S&W Shield EZ: It Ain't for You

Published on November 25, 2021
Duration: 25:13

This review of the Smith & Wesson Shield EZ series, specifically the M&P 380 Shield EZ M2.0, highlights its design for shooters with reduced hand strength. The video emphasizes its low slide racking effort (9 lbs for .380 ACP, 13 lbs for 9mm) compared to standard Shields (23 lbs). It details features like an ambidextrous safety, loaded chamber indicator, and grip safety, aimed at new or less experienced shooters. While the reviewer finds it not ideal for experienced shooters, he acknowledges its effectiveness for its target market, noting improved reliability after a break-in period and comfortable shooting characteristics.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Shield EZ series is designed for shooters with reduced hand strength, featuring a significantly lower slide racking force (9-13 lbs) compared to standard Shields (23 lbs). It includes an ambidextrous safety, loaded chamber indicator, and grip safety to enhance user confidence, making it ideal for new or less experienced handgun owners.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Shield EZ
  2. 00:30Tabletop Review: M&P 380 Shield EZ M2.0
  3. 01:13Initial Reservations and Comparison to M&P 22
  4. 02:30Target Market: Reduced Hand Strength Shooters
  5. 03:28Slide Racking Force Comparison
  6. 04:54Philosophy of Use: Who is the EZ For?
  7. 07:44Features for New Shooters: Safety, LCI, Grip Safety
  8. 11:05Rant: Smith & Wesson Sight Mounting Issues
  9. 13:43Slide Scalloping and Retraction Wings
  10. 14:47Trigger Performance
  11. 17:28Grip Traction and Magazine Loading
  12. 19:00Magazine Features: Easy Loading
  13. 19:44Shooting Impressions: Reliability and Accuracy
  14. 20:53Form Factor and Size Comparison
  15. 22:08Recoil and Shooting Experience
  16. 22:23Personal Carry Choice vs. Shield EZ
  17. 23:06Would I Buy It? (Reviewer's Verdict)
  18. 24:02Conclusion: Appreciating the Target Market

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Smith & Wesson Shield EZ different from a standard Shield?

The primary difference is the significantly reduced slide racking force on the Shield EZ, requiring only 9-13 pounds of pressure compared to the standard Shield's 23 pounds. It also incorporates features like an ambidextrous safety, loaded chamber indicator, and grip safety, aimed at new shooters.

Who is the target audience for the Smith & Wesson Shield EZ?

The Shield EZ is designed for individuals with reduced hand strength, such as the elderly or those with injuries, as well as first-time gun owners or female shooters who may find traditional handguns difficult to operate.

Does the Smith & Wesson Shield EZ require a break-in period?

Yes, the reviewer experienced some stoppages during the first 400 rounds, indicating that the Shield EZ, particularly in .380 ACP, may require a break-in period for optimal reliability, as suggested by the manual.

What are the key safety features of the Smith & Wesson Shield EZ?

The Shield EZ includes an ambidextrous manual safety, a loaded chamber indicator that visually shows if a round is present, and a grip safety that must be depressed for the trigger to function, all designed to enhance user confidence.

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