So a few months back I abandoned my department issue Glock 23C in favor of an M&P 9FS (after I got the Chief to approve a policy change). So far it has been a very good decision on my part and I really like the M&P. Now I am thinking I need to "upgrade" that to an M&P 45. So the question is; do I get the full gripped mid-size model or do I get the compact. I have handled both and both fit my hand just fine. While I know this is really a just a question of opinion, I figure it can't hurt to get your feedback. Besides, I will probably just end up with both of them eventually.
Midsize or Compact M&P45 for duty?
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bloodlord77
Member
I have the 45 midsize
I've put about 200 rounds through it at the range. The accuracy is phenomenal. My experience ,thus far, has been completely positive. 2 inch "3 shot" groups at 15 yards, which for me is excellent.
The 45 mid, and 45c have the same 4" barrel so it pretty much depends on which grip you prefer. I don't like grip extensions on magazines, and i like a full grip, so for me the midsize model was the one to go with. hope that helps.
I've put about 200 rounds through it at the range. The accuracy is phenomenal. My experience ,thus far, has been completely positive. 2 inch "3 shot" groups at 15 yards, which for me is excellent.
The 45 mid, and 45c have the same 4" barrel so it pretty much depends on which grip you prefer. I don't like grip extensions on magazines, and i like a full grip, so for me the midsize model was the one to go with. hope that helps.
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chuck s
Member
If you're carrying in a holster the grip size is of no consequence but magazine capacity is.
-- Chuck
-- Chuck
I agree with Woodlark... I'd get the compact that way you can conceal... and then if you pick up the other gun you have more options. I want to get the 45c, I have heard quite a few people say it's very accurate and a soft shooting 45... You can't go wrong with a S&W!
I agree with Woodlark... I'd get the compact that way you can conceal... and then if you pick up the other gun you have more options. I want to get the 45c, I have heard quite a few people say it's very accurate and a soft shooting 45... You can't go wrong with a S&W!
You agreed with me but gave him exactly the opposite advice from what I meant. I was saying I saw no reason at all for him to get the compact. BTW, I have the midsize and conceal it with no problem.
DanWales
Member
Grip
I haven't shot but about 100 rds through my .45C. But so far it feels pretty nice the little finger curls right under the mag just kinda feels like a natural deal to me. I haven't shot one or held one with a extended mag yet.
I'm waiting on a apex kit to help this gravel road. Should be really sweet when I get that done.
Dan
I haven't shot but about 100 rds through my .45C. But so far it feels pretty nice the little finger curls right under the mag just kinda feels like a natural deal to me. I haven't shot one or held one with a extended mag yet.
I'm waiting on a apex kit to help this gravel road. Should be really sweet when I get that done.
Dan
I went and handled both of them today. Both feel good in the hand and I can get all my fingers on the compact with the extended base-pad. I should have added that I am a supervisor/administrator and probably spend 50% of my week at a desk (plain clothes) and 50% out and about (plain clothes and semi-uniformed). Needless to say I think my first thought was right all along; get them both. But I believe I will start with the mid-size. That doesn't mean I don't want any additional feedback or pictures. 
I had a full size M&P 45 and even with my big hands I thought the grip to be a little large. I then bought a Compact and felt the grip size was perfect. I don't think you could go wrong with either, or do as suggeted above and buy both. I'm glad to see S&W coming back into the LE market strongly since they use to own said market when revolvers were king. I've owned a few Glocks and feel that the M&P is a superior pistol.
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Reading your last post, I would go for the compact. Maybe carry a full size magazine or two for backup.
I had one and foolishly sold it. I will be buying another.
The compact is compact for a 45 auto. But by other standards it's really not that small of a gun. I think it will serve you well.
I had one and foolishly sold it. I will be buying another.
The compact is compact for a 45 auto. But by other standards it's really not that small of a gun. I think it will serve you well.
LAYGO
Member
I love my 45c, but if I could carry OWB, I'd have the fullsize! Start w/the FS & move to the C.
I'm going to be purchasing a M or FS .40 & do the 9mm conversion on it.
I'm going to be purchasing a M or FS .40 & do the 9mm conversion on it.
