Thinking about getting a new semi auto, any sugestions?

[k5lwq]

I have never owned a semi auto handgun (except a glock 22 that I only had for a week) and am thinking of getting one. I want it for range shooting and qualifying. I like revolvers for self defense. I did not like the glock so I took it back. What is the best S&W auto for this purpose?

 

[vista461]

If you're a revolver person, maybe the best for you would be a dao third gen.

 

[Swabby]

S&W 3rd Gens

If you are looking for a DAO 3rd Gen auto, which is not a bad suggestion for a revo guy, I think Summit Gun Brokers still has some used 4043's for a great price. I like the 40 S&W for carry and home defense, and the ammo is not that much more than 9mm.

CDNN also has 5906's for a really good price too. They are the traditional double action in an all stainless 9mm. A little heavy to carry, but great range guns, and I hear they come in excellent condition for used guns.

All depends what caliber and features you are interested in. A bunch of S&W 3rd Gens have been going for less than $300 on Gunbroker lately. That's a good place to take a look around as well.

 

[k5lwq]

Thanks guys for the info, going to check Gunbroker right now. One of the issues I had with the Glock was how bad the plastic warped.

 

[Glock 'em down]

The Smith & Wesson 3rd gen autos are the best kept secret in the semi-auto pistol world. In the age of the polymer kings and queens, the old 3rd gen S&W bottom feeders get left in the shadows.

I think their weight is what kept them on the bench instead of in the game. But they are awesome weapons.

On the flipside - how did you warp your Glock? Didya leave it out in the car lying on the dash or what?

 

[VTHokiesDuckHunter]

For range shooting and qualifying as you mentioned, I'd really look hard at the 5906 (all stainless) or 5903 (SS slide/alloy frame) or the .40 S&W caliber equivalents- 4006/4003.

If you're into 45's there are similar models. These all have the Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) triggers and are good shooters. I prefer the 5906.

Like vista461 said, if you want to stay with a double action only pull, the above models come in that configuration.

(5946/5943/4056/4053, etc.)

There's a very nice 4053 TSW (Tactical Service Weapon) version on GunBroker right now. Usually you can find great deals form members on this forum in the Classifieds thread.

I didn't mention any of the compacts as you said your primary interest was for range/qualifying. But the above models generally come in compact versions as well.

There are older models that are great shooters like the 39-2, 539, etc., but if this is your first S&W metal framed pistol I'd stick with one of the 3rd generation models (usually a 4 digit number like 5906)

If you've got the cash ($2000) and want to go all-in, there is the current production S&W 952 Performance Center pistol which is one of the finest semi-auto pistols ever.

No one has mentioned the M&P's here as most of us are obviously biased towards the metal framed pistols on this board. The M&P's are good shooters but you are looking at a Polymer framed gun like your Glock- although a lot nicer than a Glock IMO.

 

[k5lwq]

The Smith & Wesson 3rd gen autos are the best kept secret in the semi-auto pistol world. In the age of the polymer kings and queens, the old 3rd gen S&W bottom feeders get left in the shadows.

I think their weight is what kept them on the bench instead of in the game. But they are awesome weapons.

On the flipside - how did you warp your Glock? Didya leave it out in the car lying on the dash or what?

No, not at all, it was some what warped when I bought it. The broker told me they all are like that so I bought it. After fifty rds thru it I decided the warp and how dirty it got from shooting that it was not going to be the one for me. It was the gen 3 which a lot of folks claim to be there best.

 

[k5lwq]

For range shooting and qualifying as you mentioned, I'd really look hard at the 5906 (all stainless) or 5903 (SS slide/alloy frame) or the .40 S&W caliber equivalents- 4006/4003.

If you're into 45's there are similar models. These all have the Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) triggers and are good shooters. I prefer the 5906.

Like vista461 said, if you want to stay with a double action only pull, the above models come in that configuration.

(5946/5943/4056/4053, etc.)



There's a very nice 4053 TSW (Tactical Service Weapon) version on GunBroker right now. Usually you can find great deals form members on this forum in the Classifieds thread.

I didn't mention any of the compacts as you said your primary interest was for range/qualifying. But the above models generally come in compact versions as well.

There are older models that are great shooters like the 39-2, 539, etc., but if this is your first S&W metal framed pistol I'd stick with one of the 3rd generation models (usually a 4 digit number like 5906)

If you've got the cash ($2000) and want to go all-in, there is the current production S&W 952 Performance Center pistol which is one of the finest semi-auto pistols ever.

No one has mentioned the M&P's here as most of us are obviously biased towards the metal framed pistols on this board. The M&P's are good shooters but you are looking at a Polymer framed gun like your Glock- although a lot nicer than a Glock IMO.

I am with you on the metal frame, not a fan of plastic. Thanks for the advice, I hope to find some of these models locally so I can see how they fit in my hands before I buy. The glock did fit nice in my hand I must say.

 

[Big Lou]

Get a model 915 if you can find one. Best kept 3rd gen secret S&W ever made. Good Luck.

 

[Shadow1006]

The G-22 didn't serve your needs and you are transistioning from a revolver. The 3rd gen S&W are great, strong but are heavy...however they are quite useable. Some aftermarket grips/sleves are avalible to give more positive grip. I like the S&W10xx series 3rd gen because of the ballistic potential of the 10mm cartridge. The 10mm with 0.400" bullets, runs from 40S&W ballistics and up into the near 41 magnum potential. The ammo selection commercially can pose some avalibility limitations, but I handload to avoid those issues.

If you prefer something lighter you may want to consider the M&P line which has interchangeable grip panels to better fit you grip feel.

I do shoot a Glock 29 10mm also which has provided exceptional service digesting even the full potential loadings of 10mm.

 

[10ring]

I would largely agree with what has already been said but would add a few points.

1. 9mm is much less expensive to shoot and with a bit milder recoil it is easier to learn to shoot well, and since this will be a first semi-auto handgun for you, I think it might be a better choice than a .40 or .45. Unless cost is not an object or you reload, you may be able to shoot a lot more 9mm than the other calibers. It is also entirely adequate for defense. Of course, if you have some specific desire for a different caliber then go with that...nothing wrong with any of them.

2. A DAO S&W, like the 5946, 3953, 4586, 4053, etc., is going to have a very similar trigger to a revolver and no safeties or decockers to learn, but there is also no "single action" mode. I happen to like the DAO guns quite a bit but for some, the ability to shoot a gun "single action" is very desirable and you might want to consider that point when deciding.

3. Check the fit of the gun in your hand. The fit of a handgun is often an overlooked point by buyers but is very important. The single stack guns offer a slimmer grip and generally shorter trigger reach than the double stack guns. If your hand is on the smaller side or your fingers are short, this can make a big difference. On this same point, the DAO S&W guns offer a shorter trigger reach than the DA/SA models.

If you are able to narrow down your interests with regard to caliber, DAO or not, single vs. double stack, etc., then I am sure we could offer some more specific recommendations.

 

[k5lwq]

I would largely agree with what has already been said but would add a few points.

If you are able to narrow down your interests with regard to caliber, DAO or not, single vs. double stack, etc., then I am sure we could offer some more specific recommendations.

So far I like what I have heard of the DAO so leaning that way for now. 9 mm or 40 cal is what I am thinking I will like. I agree with you on the fit in hand, its a big deal. I am 6'3" so I have larger hands if that helps you guys out.
Thanks!

 

[VTHokiesDuckHunter]

10ring nailed it - maybe a little more succinctly than in my original post.

Again, I think the best overall choice for you might just be a 5906/5903. Both are full sized, double stack 9mm's but with a comfortable grip size. The 59 series is easy to get serviced and easy to get parts for, holsters, etc. Also you can readily get Hogue rubber grips and very nice Hogue wood grips.

While I shoot 9's, 40's and 45's; I mainly prefer the 9mm at the range for the reasons stated above by 19ring, and then like to carry a compact .40 S&W. I'd stick with a 9mm for your stated purpose.

The 5903 with alloy frame is lighter than the 5906, but not so much that it not still a joy to shoot. It's a good pistol if you want to carry a full size gun but appreciate the weight savings.

The 5906 is one of the great range pistols of all time. I've owned two and my brother owns one also. I can't ever remember a FTF or problem in normal use, and they're just a pleasure to shoot and easy to keep on target.

 

[18DAI]

+1 on the 915. VERY underated pistol.

If polymer is your thing, an HK USP is as good as it gets in that class. Good luck with your search! Regards 18DAI

 

[k5lwq]

10ring nailed it - maybe a little more succinctly than in my original post.

Again, I think the best overall choice for you might just be a 5906/5903. Both are full sized, double stack 9mm's but with a comfortable grip size. The 59 series is easy to get serviced and easy to get parts for, holsters, etc. Also you can readily get Hogue rubber grips and very nice Hogue wood grips.

While I shoot 9's, 40's and 45's; I mainly prefer the 9mm at the range for the reasons stated above by 19ring, and then like to carry a compact .40 S&W. I'd stick with a 9mm for your stated purpose.

The 5903 with alloy frame is lighter than the 5906, but not so much that it not still a joy to shoot. It's a good pistol if you want to carry a full size gun but appreciate the weight savings.

The 5906 is one of the great range pistols of all time. I've owned two and my brother owns one also. I can't ever remember a FTF or problem in normal use, and they're just a pleasure to shoot and easy to keep on target.

I like the looks of the 5906, might just be the one. I am going to hit all the LGS to see if I can run across one to check out the fit. Thanks

 

[Maximumbob54]

My 3rd gen S&W grail guns are a 1006 and a 4506 in that order. You might see if you agree.

 

[VTHokiesDuckHunter]

K5:

the 5906, like many guns in these series, came with squared off trigger guards (some call these "combat" trigger guards) or more rounded off ones. I have both, and like them equally well.

Attached is a photo I have handy of my 5906 with a squared off trigger guard (and it has checkering/serrations on the outside front part of the trigger guard). Below it is a compact 4014 with a rounded trigger guard.

Someone mentioned the H&K USP as a good choice in Polymer framed guns, and it is a great one. But the OP asked "which is the best S&W semi-auto pistol.......for range and qualifying...."

If that's the question - then it's the S&W 5906's, 5903's, 915's, 952, and other metal framed 2nd and 3rd generation S&W's; the very nice S&W M&P (polymer framed) and the most excellent S&W owned Walther P99 and PPQ; (and PPS model for Concealed Carry)

Note: all of the latter group are polymer framed guns and are only offered as striker fired weapons- not hammer systems.

If you like hammers with your polymer guns - then you are moving on to the H&K USP mentioned by one of our members above, or the very nice FNH guns, a few Sigs, etc.

OP- to make it simple - my opinion and coaching is -if you want a metal gun get a 5906 or 5903.

If you want a polymer framed gun get an M&P 9 or a P99.

 

[yustinus1973]

Even though its been said i would tell ya to get a 5903 or a 4006 and a 6906 love mine, and TSWs are real neat to.

 

[sw44spl]

6906 or 6904 or the 5900 series.

 

[10ring]

For what you have described and with large hands a 5946 sounds perfect. If carrying it concealed was an issue, then perhaps a 5943 (alloy frame), but I do like the all steel guns. Once you have one you will probably want more anyway, so perhaps it doesn't matter exactly which model you get.

Since this is a first for you, I have a suggestion....pay extra to get a nicer one and not one of the many police trade ins out there. Or at least try to get a really clean police trade in. There is nothing wrong with most of them and many don't look too bad, but if I were in your position I would want a really clean gun.

For me personally, I would look for one of the later round trigger guard guns. I think they look better (but that's entirely personal) and it can be a bit easier to find holsters for them.

If looking for a more recent polymer gun then I gather the S&W M&P series are nice. I just happen to like the older metal guns.