Which is a better pistol M9 or the M1911?

Answer 1

They both have advantages and drawbacks.

M1911:

• More powerful cartridge
• Less magazine capacity
• Single action only design
• Frame mounted safety allows it to be carried "cocked and locked"
• Heavier recoil

M9:

• Less powerful cartridge
• Greater magazine capacity
• NATO standardisation of 9mm cartridge alleviates supply issues which might exist if the .45 ACP continued in US service
• Pin block hammer drop safety does not allow for carry in a "cocked and locked" position. Early models of the Beretta 92 had a frame mounted safety - similar to the M1911 - which allowed for this (this feature is retained with the Taurus PT92 pistol).
• Single and double action
• Trigger sits far forward when decocked, and this has been an issue for soldiers - particularly those with smaller hands - when trying to fire the pistol in double action mode.
• Original magazines ordered for the M9 pistol were non-OEM, and proved to be problematic.

Answer 2

The answer to which pistol is better, the M9 or the M1911, largely depends on personal preference and specific use cases. The M9 is a more modern design with higher magazine capacity, but some might prefer the classic design and single-action trigger of the M1911. Both are reliable firearms used by military and law enforcement agencies worldwide. Ultimately, it's important to try out and train with both to determine which suits your needs and preferences best.