Many people believe that the Sig Sauer pistols are better than the Smith and Wesson handguns. While some think that the reverse is the case. Whatever your thoughts are on the subject, the truth is that they are both leading brands and are both very reliable.
For concealed carry, where competition is fierce, the Sig Sauer P938 is just about the same as the Smith and Wesson M&P. Head to head; they look very similar.
But there are differences, and that’s what we’ll be covering in this in-depth M&P Shield vs. Sig P938 review. Not only that, but we’ll also be covering the details of these products, their unique features, and the Pros and Cons of each model.
This should help you make an informed purchase decision, so let’s get fired up and check out these two excellent firearms…
Smith & Wesson M & P Shield Overview
The Smith & Wesson M & P Shield pistol is a compact model for concealed carry in self-defense as a primary or secondary weapon. A feature of the M & P Shield pistol, compared to other models of the M & P series, is a single-row magazine. Due to this, the weapon has a narrow thickness and provides stealth when hidden wearing.
The M & P Shield is available for 9 x 19 and .40 S & W cartridges, as well as for the .45 ACP in the M & P Shield 45 version. In addition to its small thickness, the gun does not have any protruding parts that could catch on clothes when removing it.
The M & P Shield, like the rest of the models in this series, has interchangeable handle elements that allow you to adjust the weapon to the hand of its owner.
Not much force needed…
The frame is made of glass-filled polymer Zytel. The firing-type trigger mechanism, with a permanently raised firing pin, has a smooth running trigger with a small force of 3.5 kg. If the trigger is not fully compressed, no shot is fired, making a great safety feature.
The magazine latch button can be moved from the left to the right side of the frame. When you press the latch, the store falls freely from the handle, greatly accelerating the reloading of the weapon.
Specifications
M & P Shield
- Caliber: 9mm Parabellum/.40 S & W.
- Weapon length: 155 mm.
- Barrel length: 79 mm.
- Weapon height: 117 mm.
- Weapon width: 25.4 mm.
- Weight without cartridges: 524 g.
- Magazine capacity: 7 or 8/6 or 7 rounds.
M & P Shield 45
- Caliber: .45 ACP.
- Weapon length: 165 mm.
- Barrel length: 84 mm.
- Weapon height: 124 mm.
- Weapon width: 26.6 mm.
- Weight without cartridges: 581 g.
- Magazine capacity: 6 or 7 rounds.
Smith & Wesson M & P Shield Top Features
M & P ShieldPros
- Ambidextrous magazine release for fast continuous firing.
- Variable cartridges can be used.
- Adjustable handle length to provide you the most convenience.
- Small size and weight.
- High corrosion resistance; a hardness of 68 HRc.
M & P Shield Cons
- Not everyone is a fan of the full polymer build of this model.
Sig Sauer P938 Overview
The new super compact self-loading pistol for concealed carry, the Sig Sauer P938 has a steel frame and bolt-casing. A feature of the model P938 is a single-action firing mechanism, as opposed to the M&P shield. This firearm has a light trigger with a loop-shaped head.
The Sig Sauer P938 pistol is made of high-quality alloyed steel with subsequent surface treatment with a protective Nitron coating. This is very durable, yet simplifies production and reduces the cost of the weapon.
On the side surfaces of the casing bolt, there is a large inclined notch. This allows you to quickly place the cartridge in the chamber.
Safety first…
The Sig Sauer P938 pistol is equipped with a safety lever which is located on the left hand side of the frame. The safety lever, slide stop, as well as the magazine latch, are placed and made in the style of the American Colt M1911 pistol. The handle is made without the lower front ledge and has a straight surface on the rear face.
This is done mainly to attract M1911 fans to the Sig Sauer P938, especially since the main market is the USA.
Low light? No problem!
Sights consist of a front and a rear sight, these are fastened to the bolt-casing with dovetail grooves, with the ability to introduce horizontal corrections. The sights of the Sig Sauer P938 pistol are equipped with SIGLITE luminous contrast tritium dots that allow you to aim the weapon much more quickly and accurately at a target in low light conditions.
The Sig Sauer P938 is available in various options for the surface of the bolt-casing and with different handles.
Specifications of Sig Sauer P938
- Caliber: 9mm Parabellum.
- Weapon length: 150 mm.
- Barrel length: 69 mm.
- Weapon width: 28 mm.
- Mass without cartridges: 454 g.
- Magazine capacity: 6 rounds.
Sig Sauer P938 Top Features
Sig Sauer P938 Pros
- Single action firing mechanism.
- Wear-resistant Nitron coat finished.
- Low light adaptable adjustable sights.
- Smaller in size and weight than the M&P Shield.
Sig Sauer P938 Cons
- Not as many trim options as several gun users would prefer.
M&P Shield vs. Sig P938 Conclusion
Both the M&P Shield and the Sig P938 are superb guns for concealed carry. The main differences, however, aside from their round capacity, is the price. The P938 costs nearly twice as much as the M&P Shield.
If you are working on a budget, then we suggest that you go for the M&P shield. With this model, you are most likely to be more comfortable, especially if you have larger hands.
On the other hand, the Sig P938 is slightly more compact and is lighter than the M&P Shield. This makes it a preferred choice for several concealed carry owners.
All in all, they are both great guns. But, as we don’t like to sit on the fence, our preferred choice is the…
Smith and Wesson M&P ShieldCategories Gun ReviewsPost navigation