Stupid nooby question alert

[Iurobz]

In my search for my first HD/CC handgun, last week I rented a 38 J frame. I found it snappy? But fun. This week I rented an S&W M&P 9mm. It seemed to shoot much easier. But what a PITA to load.

My question. Did the S&W shoot easier because it's a 9mm or a semiautomatic? Or some combination?

 

[Gman75]

Because it is a semi automatic it has less recoil.

 

[SEIndSAM]

Because it is a semi automatic it has less recoil.

????????

The MP9 was probably a heavier handgun. I used to have an SW642. Very light weight, but snappy when you fired it. I think it was about 15oz.

The MP9 is a good 8 or 9 oz heavier and the extra weight helps absorb some of the recoil. Also, the grip design spread the recoil out over a larger surface in the hand.

 

[billybob44]

Pick your choice..

In my search for my first HD/CC handgun, last week I rented a 38 J frame. I found it snappy? But fun. This week I rented an S&W M&P 9mm. It seemed to shoot much easier. But what a PITA to load.

My question. Did the S&W shoot easier because it's a 9mm or a semiautomatic? Or some combination?

Yes, when calibers are similuar, there will be less recoil in a semi-auto due to the reasons you mentioned. Chances are that the M&P was also a larger pistol??

Maglula UpLULA Pistol Mag Loader Unloader Polymer Black

^^^This will make semi-auto magazines EASY to re-fill...Bill.

 

[seldon14]

Also more weight and the bigger grip will make the recoil feel tamer.

 

[parkerj112]

It could largely be a weight issue. The lighter the gun the more "snappy" it will be. But the semi autos do have the advantage of dissipating some of the energy involved in moving the bullet down the barrel by cycling the slide.

The comparison of 9mm and 38 might not be a real apples to apples comparison.

In order to best answer your question you need to get lots of ammo and test thoroughly!

Parker

 

[Iurobz]

Thanks guys. Don't really know enough to be hung up on a specific caliber. Just trying them out. Liked the size and simplicity of the revolver, but the SA felt really good. May try a .40 next week. Hey, I'm just having fun shooting em and learn something new everytime out.

Again, appreciate the all the advice.

Uplula. Sounds like a must have.

 

[Indy60]

I think you may be experiencing a bigger muzzle rise on the J frame or snap. The difference between the J frame and the M&P 9 is the barrel height in relation to where it connects with the grip . The J frame puts the barrel up higher above your hands center mass making the gun feel like it has more recoil or muzzle rise due to the leverage above your grip. The S&W 9 mm semi has a barrel lower in relation to your hands center mass and grip directing the recoil more into your palm of your hand instead of above it. Less muzzle rise with the semi.