No experience with the PX4, but I love my M&P 9. I'm a lefty too, and the completely ambidextrous controls make it a lot easier to quickly operate it. The only thing that seems to be common with them is that the trigger feels "gritty" for the first few hundred presses. But after that, it's smooths out nicely.

But as far as overall quality/reliability goes, I don't think you can go wrong with either choice. Have fun making your decision!

I'm just the opposite of RightTurnClyde.

I have never shot a M&P, but own two of the Beretta PX4 Storms

My PX4 sub- compact



And my full size PX4



I bought the full size 1st and 6 months later the sub-compact.

They both shoot very well in either DA or SA.

They have Ambidextrous controls, and I like seeing the exposed hammer.

just my .02

+1 Beretta PX4.

The reviewers are right. The M&P is a very accurate pistol. I've shot both of your choices quite a bit, and much prefer the M&P.

Beretta PX4 Storm, at least for me.

See if you can find a place to rent both. Short of that - go pick each up and see which feels better.

I have shot an M&P 9 and 45 before. I HATE the trigger. There are mods and such that can be done to the trigger to make it better - but I usually don't start modding the trigger on most of my guns. I never could get into the M&P for that reason

S&w m&p

I have shot both, and IMO they aren't even in the same boat. The Px4 just feels like a world of a better pistol to me in every way possible.

My buddy has the M&P and he can shoot it like most people wish they could. Me on the other hand I prefer the PX4 It just puts holes right were I intend holes to be. I cant keep as good a group or as cosistantly hit all alpha with his M&P My vote goes Berreta but it would surely be cancelled out if Bob were posting here. I also like the exposed hammer, not all my handguns have it but I do like it better.

RCG

I have shot the PX4 and the PX4 sub-compact which are great pistols. I can't wait to shoot the middle sized PX4 compact coming out soon to compare.

What is your intended purpose? Home defense, range fun, concealed carry, all the above? Both are reportedly excellent. Quality, durability and performance should be on equal footing. The two systems are pretty different though. M&P has a consistent same pull trigger design and the PX4 is the DA/SA. I will say that the DA pull on the Px4's that I have are excellent. As a lefty my preference would be the Beretta PX4 but that is purely subjective. It is the easiest for me to use and manipulate the controls with my left hand. You may well be the opposite.

Best advice already given is to see if you can spend some range time with each to see which one feels and instinctively shoots the best for you. If that's not possible handling and inspecting both guns carefully at the old gun counter to see which one feels and points best for you. Dry firing the trigger which one seems smoother and natural to you? Not always an indicator of how things will perform on the live fire range but it could help narrow things down.

In the spirit of full objectivity I have read a "ton" of positive feedback about the M&P. Even the die hard Glock guys give high praise to the M&P. I don't think you have a bad choice before you just a personal one. Cost should be about equal as well. Good luck.

I own both in .40, and they both are really fine pistols. Picking between the two, I'd have to say it depends on whether you like hammer or striker. If you were ever going to end up carrying it, the PX4 is a wee bit smaller, but I carry both very comfortably.

Tough, enjoyable call. You won't be sorry with either.

Originally Posted by cougartex

+1 Beretta PX4.

+ONE MORE for the Beretta Px4 in 9mm, sub compact...I LOVE it! Obviously very dependable name brand and great new product. Good luck with your search and Shoot Safely!

Something to consider, on the rare occasion you have a problem with your new pistol, and need to return it for warrantly repair, you will pay about $60 to return it to Beretta. S&W will send you a return authorization and it won't cost you a penny. Beretta sucks in that regard. They won't budge.

But the chances of you having a problem are slim. I've got 4 PX4's and haven't had a problem, except with the subcompact, and I fixed that myself.

Overall, the Beretta PX4 Storm is a pleasure to shoot. It is simple to field strip and clean (breakdown takes two seconds and the barrel is chrome-lined). It is extremely accurate. Perceived recoil and barrel rise are minimal, making rapid follow-up shots easier. The adjustable backstrap provides the opportunity to find an excellent fit.

I just did a review of the PX4 Subcompact vs. Glock, check it out | Handgun World Show

I was very impressed.

+1 Handgun World

I listened and enjoyed your review.

I carry my Beretta w/o the safety being on also.

Long double action trigger pull doesn't need a safety (i.e. Sig Sauer's) IMHO

Thanks for doing it.