RE: S&W M&P vs. Glock
I have a Sigma in 40 cal. I really like it for a $300 new pistol I bought a number of years ago but probably wouldnt' recommond it again unless you really were on a budget. Very similar to the glocks but the trigger is crappy and heavy. It's only saving grace is that it is supprisingly accurate (I can hit bowling pins at 100 yards on occasion). But it jams fairly often and is ok at best.
I like the glocks and would consider one myself. But you guys have made me think about the M&P and the XD, which I see adds for all the time. I guess it depends on how it comes up naturally as well as grip options. I also like the Crimson Trace options for some so that would be a deciding factor if I was shopping as well, and I saw a very cool light with a laser in the middle on a friends pistol the other day, that was very cool. Might check that out too, perfect for night time protection I believe.