Shield 9 vs 9c

[S&W Rover]

Everything is a compromise. The Shield is a fine small pistol but other things work better for me, e.g., I prefer a Mdl 642 for pocket carry or a M&P 9 or 9c for belt carry (with a jacket). In terms of the original OP's dilemma, I think the Shield doesn't quite work as a small carry pistol without a belt holster of some sort and thus the 9c is in many ways the more naturally accommodating choice for that type of carry. The Shield is immensely popular and a very nicely made pistol, but I'm not sure what it is "best" at.

 

[Chuck Jones]

Bob


It is crazy both the theater and elementary shooting involved a gunman wearing armor.

Maybe an extra magazine makes sense.

Russ

An extra mag is essential for malfunctions more than the additional ammo. According to the latest information neither was wearing armor, just ammo vests.

/c

 

[RussC]

An extra mag is essential for malfunctions more than the additional ammo. According to the latest information neither was wearing armor, just ammo vests.

/c

Chuck:

I just ordered a second 8 round magazine for my Shield and a double magazine belt pouch. I am going to try out packing both 8 round magazines in the belt pouch inside my opposite pocket. (I need to do something with my dust collecting 8 round magazine that came with my Shield)

I also found at LA Gear on the web a single magazine pocket pouch by Desanti made for quick access. Both pouches are inexpensive so I plan to try both with my attire to see if it is comfortable.

Russ

P.S. If anyone has suggestions for packing extra magazines let me know. I have ruled out ankle magazine pouches because I ride a bike.

 

[bobnieder]

For a single mag, a belt pouch for a Buck folding hunter or one of the "multitools" offers one alternative.

Crossbreed Holsters offer both single and dual IWB carriers.

I'm with you on spares, "just in case". Chances are, it will be short range, point and shoot, and 2 - 3 shots -- just what the Shield is best at (as long as I do my part). But another mag or two could make a big difference if there's a malfunction or more to the encounter than expected.

I'm an old Boy Scout -- "Be prepared." still works.

 

[mudman bob]

Beyond relying on your BUG, consider a self defense course. Hand to hand combat proves to be priceless against a knife or jacked up meth head. I know we can't prepare for everything, or we wouldn't have to carry, but knowing what to do against an attacker is better than saying or hoping we can. Let confidence and knowledge be your guide.

 

[Hammerdown77]

I don't believe the Colorado shooter was wearing body armor. The police report said it was a Blackhawk tactical vest, the kind that has molle straps that can carry mags and gear and such, by not actual body armor. Unless that report was later changed. The media thinks anything that looks "tactical" must be body armor.

One shot center of mass would've sent that guy out the door.

 

[highaltitude]

I don't believe the Colorado shooter was wearing body armor. The police report said it was a Blackhawk tactical vest, the kind that has molle straps that can carry mags and gear and such, by not actual body armor. Unless that report was later changed. The media thinks anything that looks "tactical" must be body armor.

One shot center of mass would've sent that guy out the door.

This is correct. He wasn't wearing body armor, just a tactical vest.

 

[Smitty357]

The media thinks anything that looks "tactical" must be body armor.

Or it must be one of those evil black rifles