Ruger or Smith?

[gleaner26]

I'm looking for a semi-auto for HD and target shooting and the two I am looking into are the S&W M&P9 and the Ruger P944. The things I like about the Ruger is that it has a metal frame and it has a hammer and external safeties. The thing I like about the M&P is that it's slide and barrel are through harden which would seem that it is stronger then the P944. Is the P944 as durable and dependable as the M&P or should I spend the extra money and get the Smith?

 

[wow6599]

I'll play......

IMHO, there isn't a contest here; the M&P is a much better gun. Now, The Ruger is a 10+1 in 40 S&W, while the M&P9 is a 17+1 9mm. I won't get in to a caliber war, so let's say their even (40 &9). You could get a S&W M&P40 that would give you 14+1, but that's up to you.

The M&P will run you about $175 more, but S&W has their rebate thing going on, so you can get $50 back or 2 free magazines......I would grab the mags.
The M&P will be more accurate, probably feel better in your hand, it's lighter & will have a more consistent trigger. The aluminum framed Ruger will give you DA/SA and a safety.

I think both are good guns, but the S&W is a very good gun.
YMMV

 

[gleaner26]

Thanks for the input. I'm leaning toward the M&P anyway. I just liked the Ruger's price.

 

[wow6599]

Well, here is a M&P with a safety for $508 delivered - http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/manufacturers_id/31/products_id/57858

 

[kokapelli]

Just curious why your not comparing the S&W with a Ruger RS9?

 

[JohnD13]

Which pistol feels better in your hand? That will effect your shooting more than the price tag or name on the barrel.

 

[LiveLife]

Get the M&P40 and the 40-9 conversion barrel for plinking 9mm.

 

[Fishman777]

My thoughts...

I always go for Ruger revolvers. Ruger's revolver designs are the best in the business, in my opinion.

My preference for autoloaders are the Smith and Wesson M&Ps.

I like the SR9's ergonomics and look, but I don't think that it is as good as the M&P line.

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

Is the P944 as durable and dependable as the M&P or should I spend the extra money and get the Smith?

If anything, the Ruger is probably overbuilt.

 

[loadedround]

Just remember the Ruger will last you several lifetimes...how long will that Smith last? Food for thought!

 

[Skylerbone]

The M&P will be a much better choice, especially if you're considering competitive shooting sports in the future. Don't worry about how long it will last, it's likely to outlast you. The aftermarket support for the M&P line has really surged of late owing to its popularity with LE and competitive shooters.

+1 bds's post, the 40 gives you several caliber choices for whatever your need.

 

[wow6599]

Just remember the Ruger will last you several lifetimes...how long will that Smith last? Food for thought!

Forever; they have a lifetime warranty........what's Rugers?