On the Fence. Shield, M&P9C or 642

[Grjfer]

Current CCW is a Glock 26. Based on my hand size the ergos are all wrong. I have been making do with the Glock, but it is time to replace it. Have already replaced my Glock19 with a M&P9, and have not looked back.

Have a Jframe 642 on order, and the local shop called yesterday to say they just got a shield in. I was on their wish list. Really been thinking about a M&P9C for CCW, but the Shield sure feels right. Still want to get the 642 at some point, but won't hurt my feelings to wait another couple months if need be. I have had a chance to fire each. All different in their on right, but each has +'s and -'s. Shield holds the edge on thinness, 9C four more rounds and shares mags with the M&P9, and 642 pocket gun.

Price point is $379.00 Shield, $349.00 642. and $450 M&P9C.

Whats a man to do? I know, some will answer "Buy them all", and I will at some point do that. For now one maybe two, just not sure which.

 

[Bikemobile]

Between the Shield and the 642, the shield will be "easier" to shoot well. The shield will carry better IWB. The 642 will carry better in a pocket holster. The 9C might be the most pleasant to shoot but the toughest to carry.

I have a 442 (black 642) carrys great but it takes alot of practice to be comfortable with it.

The shield 9 is a sweet shooting pistol. One of my favorites in a carry pistol.

 

[gkitch]

This is an all-too-scarce "good question". You are asking about two excellent choices for a specified use! The best way to answer is to learn more about your daily habits, attire, and need for a carry gun.

If all one does is pack from a holster on the trouser belt, a SHield is a superb choice....S&W got this one just right. If your gunfight happens at ranges exceeding 7 feet or so, the added capacity and ability to reload quickly are possible advantages over the 38.

The Centennial 38 is somewhat more versatile as to how you carry it. I'd never put an auto in an ankle holster, for instance, but carried a revolver there for years as a backup. The revolver is also a better weapon when a fight is close in. It is harder for a bad guy to take it away and will function reliably at contact distances. As mentioned, the wheelgun will work well from a pocket holster, or from a pocket, or through a jacket pocket, etc.

BTW, do you have a good 22 yet? Great way to get spun up on good handgun techniques.

 

[Edmo]

I own a Shield in 9mm, a 642, and multiple GLOCKS including a G26 and here is my take on your pick if it were me.

642: You will find the 642 will be a gun which takes a lot of practice to master the heavy S&W stock trigger and maintain any level of accuracy. You only have five shots, so you can't miss many times before it goes "click". The 642 shines as a small, light pocket carry gun. Some use them for everyday, but it doesn't have the capacity I look for in a primary EDC gun.

Shield 9mm: The Shield fills a niche in the gun world which almost doesn't exist. It is just a bit too big for pocket carry and as a belt carry gun it is short on capacity when compared to similar sized guns (G26, M&P9C). The one slight advantage it has is thickness and weight. I say slight because it isn't that much more for me to carry the thicker and slightly heavier G26 or M&P9C. For a smaller framed person the slim & light may tip the scales and make the Shield the winner.

Ergonomics: You will find your G26 will have a slightly lighter trigger than the Shield and the reset on your GLOCK will occur after a shorter forward travel. Some like the Shield thumb safety, but I'm not one of them. Additionally, I found the Shield's grip to be too thin! I had to put one of the Hogue rubber grip sleeves (Jr size) on mine to make it something I could hold onto.

Bottom line: Small light pocket carry = snubbie. The Shield is a good next step up from the snubbies, but lacks capacity for a belt gun. My pick? Honestly, I would have suggested a G26! If that doesn't work with your hands get the M&P9C. Still too much to carry? Go with the Shield. One thing not mentioned is recoil. From lightest to snappiest they are: your G26, Shield 9mm, and 642. All are relatively light, but for some this may be a factor.

Regardless of your pick, since you have ergo issues with some guns make sure you handle this new gun before you buy it. Go to a range and rent one, or find a friend who has one like you are considering. Also take along your G26 to the range to compare it with the others you are considering. An afternoon at the range will help you make up your mind on which way to go.

Edmo

 

[gkitch]

In warmer climates, there are times when one can wear a sport coat or sweater and comfortably conceal a fairly small handgun without attracting attention. Try it with something a little more full size and things get less comfortable and takes more deliberation in everyday carry. I have found this to be where the smaller, lightweight handguns are at their best.

 

[OldLawman]

I own both a 642 and two 9mm Shields. A friend owns a MP9c, so I am adding in his comments.
The only time I would carry the 642 over the Shield is on my ankle, or in a pocket. The Shield is easier to shoot well, further, carries at least a few more rounds, easier and quicker to reload, and otherwise easier to conceal.
My friend, after comparing my Shield to his MP9c for everyday CCW, choose the Shield by far.

Obviously very subjective opinions. I have a lot of trigger time behind J-frames over the last 30 years, and still own two, but otherwise think they have been past by.

 

[158Grain]

As others have said, the 642 will take some time to master. I have owned mine for almost two years and I regularly take it with me to the range. I am now accurate out to about 15 yards, but where I still struggle with the 642 is reloads using speed loaders. I have medium to large hands and find that I have to somewhat fumble to get the loader past the grips. This is definitely where a larger capacity would come in handy. I picked up my Shield 40 a few days ago. I have yet to fire it, but I can tell you it feels better in my hand, plus the extra rounds on board. I would go for the Shield. You can always find another 642 in the future.

 

[Lost Lake]

Where are you getting your prices? I paid $325 for my 642 and $399 for my 9c.
S&W 642 38Spl 1 7/8" No Lock for Sale at Buds Gun Shop $325.00


S&W M&P9C 9mm Fixed Sights NMS for Sale at Buds Gun Shop $399.00

And they are both in stock right now! All military can buy at first responder pricing. Free shipping, no tax, and an extra mag to boot.

The 642 carries great in a crossbreed IWB, I have one on right now and it's very comfortable, even in shorts. The rounded grip is just nice against the body.

The 9c carries well in the same type of holster. The pointier edges are not as comfortable, but you get a lot more power and more rounds.

I have no problem hitting targets at 25 feet with the 642.

I will get the Shield when they are back in stock at Bud's for $335. I'm not going to pay more than I have to. I also want to wait until the mag drop issue is resolved.

 

[treiz]

I like the 9c, the shield is thinner but not THAT much thinner, and the 9c holds a lot more rounds. You just have to adjust your system and wardrobe to it.

 

[M&P Freak]

Everyone should have at least one j-frame, and a 642 is a good one. Together with a good pocket holster it's hard to beat. For what it's worth, I carry my 642 much more often than my M&P40c because it's easier to carry and much more convenient, just stuff it into a front pocket while headed out the door. It shoots great too.

 

[mag318]

I have both a Shield 9mm and an M&P9c, but if I could only own one it would be the M&P9c. I really like my Shield and it does have a slight edge for concealed carry, but it is very slight. I'm 6'2" so I have no trouble concealing my 9c. Yesterday I took them both to the range and shot them side by side, and I just like the way the 9c performs better. To me the grip is more comfortable and I like the higher capacity magazine. Don't get me wrong I like my Shield also but I like my 9c better. When it comes to compact pistols so much depends on the individuals wants and needs. For someone with a smaller build the Shield may be the better choice. One thing I like about both pistols is the pointability. I always practise hip shooting and both point very naturally making for easy hits in a real world situation. You just have to go with which one suits your needs better, or do like I usually do and buy both.

 

[Grjfer]

This is an all-too-scarce "good question". You are asking about two excellent choices for a specified use! The best way to answer is to learn more about your daily habits, attire, and need for a carry gun.

If all one does is pack from a holster on the trouser belt, a SHield is a superb choice....S&W got this one just right. If your gunfight happens at ranges exceeding 7 feet or so, the added capacity and ability to reload quickly are possible advantages over the 38.

The Centennial 38 is somewhat more versatile as to how you carry it. I'd never put an auto in an ankle holster, for instance, but carried a revolver there for years as a backup. The revolver is also a better weapon when a fight is close in. It is harder for a bad guy to take it away and will function reliably at contact distances. As mentioned, the wheelgun will work well from a pocket holster, or from a pocket, or through a jacket pocket, etc.

BTW, do you have a good 22 yet? Great way to get spun up on good handgun techniques.

I would not ankle carry either, so that is not a problem.

As for a good 22lr yet. I have a S&W422, and though we all could use more practice I average about 300-500 rounds a month, as well as a monthly IDPA match.

 

[gnystrom]

Picking up a Shield for $379 is a great price. Lots of 642's out there and only a few Shields at this point.

 

[Grjfer]

I own a Shield in 9mm, a 642, and multiple GLOCKS including a G26 and here is my take on your pick if it were me.

642: You will find the 642 will be a gun which takes a lot of practice to master the heavy S&W stock trigger and maintain any level of accuracy. You only have five shots, so you can't miss many times before it goes "click". The 642 shines as a small, light pocket carry gun. Some use them for everyday, but it doesn't have the capacity I look for in a primary EDC gun.

Shield 9mm: The Shield fills a niche in the gun world which almost doesn't exist. It is just a bit too big for pocket carry and as a belt carry gun it is short on capacity when compared to similar sized guns (G26, M&P9C). The one slight advantage it has is thickness and weight. I say slight because it isn't that much more for me to carry the thicker and slightly heavier G26 or M&P9C. For a smaller framed person the slim & light may tip the scales and make the Shield the winner.

Ergonomics: You will find your G26 will have a slightly lighter trigger than the Shield and the reset on your GLOCK will occur after a shorter forward travel. Some like the Shield thumb safety, but I'm not one of them. Additionally, I found the Shield's grip to be too thin! I had to put one of the Hogue rubber grip sleeves (Jr size) on mine to make it something I could hold onto.

Bottom line: Small light pocket carry = snubbie. The Shield is a good next step up from the snubbies, but lacks capacity for a belt gun. My pick? Honestly, I would have suggested a G26! If that doesn't work with your hands get the M&P9C. Still too much to carry? Go with the Shield. One thing not mentioned is recoil. From lightest to snappiest they are: your G26, Shield 9mm, and 642. All are relatively light, but for some this may be a factor.

Regardless of your pick, since you have ergo issues with some guns make sure you handle this new gun before you buy it. Go to a range and rent one, or find a friend who has one like you are considering. Also take along your G26 to the range to compare it with the others you are considering. An afternoon at the range will help you make up your mind on which way to go.

Edmo

I don't live in an area that offers rentals. However I have shot all 4 guns listed. While the reset on the G26 is more pronounced, I do not find it to be any huge advantage to me. It's big disadvantage, for me is the ergos. As I said in my first post, it will be replaced.

Yes the 642 is pretty snappy, but I also own a Ruger SP101 in .357mag. so I have plenty of wheel gun trigger time.

 

[Grjfer]

Where are you getting your prices? I paid $325 for my 642 and $399 for my 9c.
S&W 642 38Spl 1 7/8" No Lock for Sale at Buds Gun Shop $325.00


S&W M&P9C 9mm Fixed Sights NMS for Sale at Buds Gun Shop $399.00

And they are both in stock right now! All military can buy at first responder pricing. Free shipping, no tax, and an extra mag to boot.

The 642 carries great in a crossbreed IWB, I have one on right now and it's very comfortable, even in shorts. The rounded grip is just nice against the body.

The 9c carries well in the same type of holster. The pointier edges are not as comfortable, but you get a lot more power and more rounds.

I have no problem hitting targets at 25 feet with the 642.

I will get the Shield when they are back in stock at Bud's for $335. I'm not going to pay more than I have to. I also want to wait until the mag drop issue is resolved.

First off thanks for the Heads up on Bud's. I always thought their discount was LE and active duty or retired Military. Called them today, and verified their Veteran discount.

My prices are local in stock prices from my LGS. If I buy from buds, I will have to figure in transfer fee which averages $25.00 in my area. Small town living has it's disadvantages as well as advantages.

 

[Lost Lake]

First off thanks for the Heads up on Bud's. I always thought their discount was LE and active duty or retired Military. Called them today, and verified their Veteran discount.

My prices are local in stock prices from my LGS. If I buy from buds, I will have to figure in transfer fee which averages $25.00 in my area. Small town living has it's disadvantages as well as advantages.

Between the two places for an M&Pc, at your LGS you end up paying $450 plus at least 6% sales tax ($27) plus you get one less magazine and they are worth $30.

You would save at least $83 going with Bud's, even after a FFL does your paperwork.

Of course you know about the $50 rebate right?

 

[mrcllusb]

Between the two places for an M&Pc, at your LGS you end up paying $450 plus at least 6% sales tax ($27) plus you get one less magazine and they are worth $30.

You would save at least $83 going with Bud's, even after a FFL does your paperwork.

Of course you know about the $50 rebate right?

Can't beat going with Buds! All of my LGS's want msrp.I end of saving a bunch even with my local FFL only charging 20.00 for transfer.

 

[Grjfer]

Between the two places for an M&Pc, at your LGS you end up paying $450 plus at least 6% sales tax ($27) plus you get one less magazine and they are worth $30.

You would save at least $83 going with Bud's, even after a FFL does your paperwork.

Of course you know about the $50 rebate right?

If you are referring to S&W's Military discount, Yes. Only problem is It doesn't apply to me as I got out after 10 years service.

Not knocking Buds in any way, as their prices are some of the best I have seen. So some time in the future I will use them. One benefit my LGS has, is a no tax trade as they are also a pawn shop. They are also willing to deal when it comes to price.

 

[MP1SG]

I would go with the 9c, for round count alone. The 9c is just as easy to conceal as the shield or the 642 ( with the right holster) The 9c will be more accurate than the shield and the 642, easier to shoot easier to control etc etc. Plus you can carry a spare 17 round mag. Think Colorado movie theatre and the other active shooter's that has happeped recently. I know I know you can never tell what u will do in a active shooter situation. But it sure is a comfortable feeling knowing you have 12 + rounds of 9mm backed up by another 17 in case you are in an active shooter situation
just my 2 cents
1SG

 

[Fabius]

I have a 9c but find that it is not much more concealable than a FS. For me, there are two levels of concealment - holster or pocket. If I have to wear a gun in a holster, then I can typically conceal a FS as well as a compact.

I was ready to buy a J frame revolver to pocket carry when the Shield came out. Got the Shield and I routinely pocket carry it now.

To me, the answer to the OP's question is fairly simple. If concealment is the most important issue, then get the Shield. If firepower is the most important issue, then get a FS pistol. I think that the Shield has made the 9c obsolete. The J frame is too hard to shoot accurately, unpleasant to practice with and too hard to reload.