I did quite a bit a research before choosing the Shield, and it was the best option for my intended use. So I got the Shield 9mm about two weeks ago. This past weekend was the first time I was able to fire it. I put about 60 rounds of WWB through it flawlessly. After I put the 60 rounds through it I put it back in its case. After picking up my target and spent shells, I opened the case to clean my gun. I picked up the gun and a piece fell out of the magazine well. I'll admit I'm a gun novice so I went to the gun shop that sold me the Shield and asked for their opinion. He believed it was an ejector pin. Let me add here that I had not broken down the gun anymore than the suggested way in the manual. The shop employee was very surprised it had broken and sent it to S&W for repairs. I still believe the Shield is the best weapon for my intended use and I am just posting this here for future gun owners who are doing their research like I was a couple months ago. Again, I have high praise for how it shoots and I am excited to fire it more.... after it comes back from the factory.