The Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus is a striker-fired 9mm compact pistol with a 3.1-inch barrel. It ships with both a 10+1 and a 13+1 magazine. At 1.3 lbs (20.2 oz), it's easy to carry daily. The matte black finish is applied over a stainless steel slide; the frame is polymer. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Caliber: 9MM LUGER (9x19 PARA) 
• Action: Striker Fired 
• Capacity: 10+1 / 13+1 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 3.1 inches 
• Weight: 1.3 lbs (20.2 oz) 
• Finish: Matte Black 
   

Detailed Features 

• Striker-Fired Action: Consistent trigger pull weight across every shot. 
• Polymer Frame: Lightweight and durable; textured for grip retention. 
• White Dot Sights: Three-dot configuration; functional for defensive distances, upgradeable with aftermarket options. 
• Dual Magazine Capacity: Both a 10-round and a 13-round magazine are included, giving carry flexibility without a separate purchase. 
• Matte Black Armornite Finish: Resists corrosion and wear through daily carry exposure. 
   

Usage Scenarios 

1. Home Defense: 10+1 or 13+1 in a compact package. 
2. Concealed Carry: At 20.2 oz and 6.1 inches overall, it's practical for IWB or appendix carry. 
3. Range Practice: The included 13-round magazine makes range sessions more productive between reloads.

The M&P9 Shield Plus gets strong marks as a carry gun, especially from users who prioritize capacity in a compact frame. The step up from the original Shield's single-stack magazine -- getting 10+1 or 13+1 without a meaningful increase in size -- is the feature owners mention most.

Ergonomics are generally well-rated. The grip is comfortable for most hand sizes, and the controls are intuitive. Reliability is consistently good, with most owners reporting clean cycling across a range of 9mm loads. The lightweight build is practical for all-day carry.

The trigger pull is the most frequently cited criticism. Some owners find it acceptable while others describe it as heavier or longer than preferred. The standard white dot sights are functional but a number of owners upgrade them. Holster compatibility comes up occasionally -- options exist but not all fit perfectly given the gun's specific dimensions. Overall, the sentiment leans positive for people who want more rounds than a traditional single-stack compact without going full-size.