Just received my new shield. Not bad overall, but the field-strip procedure is stupid, requiring a screwdriver or similar item. This is used to swing a small part down and into the magwell before you can remove the slide. Two friends, one with a safety model and one with a no-safety model, both say their older guns don't require this.

Anyone know how to remove this thing or if it's advisable?

All you need to do is pull the trigger to disassemble the pistol. Lowering the lever disengages the sear allowing the slide to come off, pulling the trigger does the same thing. Lowering the lever is "safer" but if you can't verify the pistol is empty before you pull the trigger you have fundamentals you need to work on(this in not directed at you but a general statement).

Edit for clarity:

Clear the pistol
Lock the slide to the rear
Lower the disassembly lever, the external lever on the side of the pistol
Release the slide
Pull the trigger
Remove slide

Got it. Tried it. It works. Thanks.