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Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols All Variants of the Smith & Wesson M&P Auto Pistols


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  #1  
Old 08-03-2012, 10:40 PM
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Default Nano vs Shield

People that know I own both a Beretta Nano and the S&W Shield often ask me which one I prefer. Now this is a tough one to answer since they are both really good pistols in the own right. So yesterday I ventured to my range to do a side by side comparison. Here are my observations after many rounds downrange. First off I'm big into M&Ps and currently own 4 of them so I'm very partial to the series. The Shield is Smiths attempt at really shrinking the package and to that end they did a good job. The Beretta Nano which is Berettas first striker fired pistol is a true micro pistol and is smaller than the Shield. I have many rounds through my Shield so in this range sessions I put a lot of different rounds through the Nano to see how it stacked up, so here goes.
Size.... The Shield is very comfortable carried in an IWB holster but is not a pocket pistol in my experience. Here's where the Nano has an edge, it's smaller plain and simple. I spent a couple hot days carrying it in various pockets in a Remora pocket holster quite comfortably. So for very hot weather carry the Nano is better. When I can cover my pistol with an open shirt the Shield is fine.
Trigger.... The Shield has a short takeup before let off and now has a very positive reset. The Nano is more Kahr like in that it is a long, smooth takeup almost like a double action revolver. You definately will not have a negligent discharge with the Nano.
Sights.... I would rate the sights as being equal since they are both 3 dot and easy to acquire.
Accuracy.... This one really surprised me because I shot tighter groups with the Nano with all loads and it especially like 147 grn Federal HSTs. My outdoor range has target backboards at 7, 15 and 50 yards which was just reconfigured, the range staff for some reason didn't put a 25 yard stand up yet. The Nano I thought would provide the same type of say combat accuracy as my Shield. I was wrong at 7 yards I had consistently shot groups that became one big hole.
Point Shooting.... The Shield I feel points much more naturally than the Nano, so shooting from the hip made hits easy with the Shield at combat distances. The Nano would point and shoot low unless I consciously pointed higher, so for point and shoot scenarios the Shield beats the Nano.
Reliability.... The Shield was flawless with any load shot through it and so was the Nano. On the Beretta Forum some Nano owners reported FTE malfunctions with light 115 grn loads. But mine functioned perfectly with all loads from 115 to 147grn.
Comfort.... Both pistols were very comfortable through a lot of rounds with the edge going to the Shield with it's more ergonomic grip. That said the Nano though was much more comfortable than I anticipated being so small.
So which one did I like best I'd have to say I like both of them equally. The Nano is more concealable and slightly more accurate when using the sights. But the Shield is more accurate point shooting but not so using the sights. When I got bored I shot them both at 50 yards like I was at Camp Perry and while both hit the B1 targets the Nano was definately more accurate at distance, go figure.
Ammo....
I've pictured the ammo used and both pistols seem to prefer the Federal 147 grn HST. I did some water jug testing to see what would expand out of such short barrels and 2 loads stood out. Again the Federal 147 grn HST and the Corbon +P 115 grn DPX solid copper load.
Conclusion..... Long post I know. I'm now going to send my Nano to Robar for my favorite finish like I did with all my M&Ps. For super hot t-shirt weather I'll be carrying the Nano quite confidently as I find it to be a very good pistol. For shirt and a little cooler weather the Shield will be with me. And when I can wear a jacket my M&P9c or M&P45c will be my pistol of choice. For those wanting an alternative to say a small J frame the Nano is a top shelf choice. I'm happy I have both.
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  #2  
Old 08-03-2012, 11:02 PM
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Great report. I've had the Nano since May and just got my Shield 9 yesterday. I can't tell which is more accurate, but I will say that they are both as good as the shooter. Cannot say which I like better. It is okay to love both, right? I think you were spot on comparing the shoot from the hip. For me, I have a Hogue Jr. on the Nano and the grooves on the grip helps me get the muzzle of the gun up just a bit towards center mass.
Anyway, I think you nailed that comparison. Thanks for the report.
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Old 08-03-2012, 11:23 PM
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I'll second that. Nice report.++
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Old 08-04-2012, 01:05 AM
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Mag318

I thought your report was excellent and objective.

My experience owning a Nano was a mixed bag. I had FTEs with every 115 grain brand I shot and my Shield has been flawless with 115 grain.

Before I traded my 3 dot Shield sights for XS Big Dot I shot tighter groups with my Shield. (See avatar) I believe it makes a huge difference that I can grip my Shield with 3 fingers vs. the Nano which is a pinkie dangler for any size hand.

It has been my observation following both M&P and Beretta forum the Nano is like the lottery. If you hit the jackpot you have a great firearm, but like me there are loosers and I shot over a case of ammo and even sent the gun back for repair but in the end I just could not get the gun to perform with 115 grain ammo. Too bad because I liked the gun but I could not have a question mark if my ccw would go bang.

There have been reports of late on the Beretta forum later models of the Nano are more reliable which is great news but I still see a few posts of frustrated owners even with later models and for me I am not going to give the Beretta Nano a second try especially when my Shield is flawless and meets my pocket conceal needs in 34x32 Dockers and with the low profile rear XS sights (stock 3 dot would catch on my pocket) I can draw sweep safety and dry fire in just over one second.

Russ

Last edited by RussC; 08-04-2012 at 10:17 AM.
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Old 08-04-2012, 06:20 AM
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Russ, I remember reading your posts over on the Beretta Forum and it's to bad you experienced those FTE problems. I agree that the Shield is an amazing success with no such teething problems that the Nano experienced. There is a reason the Shield is out selling all it's competition by a 10 to 1 margin, Smith & Wesson hit this one out of the park.
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Old 08-04-2012, 09:26 PM
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Here's how I recover spent bullets. I line up several waterjugs and if the shot is centered the bullet will end up in a jug. The Corbon 115 grn +P DPX and the Federal 147 grn HST were spectacular loads out of both the Shield and Nano.
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Old 08-04-2012, 10:27 PM
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Excellent post, thanks for the info.
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Old 08-05-2012, 01:14 PM
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Great post and now I need to go out and buy both instead of just one... Way to make me spend some more money...

thanks for the review...
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Old 08-05-2012, 05:32 PM
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You can never have to many guns. I originally was only going to keep one, but I like them both so well, what the heck. The design of the Beretta is ingenious, from it's easily removable sights to the simple takedown. Now I too am going to spend a good chunk of change having Robar apply their NP3 finish, plus Beretta has Trijicon night sights in their online shop.
Cook if you do buy a Nano I think you'll like it



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Great post and now I need to go out and buy both instead of just one... Way to make me spend some more money...

thanks for the review...
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Old 08-05-2012, 07:35 PM
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I have the Nano and the .40 cal shield. I am basically happy with weapons but the first few months with both were a pain in my, well you know. The Nano flat refused to run 115 grain ammo. It would fail to eject and jam. Running anything bigger 124 or 147 was no problem at all. After running around 500 rounds through it, I tried the 115 gr again and it has run just fine so far. The shield has had its issues as well, it keeps ejecting the extended round magazine and the front site is off. I have sent it back to SW for repair. I am still using my faithful MP360 as my carry pistol. I may only have five shots but at least I know it is reliable. Since its recent reliablity on the range I have added the Nano back to the carry lineup. We will see with the shield once I get it back.
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Old 08-06-2012, 12:06 AM
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Gauger, In many ways I still prefer revolvers for CCW. It's either loaded or unloaded with no worries as to is one in the pipe or not. Get a bad round you just pull the trigger again, revolvers are reliable with all ammunition no matter the bullet weight.
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Old 08-06-2012, 12:35 AM
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Hmm... I've always dismissed the Nano as too chunky, but never actually held one. After reading your excellent review, I'll have to take a look at one.

I have wanted a Shield, but being that it's not pocketable, I have questioned whether or not I actually need one. If the Nano is pocketable, then I should look into it. Right now I have an LC9, but dislike the trigger.

It's good to know the 147gr HST performed so well. I have had good luck with it in my LC9, as well. Was thinking about going 147+P some day, after I run out.
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Old 08-06-2012, 08:39 AM
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Originally Posted by baccusboy View Post
Hmm... I've always dismissed the Nano as too chunky, but never actually held one. After reading your excellent review, I'll have to take a look at one.

I have wanted a Shield, but being that it's not pocketable, I have questioned whether or not I actually need one. If the Nano is pocketable, then I should look into it. Right now I have an LC9, but dislike the trigger.

It's good to know the 147gr HST performed so well. I have had good luck with it in my LC9, as well. Was thinking about going 147+P some day, after I run out.
Baccusboy

I owned a Nano and pocket carried until I traded for a Shield. The stock rear sight on my Shield would snag on my pocket when I drew the gun especially quickly. When I traded out the sights for XS Big Dot sights that problem was fixed and I pocket 10 hours per day at work in Dockers 34x32 and I feel no difference over the Nano which is only one ounce lighter with one less round over the Shield. (Nano 23 oz loaded with 7 rds of 124 grain Gold Dot, Shield 24.1 oz loaded with 8 rds of 124 grain Gold Dot)

My draw is also lightning fast at one second. Add another .5 and I have swept the safety and dry fired. (Nano was no faster at pocket draw.)

As I mentioned in an earlier post my experience with the Nano was a mixed bag. She failed with 115 grain WWB, S&B and Federal. My Shield has perfromed at 100% with those mentioned. I am not here to knock the Nano but the reason I pack the Shield is because she is reliable and an added plus the grip is just long enough that I can pinkie grip with the flush magazine. The Nano and Kahr CM9 I owned both were pinkie dangler guns.

My Shield with Big Dot night sights is my only ccw.

Russ

Last edited by RussC; 08-06-2012 at 09:06 AM.
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Old 08-06-2012, 09:08 AM
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Fantastic review and thanks for taking the time to share. I too have had a Nano and recently got my shield after waiting. I also have had a keltec pf9 and currently own a kahr pm9. I too think the shield is great but the trigger seems to be difficult to feel just before it breaks, reset is awesome, quick as you would expect. I never had any issues with my nano and really wish i had it back, i will probably ger another one. It is anlittle slide heavy which is probably what hurts it's point to shoot ability but that is the only area it suffers in, in my opnion. The kahr is fantastic as well, small and easy to conceal like the nano. That is the only downside the shield has, its larger than the others. Oh, my nano ate anything i put through it with no issues....i really miss that little gun.
Again thanks for the great post
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Old 08-06-2012, 09:48 AM
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Great write up!

I am going to look at the Nano now that I have learned a bit about it. Shields aren't in stock at LE pricing and I'm not paying those inflated prices for one. Besides, you say pocket carry is easier, which is important when guns get this small.

By the way, I also wear 34" pants... But 38" fits better.
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Old 08-06-2012, 12:16 PM
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I just ordered a set of Trijicon night sights for my Nano. I really like the fact that all I need to change them is the supplied 1.3mm wrench and no sight pusher. The Nano has a short grip that you'd think would be uncomfortable, but it is not. The truly suprising thing with the Nano was how accurate this tiny pistol shoots. I'm sure the long, smooth trigger has something to do with it, I can actually stage it like I do with all my S&W revolvers. The recoil impulse is also very comfortable. But I have to admit that after putting 200+ rounds through it in one session the sharp backstrap checkering did cause some discomfort to the palm of my hand. I was having so much fun though I shot this thing until there was no more ammo to shoot. Some Nano owners have put Talon grips on theirs so I'm going to check these out too.
Being a big M&P fan the Shield is a wonderful pistol I just find the Nano better suited for pocket carry. But that's me, you have to experiment with several pistols to see what works for you. I have no plans for getting rid of my Shield and enjoy carrying it in an IWB holster. I think for my next comparison test I'm going to shoot it side by side with my M&P9c, which by the way has a shorter grip.
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Old 08-06-2012, 12:56 PM
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I have the .40 Shield my friend has the Nano both are great guns.Haven't really shot and compared side by side though but if I had a Nano I would definately get the Shield in .40



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Old 11-05-2012, 11:34 AM
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The Dec 12/2012 GunsAndAmmo issue reported that the Nano is more accurate than the Shield in their testing among several pocket 9mm pistols.
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Old 11-05-2012, 11:37 AM
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Great report. Thanks for sharing...I do believe both are great carry guns.
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Old 11-06-2012, 09:22 AM
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G26 tried and true - why re-invent the wheel ... I bought both the Nano and the Shield to compare to my G26 hands down the Nano won out

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Old 12-05-2012, 02:21 PM
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To my shagrin I have to report I started getting the dreaded FTF malfunctions with my Nano at round count 1000. The little pistol was perfect prior to that with everything that should have caused a FTF (failure to feed) malfunction. These malfunctions started occurring with my carry ammo Federal 147grn HST and also my practise Winchester 124 grn Nato Ball. The FTF is the type of malfunction that will get you killed in a real world defensive situation, and the Nano with no external slide lock is a pain to clear when this occurred.
So to all those thinking about a Nano, I can no longer recommend one.
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Old 12-05-2012, 03:24 PM
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Wow, that was an unexpected end to your story.

As to pocket carry, I have zero problems pocket carrying the Shield 40 using Desantis Nemesis pocket holster. Heavy and bulky the first few minutes, then with all day use, I forget it is in my pocket until I touch it. After trying different methods of gripping gun in pocket, as well as slightly different angles to pull, stock sights always clear, and draw is about 1 second.
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Old 12-05-2012, 08:43 PM
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I'm just glad these malfunctions occurred it was at the range and not on the street, I am really disappointed.

Last edited by mag318; 12-11-2012 at 12:19 AM.
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Old 12-06-2012, 12:40 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mag318 View Post
To my shagrin I have to report I started getting the dreaded FTF malfunctions with my Nano at round count 1000. The little pistol was perfect prior to that with everything that should have caused a FTF (failure to feed) malfunction. These malfunctions started occurring with my carry ammo Federal 147grn HST and also my practise Winchester 124 grn Nato Ball. The FTF is the type of malfunction that will get you killed in a real world defensive situation, and the Nano with no external slide lock is a pain to clear when this occurred.
So to all those thinking about a Nano, I can no longer recommend one.
Mag318

I hope you post your Nano experience on the Beretta forum. It still bugs me Beretta marketed the Nano on Youtube as flawless after 1, 000 rounds and stripped of all lubrication.

I admit I got caught up after watching the video and bought one of the first Nanos but my experience after 1, 300 rounds was nothing close to the Beretta video. What an embarassing marketing ploy.

Russ

Last edited by RussC; 12-06-2012 at 12:43 AM.
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Old 12-06-2012, 01:23 PM
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Russ, I did post on the Beretta forum. I firmly believe the Nano is a flawed design. The Shield and even my new Springfield XDs though larger a much better pistols. I've had a several decades long experience with Beretta and I still have high regard for their 92 and PX4 series. The Nano is another story.
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Old 12-06-2012, 08:05 PM
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It seems to me if you fire a pistol a 1000 times without failure and all of a sudden you begin to have failures... somethings wrong. A broken extractor perhaps??? Have you contacted Beretta about them looking at it? Not poo pooing your issue, because I believe it's real.

I have a Nano, not a Shield, but I do have an M&P9C. One reason I didn't get the Shield is because I'm left-handed. I thought the trigger was a bit light to carry it with it chambered and the safety off. Now that I have my M&P (no safety), I probably could deal with that better.

My Nano is markedly more accurate than my M&P, but the M&P points naturally and feels good in my hand. I really love both of these firearms for different reasons. My Nano has been rock solid, but so was yours... until... I'd be interested in knowing if Beretta is interested in resolving the problem you experienced.
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Old 12-07-2012, 11:56 AM
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Thumbs up FTF is not a problem

Any pistol can fail. Most NANOs will function flawlessly with thousands of rounds. If you read other blogs, you'll see plenty of SHIELDs fail for various reasons far BEFORE 1000 rounds were fired.

The fact is, both pistols are very well made designs.
The Nano failures occurred primarily with low serial numbered pistols and they have been corrected.

Combat Handguns Magazine after having tested the NANO said it's design is LIGHT YEARS AHEAD of other makes. P 95 Nov. 2012. I may not go that far, but I admit that there are a number of innovations and it is not, like its competition, a 20th century pistol. It is really a 21st century pistol that is competitive size wise with any other and better than some costing quite a bit more. It is not merely an evolutionary design, but one can reasonably argue, it is revolutionary...and safer!

Regardless, the Smith is a fine, modern handgun, has initially better pointing ergos, however it is too large for pocket carry - and I'd add, even for most daily or home carry. While I own the BG380 that I bought for such use, I decided that a 9 is more appropriate for defense.

The NANO fits the bill over the others I had considered, the Kahr was a problem from the get go and Kahr could never cure the issues with its two decades old design. Also, the three dot Trijicons from Beretta are very easy to instal. Because two thirds of defense gun fights occur at night, these sights are mandatory. Lastly, regardless the comments made by a few, most failures to feed are due to limp wristing, not bad ammo.

I've used 115 gr. almost exclusively...the only FTF I had was during the first magazine set, none after. DPX works fine and it is a great, high penetration combat ammo.

My take on the NANO is Thumbs Up!

Last edited by AGB; 12-07-2012 at 12:03 PM.
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Old 12-07-2012, 12:13 PM
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Mag318, Good report. The Shield and Nano were not around when I bought my Kahr PM40. I have been waiting to get my hands on a Shield to compare it to my Kahr PM40 (which I love). I carry my PM from wake up to nighty night time. I shoot it alot and know it well. As most of you know, the PM's have been around for awhile and were always the smallest lightest carry in semi 40's. My PM has a match grade barrel, night sights, a CTL, 4 larger capacity mags (6 rds) and 1 small capacity mag (5 rds), double and single leather G&G mag pouches for all mags, leather pocket holster, Remora IWB, G&G leather thumb break holster. To switch over from my PM to the Shield is something I am willing to do, but the Shield would need to be significantly better, if I am to retool all accessories from the PM to the Shield. The Kahr is very accurate and I was shooting IDPA with it until I purchased the M&P40Pro. Just brought the Pro home this week and have not shot it yet, but already love it. I am thinking that sticking with the S&W series would benefit me...particularly for a similar trigger and going all M&P. Therefore, I would love to hold and shoot the Shield side by side to compare it to my PM, which has a nice smooth DAO trigger. I would not need both guns which makes this a tough decision, but one I hope to make in the coming year. The M&P22 is also on my hit list for a future purchase....soon I hope. (I am sure the Nano is a nice gun too...as you reported).

Again, thanks for your review and comparison, which made me relate to my thoughts on comparing the Shield to my Kahr PM. It is all a very personal choice.
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Old 12-07-2012, 01:18 PM
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I had a Beretta Nano. I am a huge fan. It was hands-down the most accurate small pistol I've ever had or shot. It was 100% with all the ammo that I put through it. It was very obviously built ruggedly, and extremely concealable. I loved almost everything about it.

But I sold it. It just wasn't right for me because the grip was just too small for my hands. Because Beretta promised +2 mag extenders when they released the pistol, Pearce and other companies won't build anything for it. But Beretta hasn't released them. I called and emailed the company over and over - and they have a slot for the extensions on their website, but the last time I saw a timeframe for releasing them to the public, it March or April, and they said they'd have them out by "Oct 2012".

Based on what I saw, if they ever get the mag extensions out, or if a 3d party produces some... I will absolutely buy another. In a minute.

I know there are complaints about reliability - Mag318, I'd wonder if you might need a new recoil spring, but 1000-1200 rounds seems mighty premature for that... to me. I didn't put that many through mine.
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Old 12-07-2012, 01:28 PM
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After my first couple of flawless range sessions with the Nano I really liked it, especially it's size. Many on the Beretta Forum reported FTF malfunctions, and being mindful of these I watched it closely. The little Nano functioned perfectly with everything I shot through it, I was impressed with it's accuracy and liked the trigger. Then out of nowhere these hard to clear malfunctions started occurring. I now refer to the Nano as a flawed design and that flaw is the lack of an external slide lock. The FTF or FTE malfunctions I was getting the fired case wasn't ejected and the followup round had nowhere to go. This is the worse type of malfunction to get IMO and is hard to clear quickly since you can't manually lock the slide to the rear. If Beretta ever upgrades the design they should incorporate an external slide stop. They advertise the pistol being super thin without one, but the addition wouldn't make that much difference. Look at the Shield or Springfields XDs, they both have a slide lock and are just as thin. Any pistol can malfunction but it should be easy to clear quickly, the Nano isn't. To bad as it's otherwise a nice pistol, I just won't be carrying one anymore.
With concealed carry now in all states (except the Land of Lincoln) the market for these small semiautos has been lucrative. We have a lot of good choices out there, that said there is a good reason for the recurring popularity of the J frame.
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Old 12-07-2012, 02:43 PM
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I appreciated the informative review (and subsequent follow-up) on these two pistols, mag318. I hope what you suspect regarding the cause of the Nano's eventual malfunctions (design defect) isn't true because that's the hardest thing to "fix". Things like poor workmanship and tired springs can be dealt with by the shooter much more readily than a design defect.
I also agree that an external slide hold-open feature (even if the slide isn't being held back after the last shot-ala Ruger LCP) is especially noteworthy in the event of a malfunction.
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Old 12-07-2012, 02:52 PM
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I am a fan of Beretta guns and own a u22 Neos, and when I realized how long of a wait the Shield was going to be I debated buying a Nano. After reading reviews in magazines, forums, and other places, I decided to hold off and stick to the Shield. Very glad I did, and maybe some day I will own both, but for now it seems as though the negative reviews of the Nano outweigh those of the Shield.
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Old 12-07-2012, 02:53 PM
moe l. moe l. is offline
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Gauger, In many ways I still prefer revolvers for CCW. It's either loaded or unloaded with no worries as to is one in the pipe or not. Get a bad round you just pull the trigger again, revolvers are reliable with all ammunition no matter the bullet weight.
Agree - I have a 627PC snub and never think twice....plus it just looks cool!
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Old 12-07-2012, 03:31 PM
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Based on what I saw, if they ever get the mag extensions out, or if a 3d party produces some... I will absolutely buy another. In a minute.
The 8-round extended magazines are available now. I ordered one yesterday. The first release was quickly snapped up, but they are (or were) back in stock. There will also be a kit to convert the existing 6-round magazines to 8. I understand that in the future they will ship with one 6 and one 8 round magazine, but that's rumor as far as I know.
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Old 12-07-2012, 03:50 PM
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Any pistol can fail. Most NANOs will function flawlessly with thousands of rounds. If you read other blogs, you'll see plenty of SHIELDs fail for various reasons far BEFORE 1000 rounds were fired.

The fact is, both pistols are very well made designs.
The Nano failures occurred primarily with low serial numbered pistols and they have been corrected.

Combat Handguns Magazine after having tested the NANO said it's design is LIGHT YEARS AHEAD of other makes. P 95 Nov. 2012. I may not go that far, but I admit that there are a number of innovations and it is not, like its competition, a 20th century pistol. It is really a 21st century pistol that is competitive size wise with any other and better than some costing quite a bit more. It is not merely an evolutionary design, but one can reasonably argue, it is revolutionary...and safer!

Regardless, the Smith is a fine, modern handgun, has initially better pointing ergos, however it is too large for pocket carry - and I'd add, even for most daily or home carry. While I own the BG380 that I bought for such use, I decided that a 9 is more appropriate for defense.

The NANO fits the bill over the others I had considered, the Kahr was a problem from the get go and Kahr could never cure the issues with its two decades old design. Also, the three dot Trijicons from Beretta are very easy to instal. Because two thirds of defense gun fights occur at night, these sights are mandatory. Lastly, regardless the comments made by a few, most failures to feed are due to limp wristing, not bad ammo.

I've used 115 gr. almost exclusively...the only FTF I had was during the first magazine set, none after. DPX works fine and it is a great, high penetration combat ammo.

My take on the NANO is Thumbs Up!
I agree.
I have a full size M&P 9mm and wanted a Shield to back it up/compliment it but they are still nearly impossible to obtain, at least not without paying over MSRP for it.
So I took delivery of my new Nano two weeks ago, cleaned all of the excessive factory oil out of it, lightly re-oiled it and got it to the range this past Sunday and it performed flawlessly with the cheapest ammo I could find (Wolf) as well some American Eagle and Herter's aluminum case (all 115gr only) and I too found it SHOCKINGLY accurate and easy to shoot for such a small pistol.
Yes it was only about 175 rounds total but that was a mix of steel, brass and aluminum cased ammo in the 'supposedly dreaded' 115gr weight and EVERY round fired and ejected without one issue.
I still want a Shield because I think it's an amazing CCW pistol but this Nano is a 'keeper' as well.
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Old 12-07-2012, 04:00 PM
LS1LT1 LS1LT1 is offline
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The 8-round extended magazines are available now. I ordered one yesterday. The first release was quickly snapped up, but they are (or were) back in stock. There will also be a kit to convert the existing 6-round magazines to 8. I understand that in the future they will ship with one 6 and one 8 round magazine, but that's rumor as far as I know.
You beat me to it LOL, I was just about to post this as well.
The 8 rounders have actually been available for over a month now but they literally sell out of stock in just minutes (just like M&P Shields LOL).
They were showing in stock on Beretta's site last week so I decided to order two of them. As I was in the process of placing an order, I happened to change screens for like two minutes to check on something else and when I came back to check out they were already gone LOL.
There were 500 in stock yesterday (I had called and talked to a rep about something else) so I finally got my order in (they shipped and will be here Monday) but checked again last night and all 500 were GONE!
I already love the gun even with only the 6 rounder in there but I can't wait to see just how awesome it feels with my pinky finger on there as well as the 8 round mags WILL allow for that.
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Old 12-07-2012, 05:07 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by AGB View Post
Any pistol can fail. Most NANOs will function flawlessly with thousands of rounds. If you read other blogs, you'll see plenty of SHIELDs fail for various reasons far BEFORE 1000 rounds were fired.

The fact is, both pistols are very well made designs.
The Nano failures occurred primarily with low serial numbered pistols and they have been corrected.

Combat Handguns Magazine after having tested the NANO said it's design is LIGHT YEARS AHEAD of other makes. P 95 Nov. 2012. I may not go that far, but I admit that there are a number of innovations and it is not, like its competition, a 20th century pistol. It is really a 21st century pistol that is competitive size wise with any other and better than some costing quite a bit more. It is not merely an evolutionary design, but one can reasonably argue, it is revolutionary...and safer!

Regardless, the Smith is a fine, modern handgun, has initially better pointing ergos, however it is too large for pocket carry - and I'd add, even for most daily or home carry. While I own the BG380 that I bought for such use, I decided that a 9 is more appropriate for defense.

The NANO fits the bill over the others I had considered, the Kahr was a problem from the get go and Kahr could never cure the issues with its two decades old design. Also, the three dot Trijicons from Beretta are very easy to instal. Because two thirds of defense gun fights occur at night, these sights are mandatory. Lastly, regardless the comments made by a few, most failures to feed are due to limp wristing, not bad ammo.

I've used 115 gr. almost exclusively...the only FTF I had was during the first magazine set, none after. DPX works fine and it is a great, high penetration combat ammo.

My take on the NANO is Thumbs Up!
AGB

I would be interested in those links for Shield failures.

I believe the best link for any gun is the forum dedicated to the specific gun.

I spent months on the Beretta forum and I speak from experience when I say the Nano does not measure up to the Shield in reliability.

Checkout Beretta forum posts beginning Nov 2011 forward and count the number of failure posts. Compare same length of time for Shield on this forum beginning April 2012.

There is a reason Shields are selling on Gun Broker above retail and the improved (high serial number) Nanos are selling below suggested retail.

I really wanted my Nano which I shot 1, 300 rounds through work because the weapon is built solid but in the end reliability is why I own a ccw and that is why I own a Shield and my Nano found another home.

Russ

P.S. FYI Many on this forum pocket pack our Shields and for your information the Nano loaded with 6 rounds is only 1 ounce lighter than the Shield loaded with 7 rounds.

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Old 12-07-2012, 07:31 PM
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I had a Nano one of the early ones I really wanted to like it it is a great size and I love my 92SF compact. I had some FTE early with 115's switched to 124's and they stopped. I had only one other problem with it, I could not hit the broad side of a barn if I was standing inside it. So when I hear and read how accurate they are I have to think maybe there was something wrong with it. I also wanted a Shield but can't find one. I have an XDS and a Sig P938 and both are very accurate. The 938 just disapears into my pocket (Levi;s) 34" I have left 32" behind somewhere in my 40's. Some day I will have to try the nano again for now I am happy with the 938, XDS and the sweetest shooting 3" 1911 (a S & W Pro).
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Old 12-07-2012, 08:52 PM
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All good points, one's CCW has to be spot on reliable/dependable.
But I do have to add, I'd still rather actually own/carry a pistol that is very likely reliable instead of NOT being able to carry another potentially slightly more reliable one simply because you cannot locate/purchase it ANYWHERE.
There are options other than just these two of course but this thread is specifically about them (ie: Nano and Shield).
Heck, I'd rather carry a Taurus PT22 versus NOT carrying an M&P Shield that hasn't even been manufactured yet LOL.
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Old 12-07-2012, 10:18 PM
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All good points, one's CCW has to be spot on reliable/dependable.
But I do have to add, I'd still rather actually own/carry a pistol that is very likely reliable instead of NOT being able to carry another potentially slightly more reliable one simply because you cannot locate/purchase it ANYWHERE.
There are options other than just these two of course but this thread is specifically about them (ie: Nano and Shield).
Heck, I'd rather carry a Taurus PT22 versus NOT carrying an M&P Shield that hasn't even been manufactured yet LOL.
I know for many the Shield is like Santa. Does the Shield really exist?

Yes the Shield exist and if you have been good you may find one in your stocking.
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Old 12-07-2012, 10:42 PM
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Beretta or S&W. OMG i'd rather carry a can of pepper spray than get laughed at for carrying a Beretta.
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Old 12-07-2012, 11:12 PM
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I know for many the Shield is like Santa. Does the Shield really exist?
No joke, I have visited 16 (actual number) different gun stores in 3 different states since July and not one of them had one or had even seen one in at least a month or two+.
Two of them did have the plastic 'blue gun' that I was able to play with so I was happy for that at least LOL.
That alone should tell us that the thing must really be that good (or that S&W is just deliberately limiting production of the damn thing LOL ).
I assumed that it would be at least another 6 months before I would find one (or at least find one for under MSRP as I don't pay retail for ANYTHING LOL ) so I decided to get the Nano for a dirt cheap price before my 'Permit to Purchase' (silly New Jersey) forms ran out.
I will own a Shield someday too though, nothing wrong with having two nice CCWs/BUGs even though most of us can't even legally carry in this goofy state LOL.
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Old 12-07-2012, 11:35 PM
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I don't think the Nano is a close comparison with the Shield. It is much closer to Kahr PM9 or PM40. I have owned three kahrs and have handled the Nano. It is a lot like a kahr, but a little chunkier and heavier. I suspect the Nano may be a little more comfortable to shoot than the Kahrs and is also a good pocket carry. The Kahrs are a dream to pocket carry. I am not sure what a previous poster meant by the Quote: "the Kahr was a problem from the get go and Kahr could never cure the issues with its two decades old design". I still have one of the first K9's that was ever produced and have never had a problem. If I could only have one of those guns however, it would be the Shield.
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Old 12-08-2012, 01:09 AM
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I don't think the Nano is a close comparison with the Shield. It is much closer to Kahr PM9 or PM40. I have owned three kahrs and have handled the Nano. It is a lot like a kahr, but a little chunkier and heavier. I suspect the Nano may be a little more comfortable to shoot than the Kahrs and is also a good pocket carry. The Kahrs are a dream to pocket carry. I am not sure what a previous poster meant by the Quote: "the Kahr was a problem from the get go and Kahr could never cure the issues with its two decades old design". I still have one of the first K9's that was ever produced and have never had a problem. If I could only have one of those guns however, it would be the Shield.
Pyro, I have to agree with you on the Kahr K9. I too have an early one and though all steel it's one of my favorite small pistols. The Kahr is still in my carry rotation. I almost feel bad for those still having trouble finding a Shield, I bought 2 of them within a week, one online for $420 then the second from my local dealer for $341. My XDs on the other hand was $548 and my Nano cost me $385.
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Old 12-08-2012, 11:31 AM
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No joke, I have visited 16 (actual number) different gun stores in 3 different states since July and not one of them had one or had even seen one in at least a month or two+.
Two of them did have the plastic 'blue gun' that I was able to play with so I was happy for that at least LOL.
That alone should tell us that the thing must really be that good (or that S&W is just deliberately limiting production of the damn thing LOL ).
I assumed that it would be at least another 6 months before I would find one (or at least find one for under MSRP as I don't pay retail for ANYTHING LOL ) so I decided to get the Nano for a dirt cheap price before my 'Permit to Purchase' (silly New Jersey) forms ran out.
I will own a Shield someday too though, nothing wrong with having two nice CCWs/BUGs even though most of us can't even legally carry in this goofy state LOL.

I wonder if the lack of Shields has anything to do with the State you live in. If NewJersey makes gun owners jump through hoops to own a gun it wouldn't surprise me if they make it a financial challenge for gun manufactures to ship their product into those restrictive states.

I know for a fact S&W is shipping Shields daily and when I spoke with customer service last summer they informed me the Shield production line was operating 3 shifts.

Good luck locating a Shield especially in New Jersey. Living in Utah I take for granted my gun rights. Today if I wwnted to own a hand gun the only steps is a 5 minute questionaire the Federal Government requires and a 5 minute on the spot background check and I am done and with my Utah conceal permit the cost of the back ground check is waived.

I love Utah. The economy is strong, my gun rights are protected and if you hold a concealed permit you are looked upon as the good guy.

Russ

P.S. Does New Jersey allow you to purchase a handgun from out-of-state via internet or phone transaction and have the firearm shipped to a FFL in New Jersey? If yes I would bag searching New Jersey gun shops and look in less populated red states for a Shield.

Last edited by RussC; 12-08-2012 at 11:53 AM.
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  #46  
Old 12-08-2012, 06:52 PM
swrdply400mrelay swrdply400mrelay is offline
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Is the break for the Nano clean like a Glock?

Can you feel the trigger reset pretty well?


TIA!


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Old 12-08-2012, 07:05 PM
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It's hard to believe some states are more restrictive than my beloved Illinois, where you're a nobody in politics until someone indicts you.
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Old 12-08-2012, 08:48 PM
LS1LT1 LS1LT1 is offline
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I wonder if the lack of Shields has anything to do with the State you live in. If NewJersey makes gun owners jump through hoops to own a gun it wouldn't surprise me if they make it a financial challenge for gun manufactures to ship their product into those restrictive states.
That could be part of it but it wasn't only in NJ. I'd been to shops/stores in PA and even in IN and WV (when I drove out to IN for a drag racing event this past October) and none of them had one in stock nor had even had one come in in months. When they did get them they went to those on a long waiting list and/or were simply gone inside of an hour or two.
I'll finally get to see one sometime in 2013 I'm sure.




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Good luck locating a Shield especially in New Jersey. Living in Utah I take for granted my gun rights. Today if I wwnted to own a hand gun the only steps is a 5 minute questionaire the Federal Government requires and a 5 minute on the spot background check and I am done and with my Utah conceal permit the cost of the back ground check is waived.

I love Utah. The economy is strong, my gun rights are protected and if you hold a concealed permit you are looked upon as the good guy.
Ok, that's it, I'm moving to Utah! LOL
I'm VERY jealous!
Sounds a lot like Vermont or Arizona as well. Heck I'd even be happy with Texas or Florida type gun laws if we could have them.




Quote:
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P.S. Does New Jersey allow you to purchase a handgun from out-of-state via internet or phone transaction and have the firearm shipped to a FFL in New Jersey? If yes I would bag searching New Jersey gun shops and look in less populated red states for a Shield.
Yes, and that's even exactly how I've bought ALL of my pistols so far. I do feel bad not patronizing (the few) local gun shops that we have as I always encourage people to support them otherwise they could go away but their prices are simply INSANE around here. Even after paying shipping and FFL fees it is STILL much cheaper for me to get most firearms via mail order versus buying them locally.
Even most of my ammo is bought via mail order.
But even across the nation, I haven't found many Shields available. I did come across a couple of .40 cal versions (sold out in minutes of course) at over MSRP at one online store but I want a 9mm and I want it for under $400.00 too! LOL
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Old 12-08-2012, 08:54 PM
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I almost feel bad for those still having trouble finding a Shield, I bought 2 of them within a week, one online for $420 then the second from my local dealer for $341.
Wow $341.00?! And that wasn't a LEO or Military price?!
I would buy both a 9mm and a .40 at that price LOL.





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It's hard to believe some states are more restrictive than my beloved Illinois, where you're a nobody in politics until someone indicts you.
I don't think we're quite as bad as IL (not yet at least) or even MA or CA, but it's still pretty damn bad here.
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Old 12-08-2012, 09:26 PM
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I bought one from my LGS for $399, he hasn't had one since. For me, it is head and shoulders above any other similar pistol. Of course, I love M&Ps, so I am biased.
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Shield vs. Nano? 12string Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols 3 03-16-2013 12:21 PM
Got my Shield, returned the Beretta Nano Wayne Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols 6 04-15-2012 02:45 AM

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