This review is from the perspective of a novice shooter who is just beginning to explore the discipline. My opinions and experiences are my own and may not reflect those of a more polished, experienced shooter.
Folks, gather 'round (or don't, I'm not your supervisor) as I regale you with the tale of the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus with the 3.1-inch barrel—a firearm so sleek and efficient, it could make a Swiss watch jealous. If firearms were smartphones, this would be the latest model everyone camps outside the store for.
While this iteration of the Shield certainly isn't new, having been around for several years, it was one of my first choices for rental at the range when I was exploring options for my personal choice of firearm for concealed carry.
Capacity to Spare
First, let's talk numbers. The Shield Plus offers a 10+1 or 13+1 round capacity, depending on your magazine choice. That's like upgrading from a tricycle to a sports car; once you experience it, there's no going back.
Ergonomics: A Handshake You'll Remember
The grip texture is just right—not so aggressive that it feels like you're holding a cactus, but grippy enough to keep it secure in your hand. It's as if Goldilocks herself designed it: not too rough, not too smooth, but just right.
Trigger: Smooth Operator
The trigger has been revamped, offering a crisp and clean break. It's like slicing through warm butter with a hot knife—smooth and satisfying. You'll find yourself wondering how you ever tolerated those spongy triggers of yesteryear.
Size Matters
Now, let's address the elephant in the room: the 3.1-inch barrel. Some might argue it's a tad short, but I say it's the perfect balance between concealability and accuracy. It's like the Goldilocks of barrel lengths—not too long, not too short, but just right.
Grip Length: A Double-Edged Sword
One of the best things about the Shield Plus is its slightly extended grip, especially with the 13-round magazine. Unlike some micro-compacts that force you into a pinky-scrunching contest, the Shield Plus gives your hand enough real estate to settle in comfortably. This translates to better control, more confidence in follow-up shots, and less of that feeling like you're trying to hold onto a bar of soap mid-shower.
However, this improved grip does come with a slight trade-off—it's a bit more challenging to conceal than some ultra-compact options. That extra length can print under tighter clothing, but let's be honest, most of us aren't rocking skin-tight t-shirts on the daily. With the right holster and a minor wardrobe adjustment (hello, untucked flannel or slightly looser cover garment), it disappears just fine.
Bumps in the Road
Of course, no firearm is without its critiques. Some users have reported that the slide can be a bit stiff out of the box, requiring a little muscle to rack. But hey, who needs a gym membership when you have a Shield Plus? Over time, as your round count climbs into the hundreds, the slide loosens considerably, as do the manual safety and slide release. This is fairly standard with most firearms—kind of like breaking in a new pair of leather boots. At first, they're stiff and unyielding, but after some use, they mold to you just right.
Additionally, while the provided steel, dovetailed, white three-dot sights are proven and capable, some feel that in today's market, more advanced sight options could be offered as standard.
And here's one that physics fans could've predicted—due to its small size and lightweight frame, the Shield Plus can be a little snappy, particularly with +P loads. It's not wrist-breaking, but let's just say if you're expecting a soft-shooting, full-sized pistol experience, you might be in for a surprise. It's a bit like riding a compact car over a pothole—you'll definitely feel it.
Real-World Performance: A Day at the Range
Taking the Shield Plus to the range is where the rubber meets the road. Loading up the 13-round magazine, you can't help but feel a sense of preparedness—like packing an extra snack for a long hike. The first few shots reveal the pistol's true character. The enhanced grip texture ensures a firm hold, even if your palms are sweatier than a politician on election day.
The upgraded trigger doesn't disappoint. Each pull is consistent, with a crisp break that makes you question why all triggers aren't made this way. It's akin to the satisfaction of clicking a retractable pen—simple, yet delightful.
Recoil is present, as expected in a compact 9mm, but it's manageable. The Shield Plus handles standard pressure loads with ease, and while +P rounds add a bit more zest to the experience, it's nothing an average shooter can't handle. Think of it as driving over a speed bump in a well-tuned sedan—you notice it, but it doesn't disrupt the journey.
Maintenance and Longevity: Built to Last
After sending several hundred rounds downrange, the Shield Plus begins to show its true colors in terms of durability. The initial stiffness of the slide starts to ease, much like a new baseball glove breaking in over time. The manual safety and slide release also become more user-friendly, shedding their initial rigidity.
Regular cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, with no unexpected quirks. It's a bit like owning a reliable car—keep it clean, give it the occasional tune-up, and it will serve you faithfully for years.
Community Feedback: The Word on the Street
Engaging with fellow firearm enthusiasts reveals a general consensus: the Shield Plus is a solid contender in the concealed carry market. Many appreciate the increased capacity without a significant increase in size, and the improved trigger is a frequent topic of praise. Some have noted minor issues, such as a slight gap between the extended magazine and the mag well, which can cause a bit of movement during firing. However, this seems to be more of a cosmetic concern than a functional one.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus with the 3.1-inch barrel is a top-tier choice for those seeking a reliable, concealable, and high-capacity pistol. It's like finding the perfect pair of jeans that not only fit like a glove but also have enough pockets for all your essentials. So, do yourself a favor and give this firearm a shot—you might just fall in love.
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