In the world of concealed carry firearms, perhaps no new introduction has created quite the buzz that the Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield Plus has. As firearms enthusiasts and avid readers of Guns and Ammo News, it’s important we take an in-depth look at this highly anticipated release, considering both its quality and functionality. By offering a comprehensive “ammo review” and joined with facts and insights, we aim to ensure you make an informed decision if the Shield Plus is to be your next purchase.
Unpacking the M&P 9 Shield Plus
Renowned for providing compact yet strong personal defense weapons, Smith & Wesson has been a staple name in the firearms industry. However, with the unveiling of the M&P 9 Shield Plus, the legacy brand has upped its game. Crafted meticulously with concealed carriers in mind, this firearm boasts key improvements that address capacity, trigger, and grip.
Giving a generous ammunition capacity of 13+1 in the extended magazine and 10+1 in the flush, the M&P 9 Shield Plus caters well to those concerned about firepower without compromising on concealability. Smith & Wesson has managed to deliver this without bunching up the design or discomforting the grip – testimony to their ingenuity and understanding of “ammo review” feedback from carry guns users.
Firepower and Ergonomics Synthesized
An attribute most enthusiasts will appreciate is Smith & Wesson’s greatest strength – their sensitivity to ergonomics. The new Shield Plus highlights an optimized grip that comes textured, extending to optimal locations, and makes for a steady hold even in stress scenarios or wet conditions. For most users, this feature alone matters enough to decide the comfort level and ultimate effectiveness of their carry weapon.
Now, let’s talk trigger. The M&P 9 Shield Plus exhibits a flat trigger, designed not just for the aesthetics but with a resounding functional purpose. This flat-profile trigger, equipped with an enhanced trigger system, brings in a lighter pull, a tactile and audible trigger reset, and great crispness. These aspects can make a substantial difference in high-pressure, defensive shooting situations.
Reliable Precision
On the reliability front, the Shield Plus lives up to Smith & Wesson’s reputation handsomely. Stringent testing under various conditions make it more resilient than many of its closest competitors. Its precision, thanks in part to its white-dot front sight and white 2-dot rear sight, has been lauded in plenty of preliminary rounds of “ammo review” and tests.
Yet, it’s worth noting it’s not an absolute powerhouse in terms of standard velocity. The M&P 9 Shield Plus shines through its impeccable balance of size and a significantly increased magazine capacity — making it an attractive option for an everyday carry firearm.
Potential Drawbacks
No gun review is complete without an honest look at potential pitfalls. For the M&P 9 Shield Plus, criticism comes from shooters finding the magazine release a bit stiff, causing moments of fumble during rapid reloads. Some users may also find their hand size incompatible with the flush magazine’s pinky rest.
While these are hardly deal-breakers for most, it’s essential to keep them in mind if comfort and speed are vital for your usage.
Conclusion
The reality in the contemporary firearms market is that enhanced capacity compact handguns have become the norm. Smith & Wesson’s response to this trend, the M&P 9 Shield Plus, checks many of the preference boxes for a dependable everyday carry firearm: Greater capacity, enhanced ergonomics, a vastly improved trigger system, and tested reliability.
Reliability and comfort, coupled with its increased ammunition capacity, make it a formidable contender in its segment. As ever, it’s recommended to get a feel for any firearm before purchase — what works best for you depends on your personal comfort with the size, grip, trigger, and overall functionality.
Therefore, while the M&P 9 Shield Plus is an impressive addition to the concealed carry market, whether it fits your individual needs will depend on your personal experiences and preferences. It’s always valuable to remember – the best weapons are often not those boasting the most features, but those we are most comfortable and competent using.