What the...went for a G26, but came out wanting a M&P?

[watarski]

I don't want to create yet another Glock vs XD vs M&P thread, but...
I had set my sites on a Glock 26 for concealed carry. Glock of course has a great reputation for reliability and toughness. I wanted a no frills carry piece that would go bang when needed. Then I went to a shop tonight and held the S&W M&P compact. I thought it looked ugly as sin, but my goodness did it feel great. The Glock (to me) felt chunky and uncomfortable. The M&P fits amazing, and seems like I could get a better grip on it while shooting. Bottom line, I was very surprised and now am seriously contemplating this compact. Is there any particular reason I should stay away from the M&P series?

 

[Snubster]

I feel both would be great choices. I just got a G26 and am amazed at how easy shooting the little gun is. Oddly enough, I actually like the pinky on the bottom. I went with a subcompact frame primarily because for tuckable IWB, the G26 just doesn't print for me (pretty much appendix position). The compact frame for me is pretty concealable, but just not as much so. That's why I went with the Glock, as I have many other compacts.

I don't think you can go wrong with the M&P. It's on my short list.

 

[Glockorama]

I would be interested in a compact M&P in 357sig. Do they make those yet?

 

[rugerfreak]

A more direct comparison in size is the M&P9c and the G19---in which the MP gives up 3 shots and the weight is about the same----and don't forget MP mags are double the cost of Glock mags---if you can even find them.

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

I have a M&P and had a G27. It does indeed hold and shoot more comfortably than the Glock, even with the flat-base magazine. It has been 100% reliable from round one. It is a little larger than the Glock - in height, length and thickness of the slide - and would not make a very good pocket or ankle gun. But I have something else for that.

 

[Flyfishtom]

M & P

I did the same thing and came out with the S & W. I liked the ability to change the grip. I liked the two extra mags and the $50.00 rebate. I now have 250 rounds through it without a hitch. It's a keeper.

 

[kd7nqb]

They are both great guns. I like the M&P mostly for fit and feel. Either way you have some great tactical Tupperware.

 

[30 cal slob]

"tactical tupperware?"

 

[DougW]

30 cal, it's a Glock thing. You haven't heard of the "tactical tupperware"? Comes with Perfection!

 

[Owen Meany]

A more direct comparison in size is the M&P9c and the G19...

Exactly. The G26 and M&Pc are not comparable in size.

Is there any particular reason I should stay away from the M&P series?

No, I guess there isn't. But my opinion is that you should follow your original instincts and get the G26. As far as the "feel" goes, well, I've never spent any amount of time with a gun whose "feel" I didn't eventually wind up being comfortable with. It's a familiarization issue, I think.

Believe me, the first time I held a subcompact Glock I nearly put it down in disgust. The grip simply felt far too thick and far too short to provide a secure handhold. After some time spent with the G27, I absolutely love this soft-shooting little gun and would never part with it.

The Glocks fit the most rounds of the most potent calibers into the smallest and lightest packages possible. If you can persuade yourself to give the G26 another look, by all means do so. I truly think it will grow on you.

 

[watarski]

I am also looking to carry IWB. Is the M&P really that much closer to the 19? I would think it's in between the two. Obviously for carry the G26 is a great idea. I just don't like the way it fits my hand. I know more than fit goes into what gun works best, but it is important. I'm sure I would be able to learn to like the Glock, but my initial impression of the M&P is hard to shake.

 

[foxmoor]

I shot both before buying and shot the G26 slightly better, though the M&Pc felt more ergonomic in the hand. Both shoot well, but the G26 is amazingly accurate and easy to shoot for being so small and lightweight. Good luck in the hunt.

 

[MarcusWendt]

I don't think you would go wrong by getting the M&P. I do think you should shoot both of them first if possible and then decide. I'm confidant that you'll still walk out with the M&P.