FNS-9, VP9, XDM-9. Which and why?

[Phaedrus/69]

I think I may wait on the VP9 and see if they come out with a long slide version like they did with the P30L. I prefer a longer slide.

I doubt you'll see it anytime soon. Word on the street (okay, word trickling down from HK) is that the next guns will be a VP40 and VP45 (!). I would expect to see a VP9c or VP9sk before a VP9LS.

However the VP9 is midway between the regular and the LS; the barrel is 4.09" vs the 3.85" for the P30 and the 4.45" for the LS. The sight radius splits the difference, too. A VP9LS would be pretty long indeed if the proportions follow their other guns. But the thing shoots so well as is that I think you'd be happy with it.

Oh, what I wouldn't give to have a VP9c/sk and a VP357 (sig)!

 

[Zaydok Allen]

Yesterday I handled all three guns. The trigger on the VP9 was noticibly better than the XDm and FNS. The fit and finish was nicer also.
The trigger on the fns was fine for a carry gun. Certainly not competition, but it isn't as bad as a lot of people say. I thought it was better than the XDm.

The XD had the capacity advantage. I'm still a little torn. I think for a carry size gun I really liked the HK. So it's going to come down to whether or not I want a longer barrel or adjustable sights.

 

[JTQ]

The XD had the capacity advantage. I'm still a little torn. I think for a carry size gun I really liked the HK. So it's going to come down to whether or not I want a longer barrel or adjustable sights.

You know the XDm comes as a 4.5" model too.

http://www.springfield-armory.com/products/xdm-4-5-9-mm/

I'll admit the 4.5" model was what I was thinking when you asked about the three guns. I only think of the 5.25" guns as gamer guns, and wouldn't compare them to the other two pistols you are considering.

 

[Girodin]

I own guns from sig, glock, steyr, kahr, S&W, etc, etc, and I think the VP9 is at the top of the heap when it comes. to 9x19 handguns and certainly striker fired guns in particularly.

The quality of HK is top notch. Their durability is second to none and are built to be able to handle things that will destroy most other guns (such as surviving driving a squib round out with a subsequent shot). HKs also typically have exceptional accuracy, better than the vast majority of shooters can make use of. HKs typically have been hampered by two things. A price that a lot of people wont pay and poor triggers. The VP is hundreds of dollars less than a P30. The VP has a good striker fired trigger.


I anticipated that when I got my VP9 is would be very well made but just another good 9x19 that I'd own. It very quickly became my favorite. After market support is ramping up and honestly one can get right now the only things it needs: sights (if you are like me you replace them on just about any gun to what your personal preference is. If not the VP9 had be had with usable factory sights), mags, holsters, and mag pouches. There are already even threaded barrels for it.

The FNS is probably a pretty good gun. I've been happy with the FN products I've owned. However, the trigger leaves something to be desired and it is my understanding that due to its design there are unlikely to be the fixes that have come out for other guns like the M&P.

I honestly believe the VP 9 is well on its way to being the best out of the box striker fired 9x19. The only real knock I have against it is that there are not yet smaller sized versions of it that have a large degree of carry over in terms of trigger, controls, etc like there is with say a G17 and a G26. Well, that and mags are expensive.

 

[Zaydok Allen]

You know the XDm comes as a 4.5" model too.

Yes. I actually handled a 4.5 and a 5.25 yesterday. I'm well versed in the XDm line up. I'm just not sure which I want.

I only think of the 5.25" guns as gamer guns, and wouldn't compare them to the other two pistols you are considering.

I think the 5.25 would be a good HD, open carry, and range gun. But yes, I realize it is a bit of an apples and oranges comparison when looking at the other guns I'm considering.

 

[Field Tester]

There is a method called Single Short Exemption which allows CA residents to purchase handguns that are not on the DOJ "Roster of Handguns Certified for Sale." SSE is 100% legal and done my participating FFL's. Through SSE CA residents can pretty much purchase any handgun they wish w/o a threaded barrel.

Not anymore, they're doing away with the SSE from what I understand.

 

[EezyBeezy]

Not anymore, they're doing away with the SSE from what I understand.

SSE is still in effect until 12/31/2014 11:59pm. SSE will be no more 1/1/2015.

 

[WRGADog]

I have 3 XDM's, 2 9mm and a 40. Two are 4.5 and one is a 3.8. Guns work flawlessly and are simple to operate and maintain. They are extremely accurate and there are lots of accessories available for the XDM's. I would also look at the Walther PPQ - the best trigger out of the box of any striker fired pistol IMO.

 

[VectorScalar]

This thread is a month old, so you've probably made your decision, but rethink nixing the PPQ. I have one and a VP9 and they are so similar that if the VP9 is on the list, the PPQ should be too unless you just don't like the brand.

Personally I like my PPQ a touch more, but you really couldn't go wrong with either.

Those two and the Sig P320 are the trifecta of polymer striker-fired pistols with awesome triggers.

 

[Zaydok Allen]

This thread is a month old, so you've probably made your decision, but rethink nixing the PPQ.

I would also look at the Walther PPQ - the best trigger out of the box of any striker fired pistol IMO.

No I haven't made a decision yet. I've had different priorities for my money. Seriously though, it never fails. I don't want a PPQ.

I say again.

Those are the three that interest me for reasons I've thought about. I don't care for GLOCKS, S&W M&P guns, Walthers, or really any of the other poly guns out there, so please don't tell me those are what I should buy. I don't want one of those.

I love firearms and THR is great, but I don't get why people can't read a question and stick to the criteria of the original post. Sorry to be irritable but I see this way to much.

 

[shepsan]

460Kodiak, I do not know if you have made your decision and purchased a pistol. If not, I would recommend that you buy the FNS. It is a superb semiautomatic pistol. It is well made, full of good features, comprised of components that work together in excellent precision and mine fits my hand comfortably.

The balance is excellent and the FNX9 loaded with seventeen rounds in the magazine and one in the pipe makes the FNS it a formidable weapon when loaded with ammunition for protection or target loads for recreational shooting.

My FNS has been deadly accurate and now with over 1100 rounds sent downrange, I have found it to be seriously reliable. I have not experienced a single failure to fire during my ownership of this fine pistol.

Lastly, at my age, I have a somewhat difficulty time focusing on a pistol’s sights and downrange target. The sight radius of the FNS has solved this problem. The length of the FNS sight radius has enabled to easily lineup the target resulting in hits that would stop an attacker at both short and longer distances.

These are the reasons that I recommend the FNS9. No other striker semiautomatic pistol that I have owned has provided to me as many attributes of the FNS.

 

[george burns]

I am familiar with all of the guns you mentioned. I actually was on my way to get my cash when my local gun store had a VP9 that someone ordered and changed his mind. But after looking and handling the gun, I decided it was no P30. The P30 has a more "finished" feel to it, and although one is hammer and the other is striker fired, I like the size and feel of the P30 much more. It also fits together better, "not as many gaps".
The XDM is also one I have played around with getting in 9, I also carry and XDS sometimes. I love that gun. The problem with the XDM is the gun is blocky with that many rounds in it, and after holding it, I just didn't get that feeling that I get when a gun just works for me.
I picked up a Glock 30S, I already had a 30, so I sold it and it cost me 100 bucks to upgrade . If you are interested, the 30S is a heck of a gun, it's slim enough to carry, "the 30 was pushing it". And I bought a 13 round mag for reloads, and a front night sight, that I put on in 5 minutes, I do that on all my guns.
I am still looking for a 9mm and thinking of the FN line also. With these manufacturers coming out with a new model every week, it's a pain in the neck to keep up with when shopping.
Sometimes the old ways are still the best. Glocks always worked well for me, they may not be in vogue with all these new guns, but if it's not a 1911, it may be a glock 19.
One other one that I have found interesting but not shot, is the CZ, the P01 and the 2 Polymer pistols with 16 and 19 round capacity's. They are not expensive, and I like the idea of the rail running the full length of the pistol. I also may try a red dot on my next one, or on my 26 or 30. I have enough small pocket guns, I want a mid to full sized 9mm, that I don't have to worry about running out of ammo, if something happens and I have to grab it fast and go without time to get my extra mags. The VP9 was long also, not like the p30 3.85 length model, and not as nice to look at. I would take a Bitone XDM, and put night sights on it, sooner than the H&K, for about $549 on slickguns. I just think for me, it is a better gun. Plus they give you more for the money, till the end of the month you get 2 free mags and a mag older. You are really all set except for optics or sights. I don't like fiber optic sights, they are useless at night, I had to respond to a noise outside one night, grabbed the XDS, and couldn't see anything without turning on my light, which I don't like to do until I see or hear something move. The sights on the H&K is also a joke, after 15 minutes you have no night sight, so you are looking at another 100 plus for sights or more for a light or laser. Now we are up near 900 again with that gun. It isn't worth that to me. I can get a glock put on a night sight and it works for 700 or less.
The XDM is the same story, less expensive, more rounds and I like the feel and look of the gun better.The compact allows you to carry it with the 13 rounder, and daily HD use with the 19 rounder, same with the glock, you can use any mag from any 9mm..
The FNS I don't know enough about to make a comment, other than I would like to fire one, and they get good reviews from guys who have them, also the price is right, and you can put an optic on some models that are pre drilled should you ever decide to.

 

[DFM914]

The FNS would win hands down over the others the OP mentioned. This may be my opinion as many will choose something else. I have a lot of experience with FN and you couldn't make a better decision when it comes to an FNS.

 

[GLOOB]

The VP9 is new. I can't believe it's winning in the poll. There can't be that many people who have shot it, let alone have any info on long-term reliability/durabilty/accuracy or cost of ownership/maintenance. It's a big gun, too. So unless it is deadnuts reliable and durable out to 100,000 rounds, it's going to be a total flop.

Even the FNS-9 is but a newborn baby.

 

[Zaydok Allen]

The VP9 is new. I can't believe it's winning in the poll.

It doesn't surprise me. It's a new product that people are excited about. You are right though about it being untested. I think most people are going off of the HK reputation. Given their history of quality products, the fact that my HK is great, and a general lack of recalls, from my knowledge, I'm inclined to agree with their opinion.

It's a big gun, too.

All three guns I'm looking at are big. Though, the FN and XDMs both hold more ammo in very similarly sized guns.

Unless there is in fact a major recall, I don't agree that it'll be a flop if it doesn't meet your definition of what it needs to accomplish to be a winner. It's another option, and people like options.

All those things being said, only time will tell if the VP9 sinks or swims. It is unproven. And as you said, the FNS is a newcomer too.

I've had a bad FN in the past, and it makes me leery.

 

[Phaedrus/69]

One last gun you might want to consider is the Walther PPQ [runs away].

JK, obviously!

 

[Zaydok Allen]

Jokes

So you're saying I should look at a PPQ.......
I assume you think I should look at GLOCKS too right?

 

[benzy2]

Why ask people what you want? Nobody here knows what you want. They all are quality. Buy the one you like the most. Anything beyond that may as we'll be me insisting the Walther or Glock is the right choice. These threads never go anywhere. Regardless of what anyone says, you'll end up buying the one that's either available from your preferred dealer or if multiple are in stock, you'll grab what you like the most. Any could be considered the best for multiple reasons by multiple people.

If I had to pick of those three, I'd grab the VP9 as the ones I've tried were enjoyable to shoot. Still, I wouldn't personally buy any of the group based on what I like, short of some amazing deal popping up. [insert comment about how what I own is the best choice for everyone else, regardless of what you like]

 

[Zaydok Allen]

Why ask people what you want?

I didn't. I asked....

Which would you get and feel free to explain why.

Yes, the implied meaning is that I plan to buy one of these three. I'm undecided though, so the intent of these types of threads is to pull out any relevant information on the designs or performance of the included models, see what others would decide and why, in order to help me make a decision about which I would buy.

Regardless of what anyone says, you'll end up buying the one that's either available from your preferred dealer or if multiple are in stock, you'll grab what you like the most.

Since I have handled all three and like them equally, that is an incorrect assumption. And that brings me back to the point of the thread.

Still, I wouldn't personally buy any of the group based on what I like, short of some amazing deal popping up.

For me, making a decision is not just based on "what I like". It is about reliability, durability, and customer service. Drawing that type of info out is the point. Obviously by having a limited poll, I have already figured out what I like.

All that being said, "None of those" is a perfectly reasonable answer, and a reason makes it actually helpful. Although, most people who don't care for any of the choices probably open the thread, think "I don't care" and leave. Hence the lack of votes. And that's fine.

This thread has made me think more intently on the desired usage.

 

[shepsan]

460Kodiak, I too have been curious to learn what other people think about guns I might purchase. If they had owned the gun, then they have specific personal experience with that gun.


My criteria choosing is quite simple. A handgun has to fit my hand comfortably and have sights and a sight radius that enables me to clearly aim and see my target.

The handgun should be designed not snag on my clothing.

The slide must fit the frame without burrs or friction so that it moves smoothly. The trigger must precisely travel with firm pressure.

I do not consider any caliber below 9mm.

The reputation of the brand must be based upon reliability not price or availability. I will pay more and wait longer for a better gun.

I have owned many fine revolvers and pistols. Some were finely and custom crafted for me by master gunsmiths. I have also owned some dogs. I never kept the dogs and have cherished the ones that proved to be reliable and accurate regardless of price I paid.

I wish you good luck in your research and choice.

 

[Phaedrus/69]

I got my VP9 with true night sights (Meprolight) factory installed with two mags for $599. Not bad at all. Now I might be in the minority but I actually like the stock ones that glow when you charge them. Not as much as true night sights but even when not glowing they're easy to pick up. I guess right now four of my CCW guns have tritium sights.

 

[Zaydok Allen]

Now I might be in the minority but I actually like the stock ones that glow when you charge them. Not as much as true night sights but even when not glowing they're easy to pick up.

You aren't alone on that. I like the factory sites on my HK45. They glow extremely bright if charged with a high intensity led flashlight. The statements I hear on the web about how "The HK factory sites are useless and totally dark after 15 minutes!" are overstatements and exaggerations. I have charged mine right before bed out of curiosity. My cat woke me up about 45 minutes later and they were still very visible. Though, a carry gun would be better suited with tritium sites I think.

Any way you slice it, the luminescent three dot sites that come standard on many HK guns are still a step up from plain Jane three dot sites.

 

[Phaedrus/69]

It's shocking how bright they are when they're fully charged! Far brighter than any tritium version. What I think would totally rock would be to have that glow paint on the dots with a tritium vial in the middle. Best of both worlds.

 

[Zaydok Allen]

Ah. Yep, I think you nailed it. That would be a great setup.