Should Slide Lock Be Used As Release On Shield

[pappyjim]

I was advised the M&P Shield 9 slide lock can be used as a slide release to chamber the first round if it's difficult to slingshot the first round. The owners manual does not mention this, and I think the slide lock is probably meant to be just that, a lock not a release. Has anyone been using the lock as release or heard of this situation? Many thanks.

 

[manderle]

It's a slide lock only. I figure that if it's used as a slide release like a 1911, then eventually the edge will wear enough that it might not catch on the last round. Probably would take a long time but...

 

[Bullseye_Mike]

I personally would not rely on charging your pistol that way. I have been instructing the proper way to charge a pistol for many years and have always recommended slingshotting the slide. You have a better assurance that the weapon is in battery.

 

[Ballistic147]

My Shield has over 2k rounds through it and I use the slide lock as a slide release nearly all the time. It was a little stiff at first but it has loosened up and functions perfectly. Also, there is no visible wear either. For me, using it as a slide release is much faster in most situations and to date has been totally reliable that way. Yes, the manual does indeed call it a slide lock however there are many other folks on here that use it as a slide release with no issues. Choice is yours and I see no problems either way.

 

[Slingn]

Your finger is stronger than mine if you're using the lock to release.

 

[Ranger17]

I have never used the slide lock as a release on any of my MP's; just my choice to keep a similar process regardless of what I'm shooting (all mine are semi autos).
As to the Shield, which has been known to be a bit tough for some to work the slide, my new PC model has seemed to have gotten a tad easier after a couple hundred rounds thru it. But even in its first range trip both the wife and I had no trouble racking it.

 

[NCW Ray]

I use the Slide "STOP" to release the slide on all of my M&P's...including my Shield 40. If the Slide Stop lever wears out...I'll buy a new one.

 

[RobzGuns]

The manual states the proper way to charge the Shield.
It's been a while since I've viewed it, but this might be covered in the S&W FAQ page.

Having written that... It's your pistol. If you want to treat the Slide stop as a Release, go ahead. I only ask that if it Does cause the lever to wear faster than normal, that you don't post a thread calling the 'Slide Release' (and Shields in general) a *** because of it.

 

[pappyjim]

Thanks guys. I don't intend to use the lock as a release.