For some time I have been shooting M&P pistols (9, 40, & 45) with Apex mods (two with Apex hard sears, all three with Apex universal striker block mod) and two SD pistols, a 9 and a 40. Each is a little different in its trigger feel, length and weight, but I get used to each one quickly after a couple of rounds. The two SD's (9 and 40) feel almost exactly alike, and there are no mods to them. One of the M&Ps has Warren tactical sights, all of the rest are standard sights.

I have been enjoying the .40's the most, using hand-loaded Rainier 165 gr and 180 gr copper-washed bullets and anywhere from 5.5 to 6.5 grains of AA#5 or 5.4 - 5.6 grains of Unique, and today was no different. The slightly larger loads were a bit snappier -- still less than factory loads -- and tended to be more accurate (that is, the softer loads shoot high, while the stiffer loads shoot to point of aim -- go figure).

All in all, using my variety of hand loads, my S&W's function flawlessly, and did so again today through about 400 rounds (I load in sets of 50). The M&P's give a lot to rave about -- the triggers are fairly light with the Apex hard sear and USB (aka the DCAEK kit) -- which increases accuracy potential. However, the SD's are the surprise favorite. The ergonomics, for me anyway, are excellent, and they seem to come right up on target every time. The trigger is a bit longer but compared to the lighter triggers of my particular modified M&Ps, seem to me what you would want for a self-defense weapon.

A note on cost -- over the past two years -- the most expensive of the M&P's was in the mid $500's, the lowest in the mid-400's, while the latest acquisition, the SD40, was $320 (plus $25 FFL fee) delivered. Some older pistols with well-respected brand names collected over the years were sold off to get this family of pistols from S&W. I really don't think I am going to buy any other pistols in the future.

Sounds like a pretty impressive collection you have going there. I really enjoy my Apex upgraded M&P's but when I did a T&E with an SD9 I was surprised at how quickly it grew on me. I think it feels a little more slim than the M&P and the grip has a little more of a "one size fits all" thing going. Either way it's hard to go wrong with a Smith.

I have a SD-9 with about 700 rounds through it. It has been flawless as well. It took a little while to get used to trigger but once I did it has been alot of fun at range. I would not hesitate to buy one again.

I agree with your observations. Especially the long pull of the SD trigger. Its not bad, its not hard and its not heavy. It just takes a few rounds to adjust and it shoots great. No harder to shoot accurately and fast than a Glock. I've been carrying one on a regular basis. Love that grip feel!

Out
West

The SD must be the most under-rated, under-appreciated pistol out there. Yet it has a top quality finish, is very reliable, and is accurate. Must be that it costs too little to get a lot of attention!

I've added a small piece of "grip tape" (actually 3M floor/stair safety tape from Lowe's/Home Depot) to the front strap, with a very small patch of tape under my thumb on side of the grip). Makes an excellent grip shape and texture just a little bit better.

It seems like there are not very many people that own the SDs. I'm very happy with mine especially since I got a KILLER deal on it. I have had absolutely 0 hiccups with my SD40. 0. When I first bought it I took it strait to the range and fired it without cleaning it. Put 250 rounds through it with no issues. I've since fired it several more times with constant cleaning and oiling and have still not had any issues.

This gun has a great price and a great feel. I want to get some Pachmayr grips for it. I'm hoping the sigma grips fit it.

I wonder why it's not a very popular firearm...

I like mine to the point where I would buy another one that was two tone -- silver top -- just for the looks of it. Or if they made one in .357 Sig...

I have several M&Ps -- Apexed up to one degree or another -- and they are great. Somehow, I like the $320 SD more...