Readers of MSW know that we are big proponents of SIRT training pistol, developed by Next Level Training, for a variety of reasons. Primarily, it allows for a high volume of training, removing many barriers to entry, and removes the possibility of introducing live ammunition into your pistol when performing dry practice. In addition, when integrated into live fire training at the range, it can bring out and correct trigger control issues in an incredibly efficient manner. Up until now, the SIRT 110 model (Glock format) was the only format available. While shooting is 99% sights and trigger, and regardless of the external shape of the tool, the skills developed by the 110 will translate over to any format pistol, there was a continued demand for other common service pistol formats. After clearing more than a couple production and design hurdles, Next Level Training has finally released the SIRT 107: the M&P Model.
Our friends at NLT sent us a sample from the pre-production run and I’ve had a chance to play with it for about half a week now. Unboxing the 107, I noticed it came with what appears to be a factory M&P grip insert (size M) installed. The 107 frame will accept the factory grip inserts, though if you want a size S or L insert, you’ll need to provide your own. These are typically available through Brownells. Sights are identical to the factory front and rear, and you can replace them with any aftermarket sights as you please. One of the nice features is the grip insert tool, which on the M&P is a 3/32-inch punch for disassembly. On the 107, the tool features a hex wrench appropriately sized to adjust the trigger and zero the lasers. A very nice touch.
As expected, the inert magazine is compatible with the real pistol, and the magazine catch can be reversed just as in the M&P. Switching it out is a similar process as on the actual pistol. The overall build quality on the SIRT 107 is impressive and certainly represents the continuing evolution of the product line.
On the SIRT 110, all trigger adjustments (5 different characteristics on that model) were user adjustable. This required disassembly of the training pistol. On the 107, there are only two adjustable attributes and they are done without the need of any disassembly. Break weight and take-up weight are adjustable via hex screws located at the base of the frame accessory rail. While I am on the subject of the trigger, the overall feel of the trigger has vastly improved. While the 110 certainly had a usable trigger, the 107 has a more reactive trigger and the break replicates the feeling of dry firing an actual striker fired pistol more accurately. It’s hard to describe, but when you feel it you will know what I’m describing. The end result is a trigger that makes trigger control issues even more evident than before.
The 107 is only available with a metal slide, which closely replicates the feel of a loaded M&P when the [weighted] training magazine is inserted. I haven’t had a chance to compare the two on a scale but the two are close enough for training purposes. There will be a limited run of these for initial release as production is ramped up to meet projected demand. If you want to get in on one of these, set your browser to http://www.nextleveltraining.com/exclusive-products/sirt-107 and place your order. MSRP is around $440 but initial release is priced at $399.
At that pricing, why buy one of these vs buying a second M&P? The second gun would feel and handle just like a real M&P because it is, plus it would provide you with a backup gun. I just don’t see spending as much as the real gun to buy a trainer.
That is certainly your prerogative, but the trainer allows high volume trigger drills without the recoil. Incorporating dry training with live fire has helped me blast through previous plateaus in the past. In addition, the SIRT provides valuable dry practice options that a live fire gun cannot, and lowers barriers to training. I can simply pick up the pistol, put on my training rig, and get a bunch of reps in just a few minutes, and then put it down. I’ve used the heck out of my SIRT 110 and it has provided me exponentially more training value than an additional G17 would have done.
I guess the question is….why? Why is the 110 $239 and this one $150 more? Sure seems like price gouging to me. I appreciate that the tool can be a great trainer, but really it’s only advantage or a laser in a real M&P is a second (and third…) shot. It does seem like on heck of a premium for that.
A little bit of reading will reveal that when you compare apples to apples, a SIRT 110 with a steel slide, green/red laser indicator, will run you $437 retail. The $239 price you are quoting is the Performer model that has a red/red laser indicator (much less expensive diode) and a plastic slide. As for the SIRT itself, the self-resetting trigger allows for high volume training that simply is not possible with a trigger on a live-fire pistol that does not reset itself.