Hypothetical Question: BG380 or Shield9 for CCW

[db4570]

There is at least one exception to your observation, Daniel, and that is the Ruger LCP. I owned one before I got the BG. The LCP is smaller and lighter than the BG, and is known to be incredibly reliable.

David

 

[bulldogman]

I have the Shield 9 and had the BG 380. I only put 50 rounds through the BG 380 and had no problems but sold it due to a lack of trust. For me the 380 was so small I couldn't get a comfortable grip on it while shooting at the range so under stress things will only get worse. I don't have this problem with the shield.

 

[MyDads38]

As of now, I don't own either of the above options. I've never been a "fan" of small/pocket size handguns-just me/my opinion.

I have been considering a Shield in 9mm, but my regular EDC is the SD9VE. A 4" barreled handgun has always been my minimum carry, and I have carried FS 1911's and S&W L frame 686 4" 357 magnum as well. I am just more comfortable with a FS handgun-again, that's just me.

I will say, I handled a Shield 9mm at a LGS and it didn't feel "small" to me, not like I thought it would. I don't carry IWB, something else I'm not comfortable with; so everything is carried OWB and there are plenty of nice holster options for the Shield. I question whether the Shield 9 would offer anything that I don't already have with my SD9VE/SD40VE or any of my M&P's (9, 40, 45). For the money, I would be happier, I think, with a FS M&P 9 in FDE

 

[harleygeorge]

EDC

S&W M&P Shield 9mm. With LG489 Crimson Trace, and Sneaky Pete holster.

 

[MyDads38]

As of now, I don't own either of the above options. I've never been a "fan" of small/pocket size handguns-just me/my opinion.

I have been considering a Shield in 9mm, but my regular EDC is the SD9VE. A 4" barreled handgun has always been my minimum carry, and I have carried FS 1911's and S&W L frame 686 4" 357 magnum as well. I am just more comfortable with a FS handgun-again, that's just me.

I will say, I handled a Shield 9mm at a LGS and it didn't feel "small" to me, not like I thought it would. I don't carry IWB, something else I'm not comfortable with; so everything is carried OWB and there are plenty of nice holster options for the Shield. I question whether the Shield 9 would offer anything that I don't already have with my SD9VE/SD40VE or any of my M&P's (9, 40, 45). For the money, I would be happier, I think, with a FS M&P 9 in FDE

Funny how a few hours and my weekly trip to see my mom can change things! I stopped at one of the LGS before I went to visit my mom. There in the used gun case were 2 Shield 40's. I asked to see both and both came with box and all accessories. After checking both, i asked what bottom dollar would be on either-$300 + tax ($21). Both were 2014 models, one from Feb. and the other from July. I chose the July 2014 as it seemed to have a bit better trigger. So $321 later, I now own my first Shield in 40 cal. I definitely prefer the extended mag and will no doubt pick up a few spares.

I learned a long time ago to "never say never"! And as you can see, my original post said "as of now". Well, now I do LOL.

 

[McE]

Good price on a shield. Congrats on the new gun.

 

[CaptRon956]

Awesome dude!

Congrats on picking up the 40. Look around & see if you can find Pearce grip extensions in your area, I know Bass pro shop has them... You dont need it for the 7 rnd mag but if you choose to use the 6 rnd, that pearce grip makes it look both cool and it fits so nice in the hand... If you just plan on using the 7 rnd mag, then nah, you wont need it then...

Here's a pic of my EDC, M&P Shield 40. I use the grip extensions by Pearce on the stock 6 rnd mag because on my body frame the 7 rnd sticks out of my T shirts a bit more. But still....7 rounds of Federal 180 gr. HST

 

[MyDads38]

Awesome dude!

Congrats on picking up the 40. Look around & see if you can find Pearce grip extensions in your area, I know Bass pro shop has them... You dont need it for the 7 rnd mag but if you choose to use the 6 rnd, that pearce grip makes it look both cool and it fits so nice in the hand... If you just plan on using the 7 rnd mag, then nah, you wont need it then...

Here's a pic of my EDC, M&P Shield 40. I use the grip extensions by Pearce on the stock 6 rnd mag because on my body frame the 7 rnd sticks out of my T shirts a bit more. But still....7 rounds of Federal 180 gr. HST

Thanks for the tip on the Pearce Grip Extensions, I'll pick one of those up for the 6 rounder. No chance to try out the new Shield today-hopefully tomorrow some time

 

[Rick_A]

Both.

It never hurts to have a backup.

 

[comiskeybum]

I carry the MP Bodyguard here in Indiana. It's perfect for me as I like to pocket carry. The shield could be pocket carried, but kinda uncomfortable if you ask me, especially sitting down.

 

[CaptRon956]

I put a lot of thought to it and asked myself, "would i depend on a .380 with my life"... I honestly answered, "no".

I sold my M&P bodyguard .380 yesterday..

 

[comiskeybum]

Nothing wrong with 380

 

[aarontart]

I don't have a problem with a .380. I would carry both if you could afford it and the shield if you can't because the mags are easier to find and 9mm is cheaper to buy.

 

[JohnnyREB_]

If you Pocket carry/ankle carry depending on the situation then 12oz BG beats the 19oz unless your trying to impress a girl with it in your pocket. I have the Sig 938 and pocket carry didn't work, but BG is perfect. I know the BG's limitations and I'm a double tapper anyway...that should do the trick and if not I have 12 more with the extra mag. Hell, I don't even give those "no gun" signs a second thought now with the BG.

 

[lonestar outlaw]

shield 9mm

 

[Roccaas]

You are an American, the answer is always: "BOTH"

 

[BIGMAC116]

Glock 43 is pretty nice....

 

[shovel-rider]

I prefer the striker fired Shield over the DAO hammer fired BG. They are different animals so you should figure out what system you prefer, then the decision will be easy.

 

[Radco]

I got rid of my .380 and went to the 9mm Shield! Still small but packs alittle more punch, Also 9mm ammo is everywhere . I also have a Full size 9mm