{"id":190860,"date":"2021-09-17T09:59:02","date_gmt":"2021-09-17T13:59:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/?p=150331"},"modified":"2021-09-17T09:59:02","modified_gmt":"2023-10-03T02:44:04","slug":"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\/","title":{"rendered":"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith &#038; Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level &#8211; Full Review"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"677\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Feature-1024x677.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150332\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Feature-1024x677.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Feature-400x264.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Feature-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Feature-768x508.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Feature.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Smith &amp; Wesson\u2019s M&amp;P Shield wasn\u2019t the first handgun designed specifically for concealed carry, but it was close. Along with Springfield\u2019s XD(S) and a few others, the Shield helped launch the concealed carry movement from a niche hobby into a mainstream phenomenon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Smith &amp; Wesson improved on the original design with the Shield 2.0, but the new Shield Plus is by far the biggest step forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Like the Sig Sauer P365, the Shield Plus features a hybrid single\/double-stack magazine capable of holding 13+1 rounds. This adds five rounds to the original Shield\u2019s carrying capacity <em>without adding to the gun\u2019s width<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019m not the first gun writer to marvel at the black magic of the hybrid mag design, but that doesn\u2019t make it any less incredible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every model of the Shield Plus comes with this additional mag capacity along with optional night sights and a thumb safety. The Performance Center model I tested for this review comes with a four-inch barrel, a Crimson Trace micro-optic, and a ported barrel and slide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Is it concealed carry perfection? Maybe, maybe not. But it\u2019s without question the culmination of the last 20+ years of development in the market, and you won\u2019t be disappointed with the latest iteration of the now legendary Shield design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"SWShield\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smith-wesson.com\/product\/mp-shield-plus?utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to see standard Shield Plus models.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smith-wesson.com\/product\/mp-shield-plus-performance-center?sku=13251&amp;utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"SWShield\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to see Performance Center Shield Plus models.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large essb-block-image\" data-essb-pin-id=\"jordanmichaels\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"710\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Side-View-1024x710.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150346\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Side-View-1024x710.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Side-View-400x277.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Side-View-150x104.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Side-View-768x532.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Side-View.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Specification of\u00a0<strong>Performance Center M&amp;P 9 SHIELD PLUS CRIMSON TRACE<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Caliber\u00a0<strong>9mm Luger<\/strong><\/li><li>Capacity\u00a0<strong>13+1<\/strong><\/li><li>Optics\u00a0<strong>Yes<\/strong><\/li><li>Safety\u00a0<strong>No Thumb Safety<\/strong><\/li><li>Length\u00a0<strong>7<\/strong><\/li><li>Front Sight\u00a0<strong>Fiber Optic Green<\/strong><\/li><li>Rear Sight\u00a0<strong>Fiber Optic Red<\/strong><\/li><li>Action\u00a0<strong>Striker Fire<\/strong><\/li><li>Grip\u00a0<strong>Polymer<\/strong><\/li><li>Barrel Material\u00a0<strong>Stainless Steel with Armornite\u00ae Finish<\/strong><\/li><li>Slide Material\u00a0<strong>Stainless Steel with Armornite\u00ae Finish<\/strong><\/li><li>Frame Material\u00a0<strong>Polymer<\/strong><\/li><li>Slide Finish\u00a0<strong>Matte Black<\/strong><\/li><li>Frame Finish\u00a0<strong>Matte Black<\/strong><\/li><li>Barrel Length\u00a0<strong>4&#8243; (10.2 cm)<\/strong><\/li><li>Weight\u00a0<strong>22.6\u00a0oz.<\/strong><\/li><li>MSRP <strong>$869 (Performance Center) $553 (Base Model)<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">High-Cap Micro Guns<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Sig Sauer P365 made a huge splash in 2018 because it was the first subcompact carry gun to offer more than an 8-round capacity. Since then, the Springfield Hellcat, the Ruger Max-9, and the Smith &amp; Wesson Shield Plus have followed suit. In case you\u2019re wondering, here\u2019s how each handgun\u2019s magazine stack stacks up against the others:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><strong>Ruger Max-9<\/strong>: 12+1<\/li><li><strong>Springfield Hellcat<\/strong>: 13+1<\/li><li><strong>Sig Sauer P365X<\/strong>: 12+1<\/li><li><strong>Smith &amp; Wesson Shield Plus<\/strong>: 13+1<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"734\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Magazine-1024x734.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Magazine-1024x734.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Magazine-400x287.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Magazine-150x108.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Magazine-768x550.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Magazine.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em> 13 +1 rounds in a micro-carry gun. Pretty amazing. <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Upgrades<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Shield M2.0 rolled out with a few nice features, but it wasn\u2019t enough to convince me to upgrade from the original Shield I still carry. The Shield Plus is different. The basic model isn\u2019t much more expensive than my trusty carry gun, but it features several serious upgrades that have me thinking about making the switch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First and most obviously, the Shield Plus holds five more rounds than the original, adding over 60% to the gun\u2019s carrying capacity. Magazine capacity has always been the biggest knock on micro-carry guns. They\u2019re lighter and more comfortable to conceal, but they\u2019ve historically held far fewer rounds than a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smith-wesson.com\/product\/mp-m20-compact\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">compact M&amp;P<\/a>, for example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"677\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-2-1024x677.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150339\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-2-1024x677.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-2-400x264.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-2-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-2-768x508.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-3-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150340\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-3-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-3-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-3-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-3-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-3.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"598\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-1-1024x598.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150341\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-1-1024x598.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-1-400x234.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-1-150x88.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-1-768x449.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Compare-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>The Plus features greater magazine capacity without changing external dimensions.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The new high-capacity micro guns have all but ended that criticism. Compact guns still hold one or two extra cartridges, but only full-sized handguns can significantly increase that capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether five additional rounds will make much difference in a self-defense situation is the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/how-many-rounds-you-need-carry-gun\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\">subject of another article<\/a>. But as the old cowboy saying goes, it can\u2019t hurt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The trigger is the other serious improvement. On both the basic and Performance Center models, the Shield Plus is fitted with a flat-faced black polymer trigger with a metal safety fin. I can\u2019t speak to the Shield M2.0 because I never owned one, but the original Shield came with a crummy, hinged trigger. I swapped mine out for an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/trigger-tech-apex-tactical-flat-faced-trigger-dutycarry-kit-for-sw-shield-full-install-review\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Apex flat-faced trigger<\/a> as soon as I could, and I\u2019m glad I did.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"657\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Trigger-1024x657.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150338\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Trigger-1024x657.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Trigger-400x257.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Trigger-150x96.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Trigger-768x493.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Trigger.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>The trigger on the Shield Plus is excellent.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The trigger on the Shield Plus rivals the aftermarket Apex system. It features a crisp, consistent 5-pound break after 0.3 inches of take-up and an audible, tactile reset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You might reasonably argue about the relative benefit of five extra rounds, but no one can argue that a nice trigger increases accuracy. Paired with a Crimson Trace optic, the trigger on the Shield Plus will help even the most inexperienced shooter put shots on target in short order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Worst Upgrades<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019ll keep this short because the Shield Plus doesn\u2019t have many weaknesses, but I think Smith &amp; Wesson overdid it a bit on the grip texturing. I know folks criticized the original Shield for its slippery grip. I was one of them. I installed a set of Talon grips even before upgrading the trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But the Shield Plus uses true skateboard tape. Especially rough grip texturing can be helpful if the gun or your hands are wet, but there\u2019s a balance. Too little grip and the gun might slip; too much, and the texturing can be painful after a full day at the range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gloves can solve this problem, and hand rash is a non-factor in a self-defense situation. So, maybe it\u2019s not a big deal. But I noticed the rough texturing, and it may rub a bit when it\u2019s carried all day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"699\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Grip-1024x699.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150337\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Grip-1024x699.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Grip-400x273.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Grip-150x102.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Grip-768x524.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Grip.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>The Plus&#8217;s grip texturing feels like true skateboard tape.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Another thing I wanted to mention: Smith &amp; Wesson, if you\u2019re reading this, can you please design a Shield with a light rail? I know, there are companies that make handgun lights specifically for the Shield. But they wouldn\u2019t have to do that if Shields came with a standard Picatinny rail like nearly every other handgun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">At the Range<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>None of this is to say the Shield Plus is unpleasant to shoot. Quite the contrary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Shield\u2019s ergonomics have always been great, and the Plus\u2019s contours are identical. I had no trouble transitioning from the old school Shield to the newer model when I took it to the range last week. As you can see, the dimensions between the two firearms are identical. The Performance Center model I tested is fitted with a longer barrel, but the grip and rear portion of the handgun is the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"637\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Shooting-1024x637.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150335\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Shooting-1024x637.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Shooting-400x249.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Shooting-150x93.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Shooting-768x478.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Shooting.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Shooting the Shield plus is a pleasure.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The excellent trigger adds to the Shield Plus\u2019s shootability. A crisp, consistent trigger allows a shooter to fire off rounds without disturbing the sights, and this trigger is no different. Hitting shots from 10-25 yards wasn\u2019t difficult at all, especially with the Crimson Trace micro-optic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Speaking of the optic, it\u2019s great. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.crimsontrace.com\/?utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Crimson Trace<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.crimsontrace.com\/?utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\">1500 features a 5 MOA red dot<\/a>, a low-profile design, and an auto-on function that automatically powers on the dot and adjusts the brightness. Automatic brightness adjustment <em>could <\/em>be a problem in low-light conditions with a flashlight, but when I tested this scenario, I didn\u2019t have any trouble seeing the dot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The slide is milled specifically for the Crimson Trace optic, which means you won\u2019t be able to fit it with your favorite micro-red dot without an aftermarket plate. The good news is that if you like the CT optic, you don\u2019t have to deal with sketchy mounting systems. The optic screws right into the slide for a super-secure fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The optic also features a trough, which allows it to co-witness with the high-visibility fiber optics sights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"591\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Sights-1024x591.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150343\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Sights-1024x591.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Sights-400x231.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Sights-150x87.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Sights-768x443.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Sights-1536x887.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Sights-2048x1182.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-CT-1024x644.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-CT-1024x644.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-CT-400x252.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-CT-150x94.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-CT-768x483.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-CT.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>The Performance Center Shield Plus can be had with a great Crimson Trace optic.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019m sorry to say that none of these features are available on the standard Shield Plus models. Smith &amp; Wesson does offer night sights with the basic models, but the optics-ready slide is only available on the Performance Center versions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Back to the range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you haven\u2019t yet taken the plunge and invested in a handgun optic, I\u2019d encourage you to do so. The technology is now reliable enough that the U.S. military <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sandboxx.us\/blog\/why-red-dots-on-handguns-are-the-future-for-the-military\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">may soon be adopting it<\/a>. I\u2019m always amazed at how much better I shoot with a handgun optic. Finding the damn thing takes some getting used to, but once you overcome that hurdle, the visual feedback of the red dot helps you stay on target, transition between targets, and diagnose any flinching immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I found the same to be true with the Shield Plus. The optic stayed securely mounted and allowed me to hit targets out of the box.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It also helps with pinpoint accuracy. I shot several different kinds of Hornady 9mm ammunition from a <a href=\"https:\/\/ransomrest.com\/multi-cal-steady-rest\/?utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"SWShield\" rel=\"noopener\">Ransom Multi Cal. Steady Rest<\/a>, and I was pleased with the results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At 10 yards, the Shield Plus posted consistent groups in the 0.65\u201d range with both the Hornady <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hornady.com\/ammunition\/handgun\/9mm-p-luger-124-gr-xtp-american-gunner#!\/?utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"SWShield\" rel=\"noopener\">American Gunner +P<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hornady.com\/ammunition\/handgun\/9mm-luger-124-gr-xtp#!\/?utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"SWShield\" rel=\"noopener\">Custom<\/a> 124-grain loads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"665\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Target-3-1024x665.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Target-3-1024x665.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Target-3-400x260.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Target-3-150x97.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Target-3-768x499.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Target-3.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>The gun seemed to prefer these 124-grain +P loads from Hornady. (Velocity: 1171)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>At 25 yards, the gun seemed to prefer the 124-grain American Gunner loads, posting a sub-2.5\u201d and a sub-2\u201d group. Group sizes expanded somewhat with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hornady.com\/ammunition\/handgun\/9mm-luger-115-gr-xtp-american-gunner#!\/?utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"SWShield\" rel=\"noopener\">115-grain<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hornady.com\/ammunition\/handgun\/9mm-luger-147-gr-xtp#!\/?utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"SWShield\" rel=\"noopener\">147-grain<\/a> pills, but it still threw up a 2.6\u201d group with the 115-grain American Gunner rounds. For a concealed carry gun\u2014heck, for most semi-auto handguns\u2014this is great accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One last thing: the ported barrel and slide look cool, but I\u2019m not convinced of their practical benefits. I get the concept. In theory, gasses escaping from the ports will reduce muzzle rise and allow for quicker follow-up shots. The Shield Plus is easy to shoot quickly, but I think that has more to do with the trigger and the aggressive grip texturing than anything else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ported barrels and slides also introduce the danger of injury when shooting from the hip. While not recommended for precision accuracy (contrary to old <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=JrYtD7gSWsI\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cowboy movies<\/a>), shooting from retention is a valuable self-defense skill. With a ported barrel and slide, hot gasses pointed upward may injure the victim of an attack, which is exactly the opposite of what you\u2019re going for in that scenario.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"691\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Ported-Barrel-1024x691.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-150334\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Ported-Barrel-1024x691.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Ported-Barrel-400x270.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Ported-Barrel-150x101.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Ported-Barrel-768x518.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Plus-Ported-Barrel.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Ported barrels look cool, but I&#8217;m not convinced they&#8217;re a good upgrade on a carry gun.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is that Smith &amp; Wesson offers the Performance Center Shield Plus with and without the ported barrel. I\u2019d leave it off your order, and it\u2019ll save you $30.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Last Shots<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Concealed carry firearms have come a long way in the last 20 years. Virtually every major manufacturer offers a carry gun (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/kimber-america-doubles-down-with-r7-mako-micro-compact\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">even Kimber<\/a>, for goodness sake), and concealed carry practitioners are spoiled for options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I don\u2019t think there\u2019s a better option than the Shield Plus. It holds as many rounds as any other high-capacity micro gun, and it\u2019s well-built, reliable, and accurate. I had zero malfunctions when I took it to the range, and I could hit whatever I was aiming at.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ll likely see greater improvements in the next few years. In this market, gun companies have to keep improving to avoid becoming obsolete. But right now, you can\u2019t do any better than the Smith &amp; Wesson Shield Plus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"SWShield\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smith-wesson.com\/product\/mp-shield-plus?utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Click HERE to see standard Shield Plus models.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"SWShield\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smith-wesson.com\/product\/mp-shield-plus-performance-center?sku=13251&amp;utm_source=GunsAmerica\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"smith-wessons-shield-plus-full-review-2\" title=\"Concealed Carry Perfection? Smith & Wesson\u2019s Shield Plus Takes a Legend to the Next Level - Full Review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Click HERE to see Performance Center Shield Plus models.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\">***<a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/\" campaign=\"BuySellGA_Register\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\">Buy and Sell on GunsAmerica!<\/a>***<\/h2>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Is it concealed carry perfection? Maybe, maybe not. But it\u2019s without question the culmination of the last 20+ years of development in market, and you won\u2019t be disappointed with the latest iteration of the now legendary Shield design.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":54,"featured_media":150332,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[694,859,593],"tags":[132,127,107,108,224,710,60],"featured":[],"hunt365":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-190860","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-gun-reviews","8":"category-gun-reviews-handguns","9":"category-jordan-michaels","10":"tag-buzz","11":"tag-concealed-carry","12":"tag-featured-articles","13":"tag-guns","14":"tag-review","15":"tag-shield","16":"tag-smith-wesson"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.1 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Concealed Carry Perfection? 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