Introduction: Two Contenders in the Compact Pistol Arena
The Glock 19 and the M&P Compact have become ubiquitous fixtures in the world of firearms. They’re carried by law enforcement, used by military personnel, and embraced by civilian shooters worldwide. Their popularity stems from their reliability, manageable size, and ease of use. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of these two compact powerhouses, breaking down their strengths and weaknesses across a range of key considerations. Our goal is to equip you with the information necessary to determine which handgun is the ideal choice for your individual requirements. We’ll explore aspects from grip and trigger to aftermarket support and overall value, ensuring you can make an informed decision.
Background: Familiarizing with the Contenders
Before diving into a direct comparison, a basic understanding of each firearm’s history and characteristics is essential. This background will help provide context as we delve deeper into the features.
The Glock 19: A Legacy of Simplicity and Reliability
The Glock 19, a 9mm Luger pistol, arrived on the scene and quickly revolutionized the handgun market. Known for its simple, yet effective, design, the Glock 19 offers exceptional reliability. Its polymer frame and steel slide construction have contributed to its robust nature and its ability to withstand harsh conditions. Glock’s “Safe Action” system, a combination of passive safety features, contributes to its user-friendliness. The Glock 19’s popularity is undeniable, stemming from its consistent performance, readily available parts and accessories, and a loyal following. It’s been a mainstay of law enforcement and military units. The pistol’s straightforward design makes it relatively easy to master, making it appealing to both experienced shooters and those new to firearms. Whether for concealed carry, home defense, or range practice, the Glock 19 has earned its place as a go-to choice for many.
The Smith & Wesson M&P Compact: A Modern Contender with Ergonomic Design
Smith & Wesson’s M&P Compact emerged as a direct competitor to the Glock lineup, bringing its own unique design philosophy and ergonomic focus. The M&P series has been developed to offer shooters a comfortable and customizable shooting experience. The M&P Compact emphasizes the importance of ergonomics, aiming for a comfortable grip that promotes consistent accuracy. The pistol’s internal safety features and its trigger design further contribute to user-friendliness. The M&P Compact has quickly built a strong reputation for quality and value. The option of interchangeable backstraps helps shooters fine-tune the fit of the grip to their hand size, and it’s something that gives the M&P Compact an edge for some users. For those seeking an ergonomic and reliable compact pistol, the M&P Compact has proven itself to be a formidable contender.
Ergonomics and Handling: How They Feel in Hand
The way a firearm feels in the hand is critical to its performance and overall user satisfaction.
Glock 19: A Straightforward Approach
The Glock 19 features a grip that’s known for its more blocky shape and aggressive texturing. While the texture helps ensure a secure grip in various conditions, some shooters find the grip a little less comfortable for extended shooting sessions. The Glock’s grip angle is often described as being slightly steeper than what many consider a “natural” pointing angle. The trigger reach on the Glock 19 may require some adjustment for shooters with smaller hands. For those accustomed to Glock ergonomics, this pistol offers quick target acquisition, but for others, the grip shape may require some getting used to.
M&P Compact: Prioritizing a Comfortable Fit
The M&P Compact distinguishes itself with its focus on ergonomics, particularly with the inclusion of interchangeable backstraps. This feature allows shooters to customize the grip size to better fit their hand. The M&P’s grip angle feels more natural to many shooters. The texture on the M&P Compact’s grip, while still providing good purchase, tends to be less aggressive, contributing to greater comfort during extended handling and firing. The result is a pistol that feels good in a wide variety of hands, regardless of hand size.
Trigger Mechanism: The Heart of the Firing Experience
The trigger mechanism is the key to consistent and accurate shooting. Both firearms have unique trigger systems with different characteristics.
Glock 19: Safe Action Fundamentals
The Glock 19 employs the “Safe Action” system, known for its consistent trigger pull and relatively short reset. The trigger’s pull weight, typically around five to six pounds, may feel slightly heavier to some. This trigger system prioritizes simplicity and safety. Experienced shooters appreciate the predictable trigger pull, which helps promote accurate shot placement. The short reset allows for rapid follow-up shots.
M&P Compact: Enhanced Feel and Customization
The M&P Compact’s trigger offers a different feel from the Glock. It often features more pre-travel and a longer reset, although this can vary depending on the specific model and any aftermarket modifications. Some shooters find the M&P Compact’s trigger to be smoother, but others prefer the Glock’s more consistent feel. Smith & Wesson has made improvements to the trigger in recent generations of the M&P Compact, which can improve the shooting experience.
Features and Design: Construction and Components
Differences in design and features differentiate the M&P Compact and the Glock 19.
Glock 19: Simplicity and Functionality
The Glock 19’s construction relies on a polymer frame and a steel slide. Its simplicity is key. The standard sights are typically Glock’s basic polymer sights, which can be replaced with various aftermarket options. The controls, including the slide release and magazine release, are simple and easy to operate. The design prioritizes reliability and straightforward operation.
M&P Compact: Ergonomic Excellence and Enhanced Features
The M&P Compact utilizes a polymer frame with a stainless steel slide, providing similar durability to the Glock. The standard sights on the M&P are typically three-dot sights that offer improved visibility. Some M&P models include ambidextrous slide releases, enhancing usability for both left- and right-handed shooters. The M&P Compact also offers features like a reversible magazine release.
Size and Weight: Concealability and Carry Considerations
The size and weight of a compact handgun directly impact its suitability for concealed carry and ease of handling.
Glock 19: A Balance of Compactness and Capacity
The Glock 19 provides a balanced package. The dimensions are manageable for concealed carry while providing a decent capacity magazine. Its weight, while being relatively light due to the polymer frame, still provides good balance in the hand. It’s a manageable pistol for a variety of users.
M&P Compact: Optimized for Concealed Carry
The M&P Compact has similar dimensions and weight, making it very competitive in the compact pistol field. The slightly different grip shape and profile can influence its feel during concealed carry. The M&P Compact is designed to be carried comfortably.
Magazine Capacity and Compatibility: Feeding the Firearm
The ability to reliably feed ammunition is essential. Compatibility and capacity matter.
Glock 19: Known and Familiar
The Glock 19 typically comes with a standard magazine capacity, offering the ability to use higher-capacity magazines from other Glock models. This versatility gives shooters the option to choose the magazine that best suits their needs. Magazine availability and ease of access are not problems with Glock handguns.
M&P Compact: Dependable and Capable
The M&P Compact has comparable standard magazine capacity, with options for extended magazines in certain instances. Magazine availability is excellent.
Reliability and Durability: Tested Under Fire
Reliability and durability are paramount.
Glock 19: The Gold Standard
The Glock 19 has a long-standing reputation for reliability. It has been deployed by law enforcement and military units worldwide. Its simple design and rugged construction contribute to its durability.
M&P Compact: A Strong Contender
The M&P Compact also has a positive record of reliability, making it a dependable choice for self-defense and general use. Smith & Wesson has invested heavily in producing a reliable handgun.
Aftermarket Support and Customization: The Option for Change
The ability to customize a firearm can make it more appealing.
Glock 19: A Vast Aftermarket
The Glock 19 has a massive aftermarket, with countless options for parts, accessories, and modifications. Shooters can easily customize their Glock 19 to meet their specific needs.
M&P Compact: Significant Support
The M&P Compact also benefits from a strong aftermarket presence, with numerous parts and accessory options available. While the selection may not be as extensive as for the Glock, there are still plenty of ways to customize the M&P Compact.
Price and Value: Getting the Most for Your Money
Price is another important factor.
Glock 19: Good Value
The Glock 19 is generally competitively priced, making it an excellent value. Its durability, performance, and aftermarket support contribute to its overall value.
M&P Compact: Competitive Value
The M&P Compact offers excellent value, offering a competitive price point. The ergonomics, features, and dependability provide a solid package.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Overview
Glock 19
Pros: Proven reliability, Simple and easy to use, Vast aftermarket support, Excellent ergonomics for many shooters
Cons: Grip can feel blocky to some, The trigger might require getting used to
M&P Compact
Pros: Excellent ergonomics with interchangeable backstraps, Comfortable grip and natural point, Strong aftermarket support, Improved trigger in some models
Cons: Trigger feel might not be ideal for everyone, Aftermarket selection is not as vast as Glock
Conclusion: Which Pistol Wins?
Choosing between the Glock 19 and the M&P Compact truly depends on individual preferences and needs. The Glock 19’s proven reliability, simplicity, and the huge aftermarket options will appeal to many. The M&P Compact’s ergonomic grip, customizable features, and excellent trigger performance make it a compelling choice for those who prioritize comfort and customizability. For concealed carry, both pistols offer excellent value. For new shooters, the Glock 19’s simplicity is attractive, while the M&P Compact’s grip may be more comfortable. Experienced shooters will appreciate the trigger and features of both firearms. Ultimately, the best way to make a decision is to handle and, if possible, shoot both pistols to determine which one fits your hand, shooting style, and needs the best. Both are excellent handguns and will serve you well.
