Most versatile 9mm for Competitive Shooting?

[benderx4]

I've gotten to the point in my life where I have the time and means to take my sport shooting to the next level. Not sure exactly which competitive shooting venue I will pursue yet, but I'm now in the market for a gun that would be the most versatile. (IDPA, IPSC, ESP, CDP, etc.)

I've got my eye on:

1. Sig 226X5 L1

2. S&W Model 952PC

3. Sig Sauer P210 (Long Slide)

Should I be considering anything else? CZ custom? Of these 3, which would be the most versatile, which would you purchase, and why? (Budget not really a factor)

Thanks for your advice!

 

[gtmtnbiker98]

Neither of the one's you listed will fit in the IDPA box. A Glock 34 is pretty versatile for IDPA SSP division. If you don't like the Glocks, the M&Ps are proving quite worthy especially the new Pro Series. As for the one's you listed, I wouldn't pick any. CZs are also pretty good but not too popular in IDPA, yet, at least in Ohio.

 

[peacemaker45]

I don't know about idpa, but guys seem to be having great luck with CZ SP01s in USPSA, especially as worked over by Angus Hobdell's guys.

~~~Mat

 

[benderx4]

That's not the first time I've heard the name of Angus Hobdell. I bet a custom CZ from him would still be cheaper than one of the above too.

I've owned the 75B in fullsize and compact, and liked them both. I only got rid of them because of some HKs I couldn't live without and I knew the P-01 and SP-01s were coming out shortly. Plus, the triggers had something to be desired.

I'll give Angus a look-see. Thanks!

 

[Jim Watson]

Of those three only, none of the above.

The X-Five is not allowable in IDPA at all. I do not know of a source for the Big Stick ultra high capacity magazines for it to do really well in USPSA/IPSC. There was a guy who designed an extension but he is now fully employed by Uncle Sam in Iraq.

The M952 is somewhat limited for IDPA by its 9 round capacity and rather awkward slide safety. A single action 9mm is penalized by minor caliber scoring in USPSA/IPSC.

A P210 has poor ergonomics for speed shooting. The heel magazine catch in all but the most expensive variant is slow, magazines are tight in the well, the thumb safety is a long reach, hammer bite is a problem for many shooters, and the magazine disconnect is inconvenient. Retains the minor caliber scoring penalty for USPSA/IPSC (Yes, I own one, but I do not shoot it at IDPA.)

A well tuned CZ is a good shooter, if not as mechancially accurate as the above guns. IDPA rules are rather confusing regarding the SP-01. You can get it in, but a CZ 75 or 85 with equal sights and trigger would be less aggravation.

There are a bazillion Glocks, a good number of XDs, and more and more Plastic M&Ps if you don't mind synthetic guns. If you don't mind the DA-SA crunch tick, the P226 or Beretta 92 will work. They will get you into IDPA and USPSA/IPSC Production, where everything is scored minor caliber so a 9mm is competitive.