S&W 915 RECOIL

[chas1]

Guys i need your input, I recently aquired a model 915 to use as a home defense weapon, the question is do any of you have experience with this model and can let me know if the recoil is tolerable or is it similar to the Kel-tec p11 and kick like a mule? The reason i am asking is i am now in my sixties and i have become recoil sensitive during the past five years or so. The purchase was by request and funded by my sons who where concerned about my choice of a .32 as my all around firearm. your feedback would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Badkarma 1]

You'll be pleasantly surprised by the softer recoil of the 915. If it dies bother you I suggest you try a pair of Hogue grips for it.
I have it's all steel brother the 5906 and a 5946, both are pussycats in the recoil department, and my alloy framed 669, is very comfortable too shoot for a lightweight compact. Dale

 

[ldp4570]

chas1, Like you I have some issues with recoil(Ulnar nerve damage in both arms and hands), I have an shoot several of the 3rd generation guns with little to no problems. If you do have any issues like badkarma spoke of, put a set of hogue's on her.

 

[pmosley]

I had the 908 with stock plastic grips (sold it because I thought I had too many 9mm gen 3) - it handled like a champ and I miss it............I'm either picking up a 39xx or another 908(s) in the near future -

 

[kbm6893]

Only way to find out is to go shoot it. I would suggest putting the Hogue rubber grips on if you want to maximize recoil reduction, but for me, the stock Delrin straight grips on a 3rd gen are the best grip out there. The curved Delrin grips don't do it for me, but the straight ones are absolutely perfect. Can you rack the slide on the gun without any trouble?

 

[chas1]

kbm6893, Yes i can rack the slide, it's the recoil shock to my hands that has become unacceptable, thats why i downgraded to .32 caliber revolvers and auto's. at my sons request i picked up this 915 and i just want enough info prior to going to the range with it. I am hoping with the larger frame and added weight it will be more acceptable than some of my past experiences with the newer polymer makes and models.

 

[mlk18]

Having owned both a P11 and a 915 I can assure you the 915 has considerably less recoil and muzzle flip. The P11 is a stout little gun while the 915 is pretty soft shooting. I think you will enjoy it.

 

[faol]

I agree with everything that's been said! If you shoot it and decide you need the Hogues; send me an email. I've got a set you can have!

 

[dsk]

The 915 is very comfortable to shoot. I've shot both it and its younger brother the 910, and even with hot loads they're not even the slightest bit punishing. I could literally shoot mine all day long.

BTW I too have a set of Hogues sitting around just gathering dust. The problem with them is that they really bulk up the grip, so try your pistol with the factory Delrin first.

 

[oldandfatonaharley]

Everyone's body is a little different. Everyone's perceptions are slightly different. Mine is that the 915 is no more or less abusive to shoot than any other full-size, locked breech 9mm pistol, which is not that different from .38 Sp. fired from a 4" K-frame revolver. The recoil is certainly there, but it's hardly brutal.

 

[cololab]

This may not help you come to a decision, but my wife finds my 5906 and 915 much more "recoil friendly" than my Model 66 with normal (non +P) power range .38 Special jacketed rounds.

 

[LOM Ranger]

I shoot my 915 regularly because the recoil is smooth and easy on my arthritic fingers. I can shoot for extended periods of time and not experience any pain.

Chas1, I am in my mid-60's and share the same concern about felt recoil. FWIW, it has never been an issue with my stock 915.

 

[5906fan]

if recoil seems stout a heavier tension recoil spring may be called for.
that model has'nt been made in years and maybe should have a new spring anyway. if any 'slamming' of slide to frame is evident this will be gtransmitted to your hand.
I'm sure standard - not +P - ammo would be comfortable for you to shoot.
a nephew has one of those and the hand-rolled + P 124gr jhp I make up is no trouble for him to shoot. or GF either she has the 5906 with hogue grips and flat grip back

 

[chas1]

Thanks guys, I will post a range report by the second week of march and let you know how i did, I have to wait to get my sons together so we can all have a day of fun.

 

[MB_915]

My 915 shoots great and is easy to handle. It's one of my favorites.

 

[chas1]

Guys, I promised a range report and here it is, I had a ball!!! the recoil was actually less than my .32's, my thanks for all the input and a special thanks to (faol) the grips were excellent and they truly did help. I can't find a better way to spend the day than at the range. This old timer has a new everyday gun.