New Shield Problem

[Torchmaster]

Hey Guy's
Just got a new shield yesterday and took it out to shoot for the first time today. The slide does not lock back after the last round is fired. Does this with both mags, tried several times with 20 rounds or so but same result. Unless there is a simple solution I guess I'll call Smith tomorrow and I'm sure they'll want me to send it back. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Bob O]

Are you able to engage the slide lock manually? I had a defective recoil spring assembly on my new 40 Shield right out of the box. The spring would bind up and make it nearly impossible at times to cycle the slide back far enough to engage the slide lock.

 

[Torchmaster]

Yes, If I insert an empty mag and rack the slide the lock engages fine. It just happens after the last shot is fired.

 

[RobzGuns]

Since the slide does lock back when an empty mag is inserted and the slide is racked, the problem is not a defective Slide Stop tab. Many times, especially with subcompacts, the slide not locking back after the last shot is due to the user's thumb inadvertently contacting the slide stop. Pay close attention to where your thumbs rest during shooting.

If you can verify that it's not due to thumb placement, another common problem is a dirty/grungy mag, causing the follower not to properly pop up enough (when empty) to engage the Slide Stop.

My bet is on Thumb placement.

 

[Saudade]

What he said! Assuming you're right handed, try shooting with only your right hand.

 

[Torchmaster]

Bingo!!!! Thanks for your help guys, never realized I was covering the slide lock lever. I had a G26 and never had this issue so I never gave it any thought. Anyway I love this gun, easy to carry and shoot, very accurate for a small pistol. The trigger is not bad either, Its better than my FS 40. Has a more pronounced reset, I like it better than the glock trigger actually.

 

[fishintheblood]

You are not alone. I did the same thing. Easy fix!

 

[uechikid]

Both my wife and I were doing the same thing. Glad you figured it out.