Glock 26 Gen 5 vs Smith and Wesson M&P9 M2.0 3.6" Compact

For me, I'm a Glock guy so I'm biased towards liking them better.

But objectively, I never liked the hinged trigger on the S&W's but that can be remedied with aftermarket trigger shoes so that is a non-issue unless one wants to keep things stock.

Really, it comes down to which one feels better, points naturally for you, and you ultimately shoot best. Glock makes great firearms, S&W makes great firearms, both customer services are great, and aftermarket for both are really good with the edge towards Glock. I appreciate that I can order any part for my Glocks from multiple vendors and have extra parts to keep a gun running in perpetuity.

Between those two there isn't a bad choice; just the right choice for you.

LookAtYou said:

Which handgun do you think is better? I'm trying to decide for conceal carry, and want to hear other opinions. Thanks.

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Better will equal personal preference. You need to handle both and see which you prefer.. Both are fine weapons and will serve you well.

To me, I'll take a MP over the glock. It feels better and shoots better. I have the first gen MP9C, its a great pistol

I think you're better off comparing the M&P sub compact which is closer in size to the 26. The M&P compact is roughly the size of the G19.

I’m a Glock shooter and I rather have that M&P M2.0 3.6” over a Glock 26, that M&P shoots better for me anyway.

In that configuration flip a coin. I used to own a G26, but simply liked the G19 better. I didn't find the 26 any easier to carry. I've been a Glock guy for a long time, but am moving towards the M&P simply because of the option for a 1911 style thumb safety. I prefer having one. Not sure the ones with 3.6" barrels are available with a safety but if they are I'd choose the M&P only for that reason.

If you want a pistol for CC buy the Sig 365. It is a LOT smaller than either, just as accurate and standard mags hold 10 rounds. You can buy 12 and 15 round mags for it and it is available with, or without a safety. With the 10 round mags it has replaced my G43 for IWB carry. With 12 round mags it has all but replaced my 15 round G19 and M&P Compact for OWB use.

I really like Glocks, but IMO where they really missed the bus is on guns like the 26 and 27. Too fat, and the grip is so short I need the mag extensions to get a good grip. I tried the 43 when it came out and didn't like it- too small and stung my fingers. Of the 2 you listed, I would pick the S&W. I like the shield 9 myself.

CNobbe said:

I think you're better off comparing the M&P sub compact which is closer in size to the 26. The M&P compact is roughly the size of the G19.

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This^^^

Both are very good guns. I like my G26 and shoot it well, but since getting a G43X, the 26 is now in my garage, having replaced the Shield that was there.

I can tell you it’s hard to beat Glock CS. I’ve rarely used it, and when I did have been pleased.

All that said, I’m disappointed in the new Gen 5 finish. The Gen 3/4’s have very tough finishing...way better. I don’t know about the M&P but my Shields held up very well too.

the 3.6” compact m&p in the 2.0 is equivalent to the old m&pc in the gen1. S&W just changed the nomenclature. Basically S&W makes the m&p 2.0 compact in two different sizes. The 3.6” and the 4.0”. I know, confusing.

bluecollar said:

the 3.6” compact m&p in the 2.0 is equivalent to the old m&pc in the gen1. S&W just changed the nomenclature. Basically S&W makes the m&p 2.0 compact in two different sizes. The 3.6” and the 4.0”. I know, confusing.

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The grip is the same on the 4 and 3.6. they also make a "subcompact" with a shorter grip. Think it still has a 3.6 upper.

Wouldn't the Subcompact be the more comparable M&P to the 26? I think the 3.6" Compact has the same 15 round grip as the 4" Compact.

Objectively I think the newer gen Glocks and 2.0 M&P's are equals, so pick your favorite and you've made a great choice.