![Smith & Wesson M&P45 Shield title screen.](/media/lk5h2tqh/smith_wesson_mp45_shield_title1.jpg?quality=60)
Interest in mid-size .45-cal. pistols that use single-stack magazines led to the release of Smith & Wesson’s M&P45. The striker-fired, recoil-operated pistol sports a polymer frame and provides capacity for seven rounds. The 22.7-oz. package is a solid choice for daily carry.
![Man wearing a ballcap shooting a pistol on a shooting range.](/media/4canv13u/smith_wesson_mp45_shield_shooting.jpg?quality=60)
The polymer frame pistol measures 4.8”-tall by 6.45”-long and is fitted with a stainless steel slide topped with three-dot pattern sights. An Armornite finish covers the pistol. Smith & Wesson provides barrel length options up to 4” and our .45 ACP-chambered test sample measured a scant 3.3”.
On the front and rear of the slide, both left and right sides contain sections of fish-scale cuts to help in manipulation. Contours on the slide’s exterior were also sculpted to smooth the process of holstering the pistol.
![Smith & Wesson black polymer pistol disassembled on white background.](/media/gi3gksox/smith_wesson_mp45_shield_assembly.jpg?quality=60)
Safety features include an articulated trigger safety and an internal mechanism to prevent misfire when the pistol is accidentally dropped. Purchasers may opt for a additional manual thumb safety, which is found on the gun’s left side where the frame and slide meet.
![Pistol on cinder blocks.](/media/irokdmip/shiled.jpg?quality=60)
The black polymer frame of the M&P45 Shield pistol contains an internal stainless steel chassis and sections of wrap-around texturing at its grip. The magazine release provides texturing as well. Six- and seven-round magazines come standard with the M&P45 Shield and each provides marked witness holes.
![Specification table for Smith & Wesson M&P45 Shield pistol.](/media/y2pazv3j/smith_wesson_mp45_shield_specs_msrp_details.jpg?quality=60)
To learn more about Smith & Wesson’s M&P45 Shield pistol, please visit the company's website HERE, and be sure to watch our American Rifleman TV segment above.