The S&W M&P Shield Plus has Problems?

Published on March 2, 2024
Duration: 15:17

This review by Nightwood Guns, featuring Brett, critically assesses the S&W M&P Shield Plus, a popular micro-compact 9mm pistol. While praising its value, ergonomics, and shootability, the review highlights significant reliability concerns, particularly with the 13-round magazine when fully loaded. The analysis includes a 750-round testing protocol and comparison to competitors like the Sig Sauer P365 and Glock 43X, offering an expert perspective on its suitability for defensive use.

Quick Summary

The S&W M&P Shield Plus, while offering great value (approx. $400) and excellent ergonomics, exhibits significant reliability issues with its 13-round magazine when fully loaded (13+1). This malfunction tendency, observed during extensive testing, contrasts with its otherwise good shootability and the effectiveness of aftermarket recoil systems like DPM.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Reliability Concerns
  2. 01:14The 'Good': Value and Ergonomics
  3. 04:55Recoil Management and Shootability
  4. 06:01The 'Bad': Reliability with Topped-Off Magazines
  5. 09:28Trigger Reset and Accessory Rail Issues
  6. 12:46Final Verdict and Market Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reliability issues with the S&W M&P Shield Plus?

The primary reliability concern highlighted is with the 13-round magazine, which consistently causes malfunctions when loaded to its maximum capacity (13+1). This issue persisted across multiple magazines even after a break-in period, impacting its suitability for immediate defensive use without further testing or modification.

How does the S&W M&P Shield Plus compare to the Sig Sauer P365 or Glock 43X?

While the Shield Plus offers excellent value and ergonomics, competitors like the Sig Sauer P365 and Glock 43X may provide more consistent reliability out-of-the-box and offer standard accessory rails for lights. The Shield Plus's trigger reset was also noted as having excessive play compared to some competitors.

Is the DPM Systems recoil reduction kit recommended for the S&W M&P Shield Plus?

The DPM Systems recoil reduction kit was shown to be effective in reducing felt recoil and mitigating limp-wristing malfunctions, thereby improving the shootability of the Shield Plus, especially for a micro-compact pistol. Its installation is presented as a potential solution for enhancing performance.

What are the ergonomic strengths of the S&W M&P Shield Plus?

The S&W M&P Shield Plus is praised for its excellent grip texture, intuitive controls like the slide stop and magazine release, and versatile size. It accommodates multiple magazine capacities (10, 13, and 15 rounds), contributing to its overall user-friendliness for concealed carry and defensive applications.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Nightwood Guns

View all →