But after a while I wonder, what is the point?
At least for me.
I like the idea of a single stack, thin, CCW gun. But wait, I HAVE a bunch of 1911s...
"But the S&W is probably more reliable." Well maybe. Maybe more reliable than a factory 1911, but I have learned how to discern and tell the differences in 1911 function, and hell have modified all mine with a competent gunsmith.
"But the S&W is much cheaper." Yes, but I already have spend the money on the 1911s.
"It's lighter?" I guess, sure, yeah. Not my highest priority, but something to consider if these guns start feeling heavy in the holster.
---
Now for the true test.
"If you were given X, for free, transferred by an FFL, with no sentimental value attached, would you sell X?" And X is an S&W shield in .45 or 9mm.
Now that is a good question. I'd hesitate. And I'm not sure why. If I lost it in a fire or a boating accident or at the airport security screen, heck, it's a shame but I am out nothing and it costs $500 to replace. But is that enough to make me keep it... I could apply that value to something with a bit more utility. Like a full size M&P.
With all the rebates and such, they're the next thing to free right now.
ReplyDeleteThe difference between CCWing a full-size 1911 and a Shield/G43-size gun is night and day. Especially if you're carrying it all day.
I want to like the Shield, too. But, to me, it has the ergonomics of a foot ball bat. And the niche is wierd. Either I shove my LCP in my pocket or I'm wearing my Glock OWB with a jacket over it.
ReplyDeleteWhen you wear a 52 Long jacket, the Shield is a pocket gun
ReplyDeleteConsider a 1911 with an aluminum frame. 5 sizes? 5", 4.25", 3.5", 3"(?)(I'm not sure if the frame is smaller than the Officers), and there might also be a 4". IIRC, the Officers is listed at 24 ozs, about 10 lighter than steel. You may notice the difference with Corbon 185gr :D
ReplyDeleteWhile the shield was cheap I ended up spending more than the cost the gun in upgrades. I added a apex trigger group and a meprolight ft sight. I love it, the trigger was the best investment of course. I liked it so much I bought another on in 9 and did the same thing to it. Once you add the apex trigger the shield really becomes the ultimate carry gun, 7 rounds of .45 acp with not a lot of weight and a really crisp light trigger.
ReplyDelete