Introduction
The Smith & Wesson M&P 9 is one of the most popular semi-automatic handguns on the market today. Designed for military and police use but widely embraced by civilian shooters, this striker-fired pistol has earned a reputation for reliability, accuracy, and ergonomic design. Whether you are a law enforcement professional, a concealed carry permit holder, or a recreational shooter, the M&P 9 offers a balance of performance, comfort, and affordability.
This review covers everything you need to know about the Smith & Wesson M&P 9, including its design, performance, reliability, available models, and key factors to consider when purchasing one. If you are considering adding this firearm to your collection, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Smith & Wesson M&P 9 is engineered with durability and comfort in mind. Featuring a high-strength polymer frame and a stainless steel slide, this pistol is built to withstand thousands of rounds without significant wear.
Ergonomics
One of the standout features of the M&P 9 is its customizable grip. The pistol comes with interchangeable backstraps, allowing shooters to adjust the grip size for a more natural and comfortable hold. This makes it suitable for a wide range of hand sizes, improving accuracy and reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
The aggressive texturing on the grip ensures a secure hold, even in wet or high-stress conditions. Unlike some competitors, the M&P 9’s design balances firmness with comfort, making it one of the most user-friendly polymer-framed pistols available.
Slide and Controls
The stainless steel slide is finished with Armornite coating, which enhances corrosion resistance and durability. The forward and rear serrations allow for easy manipulation of the slide, making chambering a round or performing press checks smooth and effortless.
For ambidextrous users, the slide stop and magazine release can be reversed, making the M&P 9 an excellent option for left-handed shooters. Some models also include a manual thumb safety for those who prefer an extra layer of security.
Performance and Shooting Experience
Performance is where the M&P 9 truly shines. This handgun is designed to offer a smooth, crisp trigger pull, excellent recoil management, and consistent accuracy.
Trigger System
Early models of the M&P 9 were often criticized for having a mushy trigger reset, but newer versions have significantly improved this aspect. The M&P 9 2.0 features a much crisper trigger with a tactile and audible reset, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
Trigger pull weight is generally around 5.5 to 6.5 pounds, striking a balance between safety and ease of use. Many shooters appreciate the short take-up and clean break, making it an ideal pistol for both defensive and competitive shooting.
Recoil and Accuracy
Thanks to its low bore axis, the M&P 9 has excellent recoil control, making it easy to stay on target for rapid follow-up shots. The stainless steel chassis system inside the polymer frame helps mitigate flex, contributing to better stability and precision.
Most users find that out-of-the-box accuracy is impressive, with the ability to maintain tight groupings at 15-25 yards. The standard 3-dot sights provide a clear sight picture, though many users opt for aftermarket upgrades such as fiber optic or night sights for better visibility in low-light conditions.
Magazine Capacity
The standard M&P 9 comes with a 17+1 round capacity, making it competitive with other full-size polymer-framed pistols like the Glock 17. For those living in restricted states, 10-round magazines are also available.
Reloading is smooth, and the magazines are easy to seat and eject. The flared magazine well on newer models speeds up reloads, a welcome feature for competition shooters.
Reliability and Durability
The Smith & Wesson M&P 9 is known for its outstanding reliability, even in adverse conditions. Law enforcement agencies and military personnel trust this pistol for duty use because it has been tested to endure harsh environments without malfunctioning.
Even after thousands of rounds, the M&P 9 maintains consistent performance with minimal wear. Proper cleaning and maintenance will extend its longevity, but users report that it functions exceptionally well even after extended use without excessive lubrication.
Common types of ammunition, including FMJ and hollow points, feed smoothly without failure. The pistol’s chamber and feed ramp design allow it to cycle a variety of loads with ease, making it a versatile choice for different shooting applications.
Comparing Models: M&P 9 vs. M&P 9 M2.0
Smith & Wesson has released multiple versions of the M&P 9, with the M&P 9 M2.0 being the most recent upgrade.
Key Differences Between the Original and M2.0:
- Improved Trigger: The M2.0 model features a crisper trigger with a more pronounced reset, addressing concerns about the original version.
- Better Grip Texture: More aggressive stippling enhances grip security.
- Longer Internal Chassis: Increased rigidity reduces flex and enhances accuracy.
- Slimmer Slide Profile: Reduces weight and improves balance.
If you are considering buying an M&P 9, the M2.0 version is highly recommended for its enhanced performance and ergonomics.
Who Should Buy the M&P 9?
The Smith & Wesson M&P 9 is a fantastic option for a wide range of users:
- Law Enforcement & Military: Trusted for duty carry due to its reliability.
- Concealed Carriers: Compact and subcompact models are available for easier concealment.
- Competitive Shooters: Accurate and fast-shooting, making it great for competition.
- Home Defense Owners: High capacity and user-friendly design make it an excellent home protection firearm.
Conclusion
The Smith & Wesson M&P 9 remains one of the best striker-fired pistols on the market, combining durability, accuracy, and ergonomic design. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced shooter, this handgun offers outstanding reliability and performance at a competitive price.If you’re looking for a proven firearm that excels in self-defense, duty use, and target shooting, the M&P 9 is a solid investment that won’t disappoint.
