S&W M&P Shield 40 last shot hold open failure

[@brianc1481]

Happened to mine the other day at the range. I'm hoping it was a one time thing but I'm definitely gonna keep an eye on that.

[@Psyclaws]

Yea. I'm fairly certain it was my thumb resting on the slide release button that caused the issue this time. I knew the caliber had plenty of power to rock the slide all the way back, I wasn't limp-wristing as you can see, and I've had zero stove-pipes or failure to feed problems in almost a thousand rounds so far. I had a feeling the issue was somehow my fault, and checking a few forums backed up my suspicions. Apparently, thumbs depressing the slide release button is a common issue. I was able to replicate it in subsequent trips to the range by intentionally resting my thumb on the slide release button with only moderate pressure. I guess having 'light thumbs" the best medicine given the small frame size and slide release placement. I’ve noticed many KZbin instructors preaching this lately just as a general concept. In a high stress situation I'll probably forget everything I’ve learned and grip the gun with enough force to squeeze a round off without actuating the trigger, lol. I'm honestly not that concerned though. I don't use my slide release button when reloading anyway. I train using gross motor movements and always use my offhand to rack and release the slide as you see in the beginning of this clip. Slide lock open or not, after seven rounds, my eyes won't be on my gun, so squeezing the trigger again after the last shot will yield the same result either way. I'll just stick with practicing shot placement and reload efficiency.

[@brianc1481]

I have a very similar grip when I shoot so hopefully I was doing the same thing. I'll be headed to the range within the next few days so I'll try out your theory. Thanks man.. good luck

[@brianc1481]

What you said was the problem EXACTLY. . I kept my thumb away from the release and it locked open every time. . I purposely held my thumb ON the release and it did not.. problem solved.. Thank you for the advice my man!