30 replies to this topic

[Tompo]

Anyone know of any northern IL. gun shops that currently have the M&P Shield?

Not that I necessarily intend to buy one, but I certainly would like to see/touch one, to see what the hype is all about.   But, every local gun shop I know of within 100 miles of Chicago is out of stock.

There are some guns listed online, but, I like to at least handle the gun FIRST, before I consider buying it.

[Jason4567]

I saw one at GAT last time I was there, but that was ~2 weeks ago.

[w00dc4ip]

Midwest had one a few weeks ago, but it was gone the last time I was there.

[pyre400]

I believe GAT may have one - I know there's a member here who works, there, I'll let him confirm if he cares to.

They also had an XDs .45 on display, which you could handle but not purchase.  They were selling preorders last time I was there.

[Tompo]

pyre400, on 17 May 2012 - 11:24 AM, said:

I believe GAT may have one - I know there's a member here who works, there, I'll let him confirm if he cares to.

They also had an XDs .45 on display, which you could handle but not purchase.  They were selling preorders last time I was there.

Thanks, I'll give GAT a call.   I was in there maybe 3 weeks ago, and they didn't have any.   Maybe they got a few more in, since then.

The XDS looks real promising, too.  But, that gun was supposed to be in stores a month ago--Springfield must have run into some "issues".   Eventually, the XDS will be in 9mm, too.  Be interesting to compare the Shield and the 9mm XDS.

[pyre400]

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 12:20 PM, said:

Be interesting to compare the Shield and the 9mm XDS.

I'm looking forward to that, myself.
I really like the .45, but for me, spare mags with higher capacity would have to be available to make that attractive.  Again, JMO.

I've handled the XDs but I have not yet handled the shield... Regardless, I'll wait at least a year before purchasing either.  Both companies make a good product, but I've got other goals I'm working on.  Still, this is just another example of why its an exciting time in the industry - there's always a new, cool product coming out.

[Tompo]

pyre400, on 17 May 2012 - 12:38 PM, said:

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 12:20 PM, said:

Be interesting to compare the Shield and the 9mm XDS.

I'm looking forward to that, myself.
I really like the .45, but for me, spare mags with higher capacity would have to be available to make that attractive.  Again, JMO.

I've handled the XDs but I have not yet handled the shield... Regardless, I'll wait at least a year before purchasing either.  Both companies make a good product, but I've got other goals I'm working on.  Still, this is just another example of why its an exciting time in the industry - there's always a new, cool product coming out.

I like the idea/concept of a slim .45ACP (the XDS) but, personally, I've consolidated my guns to mainly 9mm (and a couple .40's).  The cost of .45ACP ammo is just too prohibitive.  And, IMO, a well placed shot with something like a 9mm Winchester PDX is going to stop most threats.   I also like the idea of more rounds in the mag.
You've seen/handled the XDS??   I didn't think they were out and available yet.....

Too many fun toys to buy!

[Jeckler]

I think our inside connection at GAT may have moved to Atlanta.  I have not seen him in the store and he's been very absent from the Forums.  He may have fled the state.

[pyre400]

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 12:48 PM, said:

You've seen/handled the XDS??   I didn't think they were out and available yet.....

Yes, I have handled the XDs (so much so that the kind SA associate was getting annoyed by my presence )  - I did not live fire it, but from what I can tell,  it seems to live up to the hype.  Its slim, feels good, and seems to improve upon my other XD's.  The trigger feels good, reset is ok, and by the looks of things, it should be really easy to tune.  Like you, I'll be waiting to see what the other offerings are.  I expect the .45 will have a fair amount of recoil, but nothing unmanageable - I look forward to shooting one to know for sure.

[pyre400]

Jeckler, on 17 May 2012 - 12:55 PM, said:

I think our inside connection at GAT may have moved to Atlanta. I have not seen him in the store and he's been very absent from the Forums. He may have fled the state.

Ah, he was talking about that.  I didnt realize he made a decision that quick.  LOL.  It takes me that long to figure out what I'm having for dinner.

I'll have to look him up.

[Tompo]

pyre400, on 17 May 2012 - 02:09 PM, said:

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 12:48 PM, said:

You've seen/handled the XDS??   I didn't think they were out and available yet.....

Yes, I have handled the XDs (so much so that the kind SA associate was getting annoyed by my presence )  - I did not live fire it, but from what I can tell,  it seems to live up to the hype.  Its slim, feels good, and seems to improve upon my other XD's.  The trigger feels good, reset is ok, and by the looks of things, it should be really easy to tune.  Like you, I'll be waiting to see what the other offerings are.  I expect the .45 will have a fair amount of recoil, but nothing unmanageable - I look forward to shooting one to know for sure.

Nice.  Did you ask that "kind associate" from SA when they'll finally be available?  and, how long I'll have to wait for a 9mm?  

I'm fairly certain the 9mm and .40 is in the pipeline.  SA made the initial XDS in .45ACP...but, everything I read, from quite a few months ago, the gun was supposed to be in stores by now....which leads me to believe Springfield has run into some kind of production or testing problem.
I have two other XDM's--and love 'em.    The idea of a 'slim' appeals to me (if/when we ever get CCW)  

S&W is eating SA lunch with the roll out of the Shield.  I haven't seen either (the XDS or the Shield) but I'm guessing they're similar in size.

[pyre400]

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 02:46 PM, said:

Nice.  Did you ask that "kind associate" from SA when they'll finally be available?  and, how long I'll have to wait for a 9mm?  

Actually, I believe it was a marketing decision to bring out the .45 first.  From what I have heard, the 9mm was developed before the .45.
I also recall the SA associate pointing out that release to distributors was to be sometime late March, early April.  Distributor doesnt necessarily mean retailer... That said, I'm sure they are running behind.  You are correct that SW is generating lots of buzz, as they are the first to the shelf.  I'm sure someone at SA is pounding their fist over it.  There are lots of things involved in the manufacture and distribution of firearms.  Whether its a supply issue, or a glitch - who knows.  They were pretty hasty to get it out at shotshow 2012.  Perhaps they caught wind of SW's offering?  I'm not privy to this information - I dont know why there's a delay.  I'm still waiting for the vltor fortis to come out

RE: 9mm version - the SA associate told me that the 9mm version would be out in late summer 2012.   I asked if that was time-frame was for public consumption and he said it was.  Will that date end up being pushed back?  Not sure... I can say that if you have 2 XDm's, there's a very good chance you'll like the XDs.  It may be worth the wait.

[Tompo]

pyre400, on 17 May 2012 - 03:00 PM, said:

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 02:46 PM, said:

Nice.  Did you ask that "kind associate" from SA when they'll finally be available?  and, how long I'll have to wait for a 9mm?  

Actually, I believe it was a marketing decision to bring out the .45 first.  From what I have heard, the 9mm was developed before the .45.
I also recall the SA associate pointing out that release to distributors was to be sometime late March, early April.  Distributor doesnt necessarily mean retailer... That said, I'm sure they are running behind.  You are correct that SW is generating lots of buzz, as they are the first to the shelf.  I'm sure someone at SA is pounding their fist over it.  There are lots of things involved in the manufacture and distribution of firearms.  Whether its a supply issue, or a glitch - who knows.  They were pretty hasty to get it out at shotshow 2012.  Perhaps they caught wind of SW's offering?  I'm not privy to this information - I dont know why there's a delay.  I'm still waiting for the vltor fortis to come out

RE: 9mm version - the SA associate told me that the 9mm version would be out in late summer 2012.   I asked if that was time-frame was for public consumption and he said it was.  Will that date end up being pushed back?  Not sure... I can say that if you have 2 XDm's, there's a very good chance you'll like the XDs.  It may be worth the wait.

The vitor fortis--is that in 10mm??   I read some things about that MONTHS ago....surprised that too isn't out yet.

From what I've read on the XD talk forum, speculation is, SA ran into some kind of 'glitch' (?) either in production or testing.  Who knows.  Those guys on that forum are just like us, they don't know any more than we do. lol

yes, I like the XDM platform.  It feels 'right" in my hand and I shoot it well.  That's why I was initially curious about the XDS in 9mm--but it seems THAT gun is 3-6 months away....and the Shield was available now (sorta)
Unless i switch to a Shield or the XDS, the XDM compact 3.8" is--to me--perfect for CCW.  (plus it holds a lot more rounds!)

[AFigmentOfYourImagination]

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 03:14 PM, said:

pyre400, on 17 May 2012 - 03:00 PM, said:

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 02:46 PM, said:

Nice.  Did you ask that "kind associate" from SA when they'll finally be available?  and, how long I'll have to wait for a 9mm?  

Actually, I believe it was a marketing decision to bring out the .45 first.  From what I have heard, the 9mm was developed before the .45.
I also recall the SA associate pointing out that release to distributors was to be sometime late March, early April.  Distributor doesnt necessarily mean retailer... That said, I'm sure they are running behind.  You are correct that SW is generating lots of buzz, as they are the first to the shelf.  I'm sure someone at SA is pounding their fist over it.  There are lots of things involved in the manufacture and distribution of firearms.  Whether its a supply issue, or a glitch - who knows.  They were pretty hasty to get it out at shotshow 2012.  Perhaps they caught wind of SW's offering?  I'm not privy to this information - I dont know why there's a delay.  I'm still waiting for the vltor fortis to come out

RE: 9mm version - the SA associate told me that the 9mm version would be out in late summer 2012.   I asked if that was time-frame was for public consumption and he said it was.  Will that date end up being pushed back?  Not sure... I can say that if you have 2 XDm's, there's a very good chance you'll like the XDs.  It may be worth the wait.

The vitor fortis--is that in 10mm??   I read some things about that MONTHS ago....surprised that too isn't out yet.

From what I've read on the XD talk forum, speculation is, SA ran into some kind of 'glitch' (?) either in production or testing.  Who knows.  Those guys on that forum are just like us, they don't know any more than we do. lol

yes, I like the XDM platform.  It feels 'right" in my hand and I shoot it well.  That's why I was initially curious about the XDS in 9mm--but it seems THAT gun is 3-6 months away....and the Shield was available now (sorta)
Unless i switch to a Shield or the XDS, the XDM compact 3.8" is--to me--perfect for CCW.  (plus it holds a lot more rounds!)

Not to derail the thread....

If I may ask, how does the XDM vary from the regular XD Service 4" as far as size and handling (aside from the 4 inch barrel)? Any thinner? Or is it more or less a refined version of the XD with a slightly shorter barrel?

[pyre400]

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 03:14 PM, said:

the XDM compact 3.8" is--to me--perfect for CCW.  (plus it holds a lot more rounds!)

The fortis was supposed to be out in May of 2010 - they've been running a bit behind

If you can comfortably carry an XDM 3.8, then I'd go with that, hands down.  Some body types or carry preferences can make that difficult.

I carry an XDsc which is dimensionally similar, with the exception of the barrel length.  I replaced the recoil spring after ~6000 trouble free rounds, as I was annoyed with how far it would throw brass.
Sure enough, I had my first stove pipe with a new OEM recoil spring.  Still I was able to land 3 inside the 8 ring (one in the 10!), with a 12 round mag, from 100 yards   Not bad for a 3" barrel, and using my range bag as a rest LOL.

[pyre400]

AFigmentOfYourImagination, on 17 May 2012 - 03:33 PM, said:

Not to derail the thread....

If I may ask, how does the XDM vary from the regular XD Service 4" as far as size and handling (aside from the 4 inch barrel)? Any thinner? Or is it more or less a refined version of the XD with a slightly shorter barrel?

Well there's quie a few XDm models now.  All of them share a similar trigger which has a shorter reset over the XD.
The XDM's have a greater capacity.
Dimensionally speaking, outside of the barrel/slide length, the XDM's are pretty close to their XD predecessors - within the same caliber, of course.

The XDM also has other ergo features like changeable back straps, and grip texture.  The match barrel is nice, but I shoot the XD just as accurately as the XDM.
Takedown of an XDM does not require you to pull the trigger.

That's about it... oh and the XDM has a few extra parts (which permit the takedown without pulling the trigger.  Incidentally, they can be removed without affecting the general operation)

[AFigmentOfYourImagination]

pyre400, on 17 May 2012 - 03:47 PM, said:

AFigmentOfYourImagination, on 17 May 2012 - 03:33 PM, said:

Not to derail the thread....

If I may ask, how does the XDM vary from the regular XD Service 4" as far as size and handling (aside from the 4 inch barrel)? Any thinner? Or is it more or less a refined version of the XD with a slightly shorter barrel?

Well there's quie a few XDm models now.  All of them share a similar trigger which has a shorter reset over the XD.
The XDM's have a greater capacity.
Dimensionally speaking, outside of the barrel/slide length, the XDM's are pretty close to their XD predecessors - within the same caliber, of course.

The XDM also has other ergo features like changeable back straps, and grip texture.  The match barrel is nice, but I shoot the XD just as accurately as the XDM.
Takedown of an XDM does not require you to pull the trigger.

That's about it... oh and the XDM has a few extra parts (which permit the takedown without pulling the trigger.  Incidentally, they can be removed without affecting the general operation)

Thank you. I always thought it odd that I had to pull the trigger to be able to disassemble the XD. Made me a bit more mindful of securing the ammo in the other room and having the mags disassembled for cleaning (or put away if not cleaning) at the same time so it would minimize any chance of an negligent discharge.

I'm currently looking into a 9mm my would wife enjoy operating (but I would not part with)...and am leaning towards the CZ 85 which are hard to find, or the Bersa Thunder 9 Ultra Compact. She was handy with the 380....steel frame was preferred by her versus the polymer frames I had her fire. As best as I could figure, it was the weight of the steel frame that helped manage recoil. Ambidextrous controls (safety, slide release, and magazine release - the CZ 85's mag release is reversible) will enable us to have the configuration needed to teach junior when that day arrives (he is a southpaw).

Edited by AFigmentOfYourImagination, 17 May 2012 - 04:20 PM.

[Tompo]

pyre400, on 17 May 2012 - 03:37 PM, said:

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 03:14 PM, said:

the XDM compact 3.8" is--to me--perfect for CCW.  (plus it holds a lot more rounds!)

The fortis was supposed to be out in May of 2010 - they've been running a bit behind

If you can comfortably carry an XDM 3.8, then I'd go with that, hands down.  Some body types or carry preferences can make that difficult.

I carry an XDsc which is dimensionally similar, with the exception of the barrel length.  I replaced the recoil spring after ~6000 trouble free rounds, as I was annoyed with how far it would throw brass.
Sure enough, I had my first stove pipe with a new OEM recoil spring.  Still I was able to land 3 inside the 8 ring (one in the 10!), with a 12 round mag, from 100 yards   Not bad for a 3" barrel, and using my range bag as a rest LOL.

the fortis has the same engineer/designer than the XDS has!  lol   Gee, it's 'only' two years late....

I almost bought the XDsc, when I bought the XDM 3.8.    The barrel is only slightly longer (moot issue, IMO for CCW) but the mag capacity in the XDM was a few more...with the pinky extension on the short(er) mag, it fits my hand better, too.

That's good shooting!  At 100yds! With a 3 inch barrel!!!   Most people don't realize these guns are certainly capable of great accuracy--even out to 100yds.   the gun is more accurate than I am.
the 3.8 is a good choice (for me) for CCW...until I see a XDS or the Shield!  lol

[Tompo]

pyre400, on 17 May 2012 - 03:47 PM, said:

AFigmentOfYourImagination, on 17 May 2012 - 03:33 PM, said:

Not to derail the thread....

If I may ask, how does the XDM vary from the regular XD Service 4" as far as size and handling (aside from the 4 inch barrel)? Any thinner? Or is it more or less a refined version of the XD with a slightly shorter barrel?

Well there's quie a few XDm models now.  All of them share a similar trigger which has a shorter reset over the XD.
The XDM's have a greater capacity.
Dimensionally speaking, outside of the barrel/slide length, the XDM's are pretty close to their XD predecessors - within the same caliber, of course.

The XDM also has other ergo features like changeable back straps, and grip texture.  The match barrel is nice, but I shoot the XD just as accurately as the XDM.
Takedown of an XDM does not require you to pull the trigger.

That's about it... oh and the XDM has a few extra parts (which permit the takedown without pulling the trigger.  Incidentally, they can be removed without affecting the general operation)

To me, the biggest differences between the XD and the XDm is the trigger reset...and the XDm has interchangable back straps.   the barrel on the XDM is "match grade", but accuracy depends on the user.  And, the grip texture is different on the XDm.

[AFigmentOfYourImagination]

Tompo, on 17 May 2012 - 04:59 PM, said:

pyre400, on 17 May 2012 - 03:47 PM, said:

AFigmentOfYourImagination, on 17 May 2012 - 03:33 PM, said:

Not to derail the thread....

If I may ask, how does the XDM vary from the regular XD Service 4" as far as size and handling (aside from the 4 inch barrel)? Any thinner? Or is it more or less a refined version of the XD with a slightly shorter barrel?

Well there's quie a few XDm models now.  All of them share a similar trigger which has a shorter reset over the XD.
The XDM's have a greater capacity.
Dimensionally speaking, outside of the barrel/slide length, the XDM's are pretty close to their XD predecessors - within the same caliber, of course.

The XDM also has other ergo features like changeable back straps, and grip texture.  The match barrel is nice, but I shoot the XD just as accurately as the XDM.
Takedown of an XDM does not require you to pull the trigger.

That's about it... oh and the XDM has a few extra parts (which permit the takedown without pulling the trigger.  Incidentally, they can be removed without affecting the general operation)

To me, the biggest differences between the XD and the XDm is the trigger reset...and the XDm has interchangable back straps.   the barrel on the XDM is "match grade", but accuracy depends on the user.  And, the grip texture is different on the XDm.

Right on. Thanks. I didn't think the trigger on the XD was bad....but the XDm sounds even better.

[Jeckler]

pyre400, on 17 May 2012 - 02:10 PM, said:

Jeckler, on 17 May 2012 - 12:55 PM, said:

I think our inside connection at GAT may have moved to Atlanta. I have not seen him in the store and he's been very absent from the Forums. He may have fled the state.

Ah, he was talking about that.  I didnt realize he made a decision that quick.  LOL.  It takes me that long to figure out what I'm having for dinner.

I'll have to look him up.

Unfortunately, no longer at GAT.  However, he's still in the state...sort of.  New job.  Traveling and training for the new position.

[Dickens]

I'm in the SW suburbs of Chicago. I would be happy to let you inspect my Shield.

[Sigma]

S &W WILL BE AT KENNY'S SHOP NEXT MONTH FOR THE GRAND OPENING

[PDC]

GAT had two M&P Shields in 9mm yesterday.

Well, they _had_ two. Then they had one. :-)

Can't wait for Sunday to come!

Edited by PDC, 18 May 2012 - 05:59 PM.

[Kenny]

KAP Guns has 1 in 9mm & 1 in .40!! We sold 2 already & decided to keep this one in store for fondeling but have a few more coming in next week!!

[sirflyguy]

I was really impressed with how the Shield felt.  I liked it better than the XDMS, and I own 4 regular XDMs and one XD!  I bet I end up buying one!  My wife loved it also.

Edited by sirflyguy, 20 May 2012 - 06:39 PM.

[Tompo]

sirflyguy, on 20 May 2012 - 06:30 PM, said:

I was really impressed with how the Shield felt.  I liked it better than the XDMS, and I own 4 regular XDMs and one XD!  I bet I end up buying one!  My wife loved it also.

I didn't think the XDs is in stores yet (??)

[pyre400]

Springfield has just shipped their XDS today.  Some retailers will be getting them in this week.

[Tompo]

pyre400, on 05 June 2012 - 10:33 PM, said:

Springfield has just shipped their XDS today.  Some retailers will be getting them in this week.

Nice!   I wonder how long for the 9mm............Christmas?  Of 2014?  

[Helpdesk9]

Tompo, on 06 June 2012 - 06:44 AM, said:

pyre400, on 05 June 2012 - 10:33 PM, said:

Springfield has just shipped their XDS today.  Some retailers will be getting them in this week.

Nice!   I wonder how long for the 9mm............Christmas?  Of 2024?  

^Fixed that for you
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