WalkingWolf
Regular Member
GLOCK had to make a big point about its internal safeties because when it first appeared on the scene many were shocked that it didn't have the customary external thumb safety. They had no choice but to tout all the internal safeties in order to placate the hysteria.
1) Trigger Safety: An external integrated trigger safety lever mechanism contained within the trigger guard that prevents the trigger from moving unless the lever is depressed.
The M&P uses the same system except that the lower portion of the trigger is hinged instead of a blade. Functionally it is the same.
2) Striker Safety: A spring-loaded pin attached by an extension bar to the trigger assembly blocks the striker from striking the primer of the cartridge until the trigger is pulled.
The M&P uses an internal, spring-loaded plunger that prevents firing pin movement until the rearward movement of the trigger bar deactivates just before it releases the sear to fire the pistol.
3) Drop Safety: The far end of the same extension bar locks the striker into place from the rear until the trigger is pulled.
Same on the M&P.
The main differences between the two (and not germane to this particular situation) is that the S&W is available with a magazine disconnect safety and a manually operated thumb safety, both unavailable from GLOCK.
Keep in mind that neither Glock nor S&W supply the gray matter safety, that keeps a booger finger off of the trigger when it is not supposed to be there.