My handling of firearms began in 1949 while in the Navy. Since then I have owned many makes and types of long guns and sidearms. In fact, at one time, I had the pleasure of collecting many high-end rifles, shotguns, revolvers and pistols.
Today, at an advanced age, I have divested myself of all firearms except for an EDC and a bedside pistol. Both are 9mm Shields. I chose the Shield 9 for these purposes because it fits me best of every other sidearm I have handled. I recognize that it is what it is: an excellent easy to conceal and powerful shooter at defensive distances. It is not a long range target pistol and is not purported to be so by Smith and Wesson. It is my short distance protector.
Furthermore, the Shield9 proves that price does not always equate excellence. The Shield is a low-priced pistol and yet it is reliable and accurate. In other words, it is excellent.
My shooting at targets with the Shield has been terrific. I am able to print small lethal patterns at defensive distances as well with it as I had done with either a high priced Ed Brown 1911 or a modestly priced Ruger GP100 revolver.
I have read many posts complaining about problems with the Shield 9. Many of these problems appear to be similar to what I had with other brands of semiautomatics. My suggestion to those who have these complaints is to work through their issues as best you can; either by yourself, with the help of other shooters or S&W. When you do successfully resolve your issues, you will find the Shield 9 to be every bit the fine pistol I find mine to be.
Stay safe and good shooting!