Last Updated: March 1st 2024
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Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus
- Price: $399.99
- Barrel Length: 3.1 inch
- Total Length: 6.1 inch
- Weight: 1.1lb
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield is one of the best concealed carry handguns in the world. It’s really that simple.
Of course it has serious competition in the battle to be the best carry pistol in 2024. And there is a wave of new microcompact 9mm pistols and compact 9mms that have made things even more difficult.
But some people love a Smith & Wesson, especially the trigger set that just seems to suit some people better than others. It’s a unique striker fire action that is all S&W’s own and if you’re into guns then you should definitely try one as you can just click with it.
If you do, the M&P Shield is going to be the best carry gun in the world and we got no problem with that. Especially at this price.
Technical Highlights
- Capacity: The Shield Plus offered a massive increase in capacity, offering a flush-fit 10+1 and an extended 13+1 magazine. That was a big upgrade from the 7+1 or 8+1 options of its predecessor. This improvement puts the Shield Plus on par with competitors in the high-capacity micro-compact segment.
- Trigger System: The pistol introduces a new flat-faced trigger, designed to provide a consistent and crisp pull. The old gun had a hinged trigger, and this is much better. This upgrade improves accuracy and shooter confidence.
- Grip and Ergonomics: Smith & Wesson has also revised the grip texture, offering an optimal balance between comfort and grip security, crucial for a concealed carry weapon. The slightly wider frame accommodates the increased magazine capacity and tends to fit a man’s hand better, while maintaining a slim profile.
- Sights: Out of the box, the Shield Plus comes with enhanced sights, which vary depending on the model. Options include steel white dot sights or night sights, improving target acquisition in various lighting conditions.
- Performance and Reliability: The Shield Plus maintains the M&P line’s reputation for reliability and durability, with performance that instills confidence in its users. The pistol handles a broad range of ammunition types without issue.
Design and Build Quality
The Shield Plus continues Smith & Wesson’s tradition of excellence in firearm construction. The polymer frame and stainless-steel slide (with an Armornite finish) ensure durability and resistance to corrosion and wear. The overall build quality is exemplary, with tight tolerances and a finish that stands up to the rigors of daily carry.
Shooting Experience
Shooting the M&P Shield Plus is a pleasant surprise for a pistol of its size. The enhanced grip texture and ergonomics make for a comfortable shooting experience, even during extended range sessions. The increased magazine capacity does not noticeably change the handgun’s balance or handling. The flat-faced trigger is a significant improvement, offering a clean break and a tactile reset that aids in follow-up shots and overall precision.
Concealability and Comfort
Despite its increased capacity, the Shield Plus remains highly concealable, easily fitting into a variety of holsters and carry positions. Its slim profile and lightweight design make it comfortable for all-day carry, a critical factor for concealed carry permit holders.
Versatility and Accessories
The Shield Plus is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including holsters, magazine extensions, and aftermarket sights, allowing users to customize their pistol for personal preferences or specific needs. This versatility makes it an attractive option for a broad audience, from law enforcement off-duty carry to civilian self-defense.
A lot of law enforcement officers that don’t love Glock carry a Smith & Wesson M&P duty pistol on their hip. The improvements to the sub-compact mean it’s becoming a popular back-up pistol once again.
Comparisons to Competitors
In the crowded field of micro-compact pistols, the Shield Plus holds its own against competitors such as the SIG Sauer P365 and the Glock 43X. Its balance of capacity, ergonomics, and performance, combined with Smith & Wesson’s reputation for reliability, makes it a compelling choice. While personal preference and specific use cases will influence the decision for many, the Shield Plus offers features that are competitive at its price point.
Conclusion
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus is a well-rounded, highly capable concealed carry pistol that addresses the needs and preferences of today’s shooters. Its increased capacity, improved trigger, and thoughtful ergonomics make it a significant upgrade from the original Shield and a noteworthy competitor in its class. Whether for a first-time gun owner or a seasoned shooter looking for a reliable, compact carry gun, the Shield Plus is a proper gun.
Smith & Wesson has successfully balanced the demands for a compact, easy-to-conceal firearm with the desire for higher capacity and improved shootability. The M&P Shield Plus stands as a testament to the company’s ability to innovate within the constraints of size and power, offering a concealed carry option that does not compromise on performance or capacity.
In the end, the Shield Plus is more than just an addition to the M&P lineup; it’s a statement that compact firearms can be both practical and powerful, capable of
