Steyr M9-A2 MF Review
December 13, 2024
Wilson Combat Experior Review
December 13, 2024
Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus Review
Price Range:
$500 - $600
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| First Build Date | 2021 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 10+1 (Standard) / 13+1 (Extended) |
| Barrel Length | 3.1 inches |
| Weight | 20.2 ounces (unloaded) |
| Price Range | $500 – $600 |
Overview
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus is a compact, striker-fired, semi-automatic pistol designed for concealed carry, personal defense, and law enforcement use. Released in 2021 as part of the M&P Shield series, the Shield Plus is a direct response to the growing demand for higher-capacity, easy-to-carry concealed pistols. It improves upon its predecessor, the Shield, by offering a larger magazine capacity, a smoother trigger, and enhanced ergonomics.
The M&P9 Shield Plus is chambered in 9mm and offers a 10+1 round magazine (with an optional 13+1 extended magazine). The 3.1-inch barrel is short enough to provide excellent concealability but still delivers impressive accuracy and manageable recoil. At 20.2 ounces, it is lightweight, making it an ideal option for everyday carry. Its slim design ensures that it can be comfortably carried inside waistband (IWB) holsters, making it one of the most popular choices for concealed carry enthusiasts.
Strength and Quality
The quality of the M&P9 Shield Plus is evident in both its construction and performance. The slide is made from stainless steel with a corrosion-resistant finish, and the polymer frame feels sturdy yet lightweight. The fit and finish are clean, with tight tolerances. The upgraded grip texture ensures a secure hold and reduces the chances of slippage, which is crucial in self-defense situations.
Smith & Wesson has maintained its reputation for creating durable firearms, and the M&P9 Shield Plus is no exception. The pistol is designed to withstand heavy use, and it performed consistently well under a variety of conditions. Whether used for target shooting or self-defense, the Shield Plus proves itself as a reliable and high-quality pistol.
Safety Features
The M&P9 Shield Plus is equipped with several safety features to ensure safe handling:
- Passive Trigger Safety: A built-in safety feature that prevents the gun from firing unless the trigger is intentionally pulled.
- Loaded Chamber Indicator: A visual and tactile indicator shows when the chamber is loaded.
- Manual Safety: An optional manual safety lever is available, allowing users to engage or disengage the safety with ease.
- Striker Safety: The striker is blocked from firing unless the trigger is fully pulled, reducing the risk of accidental discharge.
Test Results
Accuracy
The M&P9 Shield Plus performed exceptionally well during accuracy testing. At a distance of 7 yards, the Shield Plus produced groups within 1.25 inches, which is excellent for a concealed carry pistol. The 3.1-inch barrel and high-quality sighting system allow for precise shooting, even at slightly longer distances like 15 yards, where the groupings opened up to around 2.5 inches. The trigger’s smooth, crisp break significantly contributes to these results.
Recoil and Control
Despite its compact size, the M&P9 Shield Plus has a well-balanced recoil system that helps absorb the majority of the force. The recoil is manageable, with very little muzzle flip. This helps the shooter regain target acquisition quickly. The ergonomic grip provides a firm hold, making it easier to control the pistol during rapid-fire sequences.
Reliability
After firing over 500 rounds through the M&P9 Shield Plus during testing, there were no malfunctions or misfeeds. The pistol handled various types of 9mm ammunition, including standard FMJ, hollow points, and self-defense rounds, with flawless reliability.
Also Read: Steyr M9-A2 MF Review
Merits
- Lightweight and compact design, ideal for concealed carry.
- 10+1 and 13+1 magazine capacity, offering a high round count for its size.
- Excellent trigger performance with a smooth, crisp break.
- Enhanced grip texture for a secure hold, even in adverse conditions.
- Reliable performance, with no malfunctions during testing.
- Competitive pricing, making it an excellent value in the concealed carry market.
Demerits
- Small size can make it harder to shoot accurately for users with larger hands.
- The relatively short barrel may reduce its effectiveness at longer distances compared to full-sized pistols.
- Recoil may feel slightly more pronounced for first-time users or those not accustomed to compact pistols.
Maintenance
The M&P9 Shield Plus is designed for ease of maintenance. Disassembly is simple, requiring no tools, and the pistol can be cleaned and lubricated in minutes. The slide and barrel should be cleaned regularly to ensure optimal performance, and the recoil spring should be inspected after extensive use. Smith & Wesson recommends cleaning the pistol after each use, especially if it has been exposed to dirt, moisture, or debris.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus | Glock 43X | Sig Sauer P365 | Springfield XD-S Mod.2 | Ruger Max-9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 10+1 (Standard), 13+1 (Extended) | 10+1 | 10+1, 12+1 | 7+1 | 10+1 |
| Barrel Length | 3.1 inches | 3.41 inches | 3.1 inches | 3.3 inches | 3.2 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 20.2 ounces | 18.7 ounces | 17.8 ounces | 23 ounces | 18.4 ounces |
| Price Range | $500 – $600 | $500 – $600 | $550 – $650 | $400 – $500 | $400 – $500 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The main difference is the increased magazine capacity, with the Shield Plus offering a 10+1 magazine versus the original Shield’s 7+1. The Shield Plus also features an improved trigger and better grip texture for enhanced control.
Yes, the M&P9 Shield Plus is designed specifically for concealed carry. Its slim profile, lightweight construction, and ample magazine capacity make it a top choice for personal defense.
The Shield Plus is a great choice for beginners due to its manageable recoil, excellent trigger, and ease of use. However, its compact size may be challenging for some larger-handed shooters.
Yes, the Shield Plus comes with a manual safety option, as well as a passive trigger safety and striker block for enhanced safety during use.
Smith & Wesson offers a lifetime warranty for the M&P9 Shield Plus, covering defects in materials and workmanship. This ensures that your firearm remains in top condition for years to come.
