In the world of concealed carry weapons, by only looking, you should be able to pick out your preferred specifications in a firearm. For some reason, however, the Taurus PT111 G2 and the S&W Shield look strikingly similar.
Even the casing material is the same. And with either, the case is very durable and will stand the test of time.
So, let’s find out more about these two firearms in this Taurus PT111 G2 vs S&W Shield review. It should help you to make a far better-informed purchase decision.
Let’s start by going through the differences between these two firearms…
Contents
- Reliability
- Accuracy
- Grip
- Trigger Pull
- Disassembly
- Magazine
- Any Similarities?
- Taurus PT-111 G2 Specifications
- S&W Shield Specifications
- Taurus PT111 G2 vs S&W Shield Conclusion
Reliability
Both the Taurus PT111 G2 and the S&W Shield are reliable. Allowing for the fact that every firearm requires maintenance at some point.
The major difference, however, is that the PT111 can fire up to 200 rounds without issue. With the S&W Shield, you can get that number up to over a 1,000 rounds.
But, unless you’re starring in a movie filming a gun-happy spree without a care in the world, both these guns fall within an acceptable range of rounds that can be fired before requiring maintenance.
Accuracy
Both guns have front and back sights that are lined up to give you a proper line of vision. On the G2, the rear sight is adjustable to guarantee you an even better target acquisition.
While the S&W Shield does not offer this, it is not a huge issue. Both guns feature the best possible positioning and proper sight alignment.
Also, both guns support the same type of mount (Picatinny rail) to support a number of extras add-ons.
Grip
For the grip, which is so important in determining accuracy, both guns feature similar non-slip grip handles. They also both offer you a thumb rest to give a comfortable experience. Both guns also feature grooves for index finger placement.
However, the Taurus PT111 G2 has a deeper thumb groove to make for a more comfortable user experience, and in turn, better repetitive accuracy.
Trigger Pull
Both firearms offer a decent trigger pull. Not so heavy as to be uncomfortable, neither is it so light as to cause accidental fire. The Taurus PT111 G2 has a 6-pound trigger pull force. While with the S&W Shield, you get a 6.5-pound trigger pull force. These are standard and are quite easy to use by both men and women.
Both guns have a clean trigger break feature. This means that you do not have to compress the trigger fully to fire the gun. This is a great option for rapid firing.
Of course, trying your gun out on the range, or dry firing will help you to get better acquainted with your firearm. By doing so, you will be able to respond better if a situation arises, and avoid an unintentional discharge.
Disassembly
As we noted earlier, you do have to clean your gun from time to time. To add, as you are aware, proper precautions should be taken with your firearm at all times, even when dismantled.
Disassembly of both the Taurus PT111 G2 and the S&W Shield are quite similar. They both have coated surfaces so your gun cleaner, even harsh ones, will not eat away at their surfaces.
Remember, we were discussing differences.
So, what difference might there be?
With the S&W Shield handgun, there is a disassembly safety mechanism in place. This makes it easier for novices, as they get to clean their gun with confidence.
In any case, as with all guns, do not direct the barrel of the gun at yourself, or anyone else. Loaded or unloaded, assembled or disassembled.
Magazine
With the S&W Shield, you can use the 7 round standard magazine. If you have a longer hand, or you would simply prefer it that way, then you can buy an 8 round extended magazine for use with your firearm.
Conversely, you get only one magazine type with the PT111 G2. But, this isn’t a problem, as it has a 12 rounds capacity. Loaded with the .40 S&W though, it will hold only 10 rounds.
This would make it the winner in this category over the S&W Shield.
Any Similarities?
It is not surprising that both of these guns use a polymer frame. The use of polymers for framing pistols and their internal components began in the 1980s and took the world of firearms by storm. Over the decades, this material has proven that it can stand up for service and wear even better than metal.
It has excellent resistance to moisture, salt, wear, oil, and solvents, yet it is lighter than metal.
Polymer frames bend slightly under contraction, to absorb some of the shrinking pulse. This gives you a better recoil, as it is felt less by you.
Both cheap guns, so there should be no cost differences to consider.
Taurus PT-111 G2 Specifications
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum/.40 S&W.
- Weapon length: 6.3 inches.
- Barrel length: 3.2 inches.
- Weapon height: 5.1 inches.
- Weapon width: 1.2 inches.
- Weight without cartridges: 22 ounces.
- Magazine capacity: 12 rounds/10 rounds.
S&W Shield Specifications
- Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum.
- Weapon length: 6.1 inches.
- Barrel length: 3.1-inches.
- Weapon height: 4.6 inches.
- Weapon width: 0.94 inches.
- Weight without cartridges: 19 ounces.
- Magazine capacity: 7 rounds/8 round extended magazine.
Taurus PT111 G2 vs S&W Shield Conclusion
Both guns are very similar. While they have differences, most of these are negligible. Hence, the final decision is up to you?
Since we guess that this is not the conclusion you were expecting, we’ll let you know which we think is the better pick.
Well, that would be the…
Taurus PT-111 G2
One reason why we prefer this pistol is its higher magazine capacity while retaining its very small dimensions. It also remains our preferred choice as it has a better feel in the hand, due to its improved thumb groove.
While it is a little bigger and heavier, these do not compromise the usability of your firearm, and to some, they are an advantage.
It’s a very close one, so go with what suits you and your needs best.Categories Gun ReviewsPost navigation