Tough slide release

[Drewnjnc]

So I got my .40 Shield yesterday and can't wait to shoot it, but as I was checking it out the slide release is so hard to push down. On my Glock it's so easy. Just wondering if this is normal for this gun.

[SW CQB 45]

if the mag is inserted....it will be difficult to release due to the added spring pressure from the mag.

[EnjoyRC]

On my M&P9c, it's pretty tough as well.

[gnystrom]

As stated, with an empty mag inserted it WILL be much harder to release. Same with Kahr's and a number of other semi's. Drop the empty mag slightly and try it. If it is still hard, work it a few times to break it in a bit. With a full magazine it should react much the same as when you have dropped the mag slightly. I believe that design makes it less likely to accidentally close the slide on an empty chamber while reloading the gun with a full magazine.

[PHPistols]

It is NOT a "slide release". It is a "slide stop". Rack the slide.

[rraisley]

Originally Posted by PHPistols

It is NOT a "slide release". It is a "slide stop". Rack the slide.

The name varies a bit (slide catch on a Sig Sauer), and with most guns, it is perfectly acceptable to use it to release the slide. On my Kahr, it is the /only recommended/ way to release the slide (Sig says either is fine). In any event, yes, it's intended to be harder to release if the mag is empty. And of course, you cannot release the slide by pulling back on it with an empty mag, while the slide release will work. Lastly, it will get a bit easier to push down as the gun breaks in.

[PHPistols]

Originally Posted by rraisley

The name varies a bit (slide catch on a Sig Sauer), and with most guns, it is perfectly acceptable to use it to release the slide. On my Kahr, it is the /only recommended/ way to release the slide (Sig says either is fine). In any event, yes, it's intended to be harder to release if the mag is empty. And of course, you cannot release the slide by pulling back on it with an empty mag, while the slide release will work. Lastly, it will get a bit easier to push down as the gun breaks in.

You can use it to release the slide I agree, and it can be a disagreement as to how to release the slide.

I like the approach of racking the slide, so in the moment of reloading or malfunction, the movement is the same. I keep that movement the same so that in the moment of having to use the firearm to defend myself those muscle memories are easy to recall. If I added in more things, using the slide stop to release, that's one more thing that if a malfulction happens, I may try to use the slide stop to correct it.

Remember when in situations like that you dont exactly think as well as you do when you are at the range.

[rraisley]

Originally Posted by PHPistols

I like the approach of racking the slide, so in the moment of reloading or malfunction, the movement is the same.

I understand your reasoning, and don't disagree, but the action of clearing a malfunction is COMPLETELY different than racking the slide back a fraction of an inch to release it. So much so that practicing one might make the other more unnatural, rather than less. For SD or competition, where speed is important, it takes far longer to move your hand to the slide to release it after inserting a magazine, instead of simply pushing the slide stop down with your thumb, and it /requires/ two hands, so that is something I wouldn't even practice with. Personally.

[Jagrmaister]

I have a .40 M&P FS as well. Same as you, the slide release is much too stiff for one-sided release...but I think it stems from the design of it being "ambidextrous" in nature. I've learned to move my thumb for the left and my middle finger to the right to simultaneously depress both sides and actuate a quick release during reloads. While unorthodox compared to other firearms I use, it's just as quick once you get used to the motion.

[RobsTV]

I've looked through the manual and can not find any "Slide Release" for the Shield. Could you please provide a link or page to where you find this mystery slide release? There is a "Slide Stop", but that is as much of a slide release as a red light means go.

[Jyezahn]

My 40c was VERY hard the first couple of times I used it to release the slide. I used both thumbs to get it to release. After a few times, it smoothed out and is easy enough to do if I need to. I agree, my old Glock was MUCH easier to release right out of the box.

[tharper2202]

Put some rounds down range. My M&P's slide stop was really hard at first as well. It got ALOT easy after a couple trips to the range.

[Drewnjnc]

Great comments/feedback guys, much appreciated.

[Deadeye Dick]

When you wear the damn slid stop out using it as a release and your slide will no longer hold open on the last round don't come bitching.

[Drewnjnc]

Ha, good point

[macski222]

The "slide stop" will loosen up and become easier for your intended use once you get some rounds down range... although like others have stated, It's called a slide stop for a reason. Get in the habit of constantly using it as a release after every mag spent, you may have some early repairs to make

[Tliryc]

It's the same with the 9mm Shield. However a quick read through the manual shows that you are suppose to rack the slide and not use the slide stop as a slide release. I did notice that after firing 100 rounds through the gun the slide stop could be used to release the slide but after the gun sat for a couple of days w/o firing it went back to being hard to push again.

[Jyezahn]

Originally Posted by Deadeye Dick

When you wear the damn slid stop out using it as a release and your slide will no longer hold open on the last round don't come bitching.

Yeah, because THAT happens regularly. Even if that should happen, all he has to do is contact S&W and they'll send him a replacement.

[Lost Lake]

I don't see how a million rounds down range will make the slide stop easier to use as a release.

If you want to make it easier to use as a release you could polish the two mating surfaces between the slide and the catch or even file a bit on the catch.

I find myself using that lever to release the slide. Right or wrong, I like to use it that way.

[all357mag]

It's new. After about 500-1000 rds, your problems will be over.

[skip4309]

Shot my Shield 9 today. 100 rds plus of NATO 9mm 124gr ammo....no problems....I still have some problems with takedown/reassembly...its pretty stiff on re-assembly...however, I was impressed (again) at its accuracy at a 7 yard target. Also shot my G26...was also impressed...(as always) with its accuracy. So far the Shield has exceeded my expectations. Hope the forum readers can find one!!

[Jagrmaister]

Found this video. Think I'll give it a go.
http://youtu.be/QbeGB5BUelU

[Deadeye Dick]

Originally Posted by Jyezahn

Yeah, because THAT happens regularly. Even if that should happen, all he has to do is contact S&W and they'll send him a replacement.

DO a search of "broken slide stop lever" on this forum and see how many hits you get.

[Drewnjnc]

Great video find Jagr, thanks!

[Jyezahn]

Originally Posted by Deadeye Dick

DO a search of "broken slide stop lever" on this forum and see how many hits you get.

I don't need to DO anything, Dick. If you took the time to actually read my comment, "regularly" was the keyword. Broken slide stop levers aren't necessarily because of releasing the slide with them. Get real. If it is, then there is a design flaw in the M&P line, because NO other semi automatics that I've used have a habit of broken slide stops. Parts fail for a number of reasons. Do your OWN research.

[Deadeye Dick]

Originally Posted by Jyezahn

I don't need to DO anything, Dick. If you took the time to actually read my comment, "regularly" was the keyword. Broken slide stop levers aren't necessarily because of releasing the slide with them. Get real. If it is, then there is a design flaw in the M&P line, because NO other semi automatics that I've used have a habit of broken slide stops. Parts fail for a number of reasons. Do your OWN research.

Touchy, touchy. I did do my own research thanks. That's how I know it is a "slide stop" and not a "slide release". But you do whatever you want with your guns. If you break them that's your problem not mine. Just don't come posting all over the web that the M&P is a piece of poo when it breaks because you think you know better than S&W and don't follow the instructions outlined in the owners manual that came with the gun.

As far as GLOCKs, KAHRs and Sigs go I haven't a clue. I do not own any of them nor have I read the manuals for any them so I don't know what the manufacturers recommend.

From the S&W M&P instruction manual: "Pull the slide to the rear, press down on the slide stop to release the slide and allow it to carry fully forward."

[Jyezahn]

Originally Posted by Deadeye Dick

Touchy, touchy. I did do my own research thanks. That's how I know it is a "slide stop" and not a "slide release". But you do whatever you want with your guns. If you break them that's your problem not mine. Just don't come posting all over the web that the M&P is a piece of poo when it breaks because you think you know better than S&W and don't follow the instructions outlined in the owners manual that came with the gun.

Listen, Dick, apparently, you didn't read my original post that stated to the OP that if it breaks, he can get a replacement from S&W. You're just butthurt because I replied sarcastically to your "sage advice". Get over it. I seriously doubt if mine breaks, I'd come here complaining about it to you, as I've been around firearms my entire life and I know that they're susceptible to breakage, wear and tear. Nobody here needs you to come manual-thumping, and praising the manual as the end-all, be-all. (as many know that the manual doesn't cover a lot. i.e. slide going forward when inserting a new mag, and NOT using the sear disconnect lever for takedown.)

[mngunguy]

Originally Posted by Jyezahn

Listen, Dick, apparently, you didn't read my original post that stated to the OP that if it breaks, he can get a replacement from S&W. You're just butthurt because I replied sarcastically to your "sage advice". Get over it. I seriously doubt if mine breaks, I'd come here complaining about it to you, as I've been around firearms my entire life and I know that they're susceptible to breakage, wear and tear. Nobody here needs you to come manual-thumping, and praising the manual as the end-all, be-all. (as many know that the manual doesn't cover a lot. i.e. slide going forward when inserting a new mag, and NOT using the sear disconnect lever for takedown.)

I'm not sure I'd call it nit picking the naming of the device as much as it is trying to use the device for something other than what it was intended for than complaining about it. As others pointed out its a slide stop and is named such because its meant to stop the slide. As for what the manual says, typically following what the engineers tell you to do is the best route. It might not be the most popular or favorable but that's not the point.

Another option for the Pro owners (and maybe others) is simply seating the new mag with a little more force than typical. Doing so will release the slide as well.

[Maddmax]

Originally Posted by Drewnjnc

So I got my .40 Shield yesterday and can't wait to shoot it, but as I was checking it out the slide release is so hard to push down. On my Glock it's so easy. Just wondering if this is normal for this gun.

It ain't a Gluck. It's also not a slide release,it's a slide stop. You are suppose to slingshot the slide forward. NOT use the slide stop to release the slide.

[tattooedsurvivaldude]

I had this problem with my 40 as well. I did tons of researching and found that there is slight sanding that can be done to make the slide release smooth and work great. There's a video on YouTube. Check it out.

[Deadeye Dick]

Originally Posted by Jyezahn

Listen, Dick, apparently, you didn't read my original post that stated to the OP that if it breaks, he can get a replacement from S&W. You're just butthurt because I replied sarcastically to your "sage advice". Get over it. I seriously doubt if mine breaks, I'd come here complaining about it to you, as I've been around firearms my entire life and I know that they're susceptible to breakage, wear and tear. Nobody here needs you to come manual-thumping, and praising the manual as the end-all, be-all. (as many know that the manual doesn't cover a lot. i.e. slide going forward when inserting a new mag, and NOT using the sear disconnect lever for takedown.)

That's great advice Billybob. If you break your gun by intentionally mishandling it make the manufacturer pay for your hardheadedness. Bravo.

[Jyezahn]

Originally Posted by Deadeye Dick

That's great advice Billybob. If you break your gun by intentionally mishandling it make the manufacturer pay for your hardheadedness. Bravo.

You still talkin', Dick? Mishandling... righhhhht.

[Deadeye Dick]

Originally Posted by Jyezahn

You still talkin', Dick? Mishandling... righhhhht.

You still abusing your equipment? Or have you figured out yet that the engineers who actually designed these things may know a little more about them than you.

[Jyezahn]

Originally Posted by Deadeye Dick

You still abusing your equipment? Or have you figured out yet that the engineers who actually designed these things may know a little more about them than you.

You obviously have an inferiority complex, if you're STILL going on about something so trivial. Get over it, Dick. I'm not sweatin' you, nor do I care what you think the S&W engineers say. Fact is, MANY people use the slide stop as a slide release. It's function is no different than any other gun. By saying it is, you're also saying that the S&W is inferior to all those other brands of guns that have ZERO problems when the slide stop is used as a slide release. Jeez man, let it go.

Please explain how slamming a magazine into the magazine well and it automatically releasing the slide, is any different than releasing the slide with your thumb on the slide stop. There's no magic lever that the magazine pushes to release the slide, it's pure kinetic energy acting upon the moving parts of the gun. Same friction is applied to the slide stop, as nothing pushes the slide back to release it in either case. Pick another battle, Dick.