Thanks for the replies. I'll try to answer all questions.
Currently I carry a Sig X-5. It's big and heavy. Think a 226 with an extra inch of barrel and all stainless.
I'd love to shoot everything on my list but I don't know anyone with the M&P, CZ, or FN. Especially the CZ. That is the one I want to shoot the most. I have yet to see any of these at the NWI group shoots as well.
I don't like Kimber as a company and they won't get a buck from me. I'll have to look at the Wilsons.
The FNX has a hammer as far as I can tell. I agree though, I do like having a hammer on my pistols. The holster thing isn't an issue, I'm almost set up to make anything with kydex. Furthermore I LOVE the FNP 45 but I'm looking into 9mms right now.
So far the biggest detractor from each pistol:
CZ- No threaded barrels, can't shoot it because no one has one
M&P-None that I can tell
FNP/FNX-No threaded barrel, No one has one near me
Only detractor I know of to the M&P is the magazine disconnect. Will not fire without a mag in place. You can remove it though...
It's engraved on the slide as a caution if it doesn't have a mag disconnect, too.None of my M&P's have the magazine disconnect. You simply have to know which models have it and which ones don't it you would rather not have it. The main reason that some models have it is that it is a requirement for quite a few LE contracts.
Given that you carry an X5, your best option would be a gun with a single action trigger since that would be the most similar to what you have now.
Further, I know you do not want other suggestions than what you asked about, but I cannot not do it. That being said, I think the CZ, the M&P and the FN all have their pluses. If you like the FNP45, the FNX9 will be a good choice, given the similar function and ergonomics. Further, I have seen at least one person claim that a FNP9 threaded barrel will work in the FNX (see: Ok so I have my EFK FNP threaded barrel for my FNX 9mm now. :: FN Forum.NET)
For the CZ, in theory you could order a gun through their custom shop and have it converted to SAO, like the X5. I have a friend with a CZ custom shop gun with a SA trigger and it is sweet, sweet shooter. Great trigger, like a tuned 1911.
I have no experience with the M&P, but they have a fine reputation and if you can find one to shoot and like it, then it would be a solid choice.
Finally, two other suggestions. These are my off list ideas. Sorry.
One, consider the STI GP6 or GP6C. This is a DA/SA gun, but you can carry it cocked and on safe to shoot it in SA only. Dillon Precision posted a review in the Sept. 2010 issue of their Blue Press mag that was very positive and the reviewer raved about the trigger.
See: http://www.bridleandbit.net/ebooks/bluepress/bluepresssep10/sep10/object_files/main.swf (look at page 10 and 11).
Finally, one gun that you might consider is the X5 Tactical. Basically the same trigger (albeit not adjustable) and identical ergonomics as the all steel, 47.5 oz. X5. However, the tactical is 12 ounces lighter and 35 ounces compares semi-favorably to the CZ (29 oz.) or the FNX9, M&P and Glock (all 24ish).
For the record, I have no idea if you can get a threaded barrel for the STI or the X5.
Anyway, I hope this helps. Good luck!
G17. I like my 3rd gen, 4th felt too prickly for me.
Maybe you can expand on the vast knowledge for me?
Why not? The 5.5 lb pull of the DCAEK kit seems perfectly adequate for carry.
I would say to check out the Sig 2022. They are easily overlooked but are very good polymer guns! I got one and its been flawless and accurate!
Fixed it for ya.Kel-Tec P11 the pinnacle of firearms technology!
I've carried a number of 3rd Gen Glocks. Great guns. I've heard the new RTF texture on the 4th gen can eat up undershirts though.
Hmm. I tend to OC so this isn't huge issue for me if it eats up undershirts.
I'm currently carrying an M&P, and I like it a bit better than the Glocks. Size is perfect, not compact, but smallish full-size.
Coming from the X-5, do you really want to go to a traditional DA/SA trigger? Especially for competition? IIRC, both IDPA and USPSA rules require a hammer down start for those. Seems like most people would prefer not to have that in a competition gun, judging from the predominance of XD/M&P/Glock "safe action" style pistols. I know I don't like it.
With all that in mind, I voted M&P.
I appreciate all the votes but I'm leaning towards the phantom. I love the bevertail and how low it sits in the hand. It just seems like you don't have to oversome physics (like I have to with the sig because it rides SO INCREDIBLY high in my hand) when shooting.
talking about the sub 3# competition trigger
Sounds like a good choice. Reasonably priced too. However, the CZ will only be IDPA legal in SSP. To shoot ESP, you need a gun that can be carried cocked and on-safe.