When choosing a reliable 9mm handgun, two models frequently come to mind: the Glock 17 and the Smith & Wesson M&P9. Both have earned reputations for reliability, accuracy, and versatility, making them popular choices among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. How do they compare side-by-side? Let’s see how they stack up.
Historical Background
Glock 17
The Glock 17 was introduced in 1982 by Austrian manufacturer Glock GmbH. It was designed by Gaston Glock, a firearms engineer with no prior experience in gun design, which led to an innovative approach to its construction. The Glock 17 quickly gained popularity due to its use of a polymer frame, which was revolutionary at the time, offering a lighter alternative to traditional steel frames. Its simplicity, reliability, and high capacity made it a favorite among police and military forces worldwide.
Smith & Wesson M&P9
Smith & Wesson, a storied American firearms manufacturer, introduced the M&P9 (Military & Police) in 2005. The M&P9 was designed as part of the M&P series to compete in the growing market of polymer-framed, striker-fired pistols. It was developed with input from law enforcement and military professionals to meet their demanding requirements. The M&P9 quickly garnered praise for its ergonomic design, accuracy, and modularity.
Design and Build Quality
Glock 17
The Glock 17 features a simple and rugged design. Its polymer frame contributes to its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties. The slide is made of steel and treated with a Tenifer finish (in earlier models) or a DLC finish (in later models) for added durability. One of the standout features of the Glock design is its minimal number of parts, which enhances reliability and makes maintenance straightforward. The standard Glock 17 magazine holds 17 rounds, although extended magazines are available.
Smith & Wesson M&P9
The M&P9 also utilizes a polymer frame but with more ergonomic contours and interchangeable backstraps to better fit various hand sizes. The slide is constructed from stainless steel and coated with a durable Melonite finish. The M&P9 incorporates a low bore axis, which helps reduce muzzle rise and improve accuracy during rapid fire. The standard magazine capacity is 17 rounds, similar to the Glock 17, and the design allows for easy customization and accessory attachment.
Ergonomics and Handling
Glock 17
The Glock 17 has a straightforward ergonomic design. Depending on the user’s preference, its grip angle is often cited as either a pro or a con. Some shooters appreciate the natural point of aim, while others find it less intuitive than other designs. The grip’s texture provides a secure hold but may feel less refined than in more modern designs. The Glock 17’s controls are simple and ambidextrous, although the slide stop lever can be small for some users.
Smith & Wesson M&P9
The M&P9 shines in the ergonomics department. Thanks to the interchangeable backstraps, its grip is more contoured and comfortable for a wider range of hand sizes. The aggressive texturing on the grip provides excellent traction without being overly abrasive. The controls are well-placed and user-friendly, with an ambidextrous slide stop and reversible magazine release. The overall design prioritizes ease of handling and comfort, making it a favorite for many shooters.
Performance and Accuracy
Glock 17
The Glock 17 is renowned for its reliability. It’s rock solid and functions exceptionally well under various conditions, including extreme temperatures, dirt, and moisture. Although sometimes described as “spongy,” the trigger pull is predictable, allowing for accurate shooting with practice. The Glock 17 is known for “point and shoot” reliability, making it a solid choice for defensive and tactical situations.
Smith & Wesson M&P9
The M&P9 also boasts impressive reliability and durability. It performs well in adverse conditions and has been rigorously tested for durability. The trigger on the M&P9 has seen improvements over the years, offering a crisper break and shorter reset compared to earlier models, contributing to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. Like the Glock, the M&P9 has a low bore axis and ergonomic design that enhance control and accuracy, particularly during rapid fire.
Customization and Accessories
Glock 17
One of the major advantages of the Glock 17 is the vast availability of aftermarket parts and accessories. Do you need something? Chances are, someone makes it. There is an extensive range of customization options, from sights and triggers to slides and frames, making the Glock 17 a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoy modifying their firearms to suit their preferences and needs.
Smith & Wesson M&P9
The M&P9 also benefits from healthy aftermarket support, though not as extensive as the Glock 17. However, Smith & Wesson has designed the M&P9 to be highly modular, with features like interchangeable backstraps and the ability to add various accessories. This allows users to tailor the gun to their liking, whether for competition, carry, or duty use.
Overall Value
Glock 17
The Glock 17 offers excellent value for its price. Its reliability, durability, and simplicity make it a favorite among many users. The widespread availability of parts and accessories also means long-term ownership costs can be lower due to the ease of maintenance and customization. For those looking for a proven, no-nonsense handgun, the Glock 17 is a top contender.
Smith & Wesson M&P9
The M&P9 also presents great value. Its ergonomic design, reliability, and performance make it an excellent choice. The additional ergonomic features and modularity might appeal to those who care about comfort and customization right out of the box. The M&P9 also comes in at a competitive price point, offering a lot of features for the money.
Parting Shot
Picking between the Glock 17 and the Smith & Wesson M&P9 ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. Both firearms are outstanding, offering reliability, accuracy, and a range of features that cater to different needs. Either would serve well in defensive, tactical, or recreational roles. Which one is better? Tell us what you think in the comments below.
