The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin represents a significant step up in capacity for arguably one of the most popular concealed carry pistols on the market. This magazine, manufactured by Smith & Wesson, promises to maximize firepower without compromising the concealability that made the Shield Plus and Equalizer so appealing to begin with.
Having spent over a decade specializing in tactical gear, I’ve always been on the lookout for accessories that genuinely enhance a firearm’s utility without sacrificing its core strengths. My search for a higher-capacity option that didn’t turn my Shield Plus into a brick led me directly to this 15-round magazine.
Unboxing the magazine revealed a standard, albeit robust-looking, piece of equipment. The black finish was even and seemed durable, and the extended polymer floor plate with finger extension looked promising for improved grip. Compared to the standard 10-round and the slightly extended 13-round magazines, this one clearly prioritized capacity.
I’d considered aftermarket options from companies like Magpul, but ultimately decided to stick with the Smith & Wesson OEM magazine to ensure reliability and proper fit. My first impression was definitely excitement, tempered by a slight apprehension about how it would affect concealment during my everyday carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin was my local shooting range. I ran through a series of drills focusing on speed reloads and target acquisition to gauge the magazine’s impact on my handling.
The magazine performed flawlessly under typical range conditions. Loading was initially a bit stiff, common with new magazines, but it smoothed out after a few cycles. The extended floor plate provided a noticeably better grip, particularly for my larger hands, leading to faster and more controlled follow-up shots.
There were no failures to feed or eject, even when rapidly firing multiple rounds. The magazine locked back reliably every time when empty. The only minor issue was getting used to the increased length during reloads from a concealed carry position.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve run hundreds of rounds through it, across various ammunition types (ball, hollow point, and frangible), without a single malfunction.
There’s been no noticeable wear and tear on the magazine body or floor plate. The black finish continues to resist scratches and scuffs. Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a cloth after each range session keeps it in optimal condition.
Compared to some aftermarket magazines I’ve used with other firearms, this Smith & Wesson magazine is significantly more reliable. It definitely outperforms many of the cheaper, generic options available.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin
Specifications
Caliber: 9mm Luger. This is a standard and readily available cartridge, making it ideal for practice and self-defense.
Capacity: 15 rounds. Significantly increases firepower compared to the standard 10 and 13-round magazines.
Finish: Black. Provides corrosion resistance and a low-profile aesthetic.
Origin: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). Ensures compatibility and quality control directly from Smith & Wesson.
Firearm Fit: M&P Shield Plus and Equalizer. Designed specifically for these models, guaranteeing proper fit and function.
Proprietary Single-to-Double Stack Design: Allows for higher capacity while maintaining a relatively slim profile. This innovative design contributes to both concealability and increased firepower.
Extended Polymer Floor Plate with Durable Polymer Finger Extension: Enhances grip and comfort, especially for users with larger hands. It facilitates better control during rapid fire.
High-Tensile Steel Spring and Polymer Follower: Ensures smooth and reliable feeding of ammunition. This combination of materials provides both durability and consistent performance.
Numbered Witness Holes: Allows for quick and easy visual confirmation of remaining rounds. This feature is crucial in high-stress situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin performs exceptionally well, delivering reliable feeding and consistent lockback after the last round. Its increased capacity provides a significant advantage in self-defense scenarios, allowing for more rounds on target without needing to reload as frequently.
The extended floor plate enhances grip, resulting in improved accuracy and recoil control. The primary weakness is the slight increase in overall length, which may slightly impact concealability for some users. However, the benefits of increased capacity often outweigh this minor drawback.
It meets and exceeds expectations for an OEM magazine, offering a noticeable improvement in handling and firepower compared to the standard options.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, as expected from Smith & Wesson. The materials used are durable and the magazine feels solid in hand. The weight is negligible considering the increased capacity.
The extended floor plate provides a comfortable and secure grip. There is no learning curve involved; it functions identically to the standard magazines, but with more rounds.
Durability & Maintenance
The magazine is built to last, using high-quality steel and polymer components. It is easy to maintain; a simple cleaning after each use is sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Given its robust construction, it should withstand years of use without any major issues.
Accessories and Customization Options
The magazine itself doesn’t require any additional accessories. It’s a self-contained unit designed to work seamlessly with the M&P Shield Plus and Equalizer pistols. There are no specific customization options available for the magazine itself.
However, it is compatible with any standard magazine pouches designed for double-stack 9mm magazines. It’s also worth noting that using this magazine might require a different holster depending on your carry style and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin
Pros
- Significantly Increased Capacity: Provides 15 rounds of 9mm, increasing your firepower for self-defense.
- Enhanced Grip: The extended floor plate with finger extension offers improved comfort and control.
- Reliable Feeding: High-tensile steel spring and polymer follower ensure smooth and consistent performance.
- OEM Quality: Guarantees proper fit and function, backed by the Smith & Wesson brand.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand regular use and maintain performance over time.
Cons
- Increased Length: May slightly affect concealability compared to shorter magazines.
- Initial Stiffness: Loading can be a bit stiff when new, requiring a break-in period.
Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin?
Perfect for: Individuals who prioritize increased firepower in their concealed carry setup, those with larger hands seeking a better grip, and anyone looking for a reliable OEM magazine for their Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus or Equalizer. It’s especially beneficial for home defense or open carry scenarios where concealment is less of a concern.
Who should skip this product? Those primarily concerned with maximum concealability might find the extended length a drawback, potentially preferring the flush-fitting 10-round or the slightly extended 13-round magazines for EDC.
Must-have accessories or modifications? While not mandatory, investing in a quality magazine pouch designed for double-stack 9mm magazines is recommended for convenient carry and quick access. Depending on your carry style, you might also need to consider a holster that accommodates the longer magazine.
Conclusion on Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / Equalizer Magazine 9mm 15rd – 9mm Caliber, 15 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin is a well-designed and reliable accessory that significantly enhances the capabilities of the M&P Shield Plus and Equalizer pistols. The increased capacity and improved grip make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal.
The price is justified considering the quality and performance it delivers. The Smith & Wesson OEM ensures proper fit and reliable function.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to maximize the firepower of their M&P Shield Plus or Equalizer, especially for home defense or open carry purposes. Upgrade your Shield Plus or Equalizer today and experience the difference that 15 rounds and a comfortable grip can make!