Poor 9mm accuracy, is it me or the gun?

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ImARugerFan

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I've never shot many semi-auto handguns, but I have a S&W 639 9mm and I can't get this thing to group anywhere near decent. What are typical bench groups for this type of gun at 15 yards? The best I can do with 8 rounds is a 6" group at 15 yards off a rest. That really doesn't seem acceptable to me. Like I said, I don't have a lot of experience shooting these, so I'd like to think that I could be doing something wrong, but is it possible that this gun just plain isn't accurate? Any suggestions, or things to look for? I've tried winchester white box ammo, and wolf. Similar results.
 
The first thing to do is ask someone else (or a few experienced folks) to shoot it and see if they get the same results...
 
I'm guessing it's not the gun. It's probably not an expensive target auto model either. Why not bring the target a little closer. The 7 yard line is considered a standard shooting distance to start. WWB ammo is good target practice ammo, but not the best for complete accuracy you are searching to obtain. All I know about Wolf ammo is it's 'smoky' and 'dirty'. I'd also have seasoned shooters try it for accuracy. Have them watch you shoot it. Maybe you are flinching or shaking, not doing something correct.
 
Not an expert, but that's never stopped me before...

As I say above, but with that caveat, early Smith nines weren't known for sterling accuracy. The lock up wasn't there like a Colt 1911. The ones I've shot were good enough and current models are much improved.
As it stands, the level of accuracy is totally unacceptable. What did Jeff Cooper say, 8 inches across a football field? I doubt if it's ammo. Let a buddy shoot it or if you can find a friendly range safety officer, see if it's your technique.
 
Some pistols triggers cause me to blow my shooting.

The heavier the pull, the more I tend to scatter shots.

I have a Colt Peacemaker clone, that the trigger didn't feel all that bad, but was shooting all over. Crossed my mind that the trigger was actually fairly heavy. Didn't feel so bad because it was decenty crisp.

My shooting improved when I got a bit more careful with the manipulation of the trigger.
 
My shooting improved when I got a bit more careful with the manipulation of the trigger.
Click to expand...

I've suspected the trigger could be throwing me off too. I'm used to rifles and revolvers, and this autoloader has about the worst trigger I've ever used. Shooting off a good rest, I hoped that I could reduce the effect that a long heavy trigger pull would have. But it certainly still could be throwing me off.
 
I bought a police trade S&W 4046 DA only autopistol. Similiar to what you have.

I shot it until I mastered the da trigger. I beleive learning that one pistol's trigger improved my pistol shooting skills considerably.
 
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