Hello all, I am considering purchasing the M&P 45 Compact for CCW but was wondering how its size compared to the Shield 45 which I currently CCW. My LGS doesn't have the 45 Compact in stock for me to make an informed comparison. So, before I order it, I was looking for some physical size comparisons from someone that actually has both and can provide an objective size report. Yes, I know I can look at the web site and get the dimensions, but I don't think just looking at dimensional numbers tells the entire story. IMHO; there is nothing like having them side by side to really get a full view of the size.

I don't have the 45c anymore to get some pics, but the main difference would be the longer slide/barrel, thicker grip and obviously heavier than the shield.
I can get full grip with the pinky extension on both, but the shield 45 would be much easier to conceal and lighter to carry.



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M&P 9, Shield9.

The 45c is going to be the same approximate size as the Glock 19/23. The standard M&Ps are all about the same width. I haven't played with a 45 Shield, so I can't say how it compares, but you can at least reference the factory measurements. But in terms of the 45c, think Glock 19.


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I agree with the Glock 19 analogy. I have both, and they are about the same size. As for the Shield 45, I looked at one the other day, and although it's smaller by a bit, the grip is narrower, too, amd just didn't feel right.

To me, the M&P 45C is the way to go. Better ergonomics (there's that word again) and a couple more rounds. I don't carry, so there may be other considerations for you that I don't have, but I really like my 45C.

I have the Glock 19 and Shield 45 (and Shield 9). I'll post some pictures for comparison when I get home. For carry purpose (and I always carry one of the 3 depending on weather and clothing), the Glock 19 is much heavier and harder to conceal comfortably than the Shield 45. By far I carry one of the two Shield much more often, so if it's for carry and the G19 comparison is valid, the Shield 45 is a better choice. It shoots very nicely.

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I had the M&P 45 full size, Compact and Shield. I traded in the compact last week because the Shield is much easier to carry and with the extended mag only loses 1 round compared to the compact. The difference in actual feel and ease of carry is huge.

Here are some pictures of the 2 to compare: Glock 19 and Shield 45. In the first picture, I included the Shield 9 so you could get an idea. FYI, fully loaded the Glock 19 weighs almost 31 oz. and Shield 45 weighs 28 oz. (Shield 9 is 24 oz). The key for me for IWB carry is the larger width of the Glock and the length and height of it. The weight difference is also noticeable, but not a deal breaker. I carry any one of the 3 depending what I'm wearing, where I'm going and what my activity level is going to be, but of the 3 for every day, everywhere carry, the Shield 45 is my new favorite. It used to be the Shield 9, but I like the way the 45 feels and handles, and I like the 45 as a defensive cartridge better.

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Loving retirement!