The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin isn’t just another magazine; it’s a vital component for enhancing the concealability and firepower of a popular self-defense pistol. Smith & Wesson designed this 7-round magazine to provide a balance of capacity and grip length, making it a sought-after accessory for M&P Shield 40 owners. As someone deeply involved in the tactical gear world, I was driven to test how this seemingly small upgrade could significantly impact the overall shooting experience, and in some cases, even save lives.
For years, I struggled with the factory 6-round magazine, finding it limited, especially in scenarios demanding rapid follow-up shots. I wanted a solution that offered increased capacity without compromising the Shield’s compact profile. Opening the package, I immediately appreciated the Smith & Wesson quality; the magazine felt robust, well-constructed, and distinctly OEM, promising seamless integration with my Shield.
Compared to aftermarket options, I trusted the Smith & Wesson name, betting on reliability and precise engineering over cheaper alternatives. My initial impression was one of quiet confidence; this wasn’t a flashy upgrade, but a practical enhancement that addressed a real-world need. This magazine immediately felt like a worthy extension of my everyday carry setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at the range, a controlled environment to gauge the magazine’s performance and reliability. I ran several drills, focusing on rapid mag changes and controlled pairs. The magazine seated positively every time, and the slide locked back reliably after the last round.
The 7-round capacity offered a tangible advantage, providing an extra shot when it mattered most. In the humid range conditions, the magazine release remained consistent and free of issues. I experienced no failures to feed or eject, which gave me greater peace of mind.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including weekly range trips and incorporating the magazine into my EDC rotation, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin has proven remarkably durable. The black finish shows minimal wear, even after repeated insertions and extractions from mag pouches. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down keeps it running smoothly.
Compared to some aftermarket magazines I’ve used, the Smith & Wesson OEM magazine stands out for its consistent feeding and unwavering reliability. It hasn’t disappointed me once, and I trust it implicitly, knowing it will perform under pressure. That level of confidence is critical for any defensive firearm accessory.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin
Specifications
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin is specifically designed for the M&P Shield 40. Its key specifications include a .40 S&W caliber, a 7-round capacity, a stainless steel body, and a black finish. The finger rest provides added grip area.
These specs are important because they determine the magazine’s functionality and suitability for concealed carry. The 7-round capacity offers a good balance between firepower and concealability, while the stainless steel body ensures durability and corrosion resistance. The finger rest gives the user more to hold onto.
Performance & Functionality
The magazine performs exactly as intended: it feeds reliably, locks the slide back consistently, and drops free smoothly. Its primary strength is its unwavering reliability. There’s little to no discernible difference in performance between this extended magazine and the factory 6-round magazine, other than the increased capacity.
While it excels in function, it’s not a game-changing upgrade, but it is a sensible enhancement. It meets and exceeds expectations. It performs better than cheaper aftermarket options.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s design is simple, functional, and perfectly matches the aesthetics of the M&P Shield. The build quality is excellent; it feels solid and well-made. The finger rest provides a more substantial grip surface compared to the flush-fitting 6-round magazine.
The added grip is especially helpful for those with larger hands. The magazine is easy to load and insert, and its low-profile design doesn’t significantly impact concealability. The magazine enhances the ergonomics of the gun.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from stainless steel, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin is built to withstand the rigors of daily carry and frequent range use. With proper care, it should last for years. Maintenance is simple; a quick cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
The stainless-steel construction resists corrosion, even in humid environments. Overall, the magazine demonstrates excellent durability. It’s simple to keep maintained.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin itself doesn’t offer much in the way of direct customization. It’s a self-contained unit. However, its improved grip can impact the kind of holster and mag pouches you use.
While the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin doesn’t have many aftermarket accessories specific to it, you can find baseplates for it. Mag pouches, of course, are a must have.
Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin
Pros
- Increased Capacity: Adds an extra round compared to the standard magazine, providing a slight but significant increase in firepower.
- Enhanced Grip: The finger rest provides a more secure and comfortable grip, especially for those with larger hands.
- OEM Reliability: Being a Smith & Wesson factory magazine, it guarantees perfect fit and reliable feeding.
- Durable Construction: Made from stainless steel for long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance.
- Seamless Integration: Blends perfectly with the M&P Shield’s design, maintaining its concealability.
Cons
- Stiff Spring: Some users might find the spring initially stiff, requiring a break-in period.
- Minimal Capacity Increase: Only adds one round, which might not be enough for some users.
Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin?
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin is perfect for everyday carriers looking for a slight edge in firepower without sacrificing concealability. It’s also excellent for shooters with larger hands seeking a more secure grip on their M&P Shield 40. Anyone who values OEM reliability over aftermarket cost savings will find this magazine a worthwhile investment.
Those who prioritize maximum capacity above all else might want to explore other options, such as larger extended magazines, although those typically sacrifice concealability. If you’re completely satisfied with the standard 6-round magazine and don’t need an improved grip, this upgrade might not be necessary.
A must-have accessory for this magazine is a quality magazine pouch for convenient and discreet carry. Also, consider purchasing a magazine loader to ease the process of loading rounds, especially when the spring is new and stiff.
Conclusion on Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin is a well-designed and reliable upgrade for any M&P Shield 40 owner. Its combination of increased capacity, improved grip, and OEM quality makes it a valuable addition to your EDC setup. The price of $32.49 is justified by the magazine’s proven reliability and durable construction.
I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to anyone looking to enhance their M&P Shield 40. It’s a sensible, practical upgrade that provides a tangible advantage in real-world scenarios. So, grab a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40 Smith & Wesson 7 rd Black – 40 S&W Caliber, 7 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin today and experience the confidence that comes with having extra firepower at your fingertips!