Smith & Wesson M&P Shield - The Best Micro 9mm pistol??

Published on September 25, 2021
Duration: 12:12

This review of the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus Performance Center highlights its features for concealed carry, comparing it to competitors like the Sig P365 and Springfield Hellcat. While acknowledging its accuracy and comfortable grip, the reviewer notes some marketing claims about its size are misleading, and suggests upgrading the fiber optic sights for better low-light performance. The video also details the pistol's disassembly process, including a less conventional method for disassembling without dry-firing.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus Performance Center is a micro 9mm pistol with a ported barrel, enhanced grip, and fiber optic sights. While accurate and reliable, its marketing claims about being the 'smallest' are nuanced, as its grip diameter is larger than some competitors. For concealed carry, upgrading to tritium night sights is recommended for better low-light performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction & Competitors
  2. 00:21Comparison to Hellcat & P365
  3. 01:22Marketing Claims vs. Reality
  4. 01:36Magazine Capacity & Size
  5. 02:11Caliber & Specifications
  6. 02:22Performance Center Features
  7. 02:25Ported Barrel & Sights
  8. 02:56Loaded Chamber Indicator
  9. 03:09Slide Serrations & Finish
  10. 03:31Manual Safety
  11. 03:49Trigger & Safety Mechanisms
  12. 04:18Barrel Length & Twist Rate
  13. 04:28Frame & Grip Texture
  14. 04:39Disassembly Without Dry Firing
  15. 05:49Internal Components
  16. 06:05Recoil Spring Assembly
  17. 06:34Porting Discussion
  18. 07:12Reassembly
  19. 07:45Standard vs. Performance Center
  20. 07:50Range Test
  21. 10:33Ammunition Used
  22. 10:56Range Performance & Accuracy
  23. 11:15Overall Impressions & Comparison
  24. 11:38MSRP & Value
  25. 11:44Carry Gun Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus Performance Center and its competitors?

The Performance Center model features a ported barrel, enhanced grip texture, a flat trigger, and front/rear slide serrations. While its magazine is slightly thinner, the overall grip diameter is larger than the Sig P365 and Springfield Hellcat, making the 'smallest' claim debatable.

What are the pros and cons of the fiber optic sights on the M&P Shield Plus Performance Center?

The fiber optic sights are bright and effective in good lighting conditions, aiding target acquisition. However, they are not ideal for low-light or dark environments, where tritium night sights would be more advantageous for self-defense.

Can the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus Performance Center be disassembled without dry-firing?

Yes, the Performance Center model has a feature allowing disassembly without pulling the trigger. This involves locking the slide back, dropping the disassembly lever, and then pushing down a small white wire inside the slide, though this method is described as awkward.

How does the M&P Shield Plus Performance Center perform in terms of accuracy and reliability?

During range testing with various ammunition, the pistol demonstrated excellent accuracy and reliability, with no misfires or failures reported. It performed as intended for its role as a concealed carry firearm.

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