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The Smith & Wesson M&P line of striker-fired, semi-automatic, subcompact pistols in 9 mm and .40 S&W was a huge success. For 2016, the company upped the ante. Recognizing market demand for a concealable .45 ACP, Smith & Wesson has incorporated the chambering into its M&P Shield series. The single-stack pistol has a 3.3” Armornite-finished stainless steel barrel that provides excellent accuracy especially for a small defensive handgun. Lying comfortably in the hand and anchored by aggressive stippling in the grip area, the polymer-frame pistol has an overall length of 6.25” and is just less than 1” in width. Fine three-dot sights and a great trigger, combined with quality manufacturing, make for a capable and reliable defensive pistol.
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model: M&P45 Shield
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action: recoil-operated, striker-fired, semi-automatic center-fire pistol
Frame: polymer
Finish: black Armornite
Slide: stainless steel
Barrel: 3.3”, stainless steel
Magazine: detachable box; six- and seven-round capacity
Sights: dovetailed three-dot configuration
Trigger: 5-lb., 11-oz. pull
Weight: 20.5 ozs.
MSRP: $479
