NRA Gun of the Week: Smith & Wesson Performance Center Ported M&P9 Shield

by
posted on October 7, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Though the company’s M&P Shield model pistol ranked among the top selling firearms for 2016, Smith & Wesson has decided this best-selling pistol was deserving of attention from its custom shop, the Performance Center. Included on this model are enhancements to nearly every aspect of the firearm. Check out what American Rifleman’s Joe Kurtenbach has to say about the Performance Center Ported M&P9 Shield, and be sure to visit smith-wesson.com/pc to discover other great pistols Smith & Wesson has to offer from its Performance center.

Specifications:
Model: Performance Center Ported M&P9 Shield
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Chambering: 9 mm Luger
Action Type: recoil-operated, center-fire semi-automatic pistol
Frame: polymer
Slide: steel
Barrel: 3.1”
Sights: Tritium, three-dot configuration; drift-adjustable
Magazine: seven- and eight-round detachable box
Trigger: 6-lb., 6-oz. pull
Weight: 18.2 ozs.
MSRP: $519

Latest

45 ACP M1911
45 ACP M1911

Myths & Misunderstandings About the “Modern Fighting 1911”

The Colt Model 1911 pistol and its derivatives are among the most iconic military handguns ever made. But in 2026, does the M1911 still hold up as a quality defensive arm?

Heir Apparent: The CZ 600+ Carbine

CZ's 527 action was long a popular option scaled around compact cartridges like the .223 Remington and the 7.62x39 mm. Now, the new CZ 600+ Carbine brings that same concept to the company's new CZ 600 series.

I Carry: Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard in an ANR Design Holster

In our latest "I Carry" setup, we're featuring the Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard in an ANR Design holster, and we've got a Streamlight EDC flashlight to round out our kit.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 23, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

NRA Announces Nominating Committee & Petition Nominees for the 2027 NRA Board of Directors Election

The National Rifle Association has announced the official list of all 33 candidates nominated for the 2027 mail ballot election of directors, whether by the Nominating Committee, by petition of the members or both.

Saltstone Integrator Rifle Carry System & Modular Hunting Vest: The Cure for The Common Sling

Among a hunter’s most basic equipment is their sling. The Saltstone Integrator Rifle Carry System and Modular Hunting Vest seeks to revolutionize this.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.