First Impressions of Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine represents a crucial upgrade for owners of the popular Shield Plus pistol. This magazine offers a higher capacity than the flush-fitting options, enhancing the firearm’s usability for both concealed carry and range use.
I’ve always been a proponent of maximizing capacity in defensive firearms, while maintaining concealability. The factory 10-round magazine felt limiting, especially considering potential threat scenarios. I wanted a reliable magazine that increased my round count without significantly impacting the grip length or concealability of my Shield Plus.
The magazine arrived in a simple, Smith & Wesson branded package. My initial impression was positive: the magazine felt solid and well-constructed. It was noticeably heavier than the 10-round magazine, indicating a robust build quality.
Compared to aftermarket magazines I’ve tested in other firearms, this factory offering felt much more confidence-inspiring. I chose this Smith & Wesson magazine over cheaper, generic options because I prioritize reliability in magazines above all else. My first impression was definitely excitement tinged with anticipation to see how it performed at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine at my local outdoor shooting range. I ran a variety of 9mm ammunition through it, including 115 grain FMJ, 124 grain JHP, and 147 grain HST.
The magazine performed flawlessly in dry conditions; it seated positively in the magazine well and fed each round smoothly. The increased grip length provided by the extended magazine baseplate also improved my grip and control over the pistol. I didn’t experience any failures to feed, failures to eject, or any other malfunctions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine has proven to be incredibly reliable. I have used it in several training sessions and have carried it concealed daily.
I’ve noticed no significant wear and tear, despite frequent loading, unloading, and magazine changes. Cleaning is simple: I disassemble the magazine, wipe down the body and follower, and lightly lubricate the spring. The Smith & Wesson magazine far outperforms some of the cheaper aftermarket magazines I’ve used in other firearms, which often suffer from feeding issues or premature wear. I am impressed with the durability and consistency of this magazine.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine
Specifications
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus pistol. It holds 13 rounds of 9mm Luger ammunition.
The magazine body is constructed from stainless steel, providing excellent durability and corrosion resistance. The magazine has a black finish and the follower is made of a high-strength polymer. This magazine is specifically designed for the M&P Shield Plus, ensuring optimal fit and function.
Performance & Functionality
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine performs its job admirably. It provides a significant increase in capacity compared to the factory 10-round magazine without compromising reliability.
The magazine feeds ammunition smoothly and consistently, contributing to the pistol’s overall accuracy and reliability. The primary weakness is that some users may find the extended baseplate less comfortable for concealed carry than the flush-fitting magazines. This magazine meets my expectations and then some; it significantly enhances the functionality of my Shield Plus.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s stainless steel construction feels substantial and durable. The polymer baseplate is well-shaped and provides a comfortable extension for the grip.
The design is simple and functional, and the magazine is easy to load and unload. There is a slight learning curve if you are accustomed to loading lower-capacity magazines, but overall, it is very user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine is built to last. The stainless steel construction and high-quality polymer follower should withstand thousands of rounds of use.
Maintenance is straightforward: regular cleaning and light lubrication are all that is required. The magazine can be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine doesn’t directly support customization options. However, aftermarket baseplates are available from various manufacturers.
The magazine is compatible with standard 9mm Luger ammunition, but not with +P or +P+ loads (though the pistol itself is rated for occasional use of +P ammunition). The magazine works seamlessly with the standard Smith & Wesson Shield Plus pistol, and the availability of aftermarket baseplates allows for some degree of personalization.
Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine
Pros
- Significantly increased capacity (13 rounds) compared to standard magazines.
- Reliable feeding and function, ensuring smooth operation of the pistol.
- Durable stainless steel construction for long-lasting performance.
- Extended baseplate enhances grip and control.
- Easy to disassemble and clean, simplifying maintenance.
Cons
- Extended baseplate may slightly compromise concealability for some users.
- Higher cost compared to some aftermarket magazine options.
Who Should Buy Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine?
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine is perfect for concealed carry holders who want increased capacity. It also appeals to recreational shooters who desire less frequent magazine changes at the range.
Those who prioritize maximum concealability and are comfortable with lower capacity magazines may want to skip this product. A must-have modification would be a high-quality concealed carry holster designed to accommodate the slightly longer grip.
Conclusion on Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine
The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus 9mm Luger 13 Round Pistol Magazine is a worthwhile upgrade for any Smith & Wesson Shield Plus owner. It dramatically increases the pistol’s capacity without sacrificing reliability.
The price of $52.89 is justified by the magazine’s robust construction and dependable performance. I would highly recommend this magazine to anyone looking to enhance the capabilities of their Shield Plus. Get yours today and experience the difference!