First Impressions of Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve
The Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve promises enhanced grip and comfort for the popular M&P Shield Plus pistol. As someone with over a decade of experience in the outdoor and tactical gear industry, I’m always looking for ways to improve weapon handling and performance. The Hogue name is synonymous with quality grips, so I was eager to see if this product lived up to its reputation.
My main motivation for seeking this grip was the M&P Shield Plus’s somewhat slender profile. While great for concealed carry, the stock grip felt a bit lacking in my larger hands, hindering a confident, consistent hold. I wanted a solution that added some palm swell and enhanced purchase without significantly increasing the gun’s overall size. I was hoping for improved recoil management and faster follow-up shots.
Upon receiving the Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve, I immediately noticed the quality of the rubber material. It felt durable and grippy, with the Hogue‘s signature Cobblestone texture providing a tactile surface. The beavertail extension looked well-designed, promising to cushion my hand and promote a higher grip. The sleeve’s snug fit initially appeared challenging, but the rubber’s pliability gave me confidence that it could be installed without too much trouble.
I considered other grip options, including Talon Grips and Pachmayr grip sleeves. I ultimately chose the Hogue due to its reputation for durability and the added beavertail feature, which I felt would provide superior recoil control compared to simple grip tape or sleeves. It was also more affordable than some of the competition.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to see if it improved my grip and recoil control but slightly concerned about the installation process and whether it would add too much bulk to my Shield Plus.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve at my local shooting range. The weather was fairly typical, with a temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and slightly humid conditions. Installation proved to be easier than expected; following the user feedback online, I used the Windex tip and the grip slid on with relative ease.
The improvement in grip was immediately noticeable. The added palm swell filled my hand nicely, and the Cobblestone texture provided a secure, non-slip surface, even with slightly sweaty hands. Recoil felt noticeably reduced, and I was able to maintain a consistent grip throughout my shooting session, which allowed for faster and more accurate follow-up shots. The beavertail effectively cushioned my hand, preventing any slide bite.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite consistent drawing and firing. The rubber material is resilient and shows no signs of cracking or peeling.
The grip is easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. It still provides the same level of enhanced grip and comfort as it did on day one. Compared to my previous experiences with the Shield Plus’s stock grip, the Hogue grip is a significant upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve
Specifications
The Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve is specifically designed for the S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus pistol. It features a durable rubber construction with Hogue‘s signature Cobblestone texture. The grip includes a beavertail extension for enhanced recoil control and hand protection.
The grip is made from a thermoplastic elastomer. The color is black. It fits the Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield Plus.
These specifications are vital because they directly impact the grip’s performance and the shooter’s comfort. The rubber material provides a non-slip surface, while the beavertail cushions the hand and promotes a higher grip. This results in better recoil management, improved accuracy, and greater overall control of the pistol.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve excels at its primary function: enhancing grip and comfort. The added palm swell fills the hand nicely, providing a more secure and confident hold. The Cobblestone texture offers excellent traction, even in wet or sweaty conditions.
The grip effectively mitigates recoil, making the Shield Plus more comfortable to shoot for extended periods. While the grip is excellent, installation can be tricky if you don’t know the tricks. It definitely exceeds my expectations; I was hoping for improved grip, but I was surprised by how much it improved recoil control and overall shooting comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve is excellent. The rubber material feels durable and well-made, and the Cobblestone texture is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The grip adds minimal bulk to the Shield Plus, maintaining its concealability while significantly improving its ergonomics.
The grip is user-friendly and requires no special skills to install (especially with a little Windex). The improved grip and recoil control make the Shield Plus more comfortable and easier to shoot.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve is built to last. The durable rubber material is resistant to wear and tear, and the grip is easy to clean and maintain. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the grip is simple. Just wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap as needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with most aftermarket holsters designed for the M&P Shield Plus, as it doesn’t significantly alter the pistol’s dimensions. There are no specific customization options for the grip itself, but it complements other modifications, such as upgraded sights or triggers.
Pros and Cons of Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve
Pros
- Enhanced Grip: The Hogue grip provides a significant improvement in grip and control compared to the stock grip. The Cobblestone texture ensures a secure hold even in wet or sweaty conditions.
- Improved Recoil Control: The beavertail extension cushions the hand and promotes a higher grip, resulting in better recoil management and faster follow-up shots.
- Increased Comfort: The added palm swell fills the hand nicely, making the Shield Plus more comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
- Durable Construction: The rubber material is resilient and shows no signs of wear and tear, even after months of regular use.
- Easy Installation: With the Windex trick, the grip is relatively easy to install.
Cons
- Initial Installation Can Be Tricky: Without the proper technique (e.g., using Windex or boiling water), the grip can be difficult to install.
- May Add Slight Bulk: While minimal, the grip does add a small amount of bulk to the pistol, which may affect concealability for some users.
Who Should Buy Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve?
The Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve is perfect for anyone who wants to improve the grip and recoil control of their M&P Shield Plus pistol. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with larger hands who find the stock grip too slender. It’s also ideal for shooters who prioritize comfort and want to reduce felt recoil for faster follow-up shots. This grip is a must-have for concealed carriers who want a more secure and confident hold on their firearm.
Those who are perfectly satisfied with the stock grip and prioritize maximum concealability above all else might skip this product. Those who are new to firearms and want to make sure they are properly equipped to manage recoil.
A high-quality holster that is specifically designed for the M&P Shield Plus is a must-have accessory to go with the Hogue grip.
Conclusion on Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve
The Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve is an excellent upgrade for the M&P Shield Plus pistol. It provides a significant improvement in grip, recoil control, and comfort without significantly increasing the gun’s overall size. The value proposition is excellent. At $14.99, it’s an affordable way to enhance your shooting experience and improve your accuracy.
I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone looking to improve the handling of their M&P Shield Plus. Don’t settle for a mediocre grip. Upgrade to the Hogue S&W M&P 9 Shield Plus HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeve and experience the difference!