Shooting the Smith and Wesson M and P Line

by
posted on August 19, 2014
line.jpg

S&W M&P 22 CompactYesterday, Shooting Illustrated's Jay Grazio and I hit the range to shoot the new Smith & Wesson M&P 22C, along with the .380 and .38 Spl. I learned that even though there is less recoil with the .22 Compact, I still need to keep a firm grip on the gun, otherwise it doesn't properly cycle and gets jammed up (also that I am a pro at clearing malfunctions). This compact gun was the perfect fit for my hands. Often times the .380s are just too small in terms of comfort and feeling in control of the firearm, but the .22 Compact is just right. I had no trouble pulling the slide back, and pushing the slide-stop lever up in a matter of seconds, which is always a concern for me since I don't have great hand strength.

M&P .38 Spl. I also learned that even though the .38 Spl. has more recoil, I am a much better shot with the revolver. I think it has a lot to do with the heavier trigger pull forcing me to slow down so that I'm not preemptively flinching before the gun has even fired. Either way, I've always been a huge fan of the M&P line, especially as a new female shooter. The first time I shot a handgun I used an M&P 9 mm and loved it. Now with the 22 Compact, and after shooting the .38 Spl. it's going to be more difficult to figure out which to purchase next!

Latest

Kimber 2K11 Melloni Review Lede
Kimber 2K11 Melloni Review Lede

Reviewed: Kimber 2K11 Pistol

Don't be fooled: Kimber's full-size, double-stack 1911-style handgun shoots almost as softly and accurately as a race-tuned .22.

NRA Files Lawsuit Challenging Colorado’s Excise Tax on Gun & Ammunition Sales

"We are pleased to join with other Second Amendment advocates in this lawsuit to protect and defend the fundamental right to keep and bear arms.”

Catch Big & Rich Performing Live at "NRA Show" in Atlanta

These staunch Second Amendment supporters headline our "Freedom Experience" concert at NRA's Annual Meetings & Exhibits this month.

No Fooling: Silencer Central Pays Tax Stamps Through April 15, 2025

“We wanted to do something for our customers to reduce some of the stress of tax time," notes Silencer Central CEO Brandon Maddox.

New Guns 2025: Savage Arms Stance XR Pistol

Smaller, smoother, and enhanced with safety features, this micropistol is a big winner.

Mossy Oak Announces 2025 Wild Turkey Conservation Stamp

All proceeds from stamp sales go directly to wild turkey conservation projects around the country.

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.