A few years ago(or so it seems) I saw a YouTube video featuring the new M&P Shield and said to myself, "I must have one". Well, today I finally took the plunge and bought one in 9mm with thumb safety. Why did it take me so long? I guess I was saving the best for last! I have had the opportunity to own and/or shoot several different brands of 9mm that fall into the sub-compact genre and have to say that S&W has really hit a home run with the Shield. From its good looks, to its ergonomics, and very manageable recoil, I have never been happier with a gun in this class. What else can I say? It's a keeper.