The M&P9 Compact gets positive feedback overall, though a few features draw divided opinions depending on what the buyer is looking for.
The compact dimensions work well for concealed carry without sacrificing too much capacity. The 17-round magazine is a frequent positive mention. The grip is comfortable for most hand sizes and the pistol handles reliably across different ammo types, which matters for a gun you might carry daily.
The trigger pull is heavier than some competitors, and that comes up regularly in critical reviews. The thumb safety generates the most disagreement. Shooters who want an external safety appreciate it, while those who prefer a simpler draw-and-fire sequence find it an unnecessary step. Neither camp is wrong; it depends on how you train and what you're used to. Overall the M&P9 Compact is a capable defensive pistol; the thumb safety question is the main factor to think through before buying.
AI-generated insights derived from customer reviews and discussions on popular gun-enthusiast forums.