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Posted: 10/26/2018 9:02:09 PM EDT
[#1]
Shield all day long. Also, consider getting magguts for an extra +2 capacity (or a +1).
But I never shot a g43 for full disclosure. I just really like my shield 1.0. Apex trigger makes it even better. If both work good for you, it just boils down the personal preference and what moves your noodle when you look at it. |
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Posted: 10/26/2018 9:31:30 PM EDT
[#2]
Going to get a lot opinions. I hated my 43. No real reason. Just didn’t get along with it. However shot my buddies ext mag, Dawson sights, apex trigger, g43 and loved it.
Love my Walter pps m2!!!!! Not 1 single bad thing to say about it. Recently picked up a sig p365. Holds more ammoand is a touch smaller. But I shoot that pps noticeably better |
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Posted: 10/26/2018 9:48:08 PM EDT
[#3]
I hated my G43. I have the older shield with an Apex trigger and a 2.0. I love both
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Posted: 10/26/2018 10:02:26 PM EDT
[#4]
G43 seven days a week and twice on Sunday. I hate M&P's but I will begrudgingly admit, the Shield 2.0 isn't bad.
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Posted: 10/26/2018 10:08:44 PM EDT
[#5]
I've shot both, ended up buying 2 Shields. One in 9mm and one in 45. Very happy with my decision.
I've shot a friends 43 a lot more since buying and I still think the Shield is better for my purpose. The 45 is unbelievable on recoil or the lack of. Extremely soft shooting compared to any of my 3 1911's, G30 or G21. |
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Posted: 10/26/2018 10:12:41 PM EDT
[#6]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Shield all day long. Also, consider getting magguts for an extra +2 capacity (or a +1). |
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Posted: 10/26/2018 10:15:46 PM EDT
[#7]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Love my Walter pps m2!!!!! Not 1 single bad thing to say about it. Recently picked up a sig p365. Holds more ammoand is a touch smaller. But I shoot that pps noticeably better |
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Posted: 10/26/2018 10:18:19 PM EDT
[#8]
I've shot both the 43 and shield. They both sucked compared to the PPS m2. Which has become my main CCW
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Posted: 10/26/2018 10:21:01 PM EDT
[#9]
Quoted:
Shield all day long. Also, consider getting magguts for an extra +2 capacity (or a +1). Quoted:
I hated my G43. I have the older shield with an Apex trigger and a 2.0. I love both Quoted:
I've shot both, ended up buying 2 Shields. One in 9mm and one in 45. Very happy with my decision. Also, does the slide stop loosen up? Good grief! |
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Posted: 10/26/2018 10:24:30 PM EDT
[#10]
Quoted:
Love my Walter pps m2!!!!! Not 1 single bad thing to say about it. Recently picked up a sig p365. Holds more ammoand is a touch smaller. But I shoot that pps noticeably better Quoted:
I've shot both the 43 and shield. They both sucked compared to the PPS m2. Which has become my main CCW. |
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Posted: 10/26/2018 10:25:02 PM EDT
[#11]
The G43 is a great gun. I've owned 2 of them at different times trying to make it work(I am a Glock fan). I just could not get this gun to agree with me. I didn't shoot it well, it didn't point naturally at self defense drills/drawing and firing.
The S&W Shield is everything for me the G43 couldn't be. Points naturally. I can draw and fire the gun empty and group quite well at S/D ranges. I shoot this gun well for a small single stack. The G43 is not more gun for the extra cost, not even a little. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 12:06:37 AM EDT
[#12]
Shield - All Day & Every Way!
Carries very well, shoots natural point of aim (for me and my family) much better than "Glock Grip"... Liked the first so well I bought a 2nd. Lifetime warranty from S&W is nice benefit too. You can get it with or without a manual safety (a requirement for some carry situations). My personal preference is no manual safety, but nice to have the option to have or have not... BIGGER_HAMMER 
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Posted: 10/27/2018 12:28:14 AM EDT
[#13]
I have a 43 and a shield 1.0.
For me, the 43 is not quite small enough for pocket carry. So if i have to carry both on the belt, the shield is the winner. It's easier to hold on to and holds more rounds. I especially like the shield with the 8 round mags. . |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 1:59:46 AM EDT
[#14]
I have the 43 it is a bit small but the Shield is a good pistol. I like the PPS but aftermarket support sucks and mags are expensive. I have a M1 and I love the pistol but getting a light and holster is next to impossible. Finding sights other than stock is very limited. I carry my 43 because I can get a light and accessories are endless same with the Shield.
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Posted: 10/27/2018 6:13:53 AM EDT
[#15]
I had picked up a used 43 for M-F discrete work carry,
I liked the gun and it was a good shooter but that one didn't feed HP ammo reliably, I traded it for a Shield 2.0 and find that to be accurate and hasn't missed a beat in 500+ rd's. I don't shoot small guns well but do ok with both for their intended purpose, the Shield is large for pocket carry but works in Docker's or Carhart relaxed fit jeans, both are pretty much undetectable iwb with a good holster, both triggers are around 5.5 - 6 lb but the 43 had a more distinct wall / break which I prefer, the 43 had Ameriglow sights on it and I just got a Dawson FO front that I'll put on the Shield this weekend and if I decide to keep the Shield, not that it needs it, but I'll probably put in an Apex kit. To me the 43 pocket carries better and sits lower in your hand, the Shield is a little larger and easier to shoot but sits higher in you hand, if that matters. Maybe in a year or 2 I'll look at a 365... |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 7:28:51 AM EDT
[#16]
I went with the PPS M2 and love it. Feels much better in my hand than any other gun and shoots accurately. Aftermarket options are limited, but all it needs is different sights and a holster and those arent hard to come by at all.
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Posted: 10/27/2018 7:31:37 AM EDT
[#17]
I don't like glocks and carry a shield or 1911. with that said, you should get the Glock. You said you like it more. that's great, and that's what matters. You don't need to upgrade the sights right away so shut up. Have you ever broken plastic sights? exactly.
you should pick the gun you like and you enjoy. that's way it will always go to the range with you and you'll be happy to practice with it. I've carried an LCP and while it was an easy carry, I hate to shoot it. so I didn't practice with it much. so I sucked with it, so I hated it more. The shield is bigger and more annoying, but I like shooting it, carrying it, practicing with it, etc. and as such, I take it to the range every visit instead of every year to function check. One of the reasons I carry a 1911. I enjoy it. I shoot it well, and I practice with it. sure there are lighter/cheaper/higher capacity things out there but if I enjoy shooting this and know how practiced I am with it, there's no reason not to. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 7:41:33 AM EDT
[#18]
I went with the G43. I am quite happy with it. Have handled a shield but haven't shot one.
When I got the 43, I wanted to pick the smaller of the 2 because for me the 43 is there as a bug/small gun for max concealment. I'm more familiar with Glocks and that also played a part. At the end of the day, pick the one you like better. $100-200 is a drop in the bucket in a gun's cost. Ammo is where you will get screwed. If you like the shield, it's a popular option for a reason. I'd have bought one if it wasn't the larger of the 2. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 7:45:52 AM EDT
[#19]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I like the PPS but aftermarket support sucks and mags are expensive. 
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Posted: 10/27/2018 8:20:35 AM EDT
[#20]
I have both; G43 and a Gen 1 Shield 9mm. They are both excellent firearms. Wife prefers the G43, so it became her CCW. I prefer the Shield; had it since before the G43 existed and saw no real benefit to dumping it for my own G43. In my humble opinion, the Shield is the better deal; less expensive, 7+1/8+1 standard capacity over the 6+1 of the G43 and just feels like a better gun in MY hand. I stippled my Gen 1 Shield, but the texture of the Shield 2.0 is better than that of the G43 in my opinion. Both guns have a good aftermarket behind them. You really can't go wrong with either.
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Posted: 10/27/2018 8:28:39 AM EDT
[#21]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I think I will handle a pps tomorrow. Just wishing there would be a clear winner.  Attached File |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 9:14:00 AM EDT
[#22]
Thanks for all the replies everyone. It's looking like there really isn't many negative things to say about any of the 3 guns discussed. I'll post a pic of what ends up coming home with me.
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Posted: 10/27/2018 9:57:55 AM EDT
[#23]
Anyone have the Samson mag well in their Shield? Looks interesting
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Posted: 10/27/2018 10:09:42 AM EDT
[#24]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
What's the reliability like on those? The +1 maguts adds zero length to the flush mount mag. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 10:37:22 AM EDT
[#25]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
What's the reliability like on those? I am what you might call a Glock Guy, but I like the Shield better because it gives me just a little bit more to hold on to. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 10:50:49 AM EDT
[#26]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I have at least 500 trouble free rounds with MagGuts. I am what you might call a Glock Guy, but I like the Shield better because it gives me just a little bit more to hold on to. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 12:24:46 PM EDT
[#27]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Do you have the full kit for +2 or just the +1 mag extension? I have both. IMHO, the Shield, with Magguts, bridges the gap between small micro guns vs a mid size. It is a reasonable way to carry a thinner more comfortable/concealable gun without the greater sacrifices. I fall into the mission drives equipment school of thought. I like to have options, and we are blessed to have so many to chose from, maybe almost too much sometimes as we have to weed through all of the hype. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 12:39:08 PM EDT
[#28]
I ended up on the shield myself. It just felt better in my hand. It shoots excellent for a gun its size. I know someone with both a shield and a 43 and they agree the shield feels and shoots better for them also.
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Posted: 10/27/2018 1:09:59 PM EDT
[#29]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
buy the M2 LE and it comes with 3 |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 1:14:08 PM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
G43 seven days a week and twice on Sunday. For a true carry gun you love and will practice with and truly like there is no dollar amount that can match that. I bought a Shield for my Dad and he likes it, I just like my 43 better. That squishy ass M&P trigger just don't work for me. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 4:44:50 PM EDT
[#31]
Came back from the gun stores empty handed today. None of the places I went today had a PPS, which I would like to at least lay hands on. But, the gun I was going to trade in on either the 43 or Shield, the dealer quoted me $75 less than what they appraised it at last weekend. Black Friday deals aren't too far out, I might hold off until then.
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Posted: 10/27/2018 4:45:56 PM EDT
[#32]
Quoted: Any of you guys have any issues with magazines? The 8 rounder I was using seemed funky, actually seemed to twist as mag catch engaged. Also, does the slide stop loosen up? Good grief! |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 7:42:35 PM EDT
[#33]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Came back from the gun stores empty handed today. None of the places I went today had a PPS, which I would like to at least lay hands on. But, the gun I was going to trade in on either the 43 or Shield, the dealer quoted me $75 less than what they appraised it at last weekend. Black Friday deals aren't too far out, I might hold off until then. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 8:08:07 PM EDT
[#34]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Came back from the gun stores empty handed today. None of the places I went today had a PPS, which I would like to at least lay hands on. But, the gun I was going to trade in on either the 43 or Shield, the dealer quoted me $75 less than what they appraised it at last weekend. Black Friday deals aren't too far out, I might hold off until then. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 10:03:56 PM EDT
[#35]
Is the 6 round magazine the only factory option for a g43?
I know there’s mag extensions but the Shield & PPS factory 7 & 8 round mag options are a big plus. I have a Shield 1.0 and previously had a PPS M1, both are great guns. Really just came down to my groups with the Shield were a little better. I’d be more interested in a g43 with factory 7 & 8 round mags. For a true pocket pistol I like the g42 better. |
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Posted: 10/27/2018 10:07:35 PM EDT
[#36]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I haven't had a pps in hand, might try it. 365 is just outside current budget. |
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Posted: 10/28/2018 2:10:11 PM EDT
[#37]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Anyone have the Samson mag well in their Shield? Looks interesting Quality construction, very easy install. Tomac ETA: To answer a previous question, my Shields have over 1K rds through them, mixed FMJ/JHP's (HST 124's are my carry load, 124gr FMJ for practice) and have been 100%. |
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Posted: 10/28/2018 4:43:06 PM EDT
[#38]
Did some shooting at PSA today, and stopped at the counter on my way out. Was able to handle a PPS m2, and it sure is comfy, but seems thicker than the other options. Dunno if that would be an issue with concealing on my body or not. I would say the trigger is longer in both directions than the Shield or G43, but not a deal breaker for me.
Then I made the mistake of handling a Sig P365. The gun is the same size as the G43 and holds 10 rounds. The trigger is mush, but the reset is more tactile than the Shield, not as firm as the G43. I've read about the striker issues with the P365, but was talking to the range officers today, and they are unanimous with their personal p365s being 100%. I'm a little awestruck with the p365 right now, but am likely going to hold off purchasing anything until the holiday hits. |
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Posted: 10/31/2018 7:13:50 PM EDT
[#39]
I have the Shield 1.0 and the G43.
Liked the Shield better at first. Now I'm carrying the G43. Today at the range I could not get 5 shots in a 5" circle in 5 seconds from 6 yards. (I haven't shot it in a couple of weeks.) Going to take the Shield out and see if I shoot it better. 
Maybe you should get both for now.  
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Posted: 11/1/2018 9:59:55 AM EDT
[#40]
I had both and stuck with the Glock. The Shield is a nice pistol and shoots great but parts are a pain to find compared to the Glock line. The 43 sits lower in my hand and doesn't feel as top heavy. The one thing I really like about it, and Glock finally did it right on the 43, was to make the tang slightly longer so people with large hands don't get slide bite.
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Posted: 11/1/2018 6:57:52 PM EDT
[#41]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I had both and stuck with the Glock. The Shield is a nice pistol and shoots great but parts are a pain to find compared to the Glock line. The 43 sits lower in my hand and doesn't feel as top heavy. The one thing I really like about it, and Glock finally did it right on the 43, was to make the tang slightly longer so people with large hands don't get slide bite. |
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Posted: 11/1/2018 9:39:18 PM EDT
[#42]
This is Arfcom: get both! Just picked up a Shield 2.0 9mm today to try out.
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Posted: 11/1/2018 9:48:57 PM EDT
[#43]
I own two G43's and have been recommending the Shield to guys at the PD who are looking for a back up/single stack off duty gun.
Shield has a better trigger, is slightly less expensive, has just as much aftermarket support as the G43...it is just slightly larger in size. |
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Posted: 11/1/2018 10:04:23 PM EDT
[#44]
Just a heads up on the Shield 2.0. Got mine last week, and got in my Crossbreed Mini Tuck for it. The grip texture is a little rough on the skin with this holster since it has a combat cut. Id rather not sand or smooth the grip because it feels good in the hand, so I may just have to get the regular cut Super Tuck that covers most of the grip
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Posted: 11/2/2018 8:17:33 PM EDT
[#45]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I own two G43's and have been recommending the Shield to guys at the PD who are looking for a back up/single stack off duty gun. Shield has a better trigger, is slightly less expensive, has just as much aftermarket support as the G43...it is just slightly larger in size. |
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Posted: 11/2/2018 8:19:50 PM EDT
[#46]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Just a heads up on the Shield 2.0. Got mine last week, and got in my Crossbreed Mini Tuck for it. The grip texture is a little rough on the skin with this holster since it has a combat cut. Id rather not sand or smooth the grip because it feels good in the hand, so I may just have to get the regular cut Super Tuck that covers most of the grip |
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Posted: 11/2/2018 8:46:51 PM EDT
[#47]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
This is Arfcom: get both! Just picked up a Shield 2.0 9mm today to try out. https://imgur.com/VJK39iN.jpg |
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Posted: 11/2/2018 9:17:18 PM EDT
[#48]
Anyone who ccws should have either a Shield or a 43.
Wife and I both have Shields, we stocked up on mags at $15 a piece, and hers has an Apex kit as well. Money seems to be a big factor. The 43 will require a sight swap pretty much immediatley, plastic Glock sights are not worth having on a self defense pistol. So add at least $75 to the best 43 price you can find. I think in an apples to apples comparison, the Shield is a better gun. But I also think that with a couple of upgrades the 43 is an excellent alternative. The PPS is just a tiny bit bigger than the Shield and has one less round in each comparitve magazine size. And extra mags are very expensive. Otherwise, also a good option. |
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Posted: 11/3/2018 7:04:55 AM EDT
[#49]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Look at this guy with his two carry pistols and his fermica counter tops |
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Posted: 11/3/2018 11:26:01 AM EDT
[#50]
Quote HistoryQuoted: I have them on both my EDC 9mm Shields and if you don't plan on ever using 7rd mags then they're a 'must-have' IMHO. Quality construction, very easy install. Tomac ETA: To answer a previous question, my Shields have over 1K rds through them, mixed FMJ/JHP's (HST 124's are my carry load, 124gr FMJ for practice) and have been 100%. I also like that you can put thumb on back of slide (over striker) when holstering and it can't fire (try pulling trigger hard with thumb over striker). Saw the post above about the Sig 365. Same 1" width which I love about the PPS (and similar to shield/g43) but 10+1 !! I may look into p365 in future.... |
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