S&W Shield EZ: It Ain't for You

[@nutnfancy]

TNP Patreon is where the action is! Lots more videos and action over there...never too late to join and support the workload: www.patreon.com/Nutnfancy. Here's just A FEW of the comments from TNP Patrons on this video that was posted over there earlier: "Joseph You are spot on about this being for non-gun people. I took my wife to several places looking to buy her first pistol. She picked up the .380 EZ and said “this is the one” without hesitation. I got it for her immediately and she loved it ever since. This is now the gun I use to teach all new shooters that come over (along with the sub2000). Everyone who has shot them loves them both, from children to women and even men who have never shot before. The one I got is the model without the thumb safety, I think the grip safety is enough. However, You are right that most new shooters would probably prefer the model with the extra safety. I think it is a great option for for someone who is not into guns and might only ever buy one pistol. 2 1mo Nancy Merrell-Robertson Well, it's not JUST for non-gun people. After years of shooting the Glock 42 (my personal favorite of the single stacks) my first student ever, a very experienced shooter and a certified instructor himself, switched to the .380 EZ. When the 9mm EZ came out he got one, but still prefers the .380. 1mo Andrew @Nutn Would you be wiling to do a .45 acp shield? 1 1mo Shawn Kuse I’m glad that we live in a gun culture that makes different firearms for all folks. Variety is great. I would not buy this 380 since my “go to” is the LCPII. 1 1mo Gilberto Esquivel Hey Nutn, wondering if you're ever going to sell your Shield 1.0 or does it still serve and have a place in your defensive plan? 1mo Cory C You gotta get your hands on the new Springfield armory high power clone nutn 1mo Cathcart, Robert A. Muh ritis 1 4w Anthony Schaad My brother n I bought an EZ Shield 380 for our mother a few Christmas ago… she needed a carry gun an had trouble chambering guns like my G43x. She absolutely loves it, we’ve trained her up n now she carry’s on a regular basis! 4w Paul Kwiatkowski The wife has an EZ .380 and is getting used to it as her first semi-auto, with a .357 S&W 686 as her favorite Full Power Option, and she is good with it, too. The EZ review captures it very well and is much appreciated. 1 4w Paul Kwiatkowski Oh yeah, no thumb safety. 4w Tim Bone Great review...but where in the hell did you find .380 ACP ammo?! 😂🤣😂 4w Glenn in Cincy Last time I was in my local Bass Pro, they had .380 in stock, in quantity.... Not cheap, though.///Guy Actual FYI, My mother had surgery on her wrist and she has the 9mm version of this pistol. There really aren't any issues that I found other than capacity. I actually like the trigger in it and it may be because its a hammer fired pistol. No safety on hers. 1mo Tygre Great review of the innovative Smith and Wesson polymer Colt 1908 Pocket Hammerless .380. 1 1mo Eric Kelley I’m Only 55, but getting a little arthritis in the thumbs from too many years of abuse. Might be adding one of these to the portfolio. Thanks for making me aware Nutn. 3 1mo K My mom bought one of these a few years ago. She has a little arthritis so she loves it. Keeps it under her pillow. 😂 thanks for the review Nutn!!! 2 1mo Steven Schaffner Ruger Max!!!! 1mo Porter3861 I’m a gun guy both by profession and hobby, love my .380 EZ! I agree with the issues you raised Nutn, but it’s just a great & fun shooter. If I do carry .380 it’ll be my G42. Thanks for another awesome video & please keep up the good work. #suckless 2 1mo Hold Fast Joe G42 here as well in summer. G19 rest of the time. Had an lcp but it was unreliable. Was going to get a new one but figured just grab the Glock and get a longer barrel and reliability and be done 1 1mo Michael Sestak This seems like the perfect pistol for an ageing parent. 3 1mo Nathan Simms aka Darkpriest My mother currently carries a P238 because of the slide rack strength issue. She is 72 and has arthritis (she used to be a cop) I've been seriously considering the Shield EZ 380. I think we may have to pick one up. 2 1mo David Elkins My TNP recommended Glycene making an appearance. Really love the watch. Looking for a good alternative band for it for my more physical activities. Love it though. Only other watch tempting me going forward is a Garmin for the gps capabilities and fitness monitoring. Lots of us have family that could benefit from a model like this EZ in .380. Thanks for another informative review. 1mo Racing Psychosis A lot of your commentary reminded my why back in the day I went with the XDS instead. Still like the shooting the XDS. But yea the loaded chamber indicator and the grip safety are so annoying. 1mo Lon N I have some significant grip strength issues, not interested yet. 380 is just too damn small for my personal "psychological comfort". 1mo michael szymborski My wife has RA, I’ll be getting her one. 3 1mo Josh Do you think the lighter slide stiffness contributed to the stoppages? 2 1mo Daniel Herb So best part of this video was the Glycine cameo 1 1mo Ol Retired Fed So a guy recovering from shoulder surgery won't need to use his teeth on the cocking wings to rack the slide? I tried my wife on one in the store and she was still not able to rack the slide ez-ably. She does love a 22 though (she is a bit recoil sensitive). 2 1mo paddy leather POU for this tool if you are not old or disabled is if you get injured. This is an awesome gun . 2 1mo Ben Great review. Its really cool you stepped out of the norm to give a different POU. Thanks for the shout out in the vid! If I had a spare million i would honestly donate it to the project. 2 1mo RockawayCCW This is embarrassing to admit, but I once walked around for several days with an unloaded gun. My routine has always been to clean the gun as soon as I get home from the range, but this one time I broke the routine. I was late for work so I said, "I'll clean it later." I got dressed for work, holstered my pistol, and walked out the door with an unloaded gun. I discovered my mistake about a week later when I went to the range with my brother. I am now a big fan of loaded chamber indicators. I have also made it part of my routine to check the chamber every time I holster. 2 1mo mm80121 I like them but be careful. On my XDm, powder and debris built up to the point where my LCI became stuck in the up position. It could’ve caused a problem, but luckily it’s just a range toy for me, not a carry gun. It was my fault for not cleaning the gun more often… 2 1mo Younggun995 Hey nutn can I send you my tnp dagger? 2 1mo paddy leather He hasn't responded to my message yet either. I messaged him privately and thus far no dice . 1 1mo Load reply mm80121 Just a point of info about the CA DOJ “handgun roster.” It only applies to new guns sold at FFLs. There is no crime for possessing a handgun that is not on the “roster” unless it is otherwise illegal, i.e. an AR pistol with normal magazine release. As Californians we can legally buy “off-roster” handguns like Gen5 Glocks or Sig P320s on the private market as long as the transfer goes through an FFL. You can bring your “off-roster” handguns into CA and possess them all you want while still staying legal (just don’t bring any magazines that hold over 10 rounds). Or you can bring whatever gun and magazines you want because honestly what are the odds you get caught?"

[@357-swagnumultramagax9]

Happy turkey day nutn

[@baron1c]

Did I miss something? What happened to your arm?

[@sissydreams7494]

The S&W M&P EZ 9mm Performance Center would be the perfect gun FOR ME, if it had a 10+1 capacity. Hopefully, they will make an EX PLUS version soon.

[@phillipk1258]

Nutn…. Is the rear sight tapered on the Shield? Can only go in/out of the dovetail from one side of the slide?

[@evocati6523]

Good on S&W for taking care of the most vulnerable among us

[@carpetcop6173]

I was an LEO for 20 years, but forced into retirement due to medical problems that have left me disabled. In addition to spending much of my time in a wheelchair now, my hand strength has been severely reduced. I also struggle to hold my arms up with a heavy object in hand. After years of shooting all kinds of 9mm, .40, .45, .357 Mag, 10mm, and .44 Mag handguns, the .380 Shield EZ is now just about the only handgun that I can comfortably operate at all times. Obviously, I miss my old traditional pistols, but without my .380 Shield EZ, I would be forced to go unarmed. Now that I am disabled, I am more vulnerable than ever, and being unarmed is unacceptable as I am incapable of protecting myself without my firearm now. I’ve added a Galloway Precision flat trigger, XS Big Dot night sights, and an Olight PL2 Mini Valkyrie weapon light. It would not have been my first choice when my health was good, but things being what they are, I am so thankful for the fact that Smith & Wesson took the time to think of those of us with disabilities. As far as I know, there is nobody else offering something for folks like myself. Big thumbs up from me for this gun. Smith & Wesson earned a customer for life by making this gun, and I now collect S&W firearms even though I rarely am able to fire most of them.

[@938quilt]

thank you for your service

[@AdamDguitars]

I was working at Bass Pro (Worlds largest S&W dealer) when this gun came out. Seriously had women in their 80’s and 90’s coming in asking for it specifically. I sold one to my mom. Everyone loves it.

[@troy3456789]

They are nice, accurate, durable pistols with a tactile trigger and as easy as it can be to rack.

[@MrDmthomp32]

My neighbor just bought one for him and his wife, both in their 60’s. I started looking into them after hearing his excitement.

[@troy3456789]

If you have experience with pistols, they're really easy to shoot very well with right off the bat.

[@MrDmthomp32]

@@troy3456789 I’ve got a few and I’m an experienced shooter. I honestly had just not heard much about them! Also I like the external safety offerings as I prefer 1911’s. So they seem like a lighter weight alternative.

[@troy3456789]

@@MrDmthomp32 There is no better way to fire .45 acp rounds than a 1911 in my opinion. It's pillowy soft and feels great. .45 acp in anything else is horrible comparatively in my opinion. Safeties are great as long as folks practice heavily enough to make it second nature to 'off' the safety the moment they draw it, then safety on the moment they holster it.

[@jovanjohn8294]

I’m young and strong, and I choose the M&p9 ez as my everyday carry. What fascinates me about this gun is the marketing. If this gun were advertised as a highly tuned custom 9mm, theirs a good chance all the gun dudes in Oakleys and cargo pants would probably be into it. This is a gun you can use on your worst day. Their is no guarantee that my hands will be in perfect shape by the time a gun is called for in a fight. Also, this is a gun that is perfect for those of us who prefer the 1911 battery of arms.

[@Thalatash]

That is a really good point I hadn't thought of. I live in a colder climate and sometimes my hands get so cold and numb it's hard to do anything and I really doubt (now that I think about it) I could pull a slide easily in those time. Good thinking, I'm going to have to check one out.

[@TacticalDoodle]

Sheesh, that would actually be kinda cool to see it used as the base and kit.

[@TripleAstyle1]

I really just want that grip safety..... on a standard model.

[@jovanjohn8294]

@@TripleAstyle1 I like that this model is a hammer fire. I would love a double stack version of this.

[@jeremyjeremy8795]

@@TripleAstyle1 you really wouldn’t on a striker gun, there’s a reason why they don’t make ‘‘em like that

[@nmr6988]

Since so many women have been showing up with this pistol at basic pistol class, I've gotten shoot them a lot over the past two or three years. Incredibly easy to rack and a very soft recoil for the 380. I have to say I'm impressed with the gun. I wish it weren't a single stack though, or that they had made the grip a little bit wider to accommodate more bullets.

[@SpartacusColo]

Making it a double-stack might result in making the magazines harder to reload, which pulls away from their base-intent behind the design?

[@nmr6988]

@@SpartacusColo , could be. That's something to consider.

[@DJ.1001]

I believe making it double or even 1.5x stack would have made loading the magazines significantly more difficult. Being single stack allows the spring to be very light. It would also have made the grip bigger making it less friendly to those with small hands who are more likely to benefit from the other features of the shield ez.

[@shymoment]

I have very tiny hands. The small grip is why I can handle this gun so well.

[@williamthomas3620]

I love my Shield EZ 380. I was about to stop shooting anything but 22 pistols since arthritis has taken the strength out of my hands. Now when 380 ammo becomes available again I will shoot it a lot more. Used it at a Steel Challenge match recently and scored just like my Ruger 22.

[@ryanthomas2374]

I have known younger women with no issues medically that still had trouble with triggers and slides. Just built different, i give smith and wesson props for the EZ series. Hell i like the gun too, havent shot it just handled at the store.

[@dc-gs3ld]

Right? If you take a lot of women to a gun store, or especially take them shooting, you'll find even average strength, healthy women will probably prefer a duty sized .22. 380 out of a barrel longer than most pocket pistols may not be ideal but it is a serious step up and is more than capable of stopping a threat with proper shot placement and/or a number of shots. If I just had the money laying around I would totally buy one just because I think it's a forward thinking pistol and I happen to think internal hammer-fired guns are an underappreciated mechanism today.

[@shlomo_jewinstien-Doodoowitz]

True but I feel the weaker springs are asking for failures to cock or fire or whatnot which makes me push mom to a revolver vs a striker fired or semi auto

[@Chilly_Billy]

I work with a woman in her thirties and she loves her Shield EZ. She doesn't have a great deal of hand strength and it's operating features allow her to have an effective defensive tool. Huge 👍 to S&W for thinking of folks like her.

[@xxxlonewolf49]

My mother, 70s, has 380EZ. Sadly the 9mm came out like a month later

[@markacamacho]

I was training an older woman whose husband had passed away and left her with a 9mm. She was not happy because it kicked too hard and she didn't enjoy training with it. I took her to the local gun store and had her try out the EZ and she loved it. I started training her on that system and she never wanted to leave the gun range because she had so much fun shooting it. I'm not sure if I would ever own one but it is a pretty cool pistol. The things she loved about the firearm are it's easy to control. The gun is a 380 cal, easy to rack, but most of all easy to load the mag.

[@servicerifle16]

Been looking at the 9mm version for a long time as my wife's first gun. My regular shop sells EZs like crazy, he even said it's the fastest selling S&W he stocks.

[@ProGunsZach]

I bought a 380 EZ to be a “next step” in training new shooters. Start them off with the basics with a .22 and then have them get more familiar with traditional handguns with this before graduating them to normal handguns. And that aside, I actually really enjoy shooting it.

[@ryanh6081]

Same

[@knoke1094]

As a 1911 aficionado that recognize that the main drow back for EDC is it's weight, the EZ9 call my attention do to the same controls and capacity of my 1911, so the cross training is there. Also the multiple safeties, slim and not to abrasive stipling are nice for AIWB carry in tropical climate in wish I live. I have been shooting and conceal carrying for 30 years and this pistol definitely appeals to me.

[@lonewanderer3603]

My mom didn't love the gun so much aside from the easy racking, but she loved the tabs on the magazine for easy loading. I wish more companies did that.

[@buheyesocuhfusedbruh8872]

Nutn, today, on Thanksgiving, I want to give a big thanks to you. I am old school. 15,000 different email addresses to match. I have been watching you since about 2010. More than any other content creator, you helped me find myself. I found you looking for a review of the Cold Steel Recon tanto folder back then. I was from MD, and decidedly anti-gun, but it was due to a lack of knowledge. Now days, I own several guns, support several 2A orgs, and I have saved THOUSANDS of dollars watching your reviews. Not just that, but your philosophy vids helped shape the way I look at so many different things. I will stop babbling, but when I was about 20 I started to train bjj, mma, etc. Joe Rogan has been in my ears since then in one way or another. In the 2A landscape, that honor goes to you my friend. God bless you and your family. God bless the USA. Happy Thanksgiving. I hope you have a good one, brother.

[@TacticalDoodle]

Awesome to hear, my man.

[@lockhackle2645]

My wife went from the shield gen 1 to a shield EZ in 9mm and it is her favorite gun ever as it has all the things that make it so much easier to use .

[@R_K_S2401]

I have never heard an experienced handgun shooter complain that their slide is too easy to rack or the magazines being easier to load.

[@rdm1000]

Nutn, a good review and right on the nuts (so to speak). It is a gun with an audience that is woefully underserved. We want (good) people buying guns; we want to bring people into the 2A community. If there are physical limitations that excluded them from enjoying firearms, or worse, excluded them from protecting themselves, these are solid choices. Like you, I would be unlikely to buy one for myself, but my wife, who has always had trouble racking a slide, says it is the berries. She still carries her Sig P238 which she is able to rack, but these give her options, including the option of carrying a 9mm that she can work. Good biz decision by S & W. and most welcome by a lot of people.

[@SpartacusColo]

I'm considering the .380 version simply as a me-in-the-future "I'm getting too old for this mess" option.

[@scottwelch9340]

I bought one for my wife. Very nice gun, very accurate, low recoil

[@Rupan-rx]

My mom is a retired firefighter. I put 10 mouse guns in front of her and she had trouble racking the slides. I told her to try out the 380ez. She loves it and bought one.

[@fonztheiv]

I'm a combat shooting instructor in Israel, and we've had it at my range for the passed 3 years, and (you can call me a gun and tactical guy) I love this gun. I love how easy it is and if i could, I would totally get this as a 3th gun or something, just a cool gun. most of the EZs we sold were to people who, just like you said Nutn, don't have hand strength. A few women bought them, definitely one or two older men who couldn't rack their Glock 19 anymore. I love how it shoots, even the .380. It is a bit of a bummer that the 9 is a bit harder to rack than the .380, but it makes sense and obviously it's not such a yuge deal. Great gun in my opinion, and thank you for fi ally reviewing it Nutn.

[@DJ.1001]

I helped my mother purchase this pistol as her first firearm. It was the only center fire semi-automatic in the store that she could comfortably operate. That left her with the choice between the shield EZ, a compact 38 special revolver, or a 22lr. While you give up alot in capacity and size the EZ has run 100% and works for her. The EZ is 1000% times better than nothing. The only issue she has had with the gun it the pin in the slide that hold the firing block in place like to walk out over time. Recently I installed a set of Hi-Viz sights and that has really improved her ability to get a sight picture and shoot the gun properly.

[@justinwingerter5985]

My mom loves hers, it helps her a lot!

[@marine6680]

I think that S&W sight dovetails are tapered. They are designed to be removed in one direction only. They are near impossible to remove the other direction.

[@ericg649]

You guys make buying this gun similar to parking in the handicap spot when you aren’t handicapped! I am an experienced shooter and proud owner of Glock, Canik, Taurus, etc. and I think this firearm is an amazing option for anyone’s rotation since we can all have weak seasons (injured digits, feelin shitty, just want to easy load mags on range day!!!)

[@Bunchquitter]

I just bought a Shield 9mm EZ because I was looking for a reliable small 9mm handgun. I knew it was supposed to rack easier than other guns but that did not deter my purchase. I cleaned according to S&Ms recommendations, took it to the range and put 100 rounds through it with no problem. This after dealing with a Sig guns malfunctions on and off for 4 years. I am extremely happy with my purchase.

[@chriskelly509]

My mom has one in .380, super easy shooting and surprisingly accurate

[@11B30Inf]

In a couple of months I will be turning 69 years old and need a pistol that can be easy to rack. I own a first generation of S&W Shield and it is getting harder to rack the slide. So I am honestly thinking of getting a S&W EZ pistol. Easily to rack, shoot, and a great pistol for concealed carry.

[@winstonsmiths2449]

Didn't the bestest gun ever made, Thee 1911, have a grip safety?

[@Predalien195]

When the EZ series came out and I first laid hands on them at my work I was impressed by the ease of use the gun offered. We did have a lot of older individuals who had heard of it and wanted to check it out but even younger people. Some people just struggle with basic manipulation. And frankly... as I've told customers who are asking about them if the .380 EZ had existed when I was about 7 or 8 I could have shot it all day with no issue provided we had ammo. It would have made such an impact on a market that previously was pushing revolvers on those who struggled. I say anything that makes your job easier is a benefit not a detriment. So even for those of us who have no issues or struggles it's still a smooth operating and shooting platform. I do fall into that group who doesn't struggle and I do tend to favor other weapons as a result but if I had another epiphany and decided to change my calibers and carry guns up again this would certainly be on my radar for both me and my wife. She is young and does struggle with operating the slides on most semi automatics. Not all, but most. This gun would have been a godsend for her at that time. While I've invested into other things and have guns she is comfortable with as well as myself, this would still make a great choice. But regardless, whether you feel it's for you or not one simply can't deny the advantages it brings.

[@marksd5650]

I’m one of those getting older, limited hand strength, osteoarthritis in the hands guys, who owns mostly Sig Legions and TRPs and Nighthawks and I know my racking days are numbered. Sadly. But, I’m looking forward to owning an EZ 9mm some year soon, and I’ll be ok with that. I’m currently carrying a P365 (original model and Massachusetts model 😡) and it’s hard, and I mean hard to rack, because it’s small. Never mind disassembling and reassembling a 1911 in .45. Great review, thank you and best regards

[@cayman9873]

I recommend the s&w 5 shot aluminum 38 special revolver. Easy to see if its loaded or not and easy to make those things happen. Fewer issues with a revolver since jams or stovepipes or double feeds dont exist

[@plain_simple_garak]

Got one for my mom, who doesn't have the hand strength to rack the slide on a regular handgun. She loves it, and I love that she has it

[@gregnixon5770]

All of us red blooded Americans who support the 2A should be celebrating all new gun innovations

[@buzzsaw5]

Picked one up for my mother last year after I gave her my 9mm shield with everything that was going on and she didn't like it. I don't like 380 myself but it had several things to keep in mind for her like you said. She is 62 with arthritis, easier for her to manipulate, less recoil and to top it off she is accurate with it.

[@josephlogar8971]

As the manager of a shooting program for people with disabilities I was overjoyed when the EZ series came out. Thanks Nutn for this awesome review. I may use it in seminars in the future.

[@jackbauer9077]

I 100% agree on sights! I had a hell of a time changing my sights on M&P 2.0 sub compact.

[@tmutant]

I'm looking hard at this gun. Arthritis is making racking the slide on my M&P a little painful. I don't think it's going to get better as I keep getting older.

[@paulmoss7940]

You won't regret it.

[@jamesmoore1341]

I bought it for my wife who has arthritis also. By far you wont regret the purchase of it.

[@michaelpearce6284]

Bought one for my wife last year. I took it to the range the other day to check it out. Now I want one!

[@EQ9962]

My mom is 70 ,has arthritis and lives in the county. She has this pistol and depends on this to secure her home. It fills a niche and enables those who otherwise may not be able to have a gun and peace of mind when home alone. My sister, who lives in the city purchased one as well.

[@Tony_Z__]

Not every gun is made for everyone and I'm glad that S&W is going after what some might say is a niche market. Is this gun for me? No, but it is for someone who otherwise might not have a gun and that someone is now another gun owner because of it and another person on our side.

[@chrisklein4366]

Great review I was not a fan boy of it . My wife carried a g42 until this past weekend when we went shopping for a new carry gun. She fell in love with it ... Simplicity of loading and racking sold it for her.

[@benjaminbagley4168]

My wife chose this gun and loves it. I do wish it was a double or 1.5 stack and could get 10-15 rounds.

[@TacticalDoodle]

That's the dude in us talking though, if it were any wider I think they'd have issues holding it.

[@benjaminbagley4168]

@@TacticalDoodle yes you are right. But can’t they 1.5 stack magic it not have the grip any wider? Maybe not. I haven’t looked closely enough at it to see if there is any spare room in that grip.

[@linkbond08]

About the sights, you have to roll the slide, except for the sight, in a paper towel or cloth, and clamp it by the rear serrations in a workbench vise, so that only the sights, and a little bit of the slide sticks out, then after removing the screw, hit it with a medium hammer, and a 1/4" brass or one steel punch with a bit of black tape on the tip so you don't end up scratching the sight.

[@jamesmoore1341]

I originally bought one for my wife & bought me one afterwards. The slide is easy enough that if "NEED BE" you can rack it super easy off of your leg if you get damage to one of your hands. I know you can do others also but I think anyone would be really impressed. Very dependable,very accurate,lightweight & easy to handle.

[@galamonkey]

I tried removing the rear sight off my original Shield with a plastic punch. Mushroomed the punch. Tried with an aluminum punch. Bent it. Steel punch. Bent that. Used a sight pusher. Bent the sight pusher. Finally had to take it to a shop and when they gave me the gun back they asked if I epoxied it in.

[@dostagirl9551]

I just ordered the 380 EZ after pouring through reviews. I wanted something that was easy to operate as I have weak wrists, carpal tunnel and am a beginner. I have a small beretta that I bought years ago but never use it as the trigger is hard to pull and the recoil causes fatigue after a short amount of time and wanted something I could enjoy practicing with again. Completely understand this not being a fave for experienced enthusiasts, but I’m grateful S&W offers keeps their customer’s diverse needs in mind when designing their products.

[@joelembcke8879]

I bought one of these a few months back. No physical limitations for me, but for a first time gun owner I love it.

[@tylertripp618]

Cant wait for the M&P shield 2.0 EZ in 10MM

[@AllTracTurbo]

I had the exact same experience on my Shield 1.0 when I removed the rear sight to polish the striker block plunger. I broke the tip off a brass punch multiple times before switching to a steel punch and now my sight looks exactly like yours. I didn't bother bluing or painting it and it hasn't rusted in over 7 years of carrying.

[@kylejohnson1308]

I'm 6ft 3in tall with no disabilities. I bought the .380 EZ. Not because it's easy to use but that doesn't hurt. It was on sale at this local gun shop for $317 and S&W was having a $50 rebate too at the time. I like my EZ very much I just wish it had a little more capacity. Still no regrets at all.

[@journeytowellness7096]

Wow! I’m relieved to hear I’m not the only one who had a hard time with replacing the sights. My mom wanted new sights on her shield, so I did them just two days ago. I’ve only replaced sights on one other gun (my Glock 30 SF) before and didn’t remember it being so hard. I felt bad that I had marred them up so much, but at least I know it’s not just due to my inexperience.

[@vensheaalara]

I get it for those who need it. It makes sense for that. My wife has issues with racking a slide on some smaller guns. Just realize there are other options to consider. My sister has a Beretta .32 Tomcat. The barrel flips up to load the first round so you don't have to rack the slide at all. Also has safety, etc. and is a solid pistol. I haven't shot it but it is another option

[@petercarmody4897]

I have the 9 and . 380. Both are great. Magazines are the same design. I gave my .380 to my daughter, and bought another for my niece.

[@robertpatterson4187]

I like it , I severed my forearm tendons and now have no hand strength or reliable dexterity from the nerves being all rewired, I’m usually stuck doing a pull from the front serration’s with a pinky ring finger grab now ,it works but it does put my hand awfully close to the muzzle so that gun would be helpful 😉👍

[@sea-2366]

People have no idea how many people have no strength in their hands and cannot pull a slide back. The Smith and wesson shield ez are fantastic.

[@silasbelcher3788]

Took my wife to a gun store to try out several guns out on the range. Out of the 7-8 options, we went with an EZ in 9mm

[@russwilkerson2741]

My wife has the ez and she likes it because of its size and easy to rack the slide. BUT I tried to fire it and had problems right out of the gate because I’m used to a full size pistol. The EZ. You have to have a perfect grip on it or it will not fire. Like a 1911 but NOT if you know what I mean. I can fire a 1911 all day long with no problem. But because the EZ is smaller I couldn’t get the correct grip. Also my wife and I don’t like the fact it has no thumb safety. YES you can get one with the thumb safety. She doesn’t feel completely comfortable carrying with one in the chamber. Neither do I without a decocker or safety. It’s for SALE.

[@TheHappyFriar]

My wife got one because we told the clerk she wants one to use @ home & she's in a wheelchair & has CP. He said you want a gun you can rack the slide on because I won't be there. She has a REALLY hard time racking a normal slide (I have a Shield 9mm that she has a really hard time on, also a Highpoint .45 & she can't rack that one at all). She could on this one (the 380, 9mm wasn't out at the time). SHE LOVES IT. The slide is so easy to rack my (at the time) 9 year old DAUGHTER could rack this thing w/o help! Also got my wife one of the magazine loaders because she found that much easier vs the normal way.

[@mkdave24]

Btw, as a former CA resident familiar with the laws, you can bring any gun into the state as a visitor. The gun only needs to be on the roster for an in state FFL to sell it to a customer. Private party sales of off roster handguns is common place and many are owned throughout the state. You can bring your G43 or P365 with you instead of the old shield.

[@2Aknight762]

Last year a friend bought one of these for his wife, $500 and one box of ammo. Thankfully prices are coming down some and inventory is going up.

[@ejrupp9555]

My wife lost use of her thumb, it's a game changer for her. She had the 642 airweight and that double action/recoil left her accurate to within 5 yards ... which is ok for self defense. But now she enjoys the trips to range more with the EZ and that lower recoil and higher capacity is extra confidence. She can put three rounds at 10 yards in the time it took her to put 2 at 5 yards. Yeah it's great for a segment of people that you may not realize are out there ... in fact there are many of them out there.

[@DEFkon001]

This gave me a crazy idea for a sci-fi gun. Get this - You incorporate the loaded chamber and safety status directly into the irons. Front and rear sight can go red, or white. Front sight is red = loaded chamber. Front sight is white = empty chamber. If the back sights are white it means safety on. If the back sights are red it means safety off So to shoot you want to see red front and back. You put the sci-fi battery directly in the slide and it recharges each time the slide reciprocates. We could even do the same design with something like the EOTech ring and dot. Dot goes white ( or disappears ) - empty chamber Dot goes red - loaded chamber. Ring is white - safety on Ring is red - safety off.

[@markmaguire5]

I’ve heard from different armors that it is pretty common to have to heat the slide on a Smith and Wesson M&P In order to be able to get the rear sight out of the dovetail.

[@prestonfergus800]

My wife had one of these when I met her she was very recoil shy and won’t shoot it but I love the ergonomics and enjoy it quite a bit.

[@carlmontney7916]

Well maybe like you said it ain't for everybody, but it is definitely for me. At age 71 with thumb arthritis and grip strength issues, I find I can not only operate the 9 mm EZ I can shoot with it quite accurately as well. My hat is off to Smith& Wesson for realizing there was a need for something like this and actually producing a quality product to fill that need.

[@manofthetombs]

63 y.o. Arthritic here. I love my .380 EZ because I feel confident in carrying on an empty chamber. IF I need to rack quickly, I can. When I carried my S&W model 59, I HAD to carry one in the chamber because these bones didn't allow anything else. Maybe if I was nutnfancy, or Garand Thumb, or Kentucky Ballistics, or Lucky Gunner, or Paul Harrell, etc, etc, etc ... If I have to pull my firearm and use it to defend myself, and I DON'T die in the process? Then that in itself will be a miracle, which will then prove that "it's the gun you have on you at the time"

[@boomerisadog3899]

The Springfield XD-E is a fantastic gun for someone that has trouble racking other pistols. It's a true DA/SA with a safety/ decocker. The DA trigger pull is long and heavy but fairly smooth and the SA trigger breaks clean at around 5 pounds. I bought one for my wife but I ended up carrying it more than her. I usually carry it hammer down with the safety off. Capacity is 7 or 9+1 in 9mm. The only real downside is that it's a bit heavy for a single stack polymer framed gun but the weight makes it very controllable. Just another option for anyone looking.

[@PinkyPowers]

Speaking of tight-fitted sights, I recently replaced the stock sights on my Kimber Custom II 1911. The rear sights came out easy. In fact, they nearly fell out while shooting. But the front sights... holy hell! They nearly killed me, getting them out. I tried everything. Finally I used a hot air gun to heat them up super hot, and a sight pusher tool, and it was still so hard I was in pain from the effort. But it worked. The hot air did the trick. BTW, TruGlo FTX Pro are BADASS on a good 1911. Love them so much!

[@TacticalDoodle]

I thought that once, once I popped it in half, it turned out the allen head underneath was obscured within the slide. Doh! Those FTX's look pretty sweet

[@spacegas1]

I have a few of these. They’re accurate, easily concealable, and a piece of cake to clean. I have arthritis, and it’s no problem for me to handle this pistol. It’s a great everyday carry gun. Get one. You won’t be sorry.

[@imminentodin_9943]

My aunt has arthritis in her hand so we got her this. She loves it.

[@InfamousInternetVillainJackSix]

I'd like to add that there are some creature comforts that many of us grew up with, that we prefer simply because it's something we've always had. My first handgun (That I kept for more than 6 months) was a 1911. My 2nd was a Taurus PT-92. Now I have a Beretta 92x, but it's too heavy to carry all the time. I like the weight of polymer handguns (SAWC) but have never been totally comfortable with the lack of a safety. Which is one of many reasons I LOVE my Canik TP9DA. It's sort the bastard child of the TP9 series. It's a full size TP9, striker fire, but with a de-cocker similar to a Beretta 92. It's double action/single action, just like a Beretta, but in the same SAWC category as a Glock. So, I would argue that some of these features are "creature comforts" for certain long term gun owners as well as new gun owners.

[@PinkyPowers]

My mother, who is over 60, bought the EZ Shield. Just like you said, all those safety features made her happy, and she loved the "easy" slide. She really struggles to operate normal guns. For me, it's okay. But my lord, that grip safety makes disassembling the gun super awkward. So much so I kind of hate it. I'll stick with my GLOCKs.

[@backwoodsbrooksknives4625]

I want to like this gun. My brother wants to like this gun. But that grip safety is stupid. Not because it is a grip safety, I love the grip safeties on my XDs and 1911, but because even when it is depressed there is an uncomfortable ridge running proud of the Shield's great handle. If they made the safety run flush with the handle like it does on say an XD then I might be willing to recommend it.

[@toons5233]

its good when company listen to the customers. if it get people to buy and use its a good thing if lets people keep shooting longer has they get older

[@JMBAmericanIronShallNotBeInfri]

You are a wise man, with wisdom gained by your years of experience! Love your videos! Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

[@mohawk3371]

Got this for my wife in 380 acp, and it was the first pistol she connected with. Sure she can rack the slide, load magazines, and somewhat control recoil on most other pistols, however the effort and discomfort involved meant she did not want to train regularly and was intimidated by the pistol, meaning she never got even minimally proficient.

[@Predalien195]

What you said is something most people don't often consider. I find that when people can really connect with a gun and can operate it without any kind of assistance it builds their confidence in their own skills and typically promotes better habits for training and practice. Seen this a lot at some of the classes I've taken and observed. It's why when I have customers who come in and point out a gun like the Ruger LCP and tell me they've never owned or shot a gun I try to steer them away from it. Sure, guns like that look appealing because the size and weight, but often they come to find out just how discomforting they are to shoot for extended sessions and then no longer want to practice with them. The EZ seems to be the answer for a lot of those people truly. I think it makes a great first gun choice, but just a great choice in general. I do wish the load assist tabs on the .380 were designed more like the 9mm version though.

[@mohawk3371]

@@Predalien195 Exactly! Confidence is a big factor in developing proficiency, which is far more important than caliber, or capacity. Agree with your thoughts in the LCP as well. Happy Thanksgiving.

[@johngaskey218]

I have the 9ez and it’s quite a good little shooter. I acquired the M&P 2.0 and, being in MA, was not aware of the 10lb!! trigger mandate. I was ready to trade it in because it was soooo bad compared to the EZ. My shop recommended an aftermarket trigger and I installed the Apex trigger for that one and it’s awesome! I print like hell so I carry the ez much more than the standard. Yes, I deal with arthritis in my hands after years of hand tools.

[@charlesmckinley29]

Mounted a Holosun with the ACSS Vulcan reticle for a female 80 year old. Now to test reliability. I’m hoping it may cure the last live round stove pipe issue. Being able to press on the optic makes it even easier to operate the slide. With arthritis or loss of use of fingers in the left hand from a stroke this is a big deal.

[@gnarlpineambusher]

Sold guns for a bit I can't tell you how many health young women had trouble with the slide on a standard pistol. There definitely a market for this gun.

[@felixarmor7]

I agree my wife is small stature and loves the ez. Every other pistol she tried to manipulate she had trouble and we tried dozens of different brands. With the ez now she wants to go to the range.

[@timothyschonborn3035]

Ya got that right Nuting... it ain’t for me lol.

[@seanomeirs8362]

I've trained a few women that will never shoot anything more than a .22 LR, so they may as well become proficient with it. My grandmother insists on a 1911.

[@paulmoss7940]

Man I like the EZ. Bought it pre emptively but its getting more carry time than the other big names available.

[@westcoastwarriorsarchive7929]

I think that the full conceal folding pistols had a similar niche, not for everyone or even most people, but a potentially good idea for those people who needed the absolute best concealment of a hand gun due to place of work or whatever else.

[@rdbjr52]

S&W expanded the buyers market with an option that is easier to use, which is great for 2A. Thumbs up!

[@guynall4025]

My wife was just put on permanent disability due to her back and other health issues she can no longer shoot my 9 mms so picked one of these up for her yesterday took her to range today she put 50 rounds through it very accurately and easily she was carry a bersa thunder but this is so much easier for her to use

[@wes326]

My wife got her CCW using a S&W 22 Compact and we then got her a 9mm EZ for her carry weapon.

[@mfallen6894]

Been shooting my entire life and I much prefer a manual safety on a pistol I'm going to carry concealed. All other situations, like carrying in a duty holster, makes no difference to me, but if I'm going to be sticking it IWB/appendix/pocket/backpack/car console/etc I only use pistols with manual. It's just a piece of mind thing that I won't end up lie that cop that shot himself in a school classroom, lol. Love the M&P series for this very reason: they give the customer the option on almost all of their models whether they want it or not. That alone got me interested in them, and their quality and reliability has kept me as a loyal customer. To be clear, I own Glocks, I just don't conceal carry them (neither is really a CC gun anyway... one a G44, the other a G40)

[@terrell48]

These EZ’s are great pistols I ave both 380 and 9mm and I am 73 years old and love my 1911’s and my Glocks but I cannot operate them as easily as I did even 2-3 years ago until you have issues with hand strength you will not understand, I am a gun guy but I like the features of these pistols except for te grip safety and yes I d care about trigger reset

[@xray606]

Why do the first few secs always get cut off?

[@Spikexphil]

I think its so weird the way the internet has treated this gun just because it was designed to have a lighter slide retraction... It is enjoyable to shoot. Its a neat little compact handgun in .380. I am not disabled in any way, and I found this gun to be worth the money for conceal carry and just all around entertaining shooting.

[@jfal104]

This is my wife's exact model, she loves it. I don't mind the thumb safety since I am a 1911 guy and I like a place for my thumb while shooting...

[@jamesmorrison7847]

When I fell backwards head first down a flight of stairs I broke 3 vertebrae, and my wrist and forearm. Suddenly I lost most of the strength in my right hand. I did recover most of that eventually, but if I didn't this gun might have been a solution to the problem. I admit that racking the slide on my Sig P365 is not that easy since breaking all those bones.

[@nicholashahn3476]

The strong retraction helps make the shield so reliable and jam free

[@lens7859]

My wife has lupus and has a little joint trouble in the hands, she uses the EZ for her EDC and it works for her.

[@jasonkeating9958]

That a decent barrel length for 380 It's all these super short barrels that neuter the 380 and get no hollowpoint expansion

[@johnchristopher20]

“It ain’t for you” until it is,

[@francostacy7675]

I was at the outdoor range with a friend that has her own guns and shoots on her own, but she is inexperinced or at the beginner level. She shot her gun empty or so she thought. I am not sure why she thought that because the gun did not lock back. I told her you still have one in the chamber and she said no I don't. I said I can see your round indicator from here. I was seven or eight feet away from her so to me that is another reason why those indicators are nice. But it allows others around you that know something about guns to help everyone out. She knew how the magazine and chamber worked she just got confused and was not aware she had a round indicator. Safety mechanisms that are designed are not meant to be relied upon but they're there as an extra measure and none of us are Beyond mistakes

[@1968CudaGuy]

I have a M&P 9mm EZ that I carry regular now. Have extreme hand issues and missing digits so its a helluva lot easier to cycle than my Kahr's, Sig P6, Astra A75, Beretta 84/85, etc..

[@ericferguson9989]

Must have been a difficult birth, with the plate carrier and all😃.