Unfortunately NO they do not make an SD45 I wish they would though.

Went shopping, toyed with both for a long while. Decided on the SD40VE in my picture below. I really liked the lesser weight, smoother easier slide, and the 1" less length length and easier conceal carry if I choose to do so. These factors were just too much to overcome versus the M&P. I liked it too!!! Trust me I did. Money started out not playing a factor but the REAL DEAL I got on the SD forced it into partial play, but not much really. I got out the door brand spankin new for $335 COMPLETE taxes and all. Gosh guys, that was a bargin on a gun I truely liked really well. At that cost I can apex the trigger if I choose and still be way way off the MP. The length and weight was the real deal in my decision. Here she is!!! Not fired yet, waiting now on the mailman to bring some Talon Grips to me for her and then range bound. Special thanks to all that replied. You were all a great help.

It really is a nice gun. Don't think you'll be disappointed.

Tore down-field stripped-my new toy this evening. Manual asked I do that, and its done. Really didnt need it though from what I seen it was pretty clean already. Had a little dirt here and there, but the barrel was filthy inside. Had to bronze brush and hoppe's it several times. Laid in a fresh coat of oil in the barrel, and all metal parts, then wiped dry. Added the 6 suggested drops of oil in the proper places per manual and she is ready for the range once my Talon Grips arrive and I cut them to fit.

Didnt really see a big cleaning before shooting need, other than the barrels interior.

I think this is going to be a really sweet firearm, very pleased so far. I did find some tooling marks on the outer slide in between the ridges only in one spot...kinda gives it character and makes it personal since im sure no other has the exact same marks.

Cant wait to put the 1st brick through her!

M&P all the way, no regrets!!

drinva,
Enjoy that SD40VE! I bought an earlier SW40VE (Allied Edition) because it was all black melonite and Brand new was $318. Here in Mass it came with ATROCIOUS 10-12 pound trigger. After about $55 for the gunsmith to put better springs in it, I have a gun that is a joy to shoot for hundreds less than a Glock (puke) and no less reliable AFAIC.....
Congratulations!

Thanks smith61!

So far we are 400+ down the pipe and it has been flawless. Really like it.

DR

I have 2 M&P 40c and a SW40VE and now you guys have me wanting an SD, especially after seeing the video. I really like the SW40VE for what it is, but I think I might love the SD40.

Sent from my Tesla coil

You have to ask what corners does S&W cut to be able to sell the SD for $200 less than the M&P? GARY

Corners cut:

Trigger
Sights
Less barrel and length

That should about cover it.

DR