I couldn't be happier with my Shield 9mm. Yes, the slide was difficult to lock back at first, but it became easier after several hundred rounds. I never found it difficult to chamber a round, only when locking the slide back for take down.

Talon rubber grips made the pistol more comfortable and more controllable to shoot.

The RSA is not difficult for me to install correctly when reassembling the pistol, so I don't know where that's coming from. Have to admit, the trigger pull was heavy at 7 1/2 lbs, but an Apex sear brought it down to 5 1/2 lbs, which feels perfect.