Is The Shield Obsolete?

Published on March 9, 2021
Duration: 12:12

This video discusses whether the Smith & Wesson Shield is obsolete in the current market of subcompact and micro-striker-fired handguns. The speaker argues that while not obsolete, it has become 'irrelevant' due to lower magazine capacity compared to newer options like the Glock 26 and Sig Sauer P365. The analysis focuses on capacity, concealability, and overall relevance in today's firearm landscape.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Shield is not obsolete but is considered 'irrelevant' by some due to its lower magazine capacity (7+1 or 8+1 rounds) compared to modern competitors like the Sig Sauer P365 (10-15 rounds) and Glock 26 (10+1 rounds with full-size mag compatibility). While still functional, newer options offer better capacity and concealability.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: The Obsolete Question
  2. 01:09Evolution of Subcompact Handguns
  3. 01:36The S&W Shield's Impact
  4. 01:56Is the Shield Obsolete? Speaker's Answer
  5. 03:03Capacity: The Shield's Weakness
  6. 03:34Magazine Extensions for the Shield
  7. 03:54Double Stack vs. Shield Magazine
  8. 04:14Higher Capacity Options
  9. 05:08Shield vs. Modern Competitors
  10. 05:24Glock 26: A Relevant Alternative
  11. 05:51Glock 26 vs. Shield: Size Comparison
  12. 06:25Glock 26 vs. Shield: Magazine Capacity
  13. 07:08Glock 26 Magazine Compatibility
  14. 07:30California Roster Considerations
  15. 07:58Sig Sauer P365: The Main Competitor
  16. 08:05P365 vs. Shield: Size and Concealability
  17. 08:28P365 Magazine Options
  18. 09:04Relevance Based on Proficiency
  19. 09:53Shield's Irrelevance on Paper
  20. 10:12Speaker's Preferred Carry Options
  21. 11:04The Importance of Capacity
  22. 11:54Conclusion: Not Obsolete, But Irrelevant

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Smith & Wesson Shield considered 'irrelevant' by some?

The Smith & Wesson Shield is considered 'irrelevant' primarily due to its lower magazine capacity (typically 7+1 or 8+1 rounds) compared to newer subcompact handguns like the Sig Sauer P365 or Glock 26, which offer higher capacities without significant increases in size or bulk.

What are the main competitors to the Smith & Wesson Shield in the concealed carry market?

Key competitors to the Smith & Wesson Shield include the Sig Sauer P365, which offers better concealability and higher capacity, and the Glock 26, which provides superior magazine compatibility and a standard 10+1 capacity, often making them more relevant choices for concealed carry.

Does the Glock 26 offer better capacity than the S&W Shield?

Yes, the Glock 26 typically comes with a standard 10+1 round capacity, which is more than the Shield's 7+1 or 8+1. Furthermore, the Glock 26 can utilize full-size Glock magazines, offering significantly higher capacities up to 34 rounds.

How does the Sig Sauer P365 compare to the S&W Shield for concealed carry?

The Sig Sauer P365 is generally considered more concealable and offers higher magazine capacities (10, 12, or 15 rounds) than the S&W Shield, while maintaining a similar barrel length and a smaller grip profile, making it a strong modern alternative.

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