I was WRONG about the S&W Equalizer.

Published on February 1, 2023
Duration: 16:26

This video re-evaluates the Smith & Wesson Equalizer against the Shield 9 EZ, acknowledging initial misjudgments. The reviewer finds the Equalizer to be an improved version of the EZ, particularly with its double-stack magazines and optic cut. While neither trigger is praised, the Equalizer's enhancements make it a more appealing option for those seeking a compact, higher-capacity pistol, though the reviewer still prefers a Shield with an optic cut for overall performance and carry.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Equalizer is an upgraded version of the Shield 9 EZ, offering double-stack magazines (15-round capacity), improved slide serrations, and an optic cut. While both pistols have triggers described as 'not good,' the Equalizer's enhancements make it a more appealing compact option, though a Shield with an optic cut is still preferred by the reviewer for overall performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Wrong About the Equalizer?
  2. 00:16Comparing Equalizer to Shield 9 EZ
  3. 00:32Holosun EPS Carry on Equalizer
  4. 00:46Optic Cut Concerns
  5. 01:20Magazine Sponsor Shoutout
  6. 01:54Shield EZ Shooting Test
  7. 02:24Shorty Mag vs. Grip Length
  8. 03:09Performance with Shorty Mag
  9. 03:17Comparison to Shield Plus
  10. 03:44Seven Round Mag Test
  11. 04:11Trigger Assessment
  12. 04:24Tower Shooting
  13. 04:49EZ vs. Equalizer Slide Catch
  14. 05:22Shooting with Optic
  15. 05:38Acknowledging Initial Mistake
  16. 05:59Double Stack Magazine Advantage
  17. 06:05Equalizer Magazine Details
  18. 06:26First Shots with Shield EZ
  19. 06:55Initial Thoughts on EZ
  20. 07:07Transition to Equalizer
  21. 07:18Pinky Out Mag
  22. 07:34Equalizer Shooting Test
  23. 07:47Grip Length Preference
  24. 08:00Gong Shooting
  25. 08:13Equalizer with Extended Mag
  26. 08:36Trigger Still Not Liked
  27. 08:44Dueling Tree Test
  28. 09:34EZ vs. Equalizer Summary
  29. 10:05Final Thoughts on Equalizer
  30. 10:13Equalizer vs. Shield Plus
  31. 10:26Non-Stendo Mag Test
  32. 10:59Josh's Turn
  33. 11:18Josh's Pistol Identification
  34. 11:35Josh's Gong Shooting
  35. 11:50Trigger Reset Observation
  36. 12:02Josh's Accuracy
  37. 12:14Gathering Thoughts: EZ vs. Equalizer
  38. 12:33Trigger Comparison: Trash
  39. 12:49Preference for Shield or Striker-Fired
  40. 13:01Internal Hammer Fired Explanation
  41. 13:44Equalizer Improvements
  42. 14:14Equalizer vs. Shield with Optic Cut
  43. 14:39.380 ACP Recommendation
  44. 15:07Equalizer vs. EZ Comparison Summary
  45. 15:17Recommendation: Buy or Not?
  46. 15:48Trigger, Grip, Serrations, Mags
  47. 16:04Viewer Feedback Request

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Smith & Wesson Equalizer and the Shield 9 EZ?

The S&W Equalizer is an improved version of the Shield 9 EZ, featuring double-stack magazines (15-round capacity) compared to the EZ's single-stack (8-round), enhanced slide serrations for easier manipulation, and an optic cut. The grip texture is also noted as being better on the Equalizer.

Is the Smith & Wesson Equalizer a good pistol for concealed carry?

The Equalizer offers a higher capacity with its double-stack magazines and includes an optic cut, making it a potentially good option for concealed carry. However, the reviewer still expresses a preference for the Smith & Wesson Shield with an optic cut for overall carry considerations.

What are the reviewer's thoughts on the trigger of the S&W Equalizer and Shield 9 EZ?

The reviewer consistently describes the triggers on both the Equalizer and the Shield 9 EZ as 'not good.' While they were less bothered by the Equalizer's trigger during a second evaluation, it's still not considered a strong point for either pistol.

Does the Smith & Wesson Equalizer come with an optic cut, and is it compatible with all red dots?

Yes, the Equalizer features an optic cut. However, the reviewer noted a gap when mounting a Holosun EPS Carry, suggesting that the specific optic cut pattern might not be standard or clearly defined by Smith & Wesson, potentially leading to compatibility issues with certain optics.

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