Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish Review

First Thoughts on the Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish

The Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish is a simple, inexpensive accessory aimed at improving the handling of one of the most popular concealed carry pistols on the market. Pachmayr is a respected name in firearm grips, and this extender promises to enhance control and comfort without significantly altering the Shield’s concealability. For anyone who has ever felt their pinky finger dangling off the bottom of their S&W Shield, this product offers a potential solution.

My interest in this particular grip extender stemmed from a very specific issue: the compact grip of my S&W Shield 9mm. While I appreciate the pistol’s concealability, my larger hands always felt cramped. This made consistent shooting and accurate follow-up shots a challenge. I needed a solution that wouldn’t compromise the pistol’s primary purpose of concealed carry, but would provide a more secure and comfortable grip.

Upon receiving the Pachmayr grip extender, my initial impression was positive. The black polymer construction seemed durable enough, and the texture appeared to match the Shield’s factory grip well. The extender was lightweight, which was a key consideration, as I didn’t want to add unnecessary bulk to the pistol. I also appreciated the simplicity of the design, which suggested easy installation.

I considered a few alternatives before settling on the Pachmayr. Full replacement grips offer more real estate but often add significant width, defeating the purpose of a slim carry gun. Mag extensions from other manufacturers were also an option, but the Pachmayr extender, with its seamless design and reputation, seemed like the best balance of comfort and concealability. My hope was to find something that felt more integrated and less like an afterthought.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While it was just a piece of polymer, if it delivered on its promise of improved grip and control, it would be well worth the modest investment. I was particularly excited to see how it would perform during live fire exercises.

Real-World Testing: Putting Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish at my local indoor shooting range. My goal was to assess its impact on grip, control, and overall shooting comfort with the S&W Shield 9mm. I put around 200 rounds of 115-grain FMJ ammunition through the pistol, focusing on rapid-fire drills and accuracy testing at varying distances.

The extender performed admirably under standard range conditions. The added length provided a noticeable improvement in grip, allowing my pinky to comfortably rest on the extension. This immediately translated to better control, especially during rapid firing. I noticed that the recoil felt more manageable and my groupings tightened up, even at distances of 15 yards. There were no hiccups, and it felt solid as if part of the factory grip.

I didn’t encounter any significant issues during the initial range session. The installation was straightforward, requiring only a few seconds to slide onto the magazine. The fit was snug and secure, with no noticeable movement or wobble. The texture also matched the factory grip surprisingly well, providing a consistent feel in hand.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish continues to hold up remarkably well. I’ve carried the pistol daily, and the extender shows no signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to the rigors of concealed carry. It has endured rubbing against clothing, exposure to sweat, and the occasional bump without any cracking or deformation.

The durability of the polymer material has proven to be excellent. I’ve cleaned the extender regularly with standard firearm cleaning solvents, and it has shown no signs of discoloration or degradation. The textured surface still provides a secure grip, even when my hands are sweaty. Its seamless design has proven to eliminate potential snagging points when drawing the firearm.

Compared to my previous experiences with other grip modifications, the Pachmayr extender is a clear winner. It offers a significant improvement in grip and control without compromising the pistol’s concealability or adding unnecessary weight. Other options, such as full replacement grips, proved to be too bulky for everyday carry. This extender has provided an optimal balance of comfort, control, and concealability.

Breaking Down the Features of Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish

Specifications

The Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish is designed specifically for the S&W Shield 9mm and .40 caliber pistols. The extender is constructed from a high-strength polymer, ensuring both durability and lightweight performance. Its finish is black to seamlessly match the factory grip of the Shield.

The primary function of the grip extender is to increase the length of the grip, providing a more secure and comfortable hold for shooters with larger hands. It accomplishes this without adding significant bulk or weight to the pistol. This makes it an ideal accessory for concealed carry. The extender is designed for easy installation, sliding onto the magazine without requiring any specialized tools or modifications to the firearm.

These specifications are critical for several reasons. The polymer construction ensures long-lasting durability, while the lightweight design prevents added bulk. The black finish maintains the pistol’s aesthetic appeal. The easy installation makes it a user-friendly accessory for shooters of all skill levels.

Performance & Functionality

The Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish excels in its primary function: improving the grip and control of the S&W Shield 9mm. The added length provides a noticeable increase in stability, allowing for more accurate and consistent shooting. The extender also helps to mitigate recoil, making the pistol more comfortable to shoot, especially during extended range sessions.

One of the strengths of the Pachmayr extender is its seamless integration with the Shield’s factory grip. The texture and finish are closely matched, providing a consistent feel in hand. This eliminates any potential discomfort or distraction caused by mismatched textures. It installs easily and is reliable throughout regular use.

However, there are also some minor weaknesses. The extender adds a small amount of length to the grip, which may slightly impact concealability for some users. While the difference is minimal, it’s worth noting for those who prioritize maximum concealment. Also, the material might feel a little slick when wet.

Design & Ergonomics

The Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish features a simple, yet effective design. The polymer material is both durable and lightweight. This ensures that the extender can withstand the rigors of daily carry without adding unnecessary weight. The black finish blends seamlessly with the Shield’s factory grip, maintaining its aesthetic appeal.

The ergonomics of the extender are well-considered. The added length provides a comfortable and secure grip. The texture is closely matched to the factory grip, providing a consistent feel in hand. The overall design is user-friendly, with no sharp edges or uncomfortable protrusions.

The extender requires no additional tools or modifications for installation. The secure fit means there is less movement than expected.

Durability & Maintenance

The Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish is built to last. The high-strength polymer material is resistant to cracking, deformation, and discoloration. It can withstand exposure to standard firearm cleaning solvents without any degradation.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only a wipe down with a damp cloth or cleaning solvent. The extender can be easily removed for thorough cleaning of the magazine and grip. There are no small parts or intricate mechanisms that require special attention.

The minimal wear and tear is noticeable, and the Pachmayr is expected to last for years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish is a standalone accessory, designed to work with the factory magazines of the S&W Shield 9mm. There are no additional accessories that come with the product, nor are there any specific customization options available for the extender itself.

The extender is compatible with most standard holsters designed for the S&W Shield 9mm. However, it’s important to ensure that the holster provides adequate clearance for the added length of the grip. Some tighter-fitting holsters may require slight modification or adjustment to accommodate the extender. Some users have reported using magazine base plates from other manufacturers, but the Pachmayr excels as a standalone product.

Pros and Cons of Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish

Who Should Buy Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish?

The Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish is perfect for S&W Shield 9mm owners with larger hands who find the factory grip too small. It’s an ideal upgrade for concealed carry permit holders looking to improve their grip and control without compromising concealability. This is also a great option for recreational shooters who want to enhance their accuracy and comfort at the range.

Those who prioritize absolute maximum concealment may want to skip this product, as the added length of the grip could slightly impact their ability to conceal the pistol. Individuals with smaller hands who are already comfortable with the factory grip may not find the extender necessary. People who regularly carry in wet or extremely humid conditions might also want to consider alternative grip solutions that offer a more aggressive texture.

A must-have modification to accompany the Pachmayr extender is a high-quality holster designed to accommodate the added length of the grip.

Conclusion on Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish

The Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish is a simple, yet highly effective accessory that significantly improves the grip and control of the S&W Shield 9mm. The lightweight polymer construction, seamless integration with the factory grip, and easy installation make it a user-friendly upgrade for shooters of all skill levels.

At a price of $7.99, the Pachmayr extender offers excellent value for money. The price is justified by the noticeable improvement in grip, control, and overall shooting comfort. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your shooting performance.

I would personally recommend the Pachmayr 03887 Grip Extender S&W Shield 9 Black Finish to any S&W Shield 9mm owner looking to enhance their grip and control without compromising concealability. It’s a well-designed, durable, and affordable accessory that delivers on its promises. Upgrade your Shield today and experience the difference a better grip can make!