Which M&P is for me?

[BreakSxS]

So, I have my concealed carry permit but don't have a gun to carry yet. I've Shot both the shield and the m&p 9c, I shoot them both about the same. I'd prefer the increased capacity of the 9c of course but seeing as I'll only have one gun for all year's clothing types would I have a problem carrying the 9c in lighter summer clothing?

I'm definitely a smaller guy, about 5'8" 140ish lbs.

Any suggestions?

 

[Ballistic147]

I'm 6'3" and 190 lbs. The Shield is my go to around here with shorts and a t-shirt during the summer. My compact gets carried more often during the cooler months when a little more clothing is required. The compact also works very well for me with an untucked button up dress shirt but I just can't seem to hide it very well with a t-shirt alone.

 

[Santi_78342]

Just carry AIWB and you can conceal pretty much anything!!

 

[jyork08854]

I carry the 9mm Shield in SC. In summer months I use a pocket holster in my cargo shorts.

 

[BreakSxS]

Taking into account that I won't have another Home defense gun 'till i'm out of school and my paycheck goes up a bit, should this affect my decision?

 

[mattallamerican]

I know its a smith forum but id get a glock

 

[RobzGuns]

With proper modification of what you might wear, you should be able to conceal a FS (if you wanted to). I'm only 5'6" and 160 Lbs and have had no problem concealing an XDMc (about the same size as the M&Pc) with slacks and an untucked polo (made of heavier material).

I currently carry the Shield, but I pocket carry it in a Galco Pocket Protector holster. Many don't seem to be able to pocket carry the Shield.

There are dozens of threads discussing successful CC of Mid-Size handguns without going 'Mall Ninja'.

 

[SmithNWesson]

I would get the 9c. But i only say that because i really want a 9c. I currently have a bodyguard 380 that i love but want something bigger and something that i can also use for home defense. I like the larger capacity and rail. The shield is a great handgun though

 

[coachray]

I carry the shield 9mm because I trust it. I have over 1100 rounds with absolutely no failures with any ammo so far.

 

[Raisin]

I rented both the Shield and the Compact before buying and I wound up buying the Compact. I am very short at only 5'-3" and after three months I decided the Compact was too heavy with the full magazine and one in the chamber. So I went back and bought the Shield and love it. The shield conceals better and it's much more comfortable to carry due to the lower weight and width. If you can find a way to carry both to try them before buying I highly recommend you do that.

 

[mikesp11]

Bottom line is going to be, what will you carry consistently? I personally carry the 9c in an Alien Gear IWB holster all year long. I tried the Shield but it just didn't fit my hand well, even with the larger grip installed the weapon just didn't feel right. If you think weight is going to be a problem, then go with the shield. If increased round capacity ( 12-1 ) is important, then the 9c is the choice. Whatever you buy, make sure you get a GOOD holster and belt. Don't cheap out on the holster!! But you don't have to spend a fortune either on holsters. My Alien Gear was about $43 and is extremely comfortable for all day use.

 

[Bonephish]

Just carry AIWB and you can conceal pretty much anything!!

Most concealable AIWB holsters...
IWB - Gun Only: Edge Works

 

[Motorsporting]

I would rent and shoot both, and then go from there. Having said that, and owning both of your choices, the 9c is a bit more versatile in the sense that you can use a full-size mag (and with grip adapter - grip). So, you can conceal it well during the day, and at night put the full-size mag in for 17+1. The 9c is marginally smaller than the Shield, and with the right holster/belt, almost as concealable. If you're going to AIWB (which your size could easily do), get a REAL appendix holster like JM Custom, Dale Frickie, or Keeper's offers.

 

[berudd]

I'd get the Shield and get and extra 8 round magazine. If 16 won't get the job done 20 probably won't either. IMO the 9C is like a compromise between the Shield and the FS. It lacks the capacity of one and the concealablity of the other.

 

[BreakSxS]

Is there a good holster out there that can be used effectively for both normal IWB carry and appendix carry?

 

[Bill In Texas]

The Shield is the easiest to conceal of the two. Nothing wrong with the compact though.

 

[MCorps0311]

Try the M&P 40 Shield,I think you will like it,I do.

 

[Skeeter87]

I don't think you would have much difficulty concealing the compact if that's the route you want to go. I personally liked the feel of the Shield over the compact. Like someone mentioned earlier you just have to modify what you wear. Also a proper holster and a good stiff belt will make a difference. I can easily conceal a full size Glock 31 and when I carry my Shield thats even easier. For reference I'm 5'11, 165 lbs, and I IWB carry at about the 4 o'clock position.