Failure to Extract on used M&P9

[FullEffect1911]

I recently got a M&P9 from my LGS and have only put about 300 rounds through it. I had a failure to extract today using my reloads and Winchester brass. There is a couple things that come to mind for me. Older M&P's apparently had a problem with win brass in 9mm and would fail to extract, this was corrected with a new extractor. It is also possible that it is just a fluke as the other 299 rounds were prefect. And last scenario is that that my reloads were the problem, though for the record they almost never are.

Is one FTE(xtract) to many or should I see if it's a recurring problem before finding a solution?

Fwiw this is a self defense pistol and I also plan to use it for IDPA.

 

[Bill2e]

I would not worry about one FTE, make sure you clean the extractor. I had a FTE and looked, there was residue behind the extractor claw. Cleaned it out and it has been fine.

 

[Yarddog]

Look at the exstactor and make sure it's not chipped ; )
Y/D

 

[9mmepiphany]

Keeping the extractor clean may solve you problem. I wouldn't get too concerned about one FTE and 9mm cases have a lot of variables in extractor groove dimensions.

You could call S&W and see what they say, after all you do have a lifetime warranty. Be aware that the extractor used on the M&P9 isn't optimized for the 9mm rounds...they just use the .40 extractor in them (the M&P was designed around the .40). That doesn't mean it doesn't work, just that it isn't optimal.

If it were mine, and I was going to run it in 9mm for competition or carry it as a duty gun, I'd get an aftermarket 9mm extractor for it. Again, be warned, they aren't cheap and they aren't for everyone

 

[Ben86]

Is one FTE(xtract) to many or should I see if it's a recurring problem before finding a solution?

Fwiw this is a self defense pistol and I also plan to use it for IDPA.

I wouldn't get too worked up about it. It's just one, and you were using reloads. 300 rounds is hardly even broken in anyway. Take the advice mentioned above and make sure your extractor is clean.

 

[Skylerbone]

Beyond the above advice (which is excellent) keep an eye on your extracted brass. The only FTEs I've had was while testing light loads for my wife to shoot through a 9c. Half the brass dribbled out, the rest stayed put. Different spring rates for different pistols will handle the same load differently.

If you have a few minutes have a look at http://www.speedshooterspecialties.com/catalog/display.php?category=Smith+%26+Wesson+M%26P+9%2F40%2F357. They have the most complete M&P upgrade collection I've found to date, good prices and quick shipping. Not sure what's legal for IDPA but they also make non-captured guide rods and springs in varying weights to suit your load. (also have 2 aftermarket extractors).

 

[FullEffect1911]

Thank you for the advice so far. Last question I have:

If I decide to upgrade the extractor and assuming I should use APEX tactical, should I get their extractor, extra power extractor spring, or both?

 

[9mmepiphany]

I'd call the shop and talk to either Randy or Scott. You don't hear much about their extractor because they don't really push it...it is a bit specialized and not everyone needs one. The company's business plan isn't to sell you stuff you don't need.

Be nice to Lisa when she answers the phone, her job is to keep the other two working on their backlog of guns to keep work going out the door. Randy and Scott are the two that see the problems, think up solutions and see if the solution can be produced at a marketable price

 

[FullEffect1911]

I'd call the shop and talk to either Randy or Scott. You don't hear much about their extractor because they don't really push it...it is a bit specialized and not everyone needs one. The company's business plan isn't to sell you stuff you don't need.

Be nice to Lisa when she answers the phone, her job is to keep the other two working on their backlog of guns to keep work going out the door. Randy and Scott are the two that see the problems, think up solutions and see if the solution can be produced at a marketable price

Thanks 9mmepiphany, i'll probably email them so they can answer at the leisure.

 

[9mmepiphany]

Be sure to describe what you are experiencing with your gun in detail, they might very well tell you that you don't need one