Advice requested on the Shield Plus

[Dave686]

“I have a purchase permit that I don't want to waste”. I don’t know what that means I assume some limitation by your state on what or how many you can have. I have a Shield that I use as a carry gun when concealability is an issue. But I would never suggest anyone buy one for a competition gun. That just isn’t their application. When shooting your matches do you see anyone using a Shield?
EDIT: But after reading through the posts here… If I saw someone that could shoot the label of a standard water bottle at 25 yards with a Shield, I would know I was in the presence of greatness. Bravo!

 

[Tu_S]

For accuracy, my example is pretty much the same as my P365x shooting off a bag (although off the bag I'm better with the Sig when I speed things up.)

Have had no problems with the Shield Plus when it comes to reliability the year or two I've had it.

 

[lrrifleman]

“... But I would never suggest anyone buy one for a competition gun. That just isn’t their application. When shooting your matches do you see anyone using a Shield? ...

I think that we have some differing perspectives on the concept of competition. While I do shoot NRA 2700 matches, I also shoot GSSF (Glock only), PPC, and IDPA type matches. I would NEVER consider employing a Shield (or any other combat-style pistol) in a precision pistol match.

In this particular case, I am inquiring about the Shield's mechanical ability to group consistently on the 10 ring of a B27 target out to about 20-25 yards, provided that I do my part.

 

[sotexas]

Accurate enough for a SD weapon! It can shoot tight groups if you’re patient. I’ve owned over 35 handguns and honestly feel the Shields are the best carry option.

I agree but I keep trying to find something better. Currently have a Hellcat, Hellcat Pro with Optic, and a PPS M2 collecting dust and the plus is currently on my belt.

 

[LVSteve]

On a recent range trip... First 3 rounds thru my 4" Shield Plus.... (target is just a 8.5"x11" piece of photo copy paper - so, not a big target)

And, proof it was the Shield Plus... Here is the full photo. See the gun at the bottom:

What was the range to the target?

 

[LVSteve]

I agree but I keep trying to find something better. Currently have a Hellcat, Hellcat Pro with Optic, and a PPS M2 collecting dust and the plus is currently on my belt.

The PPS M2 is the small gun I shoot the best with the Kahr CW9 a fairly close second. That said, I've yet to try a Hellcat or a Shield.

I've handled a P365, but I found the grip very small, and I've had trouble with pistols like that in the past. Yeah, I'm looking at you, Star M43. Shoots great at the range, but could never draw from a holster and get the same grip twice.

 

[shipwreck]

What was the range to the target?

7 yards in that picture

 

[LVSteve]

7 yards in that picture

Nice enough group for social work.

 

[KevskatesNM]

Shield Plus 9 accuracy

I’m not the greatest but with my 3” barrel Shield 9 I consistently get decent center mass and head shot groups at 10 yards and sometimes at 15 yards (they open up a bit the farther away). I tested out my new XS “big dot” sights this week at 7 yards and 10 yards…shot the 7 yard target quickly and kind of lazy- I buy three paper targets usually to waste one, dial in the second, then bring out the third- but the whole “lazy” mag was center enough to determine the sights work as promised.
Also, my accuracy with my Shield Plus is WAY better than with my larger M&P 9…probably because I shoot it all the time.
In short…I have three S&W pistols and recommend them to anyone. Regardless of what they are “meant” to do…I’ve found them to do that and more…I like shooting targets with sub compact pistols…I think you will like yours.

 

[agksimon]

Maybe consider the equalizer as it has 3.6 inch barrel and cut for optic sight.

A friend of mine has an Equalizer and my Bodyguard 2.0 will shoot rings around it.

 

[grizz700]

I don't target practice per say, but I have one of those rubber shooting balls that when I am out in the fields, I throw out a ways and shoot at it. Yardages unknown, but I manage to hit it on a regular basis. I have an OG Shield, Shield plus, and just ordered a Shield plus with the treaded barrel.

And KevskatesNM how do you like the XS big dot sights. I have been looking at those myself. Is the front sight bright at night?

 

[ImDrRich]

I've had a S&W M&P 9mm 2.0 Performance Center Model for years. It is probably the most accurate semi-auto in my collection. I say probably because I also have a Sig P365 with a match barrel in it.

See if you can rent a PC Model from your local range before deciding.

 

[sotexas]

Well after trying the others I now carry a 4" Shield / Shield 4" .45
or 1911 Commander the majority of the time. I carry the 3.1" Shield plus when walking / walking the dogs while wearing shorts. I have no issue switching between the different guns and out to 10 yrds the groupings are consistent. My older eyes do prefer the extra sight of the longer barrels.

 

[Jim Watson]

I have a Shield that I use as a carry gun when concealability is an issue. But I would never suggest anyone buy one for a competition gun. That just isn’t their application. When shooting your matches do you see anyone using a Shield?

The mountain has come to Mohammed.
IDPA has Back Up Gun and Concealed Carry divisions and PPC has the Off Duty division just so you can compete with your hideout gun.
A friend shoots a variety of small guns in IDPA and does darned well.