Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head comparison between Two popular handguns: The Glock 45 Vs M&P 2.0.
As someone who’s spent a fair bit of time on the range testing these guns, I’m excited to share my insights with you. We’ll look at how each gun performs in the field, touching on the nuances that might sway your preference. So, let’s jump right in and see how these two stack up!
| Feature | Glock 45 | M&P 2.0 |
| Caliber | 9x19mm | 9MM |
| Magazine Capacity | 17 rounds (optional up to 33) | 17 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.02 inches | 4.25 inches |
| Weight (Empty) | 24.48 oz | 27.8 oz |
| Overall Length | 7.44 inches | 7.4 inches |
Overview of Glock 45
The Glock 45 is a fine example of Glock’s commitment to quality. Here’s a quick glance at what this gun brings to the table:
- Caliber: 9x19mm
- System: Safe Action®
- Magazine Capacity: Standard 17 rounds; optional 19, 24, 31, 33 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.02 inches
- Weight with Empty Magazine: 24.48 oz
- Trigger Pull: 26 N (approx. 5.85 pounds)
- Overall Length: 7.44 inches
- Slide Length: 6.85 inches
- Overall Width: 1.34 inches
- Slide Width: 1.0 inch
- Height with Magazine: 5.47 inches
Overview of M&P 2.0
The M&P 2.0, from Smith & Wesson, brings its own charm. Here’s a breakdown of its specs for a direct comparison:
- Caliber: 9MM
- Frame Size: FULL
- Weight: 27.8 oz
- Width: 1.16 in
- Height: 5.5 in
- Magazine Capacity: 17 rounds
Features Comparison: Glock 45 VS M&P 2.0
1. Ergonomics and Handling
Glock 45
The Glock 45’s ergonomics are a standout feature, particularly for those who favor a thumbs-forward grip. This design makes it intuitive to point at targets, significantly enhancing the shooting experience.
On the range, I found that the Glock 45’s grip and balance made it easy to acquire targets quickly. The lower muzzle rise, thanks to its bore axis, also contributes to its steady handling. It’s a design that feels both robust and comfortable, offering a reassuring sense of control during rapid firing.
M&P 2.0
The M&P 2.0 shines in ergonomics, feeling exceptionally natural in the hand. It’s slightly heavier than the Glock 45, but this weight contributes to a stable shooting experience.
The grip texture and contour are well-thought-out, providing a firm grasp without being abrasive. During my testing, I noticed that the M&P 2.0’s natural pointing ability made initial target acquisition almost instinctive.
This ergonomic design is especially beneficial for new shooters or those who prefer a more traditional grip style.
Winner
Deciding a winner in ergonomics is tough as it largely depends on personal preference. However, when compared to the Glock 45, the M&P 2.0 has a slight edge for its natural feel and instinctive pointing ability. Its ergonomic design caters to a broader range of shooters and provides a more immediate sense of familiarity and comfort.
The Glock 45, while excellent in its own right, demands a bit more adaptation to its unique grip style, which might not suit everyone.
2. Maintenance and Durability
Glock 45
The Glock 45 is renowned for its ease of maintenance, a critical factor for any firearm owner. Its simplistic design allows for quick disassembly and cleaning, making it a breeze to keep in top condition.
In my experience, the Glock’s parts are robust and less prone to wear, translating to less frequent maintenance. The slide disassembly, in particular, is straightforward, and I’ve never encountered issues with stuck or difficult-to-remove components, a testament to Glock’s engineering.
M&P 2.0
The M&P 2.0, while a solidly built firearm, presents a bit more of a challenge in terms of maintenance compared to the Glock 45. The disassembly process is not overly complex, but it can be slightly more time-consuming.
The rear sight, in particular, can be a bit of a hassle to deal with, requiring more effort to disassemble and reassemble. This aspect might be a consideration for those who prioritize ease of maintenance in their firearm choice.
Winner
When comparing maintenance ease, the Glock 45 takes the lead. Its design is user-friendly, especially for those who are not overly technical.
The simplicity of taking apart, cleaning, and reassembling gives it a significant advantage, particularly for new gun owners or those who want to spend more time shooting and less time tinkering.
The M&P 2.0, while a robust and reliable firearm, requires a bit more patience and skill to maintain, making the Glock 45 the preferable choice in this regard.
3. Accuracy and Performance
Glock 45
The Glock 45’s accuracy is impressive, especially considering its compact size. The barrel length and sight radius are well-balanced, contributing to its precise shot placement. In field tests, the Glock 45 consistently hit targets with remarkable accuracy, even at longer distances.
The trigger pull is crisp and predictable, allowing for controlled and accurate shooting. The reduced muzzle rise also plays a significant role in maintaining accuracy during rapid fire, making it a reliable choice for both target shooting and practical scenarios.
M&P 2.0
The M&P 2.0 also offers commendable accuracy. Its ergonomic design aids in steady aim and control, which positively impacts shot placement. The trigger quality is noteworthy, providing a smooth and consistent pull that enhances precision.
During testing, I found the M&P 2.0 to be highly accurate, particularly in controlled, deliberate shooting scenarios. The gun’s weight and balance contribute to its stable shooting platform, making it a strong contender in the accuracy department.
Smith and Wesson Shield Problems
Winner
In terms of accuracy, it’s a close call, but the Glock 45 edges out slightly when compared to the M&P 2.0. The Glock’s lower muzzle rise and well-designed ergonomics contribute to steadier shots and better control during rapid fire.
This makes it slightly more versatile in various shooting conditions. The M&P 2.0, while highly accurate, is more suited to deliberate, controlled shooting. The Glock 45’s adaptability and consistent performance across different shooting scenarios give it a slight advantage in this category.
Pros & Cons of Glock 45
Pros
- Lower muzzle rise, enhancing shooting stability.
- Thumbs-forward design for intuitive aiming.
- Extensive aftermarket support for customization.
- Easy maintenance and robust design.
- Versatile magazine capacity options.
Cons
- The grip style may not suit all shooters.
Pros & Cons of M&P 2.0
Pros
- Ergonomic design feels natural in hand.
- Good balance and stable shooting platform.
- Decent aftermarket support for customization.
- Smooth and consistent trigger pull.
Cons
- Slightly heavier compared to Glock 45.
Similarities Between Glock 45 & M&P 2.0
- Both chambered in 9x19mm caliber.
- Similar magazine capacity of 17 rounds.
- Both designed for full-frame size.
- Comparable in overall dimensions and weight.
- Marketed towards both law enforcement and civilian markets.
- Renowned for their reliability and durability.
- Offered by well-established firearm manufacturers.
Differences Between Glock 45 & M&P 2.0
- Glock 45 has a lower bore axis, reducing muzzle rise.
- M&P 2.0 generally has a more ergonomic grip.
- Glock 45 provides more options for magazine capacity.
- M&P 2.0 is slightly heavier than Glock 45.
- Glock 45 is known for easier maintenance and disassembly.
- M&P 2.0’s rear sight can be more challenging to modify.
- Glock 45 has a more extensive range of aftermarket parts.
- M&P 2.0 tends to have a smoother trigger out of the box.
- Glock 45’s grip may require adaptation for some shooters.
- M&P 2.0 is perceived to have a more natural pointing ability.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing and comparing the Glock 45 and the M&P 2.0, it’s time to draw a conclusion. Both firearms have their strengths and cater to different preferences, but one has to emerge as the top choice.
In this head-to-head, the Glock 45 edges out as the winner. Its ease of maintenance, robust customization options, and lower muzzle rise make it a versatile and user-friendly firearm.
It’s adaptable to a wide range of shooting styles and situations, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced shooters. The Glock 45’s combination of reliability, adaptability, and performance makes it my top pick.
FAQ’s
What is the difference between the M&P and the G45?
The M&P is slightly heavier and has a longer barrel than the G45, but both have similar overall lengths and capacities.
What does Glock 45 compare to?
The Glock 45 compares to the Glock 19, using a full-size frame with a narrower slide for easier carrying, differing from the Glock 19 primarily in size and capacity.
Is M&P Shield better than Glock?
The Glock 19 is generally easier to shoot than the M&P Shield, which has more recoil due to its smaller size, making the Glock more manageable.
Is the M&P 2.0 a good carry gun?
Yes, the M&P 2.0 is a very accurate and reliable carry gun, known for its predictable performance in various shooting drills.
