Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield Review

Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield
Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield

USA –  -(Ammoland.com)- Since 2012, the Smith & Wesson (SW) M&P Shield has proven to be a very good concealed carry (CC) pistol. Could it be even better?

Recently, the SW Performance Center sent me the new ported-barrel version of the S&W Shield pistol for me to review.

Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield

Like a lot of folks, I was anxious to hold it, try it out, learn about the porting and see if it met my needs. Some readers and students wanted to compare it with the original version they already owned and decide whether to get the ported model since they were pleased with the Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield they already had. Some asked me to review it, so I was anxious to do that and then report my opinions and evaluation of the ported version to you.

Some questioned the necessity for the ported model and asked some very insightful overall questions.

Are there any unique or different features with this version? What features make this gun stand out from the original Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield, and are they worthwhile? How accurate is it? Is the enhanced trigger press noticeably smooth and crisp? What about the trigger reset? Does the porting really help, and is it necessary for this concealed carry (CC) handgun? Are there important negatives to it? Would this Ported Shield be good for me for CC, and what effect does the porting really have? How do I rate it now relative to the other striker-fired carry guns?

First, I want to provide you with the Smith & Wesson Performance Center Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield’s specifications and some of its features. Overall, it fits my eight key Concealed Carry (CC) factors and my criteria for my top CC handguns. I evaluate in-depth with specified drills and then rank my Top 21 CC guns in my recently-published book “Concealed Carry & Handgun Essentials.” It includes the original Shield and 20 other top-carry handguns. Here I present a brief review and report on the Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield in 9mm.

Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield Specifications
Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield Specifications

Here are 10 of my criteria and factors for evaluating any handgun, which I will use to review for the Smith & Wesson Ported Shield. In addition to my criteria, other subjective features may be appealing for some, like a certain style, mag release location, action, caliber, appearance, number of mags included, type of sights/modifications, bore axis, rail, non-porting, included extras like a holster and pouch, customer service, etc. So, I combined these into my last Miscellaneous criterion. I assigned a total possible point score of 10 points for each of my 10 criteria for a total possible score of 100 points. You can certainly add your own criteria and preferences or subtract any of mine.

Here are mine:

  • (1) Accuracy and Reliability- Performs well without reoccurring malfunctions and stoppages and results in consistent, accurate target hits with a maximum of a 3″ inch hit group at 7-15 yards for concealed carry;
  • (2) Trigger Press maximum of about 5.5 pounds or so – lessens force applied for less movement & better accuracy- and press that is crisp and identifiable (TRAIN to be Trigger Safe);
  • (3) Trigger with short travel distance (a short travel distance increases the speed the trigger can be fired) and
    easily identifiable and short reset point; Trigger with a smooth, consistent press for every shot (less need to transition between presses & make adjustments);
  • (4) Barrel length of 3.0″-4.5″ (primarily for concealed carry);
  • (5) Sights that are basic & simple (easy to use & see–I like Fiber Optic fronts); fast target acquisition; for my purposes– adjustable for windage; Night Sights for low-light situations;
  • (6) Proper Gun Weight to minimize recoil (I prefer about 25 oz. or less for personal defense);
  • (7) Caliber match to my needs, characteristics & abilities (consider medical & physical limitations); 9mm is my preference;
  • (8) Capacity -adequate for use & feature tradeoffs- usually want at least 8-10 in a 9mm magazine for carry;
  • (9) Ergonomics – Hand Comfort and Grip Fit, controls easy to work and easily accessible; rounded, low-profile;
  • (10) Miscellaneous – Overall Finish, fit, & quality appearance; mag release location; ambidextrous controls;
    accessory rail as required; excellent customer service with friendly & helpful representatives; ease of disassembly-assembly; Hard Case; Extras (like holster & pouch), etc.

There are several characteristics, pros and cons, and criteria to include and consider, and you make your own tradeoffs according to your priorities, preferences, and defined needs and use.

RANGE TEST: Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield with Sig Sauer 9mm Elite Performance Ammunition

I shot about 150 rounds of quality Sig Sauer Elite V-Crown ammo in 115, 124, and 147-grain weights in FMJ and JHP rounds through the Ported Shield, so the gun was not fully broken in. Thanks to Sig Sauer for providing the Sig Sauer 9mm Elite Performance Ammunition for field test ammo. Below are my evaluations for each of my ten criteria for my concealed carry purpose. Recognize this old geezer is not a top expert shooter by any means. I wanted to check the Shield for malfunctions and performance with quality ammo in various weights.

Sig Sauer 9mm Elite Performance Ammunition
Sig Sauer 9mm Elite Performance Ammunition

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield in 9mm has great ergonomics, was very comfortable in my hand and was accurate and reliable. There were zero malfunctions, stoppages, and problems, and the various weights of Sig Sauer ammo performed flawlessly. Shooting at various retention positions and stances at dusk, the porting did not concern me, but I would also like to shoot it at nighttime. When I shot it, I did not notice any metal fragments or gunshot residue on me. Also, when observing my students shooting it up close, I did not notice the muzzle flash or any observable particulates coming from the ports. Shooting it from close retention positions and from the hip did not cause me any problems or concerns. I had zero reliability and performance issues, and it was accurate.

Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm Barrel Shield Ports
Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm Barrel Shield Ports

The V-angled ports on the front of the slide and barrel seemed to reduce some of the recoil and muzzle flip. It did perform somewhat better than some of my other similar short-barreled, polymer, lightweight 9mm guns. Recognize that most 9mms do not generally have that much recoil anyway.

Rather than read or listen to some of the unfounded and second-hand stories about how porting is unnecessary or may burn your shirt off from the flash, answer some uncertainties by handling and shooting a ported handgun for yourself. I did and tried to answer for myself such questions as:

  • Does a ported gun perform better than a non-ported gun?
  • What are the pros and cons of ported slides/barrels?
  • Is there significant residue, particulate, or flash from the porting?

Because of the variety of ported gun models and even the differences among any one ported model, you really have to experience and determine these answers for yourself. Decide for yourself by handling and experiencing firsthand a ported handgun.

Below are some of the things I experienced when shooting the Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield:

  • (1) The porting did seem to reduce the muzzle rise when I shot it, which allowed me faster follow-up shots;
  • (2) Porting the top of just about any slide/barrel redirects some of the hot, expanding gases in a different direction, affecting the recoil force. The angling of the ports helped redirect the residue away from me, and I was not bothered by any possible flash or residue. I noticed the front portion of the ported slide had slightly more residue than some of my other 9mm guns, but not a problem at all. And I did experience somewhat less recoil (not significantly with this short 3.1″ barrel) with the Ported Shield;
  • (3) The porting of the barrel and slide did seem to help keep the front of the gun down when shooting and helped me keep my sights on the target better. Perhaps, due to the muzzle not rising as sharply. I liked shooting the somewhat heavier 124-grain and hollow-point loads.
  • (4) Without a doubt, it was somewhat easier than some of my non-ported guns on my weak carpal-tunnel wrist condition. But, not sure if there was that much of a difference to be significant, given the usual low 9mm recoil.
  • (5) CAUTION: Be careful when shooting a ported barrel/slide from a retention position near your body or from a close combat stance since the hot gases, powder, and particulate under pressure might cause injuries from that particular gun.

After my range experience, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield impressed me as a very accurate, reliable carry gun, with an excellent comfortable grip and lovely fiber optic sights.

At the range, I first shot 30 rounds of fast fire at 10 yards with tactical mag reloads, and all hits but one were in the 7 to 10 rings. I was happy with the 3-3.5 inch group sizes overall. Over several distances, it proved to be accurate. Below are hits on one of my targets at 10 yards from my range field testing of the Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield.

Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm with Ported Barrel Shield Test Fire Results
Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm with Ported Barrel Shield Test Fire Results

Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield Range Test Results for Each of my 10 Criteria:

  1. The Accuracy of the Ported Shield was very good for me at distances of 7, 10, and 15 yards, given my aging eyesight. My groups at each distance were about 3.0-3.5 inches for the first time I ever fired the gun. Not great, but adequate for me. I used my Modified-Isosceles Stance, a two-handed grip, and shot Sig Sauer V-Crown 115-grain and 124-grain JHPs and Sig Elite FMJ ammo. I preferred the 124 grain hollow points… 10.
  2. The Trigger Press averaged about 6.5 pounds with four readings from my Lyman Electronic Trigger Pull Gauge. This was precisely what the manufacturer indicated, but I wanted a little lighter and shorter press. This is a personal preference, but I know some of my recommended carry guns have lighter presses. I analyze and compared them in my recent book. The Ported Shield trigger press was crisp and felt good… 9.
  3. The Trigger had a tactile, very identifiable, consistent reset. I could feel it, and it felt very nice and was pronounced. My shots were consistent each time, and I could easily recognize the reset point. It was an excellent shooter, and I really enjoyed shooting it… 10.
  4. The 3.1-inch Barrel with the ported slide and lightning cuts helped control muzzle flip and the recoil. The narrow width and short barrel helped make the Ported Shield very concealable… 9.
  5. The Fiber-Optic Front and Rear Sights were nice and helped my sight alignment and sight picture acquisition. The green fiber optic front sights really made them stand out for my weak eyes… 10.
  6. The light ported slide and overall 19-ounce unloaded weight was just right for a concealed carry gun… 9.
  7. It was easy and comfortable to shoot the 9mm Caliber in the Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield. Recoil was very easy to control. It easily digested the various weights of ammo without a single malfunction or stoppage… 10.
  8. There were two magazines, one with a 7-round Capacity and one with an 8-round capacity. I wanted a third, but there are tradeoffs for the price. The 8-rounder is not the best for CC, but the 7-rounder is fine, and my medium-sized hands were accommodated… 9.
  9. The Ergonomics of the Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield was very exceptional. Its small width and narrowness fit my hands great. The grip texture was not too aggressive and smooth, but just right for me to have a firm and solid purchase. I could easily reach all the controls like the magazine release, manual safety, and slide lock lever, without turning the gun or adjusting my grip… 10.
  10. Miscellaneous. As always, before shooting any new gun, I disassembled, lubed, cleaned, and re-assembled the Ported Shield before I shot it. It was not necessary to press the trigger to disassemble it. At first, I had minor trouble reassembling the gun because it was so stiff and tight, and the slide lock would not engage, but I just oiled it more and muscled it together. After shooting it, the Ported Shield did loosen up, and I was able to reassemble it then easily. The gun’s price is reasonable, partly because it ships in a box, not a hard case. It does not include a holster, mag pouch, third mag, loader, or other accessories… 8.
Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm with Ported Barrel Shield
Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm with Ported Barrel Shield

Total Points = 94 out of 100 Possible. I recommend this handgun for one of your concealed carry guns, especially because of the fiber optic sights and great trigger.

The Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 9 Shield’s reliability, excellent ergonomics, great trigger, reduced muzzle flip with the ported barrel, and accuracy impressed me. This is just my personal opinion, so try it for yourself. I hope this review of the Ported Shield, single-stack 9mm, has helped you gain some information you did not previously have. Consider that this is just my view with limited live-range fire and using only 150 rounds of ammo. Like always, I recommend you shoot any handgun yourself before purchasing it. Decide on your criteria, how you will primarily use the gun, and what features are important to you ahead of your range time. Then critically evaluate the gun YOURSELF per your criteria and purpose, with standard drills (several mentioned in my book), with various ammo types and brands, over an extended break-in period of about 500 rounds. Remember, safety always comes first.

Continued success!


  • Photos by Author.
  • Contact Smith & Wesson for M&P Ported Shield: www.Smith-Wesson.com; 1-800-331-0852.
  • Contact Sig Sauer for Elite V-Crown 9mm FMJ & JHP ammo: www.SigSauer.com; 1-603-418-8102.

* This personal opinion article is meant for general information & educational purposes only and the author strongly recommends that you seek counsel from an attorney for legal advice and your own personal certified weapons trainer for proper guidance about shooting & using YOUR firearms, self-defense and concealed carry. It should not be relied upon as accurate for all shooters & the author assumes no responsibility for anyone’s use of the information and shall not be liable for any improper or incorrect use of the information or any damages or injuries incurred whatsoever.

Col Benjamin Findley
Col Benjamin Findley

About Col Ben Findley

“Col Ben” is retired with 30 years service in the U.S. Air Force, with joint services Special Ops duty and training, and is Air Force qualified as “Expert” in small arms. Ben is an experienced NRA-Certified Pistol Instructor, NRA Range Safety Officer, and FL Concealed Carry License Instructor.

Ben recently wrote the book Concealed Carry and Handgun Essentials for Personal Protection with 57 comprehensive Chapters about concealed carry and handgun principles, techniques, and tips for both experienced and new shooters. His book is endorsed by several organizations and is available on his website at www.FloridaHandgunsTraining.com. Contact him at [email protected].

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, Ammoland will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
17 Comments
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Guncritic

Excellent gun. Carries nice, performs superb and looks fantastic.

Joe Randazzo

Excellent review, thanks for taking the time to be so thorough. I shot this Shield and agree with your findings. To me the highpoint is accuracy. For a pocket pistol to consistently group three inches at fifty feet is remarkable. The ports are angled and this is engineering genius. What it does is create a triangle, pressing forces like an inverted tripod. This is way better than ports that fire straight up. Plus the flash is pushed out to the side and won’t blind you in low light. I got my best results shooting Federal 147 grain HST +P. From… Read more »

Dan Forkhamer

Just read all comments and the col,s. Report. But I just purchased a new MP shield 40 cal. I’ve been shooting for some years now, and have owed or shot many different makes , models and calibers. My question is the ported barrel available in 40 cal. Or 9 mm only.
Also. Can someone give a close cost for the ported barrel and is it factory order with weapon at the time

VINNY LINDY

40 or 9mm both are offered. My local shop has them at 389.00 plus a 75.00 rebate Visa card. They have both, with fiber optics. They have night site in both calibers but they are 419.00. Just bought the 9 today.

Paul Andrews

Hi,
Does S&W plan to put a Crimson & Trace laser on it? This is a must!

Julio Villamayor

Hello Mark. My PC Shield 9mm with night sights are not adjustable but I like them better than than the fiber optics sights.

Mark

Are the rear sights adjustable for windage and elevation?

JVI

I have been trying my MP shield PC9 for three weeks now and put 2,000 rounds already. I also have a G4 Glock 19. The shield is very accurate and the ported barrel present no issue during the day or at night. No relevant flush compared to my G19. My only concern is that the platform gets super dirty very fast compared to the Glock. I was actually thinking in replacing the barrel but had no success yet. I think its a very concealable gun, cool, reliable and fires very well. Not sure how it does compared to the non-ported… Read more »

Curtis Clegg

If a PC Shield owner does not like the porting for whatever reason, can he/she replace the barrel with a regular Shield barrel? Or is the pistol specifically tuned to accommodate the ports?

Jim

Yes, you can replace it with a regular barrel. There is a video on you tube showing it.

Chad

Before I purchased the PC shield I went to the range with 4 different CC sized 9mm pistols. I borrowed a Kahr p9, glock 43, PC shield, and taurus pt111 millennium pro. I truly like how the 43 felt in hand but just could not get great groupings. Since I have fired many different glock models I figured I would have no problems but that trigger just did not like my finger. Maybe it’s just my hand size but the 43 did not play well with me. The p9 trigger is a harder and longer pull but when it breaks… Read more »

Nick Cardone

First off i was not a fan of s@w shield but after shooting both style shields, I bought a performance center shield. I thought there was a heck of a difference between them, although not a fan of porting it did help with muzzle rise and lessened the strain on my poor carpel tunneled arthritic shooting hand.The trigger is smooth as can be , Yes its a pain to load but after a few round it gets better.It has become my edc and love it .Still not a fan of the sights may go big dot but its one hell… Read more »

Stan

Had one, sold it after one trip to the range. LOUD! And I had on good ear protection. The short reset of the trigger will take some getting used to. If you are an average shooter, you might have it go off twice because of the sensitive trigger. I’m sticking to my little Glock.

Joe

Any concerns the fiber optic front sight will not hold up to the increased muzzle blast with the ports?

RPK

With all due respect, I recognize the sacrifice of 30 years in a military career regardless of branch and attaining the rank of Colonel. Beyond that, there are some underlying questions. The author mentions he has had joint services Special Ops duty and training, and is Air Force qualified as “Expert” in small arms. If you are retired or former military with any experience and had any REAL trigger time, you would know Air Force Spec Ops training could be as an intelligence officer who puts pins in maps in an office or “in the rear with the gear”. And,… Read more »

SWT

Colonel, thank you for taking the time to submit an insightful and well written article. As for the above comment from Texas, please disregard. Pompous.

Wild Bill

@RPK, What was your MOS, again?