Originally posted by APismoClam:
I don't mean to be a ding-dong-the-witch-is-dead party-pooper, but the mag drop problems that have been experienced by some with the M&P pistols are real, and their owners are understandably upset about it, especially due to the fact that the problem still isn't fixed after multiple trips back to S&W for repair.
My personal experience with the M&P pistol line has been cursed by the mag drop problem on all three of my (former) M&P pistols (40, 40C and 9C). After sending my pistols back two times each for mag dropping, I had enough and gave up. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love the M&P's ergonomics and simplicity of design. That makes my disappointment of my expectations for the gun even stronger.
I've come to the following conclusions regarding the M&P pistol design, regarding the design of the mag catch specifically:
1. The mag catch spring is too weak and offers too little resistance to inadvertent actuation.
2. It's all too easy to just bump the mag catch button and have the mag pop out under recoil, due to an unprotected mag release button (not flush with the frame) and to minimal engagement area between the mag catch tooth and the cutout in the magazine. I can "bump" the mag catch button on my XD pistols until the cows come home, but the mags stay put.
3. The mag to mag-well tolerances are too sloppy and the mag just flops around inside, providing an even greater chance the mag will disengage from the mag catch, especially on the compacts.
To all those who claim their M&P is "problem free", I am anxious to know if your M&P pistols (40, 9, 40C or 9C) are free of any or all of the three characteristics listed above.