Table of Contents
Welcome to the world of Smith & Wesson firearms. This ultimate Smith & Wesson knowledge hub is your go-to source for in-depth guides and reviews on a variety of Smith & Wesson handguns.
Explore all you need to know about Smith & Wesson’s most popular models, including top concealed carry choices like the M&P Shield and SD9VE, as well as unique revolvers like the multi-caliber Governor. Gain insights into full-sized and compact options that meet the needs of law enforcement, sport shooters, and everyday carriers alike.
Compare Smith & Wesson to other leading manufacturers such as Glock, Colt, and Ruger with our Smith & Wesson VS articles, which highlight what sets models like the M&P Shield apart from the competition. Plus, find our expert recommendations for the best Smith & Wesson accessories, including upgraded sights, grips, and tactical lights to enhance your firearm’s performance.
Lastly, discover the ideal holsters for your Smith & Wesson handgun. From IWB options for compact models like the M&P Shield to holsters designed to fit revolvers like the Governor, we cover everything you need to carry comfortably and securely.
Smith and Wesson REVIEWS: Most popular Smith and Wesson pistols and Smith and Wesson revolvers explained
Check out our ultimate Smith and Wesson guides and reviews to dive into the specs, performance, and prices of the most popular Smith and Wesson semi-auto pistols and revolvers.
Smith & Wesson offers a range of popular firearms, with models designed for various purposes, including concealed carry, self-defense, and sport shooting. Among the most popular pistols are the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, SD9VE, and the unique Smith & Wesson Governor.
M&P Shield: Known for its compact and slim profile, the M&P Shield is ideal for concealed carry and self-defense. Chambered in 9mm and .40 S&W, the Shield offers a balance of portability and performance. It is widely praised for its ergonomic grip, manageable recoil, and consistent accuracy, making it a top choice for civilians and professionals.
SD9VE: The SD9VE is an affordable, user-friendly pistol, especially popular among first-time firearm owners. Chambered in 9mm, it features a polymer frame and stainless steel slide, offering a lightweight yet sturdy design. This model is praised for its ease of handling and accuracy, making it a go-to option for personal protection.
Governor: A standout in the S&W lineup, the Governor is a revolver chambered in .410 bore, .45 ACP, and .45 Colt, providing unparalleled versatility. Its ability to shoot both .410 shotshells and .45 rounds makes it a reliable choice for both self-defense and recreational shooting. The Governor's versatility and reliability make it a unique offering in the revolver category.
Want to know how Smith and Wesson compares to other brands? Then check out the following Smith and Wesson vs Other Handguns section!
Smith and Wesson VS Other Handguns
Smith & Wesson competes with top manufacturers like Glock, Colt, and Ruger, each offering unique characteristics across their firearm lines.
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Smith & Wesson vs. Glock: Both brands are widely respected, but they differ in design and performance. Glock pistols, known for their minimalistic design and low weight, use a polymer frame and a “Safe Action” system. S&W handguns like the M&P Shield are often favored for their more traditional ergonomics and grip design, providing better comfort for some shooters.
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Smith & Wesson vs. Colt: Colt, known for revolvers like the Python, offers a strong lineup of classic, high-caliber firearms. While Smith & Wesson has its own iconic revolvers, like the Model 686, Colt focuses on high-power revolvers and historical designs, while S&W provides more modern, versatile models like the Governor.
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Smith & Wesson vs. Ruger: Ruger is known for its rugged, affordable firearms. While Ruger handguns are often more budget-friendly, Smith & Wesson models typically feature enhanced ergonomics and design elements that improve handling and comfort, making them suitable for daily carry and professional use.
Best Smith and Wesson Holsters
Craft Holsters offers a selection of holsters specifically designed to meet the needs of Smith & Wesson users, ensuring that each holster is tailored to fit popular models like the M&P Shield, SD9VE, and Governor. These holsters prioritize comfort, accessibility, and retention to match the high standards of Smith & Wesson users.
Best Concealed Carry Smith and Wesson Holsters
For those carrying Smith & Wesson pistols for self-defense, Craft Holsters provides options optimized for concealed carry. The best options include IWB (inside-the-waistband) holsters that keep your S&W handgun discreetly positioned while ensuring easy access. For example, the M&P Shield pairs well with compact, minimalist holsters that fit comfortably against the body. Leather, Kydex, and hybrid holsters all offer viable solutions, depending on personal preference for material and retention style.
This Smith and Wesson M&P Shield OWB holster offers easy access and super quick draw. The pancake design grants it a slim and low profile, which means your gun can be easily concealed in the holster even though it's carried outside the waistband. On top of that, the holster feels extremely comfortable.
This Smith and Wesson SD9VE leather cross-draw holster is your ideal choice if you spend hours on end driving or have a sedentary job. The holster sits on your less dominant side and its angle secures a very quick and convenient draw. The cross-body draw is ideal mainly for those suffering from shoulder injuries. The holster made of premium Italian leather also features a reinforced thumb break strap, which secures your gun inside the holster and boosts its retention.
Are you a fan of shoulder holsters? Great, then this Smith and Wesson Governor leather shoulder system is your best choice. Your gun is carried in the horizontal position and it's secured in place thanks to the thumb break strap. The system that features a double ammo holder can be fastened to your belt via the tie-down straps, which makes it both secure and greatly balanced. Moreover, the holster itself can be used as a regular belt holster!
best Smith and Wesson accessories
To enhance the performance and versatility of Smith & Wesson firearms, users can add a range of quality accessories tailored to their needs. Upgraded sights, such as fiber-optic or night sights, significantly improve target acquisition, especially in low-light conditions. Laser attachments are also popular for boosting accuracy, particularly in self-defense situations where quick targeting is essential.
Enhanced grips provide greater comfort and control, helping to manage recoil and improve overall handling. Each of these upgrades allows Smith & Wesson owners to customize their firearm to meet specific shooting preferences, ensuring an optimized and reliable shooting experience.
