Just recently got my Shield. Have been looking at getting it for a while but the opportunity finally came around. Already ordered the TFO's for it yesterday and crossbreed appendix holster today. Eventually going to get either centerfire or crimson trace, any suggestions?
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Shield, Centerfire Lasermax vs. Crimson Trace
- Thread starter sethmelton90
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LenC
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- Dec 4, 2010
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I have a LaserMax on my Shield 9mm. See photo:
You will notice that I modified the LaserMax somewhat. The standard package for the laser continues along the bottom of the trigger guard to the grip of the pistol. This extension is about 1/8" thick and reduces the length of the grip you have available to hold on to. I have size large hands and that small amount is critical to the feel of the grip.
The Crimson Trace laser package also extends along the bottom of the trigger guard and since the extension connects to the on/off switch, there is no option to modify it as I did with the LaserMax.
With the Crimson Trace, when you grip the pistol you are also turning on the laser. You don't get any choice with it. This is an issue with some users. I find that the switch on the LaserMax falls naturally under my index finger when I have it along side of the slide, which of course is where it should be until you are on a target that you intend to destroy.
With the difference in cost between the two, and given that I will be using it more for training than likely use in a real action, the choice for me was not hard to make.
BTW, if you look at the LaserLyte package, you will see that it looks a lot like my modified LaserMax. I originally got a LaserLyte, but the switch was defective and I didn't particularly like the "feel" of the switch, so I sent it back to stay. I had a LaserMax on a Ruger LC9 that I previously had and made the same mod to it.
Another thing you are probably already aware of is that the addition of a mounted laser will require a different holster to fit the setup. The Kydex on the MaxTuck holster that I have for the Shield is removable, which makes it easy to just get a different Kydex piece. (The MaxTuck is similar to a CrossBreed holster.)
For what it's worth . . .
You will notice that I modified the LaserMax somewhat. The standard package for the laser continues along the bottom of the trigger guard to the grip of the pistol. This extension is about 1/8" thick and reduces the length of the grip you have available to hold on to. I have size large hands and that small amount is critical to the feel of the grip.
The Crimson Trace laser package also extends along the bottom of the trigger guard and since the extension connects to the on/off switch, there is no option to modify it as I did with the LaserMax.
With the Crimson Trace, when you grip the pistol you are also turning on the laser. You don't get any choice with it. This is an issue with some users. I find that the switch on the LaserMax falls naturally under my index finger when I have it along side of the slide, which of course is where it should be until you are on a target that you intend to destroy.
With the difference in cost between the two, and given that I will be using it more for training than likely use in a real action, the choice for me was not hard to make.
BTW, if you look at the LaserLyte package, you will see that it looks a lot like my modified LaserMax. I originally got a LaserLyte, but the switch was defective and I didn't particularly like the "feel" of the switch, so I sent it back to stay. I had a LaserMax on a Ruger LC9 that I previously had and made the same mod to it.
Another thing you are probably already aware of is that the addition of a mounted laser will require a different holster to fit the setup. The Kydex on the MaxTuck holster that I have for the Shield is removable, which makes it easy to just get a different Kydex piece. (The MaxTuck is similar to a CrossBreed holster.)
For what it's worth . . .
Last edited:
The crimson trace is not activated when the pistol is gripped. Only when you put pressure on your middle finger. The lasermax has no pressure switch without notificationI have a LaserMax on my Shield 9mm. See photo:
You will notice that I modified the LaserMax somewhat. The standard package for the laser continues along the bottom of the trigger guard to the grip of the pistol. This extension is about 1/8" thick and reduces the length of the grip you have available to hold on to. I have size large hands and that small amount is critical to the feel of the grip.
The Crimson Trace laser package also extends along the bottom of the trigger guard and since the extension connects to the on/off switch, there is no option to modify it as I did with the LaserMax.
With the Crimson Trace, when you grip the pistol you are also turning on the laser. You don't get any choice with it. This is an issue with some users. I find that the switch on the LaserMax falls naturally under my index finger when I have it along side of the slide, which of course is where it should be until you are on a target that you intend to destroy.
With the difference in cost between the two, and given that I will be using it more for training than likely use in a real action, the choice for me was not hard to make.
BTW, if you look at the LaserLyte package, you will see that it looks a lot like my modified LaserMax. I originally got a LaserLyte, but the switch was defective and I didn't particularly like the "feel" of the switch, so I sent it back to stay. I had a LaserMax on a Ruger SR9P that I previously had and made the same mod to it.
Another thing you are probably already aware of is that the addition of a mounted laser will require a different holster to fit the setup. The Kydex on the MaxTuck holster that I have for the Shield is removable, which makes it easy to just get a different Kydex piece. (The MaxTuck is similar to a CrossBreed holster.)
For what it's worth . . .
gdnagle
US Veteran
LaserMax reminds me of the laser on our BG 380. No problem with it I just would rather grip and have the laser come on and not think about turning it on. I personally don't like the way you turn it on. I have the CT on both my EDC Kahr CW45, and SIG P239, I like the way they actuate. The Sig also has a OFF/ON switch.
Just my .02 and others will have a different opinion. If you can find them locally try them and see which one fits your needs the best as to the way the activate would be my recommendation to you.
Just my .02 and others will have a different opinion. If you can find them locally try them and see which one fits your needs the best as to the way the activate would be my recommendation to you.
Normbi
Member
I have the Crimson Trace Laserguard and am quite happy with it. It doesn't substantially decrease grip size; the extension at the rear of the triggerguard is only 1/8 inch or less thick. I especially like the instant on when the gun is gripped. (Click thumbnail for a pic of my Shield)
PS. Take a look at N8squared holsters-available for the shield with Laserguard. I've tried a bunch and the N82 original is the most comfortable IWB I've ever carried.
Norm
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Sharks06lly
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i have the crismon trace on mine. love the way it activates, i have no problem not activating it when i dont squeeze my middle finger plus i have shorter fingers so on most lasers i have to readjust my grip to switch it on and off
Jboutfishn
Member
Have CT Laser Grip on my 40C. Excellent unit. I have a Laser/Light combo on a Sig 1911. They both serve their purpose and have functioned without issue. For a Shield I would go with the CT grips, while slightly wider, they maintain the compact size of the weapon.
Scottwig
Member
I couldn't find LaserGrips for the Shield on CT's site, just the LaserGuard. My LaserGuard has been back to CT twice in the last year for warranty work. I love the functionality on the LaserGuard, and CT's customer support is great but I wish I didn't need it.
Sharks06lly
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they don't make grips for it. the backstraps are not interchangeable like the compact and fullsize they only make the guards for ones like that
IMHO you cannot beat instant activation without having to think about it. Remember what will be going on when you really have to use it for real. I don't want to be fumbling around. Unfortunately that is what I have with my body guard, but it seems the best available for that gun.
