Smith & Wesson M&P Shield: Concealed Carry Standard

Published on March 26, 2014
Duration: 14:58

This guide details the disassembly of the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 for internal comparison, focusing on its robust full-length metal slide rails against competitors like Glock and Springfield Armory XDS. The process highlights the Shield's durable internal frame construction, offering insights for maintenance and understanding firearm design differences.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 is a top-tier concealed carry pistol, praised for its slim profile, comfortable trigger with tactile reset, and durable internal construction featuring full-length metal slide rails. It offers excellent value at $399, outperforming competitors in concealability and trigger feel.

Chapters

  1. 00:30Introduction and Caliber Choice
  2. 01:48Trigger and Comparison with Taurus
  3. 02:35Magazines and Concealability
  4. 03:13Size Comparison with Competitors
  5. 04:22Manual Safety
  6. 06:55Internal Construction and Rails
  7. 10:05Price and Value Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 ideal for concealed carry?

The M&P Shield 40 is exceptionally slim, making it print less against the body, especially with appendix carry. It's notably slimmer than double-stack Glocks and even slightly thinner than single-stack XDS models, enhancing its concealability.

How does the M&P Shield 40's trigger compare to competitors?

The M&P Shield 40 offers a fluid trigger pull with a distinct, tactile reset, which is preferred for shooting. This contrasts with the rigid and stiff trigger found on the Taurus Slim 40, making the Shield a better option for practical shooting.

What are the key internal construction advantages of the M&P Shield 40?

The Shield features robust, full-length metal slide rails and a substantial internal frame. This design is considered superior to the smaller, polymer-embedded rails found on some competing firearms, suggesting greater durability and longevity.

Is the M&P Shield 40 a good value for its price?

Yes, at $399 (as of 2014), the M&P Shield 40 offered exceptional value. It was significantly less expensive than comparable models like the Glock ($600) and XDS ($700), making it a budget-friendly yet high-quality concealed carry option.

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