New to pistols

[S&WOkie]

The barrel is stock, drops right in. .

The .40 mag will work until the last round when the follower rides too high and locks the action open with one round remaining in the magazine. It is okay for range use though if you don't want to buy new 9mm mags.

^^THIS^^

I have the M&PCompact .357Sig with the .40 and 9mm barrels. The gun is very accurate with all three barrels.

I love the Compact with the full size mag and X-grip, and set up like that, it is not much different than the full sized M&P, but since you can't take advantage of the extra rounds, it really doesn't matter.

I also have no problem shooting with the Compact mags with the pinky extension.

One thing I like about shooting the 9mm in the .357Sig pistol is, I don't have to worry about shooting +P, or +P+, when I choose to.

I say get the Full Size or Compact in .40 or .357, which ever is the best
deal, and add a 9mm barrel for versatility.

I personally like the .357 for SD, and the 9mm for practice and plinking, and it is handy to have the .40 in case the .357 gets hard to come by.

 

[RussC]

Hi there,
I am in the process of obtaining my ccw permit and am trying to make a decision on what to buy. I have narrowed it down to the M&P line, but i dont know where to go from there.

I absolutly love the shield, but dont want to be on a waiting list for 3 months trying to get one.

Since it would be my first pistol do i full size, compact, or sub compact. I know i will be CCing it mostly when i feel comfortable with shooting it.

I also dont see much of a difference between 9mm and 40s&w.

From what i have read so far you guys sure know alot.

Please help the FNG!!!

Tc

If you plan to use the weapon as a CCW especially if pocket will be an option you only have 2 choices. Shield 9 or 40.

You can buy a 40 Shield today but the 9mm will require some patience.

I would wait it out for the Shield 9mm.

Some 40 Shield have had some magazine drop problems. And ammo is.40% more to shoot and one less round.

Russ

 

[catcus-jack]

Tc

If you plan to use the weapon as a CCW especially if pocket will be an option you only have 2 choices. Shield 9 or 40.

You can buy a 40 Shield today but the 9mm will require some patience.

I would wait it out for the Shield 9mm.

Some 40 Shield have had some magazine drop problems. And ammo is.40% more to shoot and one less round.

Russ

The Shield is not a pocket pistol by no means unless you wear size 56 or larger pants.You will not be able to shoot the Shield as well as a full size M&P.Without a lot of practice and then the full size will still win out in ease of shooting.

 

[RussC]

Shield is a Pocket Weapon

The Shield is not a pocket pistol by no means unless you wear size 56 or larger pants.You will not be able to shoot the Shield as well as a full size M&P.Without a lot of practice and then the full size will still win out in ease of shooting.

Catcus:

I have the hardest time with the pocket argument when I have been packing my Shield for 6 months in my 34 x 32 Dockers 10 hours a day and during that work time I am constantly moving around in the office. In fact, I had one of those high tech instruments on my belt to monitor the number of steps I make in a 10 hour period of time and it was more than 6,000 steps.

I realize some body frames may not work but for my 6' 2" and 195 Ibs frame I can easily pocket conceal in Dockers.
(I even pack in Nike sweat pants on the weekends. Just make sure the draw string is tight.)

I did change out the stock sights for Big Dot because the rear sight is not pocket friendly. The design of the Big Dot rear sight is low profile and angled forward with smooth edges making it easier to draw quickly from the pocket.

If you look at my avatar you will see I carry in the Desanti model "E1"

I am not exaggerating; I can draw sweep safety and dry fire in 1 1/2 seconds.

I also own a full size XD 45 and at 7 yards there is very little difference in groupings between the two weapons.

If I move out beyond 12 yards the full size does have an advantage but much beyond 20 yards I am going to put the full size pistol away for a rifle.

Personally, I enjoy shooting the Shield more than my full size XD 45 which has a grip like a 2x4.

Russ

 

[blujax01]

There is nothing wrong with a 9C for a first pistol. That was my wife's first pistol and she's an excellent shot. You may want to get the magazine extension so you can get a pinkie on the grip.

As to it's accuracy beyond 25 yards, I can think of no scenario where I would be shooting at someone instead of running if I were already 75 feet away!

 

[catcus-jack]

Catcus:

I have the hardest time with the pocket argument when I have been packing my Shield for 6 months in my 34 x 32 Dockers 10 hours a day and during that work time I am constantly moving around in the office. In fact, I had one of those high tech instruments on my belt to monitor the number of steps I make in a 10 hour period of time and it was more than 6,000 steps.

I realize some body frames may not work but for my 6' 2" and 195 Ibs frame I can easily pocket conceal in Dockers.
(I even pack in Nike sweat pants on the weekends. Just make sure the draw string is tight.)


Most of the people in my neck of the woods think dockers are people who are putting their fishing boats up to the dock when they are done fishin.Try putting a shield in the pocket of a pair of blue jeans
I did change out the stock sights for Big Dot because the rear sight is not pocket friendly. The design of the Big Dot rear sight is low profile and angled forward with smooth edges making it easier to draw quickly from the pocket.

If you look at my avatar you will see I carry in the Desanti model "E1"

I am not exaggerating; I can draw sweep safety and dry fire in 1 1/2 seconds.

I also own a full size XD 45 and at 7 yards there is very little difference in groupings between the two weapons.

If I move out beyond 12 yards the full size does have an advantage but much beyond 20 yards I am going to put the full size pistol away for a rifle.

Personally, I enjoy shooting the Shield more than my full size XD 45 which has a grip like a 2x4.

Russ

Most of the people in my neck of the woods think dockers are people who are putting their fishing boats up to the dock when they are done fishin.Try putting a shield in the pocket of a pair of blue jeans.I wear size 36x34s and a j frame is about the max I want in my pocket.

 

[mewisemajic]

9FS would be my first choice for learning to shoot and manipulate a pistol. Second would be 9c and get extensions for a mag or two to get the better grip initially. Later you could use mags w/o extensions for CC. 40 cal has more recoil and costs more so you get less practice on the same budget. The Shield is too small to be a first pistol, IMO, and many people have given good reasons as to why above.

 

[RussC]

Most of the people in my neck of the woods think dockers are people who are putting their fishing boats up to the dock when they are done fishin.Try putting a shield in the pocket of a pair of blue jeans.I wear size 36x34s and a j frame is about the max I want in my pocket.

Catcus:

I wear pleated slacks that are 36x32.

I have taken some pictures so everyone will see you can pocket conceal a Shield in dress pants with no problem. I also included a picture sitting down.

I have been concealing my Shield for 6 months in these type of pants and no person in my office has a clue I carry a ccw.

I agree it is difficult to conceal in blue jeans and other form fitting pants but you don't need to wear cargo pants to pocket conceal a Shield. Dress slacks work just fine as evident in the pictures.

Russ

 

[catcus-jack]

Yes I can see it prints nicely!

 

[RussC]

Yes I can see it prints nicely!

Catcus

When sitting down any gun in your pocket will leave an impressuon. The question is does that impression to the average person look like the outline of a gun?

When standing and walking there is no impression.

The true test is for 6 months no one has asked me if I am packing.

Russ

P.S. I think the key to concealment is you act natural and don't talk about guns or concealment etc even around co workers.

 

[catcus-jack]

Thats why I carry full size pistols for ccw in iwb holsters they don't print.

 

[RussC]

Thats why I carry full size pistols for ccw in iwb holsters they don't print.

cactus

IWB for me is a challenge because I wear dress shirts that are tucked in with no jacket.

I have tried working my shirt around an IWB holster but it doesn't work and I can't walk around work with my shirt un tucked and I am not going to wear a suit coat all day.

Glad IWB works for you. Pocket conceal in pleated slacks of my Shield in a Desanti model "E1" holster (made for the Glock 26) for the last 6 months has not been brought to my attention at work even by my closes friends.

I remember the first few days I started pocket concealment 18 months ago. I was packing a Kahr CM9 and it did not feel natural. I remember constantly looking down at my pocket and even touching my weapon from time-to-time.

I don't care if you are packing a Ruger LCP, you are going to get noticed if you act like you are packing. Fast forward 18 months. I know my Shield is in my pocket but I don't act any different and that I believe is important to concealment. Also I don't talk about guns at work with co-workers. If you act weird and nervous and constantly touch your weapon you are going to draw attention.


Russ

 

[tcfirerescue13]

after reading some other threads, talking to a few coworkers, and getting my hands on 1. i think i have decided to go with the 40c. i can buy the 9mm barrel and a few mags and i can shoot til my heart is content. thanks for all the advice. feel free to keep disagreeing about pants.

 

[snubbyfan]

I handled the M&P 40c at my local gun shop, nice gun. Now the real fun starts. Holsters, belts, trying different ammo in both .40 and 9mm, lotsa shooting and lotsa practice. Training? Lasersights?
Most importantly, ya gotta get the right pants.

 

[catcus-jack]

Pants are the most important part of the whole outfit.

 

[SMMAssociates]

The 9mm is not my first choice, but like Old Cop, I've been at this for a very long time.... (40+ years, semi-retired rent-a-cop.) My 9C is on consignment at a local dealer's (I want a Shield40), but I have an old M39 for my daughter. She likes the 9mm....

That said, either the M&P9C or 9FS would be a good "learn to shoot" gun, as would the .22 version, although I don't consider any rimfire a reliable carry. Recoil is minimal (particularly with the 9FS), and most new shooters should be able to handle either one. The 9FS makes a good "house gun", too, when the time comes, but IMHO it's not a particularly good carry. That thing is BIG.... (I have a 40FS.) Overall, not a lot different than my old S&W M&P10HB .38 Revolver, although it's quite a bit lighter. The 40FS is a little snappy unless you're used to it (I am), but not a bad choice either as a "house gun"....

IMHO, you'd do about as well with a 9C as with the 9FS as a carry, although as a double-stacker, it's kind of thick. A 9mm Shield might be suitable, but will take some getting used to. I thing you could get either double-stacker under control very quickly. Add the Shield later....

My EDC rotation is a pair of Officer's sized 1911's. A little heavy, but with a good belt, not a problem. Other than the seven round limitation, they are good solid guns that I trust. Lasers and night sights on both, too, but I don't think I'd go the extra money again. I'm not sure there's really any advantage....

'Round the house, it's an M&P40C. Mostly 'cause it's quite light, and doesn't require a special belt like the .45....

I don't get a lot of interest in the weight issue. I'm kinda big, which may have something to do with it, but with a good belt & holster the extra weight just doesn't seem to matter to me.

In the end, you really have to find a way to try these things. Little things can bite you.... My buddy Joe has a beautiful S&W M41 pistol. That's an expensive .22LR target semi. My very petite daughter can shoot her M22A (which is a very cheap copy of the M41 ) all day, but can't shoot the M41. The rear joint of her thumb whacks the M41's thumb safety with about each shot. She prefers the M39 anyway....

Pants.... I was in the local gun pusher's a couple years ago when a kid from a local PD was trying on an ankle holster. While wearing shorts.... I reminded him of the first rule of ankle holsters: "Pants"....

Regards,

 

[blujax01]

"No mas pantalones"

This is my M64 (K frame snubby) in an Uncle Mike's pocket holster. Wider and heavier than a Shield. The dress pants are Red Head from Bass Pro. Keep them ironed and they're perfect for the office.

 

[Donald Paul]

--- 2 inch .38spl revolver {S&W 36 or 37 or equiv}.
Small and RELIABLE.

 

[RussC]

"No mas pantalones"

This is my M64 (K frame snubby) in an Uncle Mike's pocket holster. Wider and heavier than a Shield. The dress pants are Red Head from Bass Pro. Keep them ironed and they're perfect for the office.

Blujax

Thanks for the pictures.

I am tired of people on this forum thinking the Shield is not for the pocket. As you demonstrated you can pocket a revolver which is bigger than the Shield and I can't see your weapon from the picture.

Russ

 

[cliff54]

I learned to shoot courtesy of Uncle Sam and continued to develop my skills with a M&P 40. Best handgun I have ever shot but too big to carry. I am smaller than average and picked the Ruger LC9 as a carry weapon. It was an easy transition although the 40 is not in the closet - it's the primary for HD.

 

[tcfirerescue13]

hey all. just an update. i made my decision! went with an m&p 357c. coudnt find a 40c in the price range i wanted. so i just need to purchase a 40c barrel so i dont have to pay $1+ a round to shoot 357sig. thanks everyone for all the input!

 

[bobnieder]

You pick it -- you are the one who will live with your choice.

That said, I'll put in a minority opinion -- Shield .40, and get a factory Shield 9mm barrel and a mag or two from Guns and Gear Outlet Best of both worlds. Cheaper practice ammo and a lot of LEO defense rounds available for the .40 cal. But that's just my opinion. Worth exactly what you paid for it.

Enjoy the process and whichever (single or multiple) pistol you choose!

 

[bobnieder]

Didn't see your update. It was on page 2 by itself.

You can still also get a 9mm barrel from Midway or Brownells and mags (if you can find them). I got a FS 9mm barrel from Midway and picked up a couple of mags. I have over 600 rounds of 9mm without a glitch (and over 400 rounds of .40 cal.)

At least with the .357 to .40 switch, you use the same mags, since .357 Sig is a necked down .40 cal. cartridge.

 

[jajo]

You've picked a good brand and product in the S&W M&P series.

Don't over think this issue. Pick the gun you are most comfortable with, get some training, and practice.

I used to advise the 9mm mainly because the ammo was plentiful and cheap. Not necessarily the case anymore though.

I find the 9mm softer to shoot, but since you won't have anything to compare it to, the 40 might work fine.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

 

[shawn mccarver]

Hi there,
I am in the process of obtaining my ccw permit and am trying to make a decision on what to buy. I have narrowed it down to the M&P line, but i dont know where to go from there.

I absolutly love the shield, but dont want to be on a waiting list for 3 months trying to get one.

Since it would be my first pistol do i full size, compact, or sub compact. I know i will be CCing it mostly when i feel comfortable with shooting it.

I also dont see much of a difference between 9mm and 40s&w.

From what i have read so far you guys sure know alot.

Please help the FNG!!!

If it is a first pistol, I recommend a full size. The FBI issues a full size pistol for concealment. They have always done so, even when they issued revolvers. Concealment of a full size pistol is easy with the right holster.

Certainly, it is easier to learn to shoot with a full size pistol for many reasons, including, less perceived recoil, longer sight radius makes it possible to shoot more accurately (not because the pistol is necessarily more accurate, but because errors in sight alignment are greatly exaggerated in shorter barrels), the grip is often more comfortable, etc.

I say learn to shoot first, then "graduate" to a smaller, pocket type pistol.

Actually, truth be told, if you are new to firearms, you should consider getting a nice 22 pistol first to learn the fundamentals. Consider the S&W 22A, Model 41 or even the K22 (Model 17 or 617) or Ruger's MK III or 22/45. You can learn to shoot for far less money and the 22 will be more pleasant and economical in the long run.

So, get a 22 first, then the full size .40 caliber. Only after you have mastered both of those should you consider getting a pocket pistol of any caliber.

 

[all357mag]

Forget those lame 9mm & 40 cals. Get a 45 and don't look back!

 

[RussC]

Hi there,
I am in the process of obtaining my ccw permit and am trying to make a decision on what to buy. I have narrowed it down to the M&P line, but i dont know where to go from there.

I absolutly love the shield, but dont want to be on a waiting list for 3 months trying to get one.

Since it would be my first pistol do i full size, compact, or sub compact. I know i will be CCing it mostly when i feel comfortable with shooting it.

I also dont see much of a difference between 9mm and 40s&w.

From what i have read so far you guys sure know alot.

Please help the FNG!!!

TCfirerescue13

If you must have an M&P you need to decide how do I plan to conceal the weapon.

I own a Shield and I pocket conceal but I would not want anymore gun in my pocket. In fact I traded out the stock sights for XS Big Dot night sights in part because the rear sight kept catching on my pocket as I would draw.

In my opinion if the weapon is for concealment and you are sold on M&P I would put my name on the waiting list for a Shield 9mm. (Check buds guns to see if you qualify for public service M&P discount)

If you can't wait Buds guns on the internet has a Sig P938 nightmare with night sights available with free shipping for $665 right now.

I have shot a Sig P938 and honestly comparing to my Shield I would be happy to own either firearm.

The Sig P938 has the edge with pocket conceal but the Shield fits a large hand a little better.

Good Luck

Russ

 

[plisken]

I chose the 9c. Because of the mag capacity can use full size mags and the changable backstraps. And its size lends to good concealed carry home defence and its a good and comfortable for everydy range use.

 

[tcfirerescue13]

just a pic of my EDC

my EDC. m&p 40c galco leather IWB holster, 2 mags (1with pinky ext) nebo led flashlight, paracord bracelet, Droid RzrM, minitor5 (fire pager) and of course a pocket knife

 

[FF112173]

Whacker gear, lol. JK, I'm one of you.