The Iconic Smith And Wesson M&P 9MM

The M&P series has become synonymous with high-quality and reliable firearms, and the M&P Shield Plus is no exception. While it wasn’t the first compact 9mm handgun on the market, it paved the way for a popular line of ultra-compact firearms. The M&P Shield boasts both compactness and lightweight design, while also delivering excellent accuracy and control. It’s noteworthy for its semi-staggered magazine, which maximizes its capacity despite its small size. In a recent update, Smith & Wesson has taken the M&P Shield to the next level with the M&P Shield Plus, a pistol that maintains the compactness of its predecessors but significantly increases its magazine capacity.

Shield Plus Configurations

Like the previous 2.0 model, the Shield Plus is available in various configurations, including the option for a thumb safety and a choice between steel, white-dot, or night sights. The Performance Center model offers additional features such as a longer 4″ slide, an optic-ready slide, and a ported barrel/slide. However, unlike the older Shields, the Shield Plus is only available in 9mm and not .40 S&W or .45 ACP.

Increased Magazine Capacity of the M&P Shield Plus

One of the most notable improvements of the M&P Shield Plus is its magazine capacity. While the previous Shield came with two magazines, the Plus model offers a significant increase in rounds. The flush-fit magazine now holds 10 rounds, and the extended magazine holds up to 13 rounds, compared to the 7+1 and 8+1 previously available. This considerable increase in capacity has us looking at the Shield in a whole new light. Additionally, the magazines are well-finished and of higher production value than the older models.

Grip and Holster

Surprisingly, the increased magazine capacity does not significantly impact the size of the grip. While it is slightly larger, it does not make a practical difference. This also means that holsters for the older Shield 2.0 models are compatible with the Shield Plus, reducing costs for those upgrading. It also means that high-quality holsters are readily available for those entering the Shield market with the Plus model.

Magazine Size

Apart from the increased capacity, the extended magazine also features another upgrade. The friction-fit magazine sleeve on the previous models has been replaced with a baseplate attachment, preventing the magazine from riding up and causing insertion issues. This is a welcome change that improves the overall functionality of the extended magazine.

Other Improvements and Changes

The Smith And Wesson M&P 9MM (Shield Plus) also boasts a few other minor upgrades. The most prominent is the flat-faced trigger, which not only gives the gun a modern look but also offers excellent performance. The trigger travel is short, with a crisp break and minimal creep, and the reset is both audible and tactile without being overly long. On average, the trigger weighs 4.25 pounds, measured by a Timney trigger gauge. While the 2.0 trigger was already above average, the Shield Plus trigger surpasses it with exceptional quality.

Characteristics:

Type of Operation: Semi-Automatic

Length of Barrel: 3.1 inches

Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson

California Proposition 65 Warning: Yes

Projectile Size: 9mm Luger

Capacity: 13 rounds

Finish: Armornite

Model: M&P9 Shield Plus

Included Magazines: 2

Series: M&P Shield Plus

Compatibility for Optics: Adaptor Plate

Sights: Night Sights