Looking to pick up a new S&W and found both the Shield and SDVE 9mm on sale. I have larger 45s and have never had a smaller "carry" weapon. The store counter person leaned toward the Shield as the better of the two. He said, "more problems with the SDVE". Any thoughts on problems like jamming, loading, accuracy and alike? Thanks.

The SD9VE is a very reliable pistol, IMO. While any make or model of pistol can have a lemon, in general the SD9VE doesn't seem to have many issues, and isn't known to be ammo sensitive. I also think the Shield 9mm is a great gun.

The Shield will probably cost about $150 (+/-) more than the SD9VE. The SD9VE has a greater capacity: 16 versus 7/8 for the Shield 9mm. The SD9VE is a bit bigger than the Shield, but many people carry them and it's similar size gun, the Glock 19. The trigger on the SD9VE has a heavier pull weight than on the Shield, but the Shield has an external safety...which some like and some don't. S&W has announced a new Shield model without a safety.

IMO, for an all-around gun for home defense, carry, and range fun, the SD9VE is hard to beat. With the savings on purchase price, you can buy ammo. On the other hand, if you are looking primarily for a CCW, the Shield is a good choice since it is smaller, and the capacity isn't really an issue in most civilian self-defense situations, where the average rounds expended is 2. Even though you pay more for the Shield going in, in a while you won't remember the price difference...it's not that much.

Either one is a good choice...it's primarily going to depend on which one best meets your needs and budget.

Of course, you can always just buy them both...that way you'd have two 9mm pistols.

That's just crazy talk!
Who would want two pistols?

If you only have one, it gets lonely.

I know the OP mentioned he had other pistols in .45, but he wouldn't want the 9mm to feel like a stepchild...so, at least two are needed.

I have both the Shield 9mm and the SD9VE. I carry both of them but find myself grabbing the Shield more than the SD9. I have a Alien Gear IWB holster that carries the SD9 great, but when I carry the Shield I forget it is there. I usually carry the SD9 once or twice a week just to say I carry it. They are both great guns so you can not go wrong either way.

First, welcome to the forum.

As far as goes, sounds like he's trying to sell you other gun, either way he's full of ____.

Get whichever one you like best.

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SD9VE, American perfection!

Which one fits you best? Don't listen to someone who has a profit margin riding on the deal.

My .02 cents I have the sd and have put over 500 rounds through which is not a lot.And has never let me down not wild about the sights but for the money a great gun. I will own a shield in the near future.

I own the sd9ve also 2300 rounds down the tube not 1 failure or jam in 2300 rounds.... as some one said buy the one that fits you best .... the sd for 325 bucks is hard to beat tho

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Aim small, Miss Small

For carry the Shield is best by far IMNSHO. The SD really big. I suggest those that disagree to lay one on top of a full size 1911. For home defence the SD is much better. The size and weight work for you. If I can have only one for ever, the Shield wins. For a first gun the SD is better because it is much easier to learn to shoot well. SD's have a much longer sight picture and less recoil. If one can get a carry pistol later get the SD now and the Shield when money permits..