Transition From 9mm Shield To M&P 9C

[ancientpurgolder]

Geriatric newbie here, so apologies in advance for misplacing this post or being redundant.
Really enjoy my Shield, but experiencing increased difficulty in ability to obtain a firm purchase at draw from IWB. My hands aren't extra large, but the grip has begun to feel uncomfortably small. Have done extensive research on the 9-C. The features have appeal, I like the extra round capacity, and it appears to provide adequate concealability.
Would welcome input from any folks with C-9 experience: please include information on any issues that required S&W attention, what you like/don't like about it, reasons, and why you would or wouldn't recommend buying it. Plan to test it out at the range tomorrow. Appreciate any thoughts or suggestions. Have heard mixed reviews about ejection failures and whether it's a firearm other owners would trust their lives with.

 

[GKC]

I went from a Shield 45 (which I really liked, but I have a 1911 in 45) to a 4" 2.0 9c because I wanted more capacity and a 9mm for the range, as well as a general duty gun. At the time, S&W hadn't announced the 3.6" barrel 9c, or I would have bought it. Anyway, I really like this gun, and I would highly recommend it...but you may want to see if you can find the 3.6" barrel model, and compare the two before you buy. I know it's only 0.4" difference, but some say it makes it easier to carry. The capacity is the same for either gun.

 

[Wee Hooker]

I had a M&P9c before I got my 9mm shield. The 9c had the same footprint as the shield and is just a bit wider and heavier. One range session is all it took for me to know that (for me) the 9c was a way better choice. It was SO much easier to shoot accurately in rapid fire /double taps and was allot more comfortable in the hand while doing it. The shield went up for sale less than a week later. Since then I've bought a 45 shield nut still think the 9c (1st gen) is a great choice for it's intended purpose.

 

[ancientpurgolder]

Transition from Shield to 9-C

Thank you, Dave.
You parenthetically specified first generation. Why?
David

 

[Wee Hooker]

Thank you, Dave.
You parenthetically specified first generation. Why?
David

I just like the size of the original compact. Again, it has the same footprint as a 9/40 shield . I think the 3.5" barrel and shorter grip length of the original is a better carry option than the new 4" 2.0 w longer grip. ( I do see they just released a 3.6" version but still don't see the attraction of "upgrading" a Compact design to be longer in both directions and heavier on the hip.) Size wise, the 1.0 was in the sweet spot right between a G26 and G19. ( I've owned both Glock models too at one point.) The original 9c is also several onces lighter than the 4" 2.0 compact.
Not arguing with those who prefer the 2.0 for some reason (likely capacity), for me though, the 1.0 didn't need any improvement (other than an Apex trigger). It is "Goldilocks" just right in size and control ability. It will continue to remain one of my favorites on and off the range.



Your mileage may vary.

 

[GKC]

I had a 1.0 9c, and didn't care for the grip size on it. It just didn't fit my hand well. Conversely, I like the smaller grip of the Shield and the bigger grip of the 2.0 9c. I guess the 1.0 9c was like the Goldilocks gun for me...too small and too big. If you can find one to try out, it may work well for you, and it should be priced really well right now. Some of the online vendors may still have some new ones.

BTW, I forgot to say in my original post in your thread, welcome to the forum!

 

[Telecaster]

The thinness of the Shield makes it a lot more comfotable IWB. But the 2.0C feels better to shoot.

 

[ancientpurgolder]

Thank you, GKC, and for your service.

 

[CBStuard]

I am extremely happy w/ my 1.0 9c but haven't tried a 2.0. Have you looked into mag extensions which would lengthen the grip?

 

[GKC]

I am extremely happy w/ my 1.0 9c but haven't tried a 2.0. Have you looked into mag extensions which would lengthen the grip?

If you are asking me, no I haven't. The 1.0 9c is long gone. I did use the extended base plates when I had it...they just added a bit for finger grip, not any added capacity, but I just never got comfortable with that gun. It was just me...a lot of people like it.

 

[bigwheelzip]

Really enjoy my Shield, but experiencing increased difficulty in ability to obtain a firm purchase at draw from IWB. My hands aren't extra large, but the grip has begun to feel uncomfortably small.

If this is your only issue with the Shield, you might be well served adding a grip sleeve or grip tape to allow a proper grip. These are common fixes for your problem.

Good luck and welcome to the forum.

 

[rocknroad]

If this is your only issue with the Shield, you might be well served adding a grip sleeve or grip tape to allow a proper grip. These are common fixes for your problem.

Good luck and welcome to the forum.

^This.

I added grip tape (Talon Grip) at first. It was an improvement. Then, I've recently added a Hogue Handall Beavertail grip sleeve. Wow, what a great improvement that was for me. The Shield 9 now fits my hand like a glove. I love the purchase and the feel. It's a cheap and easy way to see if you can still carry the Shield.

 

[Ballanrk]

As others mentioned a grip sleeve or grip tape may satisfy your problems. However, I can't say enough great things about my 9c 1.0 and 2.0.

2 years ago I got my first handgun. So experience is what it is, but before buying I tested the Shield and 9c 1.0 extensively -it was a difficult decision. I felt the Shield was a bit small for me, and for other reasons I went the way of the 9c.

Totally glad I opted for the 9c 1.0 back then, but I love the Shield too.

Both my 9c (1.0/2.0) have been flawless. The 1.0 has seen roughly 4k rounds in the two years I've owned it. I've fired all types of ammo brands, 115/124/147 grains, etc and never a single problem.

I'll never sell it and trust my 9c 1.0 immensely as my EDC. It shares time with my 2.0 now, but still love it. I live in Florida so it's 90% of the time in shorts and a t-shirt. No concealment issues in the slightest, I carry iwb about 3 o'clock.

If grip tape or a sleeve solves your issue -awesome. But, if you are set on testing a 9c (either one) you can't go wrong.

A couple small advantages to the 9c 1.0 I find to be a nice benefit. It obviously can use the 12/15/17 round mags and given the Shield doesn't it's a bonus.

As far as fit in my hand, it feels really natural (it's subjective I know). While I consistently use the medium backstrap I like the small size too.

For me the only minor con was grip length, but I knew that was the case for any compact with my hands so not really a gun specific negative.

As a side note:
I contacted XGRIP last week and they let me know they are rolling out a mag sleeve this summer for the 9c 1.0 to accommodate the new 2.0 9c 15 round mags.
*Take it with a grain of salt from a manufacturer, but since they responded to my question I have to assume they are truly rolling one out pretty soon.

 

[rman]

I have both a Shield in 9mm and 2.0 Compact w/4" barrel. I like the Shield and it makes a nice carry gun. The only problem I have with it is that at 75, my hand strength isn't what it used to be. I sometimes have a difficult time racking the slide. The 2.0 has a GREAT grip. I have small hands and like the small grip insert and love the new texture. The slide racks much easier than the Shield. The slide to frame and barrel to slide fit are excellent. There is no play and this gun doesn't rattle. I shoot the 2.0 as well as any of my other guns and that includes several nice 1911's. It hides well in an Alien Gear Comfort Tuck 3.5 holster and it's comfortable to wear all day. Out of all my handguns (a considerable number), this one has become my new favorite. I guess you can tell that I'm a big fan.

 

[ancientpurgolder]

I am extremely happy w/ my 1.0 9c but haven't tried a 2.0. Have you looked into mag extensions which would lengthen the grip?

I bought and tried both the Hyve and Strike mag extenders. They actually made a significant improvement with my purchase at draw. No hiccups either. Then I started reading about jams and FTF issues. Got cold feet and went back to original factory mags. Think i've discovered the problem, however. The polymer clip on my holster has a tendency to move the cant of my Shield so that it doesn't stay put on the "sweet spot." Will replace the clip with soft loops, and see if they keep the pistol riding high enough to get a solid grip with fingers.
Meanwhile, got all stoked about the 1.0 9C. Not easy to find on line, and price is running between $425.00-465.00. Thought the 2.0 rollout would drive 9C prices down.
Would welcome any suggestions on what gunshops you feel are reliable if that is permitted to post here.

 

[ancientpurgolder]

As others mentioned a grip sleeve or grip tape may satisfy your problems. However, I can't say enough great things about my 9c 1.0 and 2.0.

2 years ago I got my first handgun. So experience is what it is, but before buying I tested the Shield and 9c 1.0 extensively -it was a difficult decision. I felt the Shield was a bit small for me, and for other reasons I went the way of the 9c.

Totally glad I opted for the 9c 1.0 back then, but I love the Shield too.

Both my 9c (1.0/2.0) have been flawless. The 1.0 has seen roughly 4k rounds in the two years I've owned it. I've fired all types of ammo brands, 115/124/147 grains, etc and never a single problem.

I'll never sell it and trust my 9c 1.0 immensely as my EDC. It shares time with my 2.0 now, but still love it. I live in Florida so it's 90% of the time in shorts and a t-shirt. No concealment issues in the slightest, I carry iwb about 3 o'clock.

If grip tape or a sleeve solves your issue -awesome. But, if you are set on testing a 9c (either one) you can't go wrong.

A couple small advantages to the 9c 1.0 I find to be a nice benefit. It obviously can use the 12/15/17 round mags and given the Shield doesn't it's a bonus.

As far as fit in my hand, it feels really natural (it's subjective I know). While I consistently use the medium backstrap I like the small size too.

For me the only minor con was grip length, but I knew that was the case for any compact with my hands so not really a gun specific negative.

As a side note:
I contacted XGRIP last week and they let me know they are rolling out a mag sleeve this summer for the 9c 1.0 to accommodate the new 2.0 9c 15 round mags.
*Take it with a grain of salt from a manufacturer, but since they responded to my question I have to assume they are truly rolling one out pretty soon.

Thanks for your perspective. Very helpful.

 

[ancientpurgolder]

I have both a Shield in 9mm and 2.0 Compact w/4" barrel. I like the Shield and it makes a nice carry gun. The only problem I have with it is that at 75, my hand strength isn't what it used to be. I sometimes have a difficult time racking the slide. The 2.0 has a GREAT grip. I have small hands and like the small grip insert and love the new texture. The slide racks much easier than the Shield. The slide to frame and barrel to slide fit are excellent. There is no play and this gun doesn't rattle. I shoot the 2.0 as well as any of my other guns and that includes several nice 1911's. It hides well in an Alien Gear Comfort Tuck 3.5 holster and it's comfortable to wear all day. Out of all my handguns (a considerable number), this one has become my new favorite. I guess you can tell that I'm a big fan.

Totally agree that feel of grip is critical and, of course, subjective. Nice to know we went to different high schools together. Also 75, and over the past few years, have experienced a touch of arthritis and decreased strength of hands. Try to diligently exercise with hand grips to restore some strength. Also installed a steel guide rod in the Shield. Had heard it makes racking the slide easier. Didn't seem to help much.

 

[Ranger17]

I actually went from a 1.0 compact to a Shield. The compact was a perfectly reliable shooter, i just didnt care for how the short grip felt unless i was using full size mags. At that point I'd then just take the full size MP to the range. The compact was just in the middle for me.
While the Shield is obviously thinner it felt better in my hands. That said i have not held one of the 2.0 compacts so couldnt compare them to a Shield.

 

[smoke33]

Transition From 9mm Shield To M&P 9C

I have both a Shield 1.0 and a 9C 1.0 and love shooting them both but, the Shield just fits my hand better. I did put the Talon grips on it and they are fantastic!
The footprint between the two is similar but the difference is in the thinness of the Shield and my choice for carry. I really want to like the Compact more due to capacity but for me, the Shield wins.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[GKC]

Meanwhile, got all stoked about the 1.0 9C. Not easy to find on line, and price is running between $425.00-465.00. Thought the 2.0 rollout would drive 9C prices down.

The two online vendors that I've used and had good luck with are Buds and Gun Genie. (I like to buy guns from Gun Genie that don't have a factory lifetime warranty, since Gun Genie provides their own...but that isn't an issue with S&W.) The price from Gun Genie, with shipping and fees to my local FFL is about $550, which surprised me. (You'd have to see how your FFLs in your area price them....they do vary by FFL.) At Buds, the price is $395 (after rebate, it says, which I'm not sure what rebate they mean) and free shipping. You'll have to pay transfer fees at your FFL, which may add $25 or so, depending on what they charge.

They may be lower priced at other online vendors, or auction sites, but I don't have any experience with those. I really am surprised that the prices aren't lower with the 2.0 models out...but maybe it's because the 1.0 Compact is in the middle size wise between the Shield and the 2.0 Compact, so there's still a demand I guess.