M&P 9 Full Size for CC/Home Defense?

[TeleGuy53]

i cant speak for long distance but considering these are more of a defensive handgun seems for what they are made to do they can do quite well..

I've only had my FS since summer but hundreds of rounds with zero issue so far should account for something.

Seems I've read that SW did some upgrades to the compact and FS models over the past year or two on barrels, etc...

Hmmm... Your results at 8 & 10 yards look good, Ranger17 - and you make a good point about accuracybeing measured at combat distances. I guess the term "tack driver" doesn't apply to the M&P9 FS. I read a story where a woman was hitting a steel plate at 80 yards with her M&P9 Shield; I figured that the M&P9 FS should be able to duplicate that feat.

Zero issues over 100's of rounds sounds good, so it gets plus for reliability, too.

"SW did some upgrades on barrels, etc."; now, that doesn't give me any warm fuzzies.

 

[TeleGuy53]

This thread has a good set of posts by Randy Lee of Apex on FS9 accuracy:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/smith-wesson-m-p-pistols/451019-accuracy-coming-apex-m-p-barrels.html

I'm new to the world of pistols, so I'm reading and listening and asking alot of questions, trying to get educated, in order to not make a bad decision on my first gun.

One thing that I don't want to do is dump more money into a new gun. It seems that gun makers should get it right out-of-the-box, or am I expecting too much?

 

[Bkreutz]

I read a story where a woman was hitting a steel plate at 80 yards with her M&P9 Shield; I figured that the M&P9 FS should be able to duplicate that feat.

And you believed that story? Oh right, it was on the internet so it must be true.

 

[alleycat7002]

Jerry m of smith doing it at 200 yards

 

[Llando88]

One thing that I don't want to do is dump more money into a new gun. It seems that gun makers should get it right out-of-the-box, or am I expecting too much?

In that case, I'd get a Glock, or a P320, or a Walther PPQ, or an HK VP9.

Then start spending money on ammo and training.

 

[TeleGuy53]

In that case, I'd get a Glock, or a P320, or a Walther PPQ, or an HK VP9.

Then start spending money on ammo and training.

Here's my thinking: If a bullet can travel a straight line for 100 yards, then it would have travelled the same straight line for combat distances and beyond (supposing that combat distances are +/- 50 feet).

A bullet is hitting off center target at 20-30 feet isn't very reassuring. So I guess I would prefer what is commonly called a "tack driver"?

The HK VP9 is too pricey for a first gun, and probably more gun than I need; the others re within my willingess to spend.

 

[ClayCow]

Here's my thinking: If a bullet can travel a straight line for 100 yards, then it would have travelled the same straight line for combat distances and beyond (supposing that combat distances are +/- 50 feet).

A bullet is hitting off center target at 20-30 feet isn't very reassuring. So I guess I would prefer what is commonly called a "tack driver"?

The HK VP9 is too pricey for a first gun, and probably more gun than I need; the others re within my willingess to spend.

No offense here but I dont think you have any idea what youre talking about?

If think even hi points shoot accurately to a close enough MOA at 20 to 30 ft and even 50ft. If youre shooting off center at thosr distancrs its most likely your shooting with todays pistols not the gun.

 

[TeleGuy53]

No offense here but I dont think you have any idea what youre talking about?

Perhaps not - that's why the question gets asked. I'm new to this game, so my knowledge and familiarity with performance is not that of a seasoned veteran.

That said, these posts ought to be edifying, not condescending and inflammatory. Such responses do little to further the cause of gaining knowledge...

 

[Llando88]

Here's my thinking: If a bullet can travel a straight line for 100 yards, then it would have travelled the same straight line for combat distances and beyond (supposing that combat distances are +/- 50 feet).

A bullet is hitting off center target at 20-30 feet isn't very reassuring. So I guess I would prefer what is commonly called a "tack driver"?

The HK VP9 is too pricey for a first gun, and probably more gun than I need; the others re within my willingess to spend.

When you can consistently place 10 rounds of SD ammo in a 4" average group on a B-8 repair center 2 hand unsupported at 25 yards, this will all be true. Otherwise, the margin of error induced by the shooter will dwarf the potential mechanical accuracy of the gun, by an order of magnitude.

My humble opinion that you should pick any good, service pistol that your shoot comfortably, and take quality training to get better at shooting it.

Then, buy training ammo. By the case. Join IDPA or USPSA. Shoot Steel Challenge.

The M&P Full Size 9 will meet your needs, out of the box. Other options out there will also. I've mentioned a few. All of them will work. All of them will shoot inaccurately if the shooter makes an error. The gun will be way more accurate than the typical new shooter.

Oh, and my VP9 was $599 out the door in March. This was the normal sales price at my LGS.

Good luck.

 

[TeleGuy53]

The M&P Full Size 9 will meet your needs, out of the box. Other options out there will also. I've mentioned a few. All of them will work. All of them will shoot inaccurately if the shooter makes an error. The gun will be way more accurate than the typical new shooter.

Good luck.

I DO like the M&P 9 full size, especially the price. What I don't like is what I read about the barrel issues. Have you heard of any recent issues with the M&P 9 full size?

Thanks, Llando88.

 

[Llando88]

M&P 9 Full Size for CC/Home Defense?

I DO like the M&P 9 full size, especially the price. What I don't like is what I read about the barrel issues. Have you heard of any recent issues with the M&P 9 full size?



Thanks, Llando88.

Not that would prevent me buying one.

As an owner, there is a lot I like about the M&P. Squeeze = Bang. Comfortable ergonomics. Great customer service. Good aftermarket support for parts, sights, holsters, mag carriers. Accurate enough. Simple manual of arms.

 

[Bkreutz]

Jerry m of smith doing it at 200 yards

Yes, but he's not human, everyone knows that.

 

[walkin' trails]

TelGuy53, the 9FS will work well for both home defense and concealed carry. The grip angle, interchangeable back straps, low bore axis, and a trigger that will smooth out after firing all contribute it's appeal. I have a 45FS, a 9FS, and a 9c. I used to carry the 45 all the time even when off the clock even when I had a Glock 27 because the 45 handled better. I carried it in a Milt Sparks Summer Special II, which is one of the most time-enduring designs because it is comfortable as well concealing the pistol quite well. I now carry the 9FS concealed in a Milt Sparks OWB backed up by a 9c on my ankle. Off the clock, I mostly carry the 9c anymore. A 9c is a decent pistol for concealed carry, but my opinion is based on experience with a lot of handguns over the years. With decent gunleather and realistic expectations that includes attire, there is no reason a full size pistol cannot work as a daily concealed carry gun.


My advice to you is to go with what you keep leaning toward - the M&P 9FS. When the gun comes home, read the instruction manual first, then clean and lubricate it according to the instructions. Don't try to shoot it dry or you'll run the risk of malfunctions that may turn you off to that model. Next, outfit the pistol for the mission. For concealed carry, you need good gunleather - sturdy belt to support a quality holster, either IWB or OWB. Inexpensive rigs or synthetics, in my experience, do not conceal as well as a quality, well-designed leather rig. You're the one who has to wear it, however, so you have to shop around. Custom leather makers such as Milt Sparks are a good investment in the long term. For home defense, you need to have a good light source to go with your gun. A bright handheld LED or weapon mounted light will work. Whichever one you choose is based on your experience and budget. For weapons mounted, I prefer Surefire because they dismount much quicker than a Streamlight TRL. Extra magazines can be acquired through retailers such as Quantico Tactical at reasonable prices. I'm not a big fan of a manual safety on a pistol not originally designed for one, so that has to be based on your preferences. After you get set with whatever pistol you buy, consider a second, even if the exact same make and model. There are variables you can't control that may leave you without a pistol available to you unless you run back to a gun shop.

Good luck with it.

 

[ClayCow]

Perhaps not - that's why the question gets asked. I'm new to this game, so my knowledge and familiarity with performance is not that of a seasoned veteran.

That said, these posts ought to be edifying, not condescending and inflammatory. Such responses do little to further the cause of gaining knowledge...

Well i didnt think my post was condescending? Thats why I said no offense and then explained why.

 

[dmar]

Guys, I'm doing my "due diligence" in the hope of purchasing a viable 9mm, semi-auto, striker-fired pistol, to be used for CC AND home defense. I am new to the pistol world and this will be my first pistol purchase.

I have researched and handled many of the popular options, but I seem to always come back to the M&P 9 full size pistol.

My question: Is the M&P 9 full size a good CC/home defense option for a first-time gun owner? If so, manual safety or NO manual safety?

Thanks for your insights, guys.

A lot of good information in the thread to chew on, and I'll try to give my perspective on your question. I don't think the M&P FS9 is your best option for both CC/HD. I think it would be a good choice for home defense, but to me, it's just too large for an all-around CC gun.

Sure, some guys pull it off, but you will end up not carrying the gun much because it's just too big. That is not a good CC situation! A good holster definitely helps (Milt Sparks VMII are great), but again, the FS9 is tough with light clothing. I'm tall and in shape, and it's still tough to conceal that size gun.

The guys telling you that you are better having the right tool for the job are correct. You'd be better off with two separate guns, or get a smaller one if you insist on having just one. An M&Pc just makes much more sense for a combined Cc/HD gun. Not the right forum to say this, but the Glock 19 is an excellent dual purpose choice, and the one I chose over the M&P. I still own the M&P, but it sits in my safe. I'd also choose a Glock 17 over the FS M&P...

You said the G19 was too small for you. Do you have huge ham-hands and it just doesn't work for you, or is it that you just prefer a little larger grip handle? I prefer a little larger grip myself, but make the smaller ones work in order to have a good concealed carry gun. I find with the G19, the grip is actually a decent size for how concealable the gun is... It really is a good size/firepower/CC combo.

As for safety, or no safety, IME it's all a matter of practicing with what you have; you can make anything work. For carry, I prefer no external safety. I usually go with a Glock or a DA/SA gun, but also carry a Colt Defender.

For nightstand/bedside gun, I believe an external safety is good option. With a CC, your gun is safely secured on just your body, in a holster, and trigger access is only possible when the weapon is drawn from the holster. This limits potential for AD, and provides the fastest shot without stumbling with a safety lever during a sudden encounter.

For HD, the gun is either sitting on your nightstand or in a drawer in your nightstand, either in a holster or just by itself/no holster. In this environment you need to either draw the gun from the holster with two hands, or reach for and grab the gun, possibly in the dark, possibly in a sleep-confused state. With a striker-fired gun, I would want the safety lever as a positive step to help ensure no ND. Picture fumbling around reaching for the gun n in a drawer, or on the dark, or pulling it out of the holster in an awkward two-handed style. Potential for having your finger go where you don't want it, when you don't want it is there... I suppose getting an M&P with a safety gives you the option of engaging the safety, or not.

Hey, different things work for different people, for a variety of reasons. There is not real "right," or "wrong" answers here, just different opinions from people that generally have experiences to back up those opinions. I always try to be open minded about really listening to those experiences.

Good luck with your choice, and post a picture!

 

[TeleGuy53]

TelGuy53, the 9FS will work well for both home defense and concealed carry. The grip angle, interchangeable back straps, low bore axis, and a trigger that will smooth out after firing all contribute it's appeal. I have a 45FS, a 9FS, and a 9c. I used to carry the 45 all the time even when off the clock even when I had a Glock 27 because the 45 handled better. I carried it in a Milt Sparks Summer Special II, which is one of the most time-enduring designs because it is comfortable as well concealing the pistol quite well. I now carry the 9FS concealed in a Milt Sparks OWB backed up by a 9c on my ankle. Off the clock, I mostly carry the 9c anymore. A 9c is a decent pistol for concealed carry, but my opinion is based on experience with a lot of handguns over the years. With decent gunleather and realistic expectations that includes attire, there is no reason a full size pistol cannot work as a daily concealed carry gun.


My advice to you is to go with what you keep leaning toward - the M&P 9FS. When the gun comes home, read the instruction manual first, then clean and lubricate it according to the instructions. Don't try to shoot it dry or you'll run the risk of malfunctions that may turn you off to that model. Next, outfit the pistol for the mission. For concealed carry, you need good gunleather - sturdy belt to support a quality holster, either IWB or OWB. Inexpensive rigs or synthetics, in my experience, do not conceal as well as a quality, well-designed leather rig. You're the one who has to wear it, however, so you have to shop around. Custom leather makers such as Milt Sparks are a good investment in the long term. For home defense, you need to have a good light source to go with your gun. A bright handheld LED or weapon mounted light will work. Whichever one you choose is based on your experience and budget. For weapons mounted, I prefer Surefire because they dismount much quicker than a Streamlight TRL. Extra magazines can be acquired through retailers such as Quantico Tactical at reasonable prices. I'm not a big fan of a manual safety on a pistol not originally designed for one, so that has to be based on your preferences. After you get set with whatever pistol you buy, consider a second, even if the exact same make and model. There are variables you can't control that may leave you without a pistol available to you unless you run back to a gun shop.

Good luck with it.

Lots of good stuff, here, walkin' trails. Thanks!

Of the guns that I named, the M&P9 DOES feel the best in my hands.

 

[TeleGuy53]

Well i didnt think my post was condescending? Thats why I said no offense and then explained why.

My bad, ClayCow. My apologies, sir.

 

[TeleGuy53]

Not the right forum to say this, but the Glock 19 is an excellent dual purpose choice, and the one I chose over the M&P...

I'd also choose a Glock 17 over the FS M&P...

I tried the Glock 19, but there's not enough room for my pinky finger, and the finger grooves in the grip don't hit my digits quite right.

The G17 is a much better fit in my hand, but I agree that it IS more than a bit larger.

 

[ClayCow]

You have some full sized hands. G43 with pearce grip fits ne perfextly

 

[Smoke]

I carry an FS 9 pretty much exclusively. I don't have any problem concealing it and I don't see it as all that heavy it I carried a 4006 (AKA The Brick) before I switched to the FS.

 

[Donn]

I've got all three, FS, Compact and Shield. You could CC a full size, but the 17rd mag gets heavy and the full size grip is not easy to conceal. If you wear layers, you can pull it off. When warm weather comes, the more clothes you shed, the tougher a FS is to cover up. Even the Compact can be difficult depending how you dress in the summer. That's how I wound up with a Shield. Regarding external safeties, they're a redundant component IMHO. You don't need one. YMMV.

 

[rock_castle]

The M&P 9C and Glock 19 are too small and don't feel right in my hand.

The HK VP9, Walther's and Sig P320 don't appeal to me.




Good advice.

You must have some big meat hooks! My hands are pretty big and the G19 isn't too small for me.

 

[S&W Fan]

I live in Colorado and now that the weather allows sweatshirts (I prefer the zipped kind) and jackets I'm back to my fs M&P 9. I carry it in a Galco Avenger and have no issues concealing it with one of these covering garments. I'm 5'9" and 180. I also carry 2 spare mags in a DeSantis double mag carrier. That's a 51 round load out but you never know when a mag will go bad lol.

For years I carried a full size 1911. I like the M&P, it's a 2013 model and no barrel issues what so ever. It's very accurate. I added Ameriglo I Dot night sights and the Apex duty/carry kit. I'm quite happy with it. It's also nearby when I'm home and where ever in the house I am.

 

[JJEH]

Nothing wrong with a FS M&P...

 

[aarontart]

I have both the full size and the compact and as much as I want to carry the full size I end up carrying the compact every day. I have several different holster that fit one of the other and some that fit both. Both are comfortable but the full size just feels like it is printing to me. That's just me and I love both of them so I don't think you could go wrong. The compact has become my sidekick since I bought it and it goes everywhere with me and stays in the nightstand as a back up to fullsize that wears a surefire x300u now.

 

[Trons]

I went through a similar process almost 2 years ago. Started at the FS because I had bought the M&P.22FS and the 9mm would compliment that. The more research I did, the more I started leaning towards the M&P9c. More research (and it going on sale) lead to the shield. I have a 870 in the house as well, but the Shield is my companion.

As far as "bad things happening during a mag swap." I've never pinched my hands and much to my surprise I'm actually more comfortable with the 7rd magazine than the 8 and I shoot better with it. My son, who loves to shoot and shoots better than me wouldn't touch the 7rd magazine when I first got it now won't touch the 8 and says he also prefers the 7.

For me, the reason for one gun was finances. I fully expect to buy another gun, but wasn't sure when I'd be able to afford it. For the price I got the shield, I couldn't pass it up. I'm just now starting to research my second pistol purchase, and am leaning towards a G19, but I expect that to be months away...maybe as many as 6. Too many kids to support a gun habit.

 

[Motorsporting]

In that case, I'd get a Glock, or a P320, or a Walther PPQ, or an HK VP9.

Then start spending money on ammo and training.

My PPQ had to go back to the shop after a few hundred rounds. None of my M&Ps have. All this means is what we've all said/read 100 times - anything mechanical can fail and have issues. There are no certainties.

 

[Mister X]

I tried the Glock 19, but there's not enough room for my pinky finger, and the finger grooves in the grip don't hit my digits quite right.

The G17 is a much better fit in my hand, but I agree that it IS more than a bit larger.

I always thought Glock 17 and M&P 9 FS were pretty much comparable in size.

I have carried my G17 on occasion. It's a little big for my carry preferences, but can definitely be done and it's one heck of a weapon. Awesome HD gun with optional 33 round OEM mags. Mas Ayoob is not a big guy, but carries full size Glocks all the time. Same with Gabe Suarez.

 

[PirateJim]

Mr. Teleguy53, no offense, but you are over analyzing. I'd suggest going ahead and getting the full size M&P. It will serve you admirably as a home defense gun and it is less expensive than some of the others you have been looking at. Buy a few holsters, IWB, OWB, maybe a shoulder holster, and try lugging the thing around. If you are lucky, or not too picky about exactly how concealed your concealed weapon is, you will be happy.

Or, if you decide carrying a full size duty pistol around is cumbersome and uncomfortable, no matter what holster you try, you can use the money saved on the original purchase to buy a Shield so you'll have a great home defense gun AND a great carry gun.

 

[TeleGuy53]

OK, took another ride to the LGS - held and dry-fired each of the guns named below.

My revised short list is now:

FNS-9
M&P 9 FS
Ruger SR9

All 3 are in the same ballpark, with regard to size, feature set and cost.

Do any of these suffer from known issues? Is there one which distinguishes itself over the others?

I hope to take advantage of Black Friday!