Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Review: Specifications, Performance, and Price

 

Smith and Wesson has built a solid reputation for producing reliable firearms, particularly known for their concealed pistols, revolvers, and budget-friendly handguns. In 2021, Smith and Wesson introduced the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus 3.1 inch model to expand on their popular M&P Shield line, offering increased magazine capacity and improved trigger performance to meet the needs of modern concealed carriers. The S&W M&P Shield Plus pistol boasts a compact 3.1-inch barrel, 9mm caliber, and magazine options of 10+1 or 13+1 rounds, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balance of concealability and firepower.

The Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus performance is enhanced by its smooth, crisp trigger and ergonomic design, allowing for greater accuracy and control in defensive situations. With a competitive price around $500, this model provides excellent value for those looking for a dependable carry option.

In this review, we’ll dive into the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus specs, performance, and price, covering everything you need to know about this top concealed carry option. Check out our comprehensive Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus review, discussing main specs, performance, and price of the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus pistol. Keep on reading to discover what makes the Shield Plus one of the best Smith and Wesson pistols for concealed carry.

 

 

Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus: Background & First Impressions

 

The SW M&P Shield Plus was crafted to meet the needs of everyday carriers seeking a reliable, high-capacity Smith and Wesson pistol in a compact form. The origin of the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus traces back to the original M&P Shield series, which quickly became a favorite for concealed carry due to its slim profile and comfortable grip. Launched in 2021, the MP Shield Plus brought several enhancements to this legacy, combining Smith & Wesson’s renowned ergonomics with increased magazine capacity—an upgrade highly valued by both civilian and law enforcement users.

When I first laid my hands on the M&P Shield Plus, I immediately appreciated the perfect balance of its design; the compact size fit my hands like a glove, and the grip texture felt purpose-built for secure handling. Building on the basic Shield model, Smith and Wesson refined the Shield Plus by adding a more refined trigger and slightly wider grip, providing a more stable and controlled shooting experience. This release demonstrates Smith and Wesson's commitment to evolving their pistol lineup with enhancements that keep the Shield series at the forefront of the concealed carry market.

 

Key Features of Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus

 

The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus, chambered in 9mm, offers a notable magazine capacity of up to 13+1 rounds, setting it apart in the concealed carry market. Constructed with a durable polymer frame and a stainless steel slide, the M&P Shield Plus is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday carry without compromising on weight or durability. With a barrel length of 3.1 inches, the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus size is ideal for personal defense, combining compact dimensions for easy concealment with sufficient accuracy for close-range scenarios.

One of the main benefits of the S&W M&P Shield Plus features is its improved trigger, providing a smoother, crisper pull that enhances shooting accuracy and user confidence. However, a common Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus problem is the slightly wider grip, which may feel less comfortable for users with smaller hands. Overall, this model delivers a balanced blend of capacity, size, and reliability for concealed carriers.

 

Main Specs of Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus

 

The S&W M&P Shield Plus comes equipped with a compact 3.1-inch barrel, making it an excellent option for concealed carry and self-defense. Chambered in 9mm, this pistol provides a generous magazine capacity of 13+1 rounds, giving users ample firepower in a slim design. Built with a polymer frame and a stainless steel slide, the Shield Plus combines lightweight handling with solid durability. Let’s explore the main specs of the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus.

 

Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Specs	Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Spec Value
Caliber	9mm
Magazine Capacity	10+1 or 13+1 rounds
Height	4.6 inches
Width	1.1 inches
Overall Length	6.1 inches
Barrel Length	3.1 inches
Front Sight	White Dot
Rear Sight	White 2-Dot
Frame Material	Polymer
Accessory Rail	No
Red Dot Ready	No
Weight	20.2 ounces
Price	Approximately $500

 

Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Pros and Cons

 

The pros and cons of the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus 3.1 inch highlight its appeal as a high-capacity, concealable handgun while addressing a few considerations for potential users. A key advantage of the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus is its increased magazine capacity of up to 13+1 rounds, which provides added security and reduces the need for frequent reloading, making it a practical choice for self-defense. On the downside, the slightly wider grip needed to accommodate this capacity may feel less comfortable for users with smaller hands, potentially impacting ease of handling. These pros and cons of SW M&P Shield Plus showcase its strengths as a concealed carry option while noting aspects to consider for a well-rounded carry experience.

 

What are the main advantages of Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus?

 

The Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus offers a range of advantages that make it a top choice for concealed carriers and self-defense enthusiasts. The primary Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus benefits are highlighted below.

• High Magazine Capacity: One of the standout Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus advantages is its 13+1 magazine capacity, providing substantial firepower in a compact design, ideal for defensive scenarios without constant reloading.
• Improved Trigger System: The MP Shield Plus features a refined trigger with a smoother, crisper pull, enhancing accuracy and control during use.
• Compact and Concealable Size: With a slim profile and lightweight build, the M&P Shield Plus is easy to carry discreetly, making it comfortable for daily carry.
• Durable Construction: Built with a polymer frame and stainless steel slide, the Shield Plus combines reliability with resilience, capable of withstanding frequent use.

These Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus pros make it an appealing choice for those seeking a reliable, high-capacity handgun tailored for everyday carry.

 

What are the main disadvantages of Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus?

 

Just like previously mentioned, the biggest disadvantage of the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus is its slightly wider grip, which may not suit users with smaller hands. Apart from that, there are a few other Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus problems that some users encounter, listed below. Fortunately, these Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus issues are generally manageable.

• Wider Grip: While the extended grip provides additional magazine capacity, it can feel less comfortable for users with smaller hands, affecting overall control.
• Limited Accessory Compatibility: The MP Shield Plus lacks a standard accessory rail, limiting the attachment of lights or lasers and restricting customization options.
• Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Recoil: The compact, lightweight design can produce slightly higher recoil, which might impact accuracy for some shooters, particularly beginners.
• Price: Compared to similar models, the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus is priced slightly higher, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.

These Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus cons should be considered, though they don’t detract from its overall value as a reliable, high-capacity carry pistol.

 

Best Upgrades for Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus

 

Enhancing your Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus 3.1 inch with aftermarket accessories can boost its performance, accuracy, and ease of handling, giving users the flexibility to tailor the pistol to their specific needs. Popular Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus upgrades include improved sights, which can significantly enhance target acquisition and visibility in low-light situations, a crucial advantage for defensive scenarios. A custom trigger upgrade can provide a smoother pull and more consistent break, improving shooting accuracy and control, especially during rapid fire.

Adding a larger magazine extension not only increases capacity but also provides a better grip surface for larger hands, improving comfort and control. Aftermarket grip sleeves or stipple kits improve traction, reducing slippage and increasing confidence during handling. These Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus accessories can enhance your shooting experience, tailoring the M&P Shield Plus to meet the demands of self-defense and daily carry.

 

What are the best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus accessories?

 

Equipping your Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus 3.1 inch with top-quality accessories can greatly improve its performance, handling, and practicality. Here are some of the best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus accessories to consider.

• Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Red Dots: The Holosun 507K is a popular option, providing excellent clarity and fast target acquisition. When installing a red dot for Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus, a custom Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus red dot holster is essential for secure, comfortable carry.
• Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Lights: The Streamlight TLR-6 is a compact light that enhances low-light visibility, ideal for defensive scenarios. Pair it with a custom Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus light-bearing holster for optimal security and accessibility.
• Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Sights: The TruGlo TFX Pro sights offer brightness in all lighting conditions, improving target acquisition speed for both day and night use.
• Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Grips: Talon Grips are highly recommended as the best grip for Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus, enhancing comfort and control during rapid fire.
• Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Extended Magazines: Smith & Wesson’s 13-round extended magazine provides additional capacity without compromising reliability, perfect for longer shooting sessions or defensive carry.
• Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Holsters: Let’s now take a closer look at the best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus holsters to find an ideal carry option.
• Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Gun Belt: The 1.5'' Leather Belt is highly durable and provides the necessary support for everyday carry.
• Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Magazine Holders: The Leather Double Mag Pouch is an excellent choice, offering secure storage and quick access to extra magazines.

These accessories enhance the versatility and performance of the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus, making it a more effective tool for self-defense and daily carry.

 

 

Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Holsters: How to Choose the Best Holster for Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus?

 

Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus holsters are essential accessories that enhance the safety, comfort, and accessibility of this reliable concealed carry pistol. Choosing the best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus holster is crucial for keeping your firearm secure and ready for quick access when needed.

• Intended Use: Start by defining the main purpose of the holster. For daily concealed carry, opt for a holster with higher concealment and comfort. For range use, look for one with faster accessibility.
• Carry Style: Your preferred carry method is important. IWB (Inside the Waistband) holsters are ideal for discreet carry, while OWB (Outside the Waistband) holsters provide faster access and are suited for open carry.
• Material: Choose between leather for comfort and a classic look or kydex for a molded, secure fit that offers enhanced retention.
• Accessories: If you plan to use a red dot or light on your Shield Plus, select a holster specifically designed to accommodate these Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus upgrades.

By focusing on these factors, you’ll be able to select the best holster for Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus that aligns with your personal needs and enhances your carrying experience.

 

What are the best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus concealed carry holsters?

 

For effective concealed carry, the best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus concealed carry holsters offer a blend of comfort, accessibility, and concealment tailored to your preferred carry style.

• Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus IWB Holsters: Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters keep the Shield Plus close to the body, making it easily concealable under most clothing. This style is ideal for daily carry, offering both security and discretion.
• Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus OWB Holsters: While outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters are generally less discreet, they allow for faster access and can still be concealed with a cover garment, perfect for those who value quick draw capabilities.
• Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Shoulder Holsters: Shoulder holsters provide an alternative carry method, particularly useful in colder weather when layered clothing can easily conceal the firearm off the waist.
• Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Ankle Holsters: Ankle holsters offer deep concealment, making them suitable as backup carry options for those prioritizing discretion, although they require more effort for access.

These Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus concealed carry holsters cater to different needs, allowing you to select the style that best fits your lifestyle and carry preferences.

 

Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus IWB Holster

 

The best IWB holster for Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus is the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus IWB Holster w Steel Clip, a top choice for those prioritizing secure and discreet carry. This Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus inside waistband holster is made from premium leather, offering a durable yet comfortable fit ideal for daily wear.

Its steel clip ensures a firm attachment to your belt, providing a secure hold while allowing for easy placement and removal. This Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus concealed holster is designed to keep the firearm close to the body, enhancing concealment without compromising accessibility. For anyone seeking a reliable and high-quality Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus IWB holster, this steel clip model offers an exceptional blend of security, comfort, and performance.

 

Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus OWB Holster

 

The best OWB holster for Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus is the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Comfortable Belt Holster, perfect for those who prioritize a secure and comfortable outside waistband carry. This Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus belt holster is crafted from premium leather, ensuring both durability and a snug fit on your belt, ideal for daily or range use.

Designed for close-to-body carry, this holster allows the firearm to rest securely against your side, enhancing concealment under a jacket or loose clothing. Its molded fit and slightly forward cant offer an ergonomic draw angle, facilitating a smooth and quick draw. For anyone seeking a high-quality Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus OWB holster that combines comfort, secure positioning, and easy accessibility, this leather belt holster stands out as a top choice.

 

Best Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Shoulder Holster

 

The best shoulder holster for Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus is the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Shoulder Holster System, a top choice for those who value comfort, accessibility, and even weight distribution during extended wear. This Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus shoulder holster is perfect for concealed carry under a jacket, providing both security and quick access to the firearm.

Equipped with adjustable shoulder straps, this system allows for a customized, comfortable fit that balances the gun’s weight across the shoulders. The holster includes a double magazine pouch, offering convenient access to additional ammunition, making it ideal for those needing quick reloads. For anyone looking for a dependable Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus shoulder holster, this leather system provides both functionality and comfort.

 

 

Why Choose Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Over Other Handguns?

 

Choosing the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus over other handguns offers several advantages, especially for concealed carriers who prioritize capacity and compact design. Chambered in 9mm with a 3.1-inch barrel, the M&P Shield Plus combines a slim profile with an impressive magazine capacity of up to 13+1 rounds, giving users more firepower than many other compact options without sacrificing concealability.

What distinguishes the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus from competitors is its refined trigger system, which delivers a smoother, crisper pull for improved shooting accuracy and control. Additionally, its ergonomic grip design offers a comfortable and secure hold, even for extended carry. This blend of high capacity, enhanced ergonomics, and a smooth trigger makes the MP Shield Plus an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient concealed carry firearm.

 

How does Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus differ from Glock 43x?

 

The primary differences between the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus and the Glock 43x revolve around magazine capacity, ergonomics, and handling. The S&W M&P Shield Plus boasts a magazine capacity of up to 13+1 rounds, giving it an edge over the Glock 43x, which holds 10+1 rounds. This higher capacity makes the Shield Plus a strong choice for users who prioritize extended firepower in a compact design.

In terms of ergonomics, the M&P Shield Plus features an improved grip texture and a slightly wider grip, enhancing control and comfort, particularly for users with larger hands. The Glock 43x, on the other hand, has a slimmer profile, which may appeal more to those looking for a minimalistic, lightweight option. Additionally, the Shield Plus comes with a refined trigger that provides a smoother, crisper pull, whereas the Glock 43x retains the standard Glock trigger feel. These differences make the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus ideal for those seeking higher capacity and enhanced ergonomics, while the Glock 43x remains a solid choice for those prioritizing simplicity and slimness in a concealed carry handgun.

 

How does Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus differ from Springfield Hellcat?

 

The primary differences between the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus and the Springfield Hellcat center on magazine capacity, ergonomics, and sighting options. The Springfield Hellcat boasts a slightly higher magazine capacity of 11+1 or 13+1 rounds, compared to the M&P Shield Plus’s 10+1 or 13+1 options. This small edge in capacity makes the Hellcat a compelling choice for those who prioritize maximum firepower in a micro-compact format.

In terms of ergonomics, the MP Shield Plus is known for its comfortable grip texture and slightly wider grip, offering a secure and balanced feel, particularly for shooters with larger hands. The Hellcat, while compact and slim, has a more aggressive grip texture that may be ideal for those seeking extra control in rapid-fire scenarios. Additionally, the Hellcat is often praised for its optics-ready design, which allows for easy red dot mounting, a feature not standard on the Shield Plus. These distinctions make the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus 3.1 inch a great option for those prioritizing grip comfort and simplicity, while the Springfield Hellcat appeals to users seeking high capacity and advanced sighting flexibility.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus

 

Now that we've been through everything you need to know about the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus, let's wrap it up by answering some of the Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus frequently asked questions. These will help clarify any remaining details and offer further insights into this compact and powerful concealed carry option.

 

 

Conclusion: Is Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus Worth It?

 

The Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus 3.1 inch is absolutely worth considering for anyone looking for a reliable, compact handgun with excellent specifications, solid performance, and reasonable pricing. With a 3.1-inch barrel, up to 13+1 magazine capacity, and smooth trigger, it’s built for those who prioritize concealability without sacrificing firepower. This pistol offers superb ergonomics, ease of control, and reliability, making it a top choice for concealed carry and self-defense.

The Shield Plus is particularly well-suited for individuals seeking a dependable daily carry gun that performs consistently in high-pressure situations. Paired with the right Smith and Wesson M&P Shield Plus holster, it becomes an even better option, ensuring comfort and secure accessibility for everyday carry. Personally, I’m a fan of the Shield Plus for its blend of compact design, reliability, and ease of use—qualities that make it a standout choice I’d recommend for anyone in the market for a concealed carry firearm.