alleycat7002
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- Apr 22, 2008
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Any thoughts on these..just got one
Sw. Sd9ve
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JTQ
Member
We've had a handful of threads on this gun over the past six months or so. You may want to do a forum search.
Last edited:
ApacheCoTodd
member
I sincerely regret selling mine.
I got into it dirt cheap with no intention of keeping it.
Of course, my bias was based upon drivel on the internet and likely mostly by folks who aren't really familiar with them.
First off, the reason I sold it is that my feet were kinda held to the fire by a pal who wanted to take it off my hands before I really shot it.
TRIGGER - In shooting it I found trigger criticisms to be spot on and set to correct that. First thing I did was a little bench top tune up based upon the most thought out UTOOB tutorial out of the many dozens out there. Some are so bad as to be quite unsafe in their irresponsible modification.
Then, I sent for the most advised replacement parts for the trigger assembly.
Both steps gave marked improvements but now I would simply replace the parts while it's disassembled anyway if money is not an issue.
ERGONOMICS - For me, without question, the finest fitting pistol from the factory to ever fall into my hands. The shape of the grip and the balance of weight over the firing hand was inspired... FOR ME. Don't get your back up if it was not for any of you.
SLIDE STOP - Was a bit flat for my liking but helped with the slick-sidedness of the pistol so there's that.
MAG CATCH - Was dead on for my hands.
SIGHTS - At least, quite good.
CYCLING - Fed any old catch as catch can, estate sale and left over ziplock bag ammo I had lying around. NOTHING FAILED!
ACCURACY - Was across the board very good regardless of who shot what.
MAG DROP - clean and smooth.
DISASSEMBLY - Glock quick.
Damn but I shoulda known better than to trust internet bitchin' and shoot it before agreeing to let it go!
Todd.
I got into it dirt cheap with no intention of keeping it.
Of course, my bias was based upon drivel on the internet and likely mostly by folks who aren't really familiar with them.
First off, the reason I sold it is that my feet were kinda held to the fire by a pal who wanted to take it off my hands before I really shot it.
TRIGGER - In shooting it I found trigger criticisms to be spot on and set to correct that. First thing I did was a little bench top tune up based upon the most thought out UTOOB tutorial out of the many dozens out there. Some are so bad as to be quite unsafe in their irresponsible modification.
Then, I sent for the most advised replacement parts for the trigger assembly.
Both steps gave marked improvements but now I would simply replace the parts while it's disassembled anyway if money is not an issue.
ERGONOMICS - For me, without question, the finest fitting pistol from the factory to ever fall into my hands. The shape of the grip and the balance of weight over the firing hand was inspired... FOR ME. Don't get your back up if it was not for any of you.
SLIDE STOP - Was a bit flat for my liking but helped with the slick-sidedness of the pistol so there's that.
MAG CATCH - Was dead on for my hands.
SIGHTS - At least, quite good.
CYCLING - Fed any old catch as catch can, estate sale and left over ziplock bag ammo I had lying around. NOTHING FAILED!
ACCURACY - Was across the board very good regardless of who shot what.
MAG DROP - clean and smooth.
DISASSEMBLY - Glock quick.
Damn but I shoulda known better than to trust internet bitchin' and shoot it before agreeing to let it go!
Todd.
Jim NE
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- Feb 28, 2011
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- 1,888
I got the .40 SD and the Sigma in both .40 and 9mm. All are good guns. The big story when the SD's replaced the Sigma was that the SD's were supposed to have a "way better" trigger, but I don't know if that's true. However, I think the triggers are just right for self defense use in a gun that doesn't have a manual safety. Both Sigmas and SD's can be shot accurately with minimal practice.
Aside from a factory assembly issue with the 9mm when I first got it, all seem to be pretty much 100% guns. So, congratulations on the acquisition of a fine, durable firearm. As long as you're not wanting to impress the gun snobs, you'll be happy.
Aside from a factory assembly issue with the 9mm when I first got it, all seem to be pretty much 100% guns. So, congratulations on the acquisition of a fine, durable firearm. As long as you're not wanting to impress the gun snobs, you'll be happy.
Redcoat3340
Member
I've got three of S&W's "plastic" guns, an SD9VE, SW990L and a Shield. I had the full Apex kit installed on the Shield plus night sights and I challenge anyone to find a better concealed carry 9mm (maybe a bunch just as good, but I doubt better) than the Shield. It's ded-on accurate, comfortable to carry, and more than manageable in terms of recoil or flip.
The 990L shoots just fine with a decent self-defense trigger, good sights, and it's been totally reliable...but then its actually a Walther (they made the frame and all the innards, Smith makes the slide and barrel) and except for the CCP, Walther does pretty good guns.
For the SD9VE I agree the trigger was a bit rough out of the box and rather than shoot half a thousand rounds through it to work it in, I got the Apex spring kit and now the trigger is crisp and light and just right.
My only other plastic pistol is a Walther PPX....with for $279 at CDNN is an amazing buy. One of the best out of the box triggers I've ever had, despite is ungainly looks it fits my hand like a glove, sights are just fine, and on my first trip to the range with it I shot the snot out of the middle of the target. Unfortunately, for future generations, it isn't a big seller (too much competition in the category and it does look bulky) Walther is discontinuing it. Clearly, it ain't a concealed carry choice, but as a range gun or home defense, it can not be beat for the price. We're talking a Walther price like a...a...cheap gun. (Heck, the grips on my Walther P5 cost almost as much as the PPX.)
The 990L shoots just fine with a decent self-defense trigger, good sights, and it's been totally reliable...but then its actually a Walther (they made the frame and all the innards, Smith makes the slide and barrel) and except for the CCP, Walther does pretty good guns.
For the SD9VE I agree the trigger was a bit rough out of the box and rather than shoot half a thousand rounds through it to work it in, I got the Apex spring kit and now the trigger is crisp and light and just right.
My only other plastic pistol is a Walther PPX....with for $279 at CDNN is an amazing buy. One of the best out of the box triggers I've ever had, despite is ungainly looks it fits my hand like a glove, sights are just fine, and on my first trip to the range with it I shot the snot out of the middle of the target. Unfortunately, for future generations, it isn't a big seller (too much competition in the category and it does look bulky) Walther is discontinuing it. Clearly, it ain't a concealed carry choice, but as a range gun or home defense, it can not be beat for the price. We're talking a Walther price like a...a...cheap gun. (Heck, the grips on my Walther P5 cost almost as much as the PPX.)
The SD9VE is a good gun. If it was much better they'd never sell any M&P's so I'll bet that's why the trigger has never been reworked by Smith.
The post above mine about the PPX is dead on. Too bad they were discontinued, mine is awesome and feels like much higher quality than anything else you can get new for under $300.
The post above mine about the PPX is dead on. Too bad they were discontinued, mine is awesome and feels like much higher quality than anything else you can get new for under $300.
I bought a new SW Sigma 40VE for 300 with two free mags from SW, my first center fire pistol.At the Time I couldn't afford a 1911. pistol.Kept it about a year and shot it quite a bit,Functioned flawlessly,and was as accurate as you expect.I finally bit the bullet and sold it and bought my Springfield Loaded Target pistol. Been a happy camper ever since. hdbiker
mgmorden
Member
Not a bad gun. Trigger is long and heavy, but put in the Apex trigger and spring kit and it's as good or better than most other factory striker fired pistols. On the other hand that's and aftermarket trigger to bring it up to spec with other factory triggers - it still doesn't show well against most other aftermarket triggers 
.
Overall though they're decent guns. For the same money I'd recommend the Ruger SR series over it, but if you've already got a S&W SD it'll do fine.
. Overall though they're decent guns. For the same money I'd recommend the Ruger SR series over it, but if you've already got a S&W SD it'll do fine.
alleycat7002
Member
- Joined
- Apr 22, 2008
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- 64
Reason I got it was my nephew had one and it runs flawless the trigger nots bad..got it for 289
maxxhavoc
Contributing Member
I was really impressed by these "bargain" guns.
The trigger on mine is about 8 lbs, but fairly smooth. It's right about where I like a self defense gun with no safety. Mine has a permanent home by the bed.
The trigger on mine is about 8 lbs, but fairly smooth. It's right about where I like a self defense gun with no safety. Mine has a permanent home by the bed.
My SD9ve is pretty good. Mine was purchased used and has not been a disappointment although a friend purchased one brand new that wouldn't shoot to the sights. He sold it before fixing it.
I did a typical port and polish on mine before adding an Apex kit, and in retrospect could have lived without it. It helps, but it does not do a great deal once you have already broken the gun down for a thorough cleaning and polishing.
I find the grip to be extremely comfortable and a near perfect ergonomic match. It shoots softly, it feels relatively thin, and the slide serrations are deep and easy to hold. If they made a compact version I'd probably be carrying it. Admittedly, I did not shoot it as well as my M&P with the cleaner break of that trigger design, but with practice I may be able to. The M&P was recently stolen during a burglary and the sd9ve has been upgraded in status. They are a great ~$300 pistol imo.
I did a typical port and polish on mine before adding an Apex kit, and in retrospect could have lived without it. It helps, but it does not do a great deal once you have already broken the gun down for a thorough cleaning and polishing.
I find the grip to be extremely comfortable and a near perfect ergonomic match. It shoots softly, it feels relatively thin, and the slide serrations are deep and easy to hold. If they made a compact version I'd probably be carrying it. Admittedly, I did not shoot it as well as my M&P with the cleaner break of that trigger design, but with practice I may be able to. The M&P was recently stolen during a burglary and the sd9ve has been upgraded in status. They are a great ~$300 pistol imo.
RON in PA
Member
I bought a SD9VE mostly out of curiosity fully expecting a heavy trigger. I haven't modified the gun in any way. Yes the trigger is heavy, but not that bad, especially to someone used to shooting DA revolvers.
It is very accurate, comparable to my other polymer striker guns, M&P, Glock, Walther, HK. We're talking 7 & 10 yards two handed off hand, not off the bench.
The quality of machining on the slide is excellent, comparable to my VP9, Walthers etc. I'm not sure the polymer frame is as rugged as other plastic pistols. Seems lighter in comparison. My major complaints are the plastic rear sight and the too short take-down levers that are hard to grasp. Almost forgot, the ergonomics are great for my medium hands.
All in all a bargain of a gun.
It is very accurate, comparable to my other polymer striker guns, M&P, Glock, Walther, HK. We're talking 7 & 10 yards two handed off hand, not off the bench.
The quality of machining on the slide is excellent, comparable to my VP9, Walthers etc. I'm not sure the polymer frame is as rugged as other plastic pistols. Seems lighter in comparison. My major complaints are the plastic rear sight and the too short take-down levers that are hard to grasp. Almost forgot, the ergonomics are great for my medium hands.
All in all a bargain of a gun.
jad0110
Member
Never been a big fan of polymer guns, but the SD9VEs do feel great in my hands. About as good as my CZ-75 and HiPower. I've been tempted to pick one up, given their $300 price tag. Were I to get a double stack 9 polymer pistol, this would be it. The XDs and Glocks in particular feel goofy or just plain awful in my hands. The M&P line is nice, but to me the additional price isn't justified over the SD9VE.
I've dry fired a couple, and though the trigger doesn't roll as slickly or release as smoothly as a good S&W double action revolver, its decent. Not sure what most are complaining about, maybe most are just weak fingered types .
I've dry fired a couple, and though the trigger doesn't roll as slickly or release as smoothly as a good S&W double action revolver, its decent. Not sure what most are complaining about, maybe most are just weak fingered types
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Redcoat3340
Member
I've got four plastic pistols, three are S&W's and one is a Star: SW990L, Shield, and SD9VE and the UltraStar, which has so much steel reinforcing in the grips that it feels like a metal gun. Plus it has an amazing trigger, almost as good as my Walther P5.
For RoninPA....
My major complaints are the plastic rear sight and the too short take-down levers that are hard to grasp. Almost forgot, the ergonomics are great for my medium hands.
Ton, there's an aftermarket extended take-down that fixes that problem for less than $15.00
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BIMNFYM?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00
And you can put regular M&P 9mm metal sights on the SD9 (I did) and a metal guide rod and spring run around $30 from Amazon. if you don't like the plastic one To make the trigger even better, Apex makes replacement springs that take the trigger to another level.
All in all, I couldn't be happier with my plastic pistols, and I must admit I was very, very surprised I would be as pleased as I was. It doesn't mean I'm getting rid of my S&W 39s or 59s, Berettas, Sig or Walthers, just that plastic was a lot better than I thought it would be (albeit I did have to add aftermarket parts on both the Shield [full Apex package, Talon grips, and night sights] and SD9. The 990L is still stock.
For RoninPA....
My major complaints are the plastic rear sight and the too short take-down levers that are hard to grasp. Almost forgot, the ergonomics are great for my medium hands.
Ton, there's an aftermarket extended take-down that fixes that problem for less than $15.00
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BIMNFYM?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00
And you can put regular M&P 9mm metal sights on the SD9 (I did) and a metal guide rod and spring run around $30 from Amazon. if you don't like the plastic one To make the trigger even better, Apex makes replacement springs that take the trigger to another level.
All in all, I couldn't be happier with my plastic pistols, and I must admit I was very, very surprised I would be as pleased as I was. It doesn't mean I'm getting rid of my S&W 39s or 59s, Berettas, Sig or Walthers, just that plastic was a lot better than I thought it would be (albeit I did have to add aftermarket parts on both the Shield [full Apex package, Talon grips, and night sights] and SD9. The 990L is still stock.
I was just about to buy one of these at the beginning of the year when a clean used Beretta 92FS caught my eye and wallet instead. The one I examined at a LGS and considered buying had a decent trigger, not Walther PPQ-like at all but definitely manageable with a little practice. The thing to remember about the SD9VE and SD40VE is that their primary market is first-time or low-income handgun buyers who probably don't have the level of training or experience with handguns that most of us here do, therefore a little stiffer trigger is actually a good thing. Guys who turn their noses up at anything with an 8# or heavier trigger are supposed to be looking at S&W's M&P line instead.
The trigger sucks but that is all. I did the apex kit on mine and made it a lot better. Still prefer the m&p but carried the sd9ve for a long time and would again if not for the xds I bought. Sold the sd9ve but not because it was a bad gun but because I needed the cash.
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