I rented a 2.0 and an EZ at my range and enjoyed shooting both, but as a 66-year old new shooter I found it a joy loading the 22-style magazine of the EZ. Because of my hands I tend to struggle loading more than a few rounds into regular 9mm magazines. I bought the EZ. It’s a beautifully designed gun.
Yes! I’m the same way! I had a 357 many years ago and I’m wanting to get one to carry as well as home protection. I was hoping to find one that was easy for my aging hands. They’re only gonna continue to get worse so I was really excited to see an “EZ” one. That way I should have an issue with being able to use it for years to come. This video was very informative!
Personally never own a gun leaving a dangling pinky. The trigger on the EZ is much better because it's hammer fired. Great video and Thanks for the info.
What really like about the EZ is that I can rack it one handed using my pants or pretty much any way you can imagine. For all the things marked "tactical" that really aren't, this really is a tactical weapon that funny enough isn't marked as such.
I actually like the extra safety feature of the EZ on the back of the handle. With a proper grip, shooting has no issues at all, and it provides extra safety. Great comparison great video!
Solid comparison. I appreciate the tip about not pulling the trigger or not activating the grip safety when the gun is disassembled for cleaning and inspection.
This video is fantastic! You covered everything I was curious about. I really liked your review; the camera work was perfection, and the contrast/compare presentation extremely informative.
I choose the EZ model because of low recoil and easy magazine loading. I purchased 4 extra magazines. I carry OWB @3 Oclock and wear a shirt to conceal the pistol or in my right pocket.
The best comparison video of these I have seen. My wife and I both have the 1.0, but her arthritis in her hands make it difficult to operate hers, so the EZ would be perfect.
I also have the 1.9 and it is a work of art to master the slide for racking a round. I am 65 and still able to do it but have walked away a few times and come back to try racking the slide when my strength returns. Put a apex trigger and duty kit, night sights, grip tape, laser and light combo in it. I would have been better off buying the 2.0 or performance center instead of trying to save money.
You made a comment about the EZ locking back mid mag. I own the 9EZ, and have never had that problem with approximately 1500 rounds through it. If it did do that I would consider that a quirk of that particular firearm. Several folks I know own the EZ, and have never had an issue with it staying in battery until the mag is empty. I'm 65, and yes, it's a slightly bigger firearm, but it's my EDC. Even appendix carry with it is comfortable. Arthritis has done its damage, and the spring on the 9 2.0 is hard for me anymore, that's why I switched. I admit I miss carrying that pistol, it's a great carry handgun. Nice, thorough review of the two. Thanks!
Great comparison! I like the option of having thumb safeties as I prefer to have a manual safety. I bought the EZ 9 for the days when my arthritis is severe. Also I just like guns and the EZ seems cool. I have a M&P 2.0 with the thumb safeties and the 5" barrel as it feels good in the hand and points well. I often carry my favorite guns CZ 75 Single action or a 1911. The Colt Wiley Clapp CCO with the Commander length slide and officers length grip and hand checked aluminum frame is great. With a good IWB holster and over sized shirt, Jacket or vest it works well. Cheers
My wife and I are seniors, and searching and testing at a range. We like what we saw, thanks for the detail.. the EZ is for us. I like the grip safety alot
Everyone is different on what feels the best to them in a handgun. I originally bought the .380EZ. Never owned a pistol in 380 before and overall I am very impressed with the overall design of the pistol. For me I like the longer grip of the EZ the way it comes standard, as well as the indented trigger guard. I like a full grip on my pistols whether its for conceal or not. The little extra size doesn't bother me in the least with the .380 and it still fits in my front jeans pocket very easily. I also like the longer 3.675" barrel especially with the .380 caliber as it gives it close to an extra 75-90gps over the shorter barrel versions. Very important with the .380 caliber for penetration and hollow point expansion. Its also very simple to keep on target between shots and I actually prefer the unhinged trigger setup. I think its a better looking gun overall as well The EZ to pull slide is just a bonus and wasn't what I originally purchased it for. I went for the full grip and the feel of the grip as well as the angle of the grip. I'm a 1911 owner as well and it reminds me very much of my 1911 pistols to a degree. I am very interested in the new 9mm version as well. It is around 5 oz. heavier than the .380 version but it also has that nice full grip with the 18 degree angle I like and the texture of the grip, along with a really good trigger. I like a single stack pistol personally as they fit my hands best for me. If they haven't produced the Performance Center model yet for the new 9mm version it is the model I am going to wait for and purchase..Thanks for the video...I've learned with pistols that we all have our own likes and dislikes and none of us are wrong as to what features and feel we feel most comfortable with...Now I'm wondering if they will extend the EZ line to a .40 cal or maybe even a single stack .45acp...Time will tell...It has been a great sell for smith & wesson..They are really great for anyone and not the original target audience they used in advertising. Oh, the grip safety doesn't bother me one bit, and it probably wouldn't for most people..Its like its not even there and so easy to work it correctly. Very well made and a nice new design for a fair price overall...
Great review/video and obviously someone who knows what he is doing ... I appreciate the educational aspect since I am looking for the EZ model and now I have a better understanding what I'll be looking for. You did mention some prices in passing which is very helpful, however since these are such a blind item for many of us buying the model for the first time, the 4 shops I spoke with are pushing the MSRP. If anyone on this channel has real world pricing in various states please share - thank you.
Thank you. Unfortunately right now everything tends to be at or above MSRP due to availability, as things begin to settle down that will hopefully change.
The big difference for me is the EZ magazines are EZ to load, especially with a speed loader. I dont have any trouble racking the slide on the original. But I do struggle to load the more than 6 rounds in the original, even with a speed loader.
I wanted to get the Shield 2.0, but I have Arthritis in my fingers and had a hard time with the slide. The EZ was perfect for me. I'm so glad I got it!
I think the difference in weight can be accounted for by the barrel & slide being a shade longer, but also due to the stainless steel reinforcing in the frame all the way out thru the dust cover (seen through those ports above the pic rail). For concealment the size difference is almost inconsequential but the EZ being slightly longer, slightly thicker, and slightly heavier helps in shooting the pistol (sight radius, recoil management, better purchase on the grip).
I have & love, both of the EZ models. I just wanted some light weight & compact guns for concealed carry! The standard std. Shield mags can carry more ammo, & get +2 butt plates. The EZ mags are what they are, w/o loosing the loading tabs. And the EZ you have the Picatinny rail, which I like, fits my O-light PL mini 2. Good review. Thanks!
One reason one might pick the E-Z Over The Shield, is that the higher weight and longer Barrel are actually going to reduce felt recoil Then there are people for whom the shields grip is a little too thin, which can wind up with it sitting canted in the hand when you draw For me that little bit of extra thickness in the EZ's grip brings it to point of a much more naturally
I am new to owning guns. I have the EZ Shield 9mm. Rented the Shield 9 (comparing for a better concealment option), and the recoil was terrible comparatively. The EZ is a little heavier but spot on with accuracy.
@@MichiganBlue2012 the average self defense distance is like 5- 7 yards so recoil shouldn't really be a problem. 3 safeties in your way can easily be a problem though.
Great video! Very informative. I have a 9mm Shield 2.0 for my EDC which I love. I'm thinking of the 9mm EZ for home defense because it has the rail to mount my laser (also I'm pushing 70 lol). Btw, I forget if it was mentioned in the video, but another plus for the EZ is the magazine is much easier to load.
Great review comparing the two guns I'm looking at. They're both $415 right now at my local gun shop. Price actually went up due to Covid-19 and the situation of increased demand for guns and ammo. I like the regular Shield 2.0 for it's compactness over the heavier larger EZ. Had 2020 not been so strange, then prices would probably be about $350 for these. It's necessary to buy local paying a bit more than one normally would had for national chains aren't shipping orders to pick up at gun shops now days. Thanks for doing this one back in January.
I just ordered the EZ. I have carried a 40 Cal Springfield XD for years but at 70 years old the pull on the slide is getting harder to engage so I am switching to this weapon. I am looking forward to taking it to the range for break in. Thanks for the video you explained the differences well. Nice tip about cleaning the EZ.
@@marklower007 the EZ series pistols have an internal hammer (if I remember correctly). I have no idea why, my understanding was that striker fire was cheaper because fewer parts. But several new models have started using internal hammers.
@NoComment fair enough, I didn't realize that was a goal for the Security. I had kinda guessed it was a cost cutting technique, even though I can't see how that makes sense.
Thanka for thr video. I thought i wanted an EZ for a while but after holding it I didnt like all the safeties on it. I went with the 2.0 no safety. Threw a Houge grip on there and I love it! If you ask me, the EZ is for people with arthritis or weak shoulders/arms as well as Elderly. I know an old guy that cant chamber his CZ pistol anymore so I suggested the EZ to him. He loves it and can operate it on his own.
The EZ seems perfect for my arthritic dad except the grip safety. Would love to see the EZ platform with other options. The magazines are brilliant. This was an extremely informative video, thanks!
Great review! Literally the only thing leaning me towards ez is the ease of racking the slide. I love everything else about the regular m2.0. This is a tough one.
Does that mean if the trigger is engaged, it can go off? I guess you carry it in a hard holster to prevent a misfire like that while carrying? That is what I'm afraid of when it comes to pistols so I require a safety switch. Do you carry it without a round chambered just be sure it doesn't go off?
@@TUBESPECIFIC1 No never carry a gun with an empty chamber, sort of defeats the whole purpose of carrying. Carry a knife instead! The hinged trigger is the safety. It's (like) three triggers in one, you have to pull all three triggers at once to make the gun shoot, which you do naturally when you pull the trigger, but probably wont happen if you snag it on your car keys. That combined with the long and heavy trigger pull plus the fact that you never let the gun point in an unsafe direction makes it safe. Even cops sometimes panic when people are shooting at them an forget to disengage the safety. So a safety makes you less safe.
I have both of these and the 9mm EZ has a much better grip size and feel. The EZ is easier to rack but other than that they are both excellent weapons for concealed carry.
he's the first reviewer that i ever heard say that he had issues with a first gen Shield.. I carried mine since 2015 and with over 2500R threw it, and not 1 issue and the only reason I'll be upgrading my carry Gun to a Sig p365 this summer is because the newest Guns are coming out Smaller with more capacity but Smith & Wesson won't get on board for what ever reason and i can't wait on them..
Now there's a new Shield Plus, factory 10+1 and 13+1 right in the box. It's about the same size as the original Shield and the Shield 2.0, which I think may be a bit larger than the Sig P365.
I just got my concealed carry permit this week and bought the EZ. I'm eager to shoot it! And yes, the Dems and rioters inspired my decisions to engage my 2nd Amendment rights. 😉 They also inspire me to vote my favorite color in November.
I've been concealed carrying the original Shield for 5 years now I love it never had any of the issues mentioned so I didn't feel the 2.0 was worth the money I didn't like the new grip texture on the 2.0 it was like sandpaper. I have muscular dystrophy and my hand strength is starting to fail so I recently decided to get a performance center EZ Shield 2.0 for when my hands can no longer rack my Shield hopefully it lives up to my expectations.
I got the EZ for my birthday last year for the same reason your wife needed the easy slide. It was my first handgun and I had issues with racking a traditional slide. I think as I gain experience with the EZ, I'll be ready for a second handgun. For now, I just need to get more range time. Finding 9mm ammo has been a scavenger hunt too! I just wish more people would take advantage of their 2A rights.
Just purchased the SW 9mm 2.0 Shield and am very glad I did since it appears to be as good as the more expensive Glock 19 and it is available unlike the Glock. Made in America is big on my list as well . I appreciate your videos and please keep up the great work .
I love my EZbut sad to say less than a week of shooting and the breech face shattered. Waiting on the shipping label from Smith and Wesson. Sucks to have to wait a month and a half to get it back but it is worth the wait. it is quite possibly the most accurate firearm ive ever had straight out of the box.......Also make sure the flats on the guide rod are parallel or it wont go back together
I just traded in my Shield Gen 1 for a 9 Shield EZ today. I put my wife into the 380 Shield EZ about a year ago, been wanting the 9 version ever since. These are great EDC guns.
If you have a need to send your gun back for any reason, whatever the problem they have excellent service, just saying! ! ! had to send my 380 back for the side safety malfunction, and was impressed with they service and their quick return. I give them kudos for their service! !
@@davidharris1179 the safety doesnt bother me. I click it on when I put my IWB holster in my waistband and since the safety is ambidextrous I can easily flip it back off when its secure. I have no clue about the .22lr other than I'm looking at getting my wife one. I bought the .380 Bodyguard for her but she doesnt like the recoil of either the 9 or .380
@@davidharris1179 also if I could go back in time I would probably go with the M&P because I looked at all of them. I chose the EZ because I had never conceal carried before and chose it for the added safety features but now that I am more comfortable I would go with the M&P
@@ronguy4420 I dont remember the exact price but it was probably close to that because I paid $500 and some change for the gun, 2 boxes of ammunition and a holster.
I love mine,what a blast to shoot too,finally got to put 100 rounds through it Saturday at the range, shoots smooth,trigger is awesome, gonna get a laser light combo for it an possibly a red dot optic, I got green tridian,sights,they work great,field stripping is easy
Good video, nice job. Thanks. My wife decided to get her own carry piece, but she couldn't rack any of my semi-autos. The stiffest was a Rugar EC9, the M&P 45 was better but still an issue, and my combat Colt 1911 was about the same as the M&P. (not a shield) She didn't have issues with any of our .22's. I gave her an EZ about a week ago, she loves it! And yes, she can still nail the bull at 15 yards. You gotta love a lady that can out-shoot you. But what choice do I have? Ha Ha
My wife's gun is a Walther PK 380, which is an absolutely awesome gun...EXCEPT for the thumb safety which is upside down (up for fire), and awkwardly situated on the slide instead of on the frame. Disassembly requires a tool (provided), and reassembly can be challenging till you get the knack of it. The recoil spring puts up a fight. But other than that, it's a very easy gun to manipulate. It shoots like a dream, at least in my opinion. Your videos are always excellently presented and highly informative. Would you please make a video comparing the Walther PK 380 to the M&P Shield 380 EZ, similar to this one? Thank you.
Thank you. We have a video on a minor upgrade to that PK380 recoil spring that solves the swearing associated with getting it back in place. I will add that comparison to our list.
Crimson Trace can mount a laser/light combo or separate for virtually ALL of the M&P pistol models and aliengear makes a holster for nearly all of the configurations as well.
Being a lefty I wish they made the mag release reversible in the M2.0. If you look down into the magwell it would have been simple to do. Still love the gun.
I'm a lefty. While I don't have the Shield M2.0 I do have the full size M2.0 and the mag release IS reversible and very easy to do. I'm a first timer and was able to do it in about 30 seconds.
nice review. one thing the 2.0 EZ has very different than the 2.0 is a front lower picatinny rail. most people like lights or lasers to mount on them. It certainly makes for tougher concealment, but it is an additional feature that I did not hear mentioned.
Both good choices 4 diffetent reasons. Shield 2.0 has a size & weight advantage. EZ has eadierslude, longet bbl (75 fps more?) & longer sight rsfius & eadiet to adjust rearsight. I belueve a hammer firedgun usually hits the primetwoth more force than does a striker fired & no striker channel fowling. No decision problem. Just do what I did & apparently U did. BUY BOTH! Thx & Regards, Rob Phx, Az 🇺🇸
Don't know if anyone mentioned this, but the loaded chamber indicator on the EZ can be used (felt) in the dark I would assume. That is a real bonus in my opinion. Also the rail is great, and should be on Shields 1 and 2. Personally I think my shield 1.0 is kind of a bitch to rack so yes maybe the EZ is in my future as I am getting older faster! But I did an aftermarket trigger and bits, and aftermarket grips to bring my 1.0 maybe up to a 3.0! Shoots like a dream and never a failure. Great review by the way. Thanks very much.
Thank you. Many of the "pop out' LCIs can be felt. I just never like to rely on them. A gun isn't clear until I look in the chamber myself and it is important to know the state of any defense weapon by having a very repeatable process for readying them.
I have the regular 2.0 and love it. The onerall build quality and fit is superior to Glock. Even if the m&p was more expensive would choose it. The fact it's $150 less makes it a no brainier.
Thank you for the detailed comparison. I had been wondering if the 9mm EZ would be giving up some of the ease of use as compared to the .380. I believe the .380 EZ offers an inexperienced and infirm shooter an even more useful option with its lesser recoil.
I have both EZs now. The 380 is a little lighter weight. Which I love, when I wear shorts. And they are almost identical in size (9mm is wider!). But, I can carry either model in the same Serpa holster, with just minor modification to adjust the trigger catch. (FYI- it fits the Glock 19 holster).
Both EZ's are on California's "Forbidden" List. Is there anything comparable? Looking for CC that is easy to rack the slide, smooth trigger pull and not a lot of recoil. I tried a Sig 380 P238 and it was pretty nice. Any other suggestions?
@@pjperalta5298 Why are EZs forbidden? They're even legal here in Massachusetts and we have some of the most ridiculous gun restrictions. We HAVE to have load indicators, manual safety, and 10 lb trigger pulls (Yes, I said 10 lbs, lol) We can't even have Glocks because they're not up to code, but EZs have all that
@@ghostwalk2446 The company sells California (pre-microstamp regulation) and Massachusetts compliant versions of the basic models. Microstamping is a patented process that micro-laser engraves a unique alpha-numeric code on the tip of the gun’s firing pin so that, in theory, it imprints the information on discharged cartridge cases.
Have the original shield and an ez380. both are great guns. Talon grips were a huge improvement overall on the 1.0 however the texture on the ez 380 is easier to grip so i imagine the same on the 2.0( I only use the extended 8 rnd mag My tigger on 1.0 is a tad heavy but not bad and very crisp. I shoot both very well, at 9 yrds they both keep up with half my full size guns. Its a tough call but I might use the ez 380 simple cause I can put more rounds on target do to the lighted recoil. 365 xl is next on the list. BTW the ez three 380 is easier on reloads cause in general and magazine that rubs on your palm when ejecting is naturally alittle slower. Would be one reason Id go the ez 9 over the 2.0, if they made the grip longer from the start it would be better IMO, I don't shoot anything where my pinky is hanging off.
On my full size M&P9, the design of the slide lock/release lever allows the slide to release when a mag is inserted more aggressively. The M2.0 version has a redesigned lock/release, which thwarts that "feature". I like the earlier version better for running the gun. I notice that both of these shields have the old style lock/release. So do both allow for the auto-release behavior when mags are inserted?
M&P Shield 9mm (M1 or M2) all day. Better for concealment. Lighter. No gimmicky grip safety release. Better implementation of a view port. Both are still solid guns.
The EZ is my edc for working. Its light accurate fun to shoot and very reliable. I hardly know I have it at work. I do a lot of bending crawling and lifting. I'm a service plumber for 30 yrs and hands are sore from arthritis and the EZ is easier to load and chamber. But if I'm not working and just out to the movies or out shopping or out to eat I carry my glock 19 with 2 extra magazines.
Nice comparison video. What is your opinion on the pros and cons of internal hammer fired vs striker fired? I have the Shield 9mm 1.0 (original) and I love it. You're correct about the springs being strong. One trick I learned about locking the slide back for tear down was make sure there's an empty mag inserted - it makes locking the slide back much easier. I've only put about 500 rounds through mine (so far) but it seems to be loosening up. I still love the way the gun shoots.
Thank you. Overall my preference is striker fired as it is easier to get a nice trigger and still be consistent. SA or DA/SA hammer guns in SA mode have nice triggers but either need to be cocked (SA) or have a long heavy first pull (DA).
Excellent job of being objective and balanced in your review. I'm going to buy my first handgun in a week or two and am considering one of these two Shields. Would the longer length of the EZ barrel influence it's accuracy over the M2.0?
Thank you. The slight barrel length difference will have no noticeable effect on either velocity or inherent accuracy so feel free to choose the one that fits you best.
I rented a 2.0 and an EZ at my range and enjoyed shooting both, but as a 66-year old new shooter I found it a joy loading the 22-style magazine of the EZ. Because of my hands I tend to struggle loading more than a few rounds into regular 9mm magazines. I bought the EZ. It’s a beautifully designed gun.
Yes! I’m the same way! I had a 357 many years ago and I’m wanting to get one to carry as well as home protection. I was hoping to find one that was easy for my aging hands. They’re only gonna continue to get worse so I was really excited to see an “EZ” one. That way I should have an issue with being able to use it for years to come. This video was very informative!
Great video and not having blaring "music" is a plus. Thank you for the information.
Thank you.
L Thomas Same here! Most of the RUclips guys seem intent on blaring loud music way past the point of annoying but distracting big time
Some music (or not) at the intro would be much better than the pure noise of an indoor shooting range.
@@HammerStriker
I had doth
Personally never own a gun leaving a dangling pinky. The trigger on the EZ is much better because it's hammer fired. Great video and Thanks for the info.
What really like about the EZ is that I can rack it one handed using my pants or pretty much any way you can imagine. For all the things marked "tactical" that really aren't, this really is a tactical weapon that funny enough isn't marked as such.
I actually like the extra safety feature of the EZ on the back of the handle. With a proper grip, shooting has no issues at all, and it provides extra safety. Great comparison great video!
Thank you.
True I’ve had my easy for over a year and I never even notice the grip safety
No issues whatsoever even with a bum trigger finger.
Thanks
Hey man I got a question for yal
Absolutely love my 9mm EZ. Functionality, accuracy, reliability, concealability, and cleaning is by far the best. I use it for my EDC.
Solid comparison. I appreciate the tip about not pulling the trigger or not activating the grip safety when the gun is disassembled for cleaning and inspection.
Thank you.
This is super important, never squeeze the grip safety ever while disassembling
Excellent review of the difference in strength required to operate the slide. Thanks for this really clear and comprehensive review.
Thank you.
This video is fantastic! You covered everything I was curious about. I really liked your review; the camera work was perfection, and the contrast/compare presentation extremely informative.
Thank you.
Well done. Very informative comparison, which is just what I (being a newbie) was looking for.
Thank you.
I have multiple versions of both these guns and love them all. Thanx S&W for redoing the triggers and making EZ as friendly as it is Great veiw 👍👍👍
Does the EZ fit in the normal M2.0 holsters. I’m trying to pick one up for my girlfriend.
I choose the EZ model because of low recoil and easy magazine loading. I purchased 4 extra magazines. I carry OWB @3 Oclock and wear a shirt to conceal the pistol or in my right pocket.
Just the comparison i was looking for thanks
Just bought my Ez. Loving it.
Nice review, I like how you went into detail about both pistols.
Excellent comparison of the two editions of the M&P 9mm.
Thank you.
The best comparison video of these I have seen. My wife and I both have the 1.0, but her arthritis in her hands make it difficult to operate hers, so the EZ would be perfect.
Thank you.
I also have the 1.9 and it is a work of art to master the slide for racking a round. I am 65 and still able to do it but have walked away a few times and come back to try racking the slide when my strength returns. Put a apex trigger and duty kit, night sights, grip tape, laser and light combo in it. I would have been better off buying the 2.0 or performance center instead of trying to save money.
You made a comment about the EZ locking back mid mag. I own the 9EZ, and have never had that problem with approximately 1500 rounds through it. If it did do that I would consider that a quirk of that particular firearm. Several folks I know own the EZ, and have never had an issue with it staying in battery until the mag is empty. I'm 65, and yes, it's a slightly bigger firearm, but it's my EDC. Even appendix carry with it is comfortable. Arthritis has done its damage, and the spring on the 9 2.0 is hard for me anymore, that's why I switched. I admit I miss carrying that pistol, it's a great carry handgun. Nice, thorough review of the two. Thanks!
I have the EZ and this fun gun is not going anywhere. It's the first .380 I ever found that was a joy to shoot.
If I'm gonna carry a gun the size of the .380 EZ I'll just carry a S&W compact with 12+ rounds or a Glock 19. Both are the same length and height.
Great comparison!
I like the option of having thumb safeties as I prefer to have a manual safety.
I bought the EZ 9 for the days when my arthritis is severe.
Also I just like guns and the EZ seems cool.
I have a M&P 2.0 with the thumb safeties and the 5" barrel as it feels good in the hand and points well.
I often carry my favorite guns CZ 75 Single action or a 1911. The Colt Wiley Clapp CCO with the Commander length slide and officers length grip and hand checked aluminum frame is great.
With a good IWB holster and over sized shirt, Jacket or vest it works well.
Cheers
Just picked up a 9ez yesterday, great CCW!
Been looking for my first pistol. So glad I found your video. The clearest explanation I’ve seen. Thank you so much.
Thank you. I am happy it helped.
My wife and I are seniors, and searching and testing at a range. We like what we saw, thanks for the detail.. the EZ is for us. I like the grip safety alot
Have both . Have arthritis in my hands . Thank you S&W for making a gun for us that need a little help. P.S. the EZ is very accurate imo
Recoil Tactical makes a plastic addition to the shield's slide to mimic the wings on the EZ slide to give a better grip.
Everyone is different on what feels the best to them in a handgun. I originally bought the .380EZ. Never owned a pistol in 380 before and overall I am very impressed with the overall design of the pistol. For me I like the longer grip of the EZ the way it comes standard, as well as the indented trigger guard. I like a full grip on my pistols whether its for conceal or not. The little extra size doesn't bother me in the least with the .380 and it still fits in my front jeans pocket very easily. I also like the longer 3.675" barrel especially with the .380 caliber as it gives it close to an extra 75-90gps over the shorter barrel versions. Very important with the .380 caliber for penetration and hollow point expansion. Its also very simple to keep on target between shots and I actually prefer the unhinged trigger setup. I think its a better looking gun overall as well The EZ to pull slide is just a bonus and wasn't what I originally purchased it for. I went for the full grip and the feel of the grip as well as the angle of the grip. I'm a 1911 owner as well and it reminds me very much of my 1911 pistols to a degree. I am very interested in the new 9mm version as well. It is around 5 oz. heavier than the .380 version but it also has that nice full grip with the 18 degree angle I like and the texture of the grip, along with a really good trigger. I like a single stack pistol personally as they fit my hands best for me. If they haven't produced the Performance Center model yet for the new 9mm version it is the model I am going to wait for and purchase..Thanks for the video...I've learned with pistols that we all have our own likes and dislikes and none of us are wrong as to what features and feel we feel most comfortable with...Now I'm wondering if they will extend the EZ line to a .40 cal or maybe even a single stack .45acp...Time will tell...It has been a great sell for smith & wesson..They are really great for anyone and not the original target audience they used in advertising. Oh, the grip safety doesn't bother me one bit, and it probably wouldn't for most people..Its like its not even there and so easy to work it correctly. Very well made and a nice new design for a fair price overall...
Great review/video and obviously someone who knows what he is doing ... I appreciate the educational aspect since I am looking for the EZ model and now I have a better understanding what I'll be looking for. You did mention some prices in passing which is very helpful, however since these are such a blind item for many of us buying the model for the first time, the 4 shops I spoke with are pushing the MSRP. If anyone on this channel has real world pricing in various states please share - thank you.
Thank you. Unfortunately right now everything tends to be at or above MSRP due to availability, as things begin to settle down that will hopefully change.
The big difference for me is the EZ magazines are EZ to load, especially with a speed loader.
I dont have any trouble racking the slide on the original.
But I do struggle to load the more than 6 rounds in the original, even with a speed loader.
I wanted to get the Shield 2.0, but I have Arthritis in my fingers and had a hard time with the slide. The EZ was perfect for me. I'm so glad I got it!
I just got the EZ too Teal colored hehe. I Love it. I was worried about the recoil. Not a problem 😊👍🎄☃️
@@ladyttoesmcgee5106 I ordered my EZ a week ago and I’m waiting for it to arrive at my gun shop. I can’t wait!
@@nick-yr7wu YaY !!! I think you'll love it 🙂👍🕊️💚
Just got the 9EZ...so excited!!!👍🏼😁
I think the difference in weight can be accounted for by the barrel & slide being a shade longer, but also due to the stainless steel reinforcing in the frame all the way out thru the dust cover (seen through those ports above the pic rail). For concealment the size difference is almost inconsequential but the EZ being slightly longer, slightly thicker, and slightly heavier helps in shooting the pistol (sight radius, recoil management, better purchase on the grip).
I have & love, both of the EZ models. I just wanted some light weight & compact guns for concealed carry! The standard std. Shield mags can carry more ammo, & get +2 butt plates. The EZ mags are what they are, w/o loosing the loading tabs. And the EZ you have the Picatinny rail, which I like, fits my O-light PL mini 2.
Good review. Thanks!
Went to get the regular 2.0 model and my local store just ran out. Got the EZ instead and I love it!
I have a shield 40 not an m2.0 either and i love the trigger on it shot placement is amazing with that thing
The EZ has a longer barrel, a rail for lights and a better trigger- which is no safety risk thanks to the grip safety! EZ for me all day!
One reason one might pick the E-Z Over The Shield, is that the higher weight and longer Barrel are actually going to reduce felt recoil
Then there are people for whom the shields grip is a little too thin, which can wind up with it sitting canted in the hand when you draw
For me that little bit of extra thickness in the EZ's grip brings it to point of a much more naturally
I am new to owning guns. I have the EZ Shield 9mm. Rented the Shield 9 (comparing for a better concealment option), and the recoil was terrible comparatively. The EZ is a little heavier but spot on with accuracy.
I have the 2.0 and put a Houge grip on it. It feels fantastic in the hand and no safeties to get in the way when i need to bang.
@@MichiganBlue2012 the average self defense distance is like 5- 7 yards so recoil shouldn't really be a problem. 3 safeties in your way can easily be a problem though.
Great video! Very informative. I have a 9mm Shield 2.0 for my EDC which I love. I'm thinking of the 9mm EZ for home defense because it has the rail to mount my laser (also I'm pushing 70 lol). Btw, I forget if it was mentioned in the video, but another plus for the EZ is the magazine is much easier to load.
Great comparison video extremely informative, well done.
Thank you.
Great review comparing the two guns I'm looking at. They're both $415 right now at my local gun shop. Price actually went up due to Covid-19 and the situation of increased demand for guns and ammo. I like the regular Shield 2.0 for it's compactness over the heavier larger EZ. Had 2020 not been so strange, then prices would probably be about $350 for these. It's necessary to buy local paying a bit more than one normally would had for national chains aren't shipping orders to pick up at gun shops now days. Thanks for doing this one back in January.
Thank you.
Really clear, concise presentation. Thank you.
Thank you.
Just what I was looking for!
Thank you for helping me decide which version to purchase
Very good review. Great explanation on both pistols.
Thank you.
I just ordered the EZ. I have carried a 40 Cal Springfield XD for years but at 70 years old the pull on the slide is getting harder to engage so I am switching to this weapon. I am looking forward to taking it to the range for break in. Thanks for the video you explained the differences well. Nice tip about cleaning the EZ.
Thank you.
Great video! Excellent presentation of the information.👍🏼
Thank you.
I have an SD9VE, an M&P Bodyguard. 380, a 6946, and am adding the EZ 9 to my collection. I appreciate the video.
Thank you. You will likely enjoy the EZ, they seem to work well.
One's hammer fired, the other striker.
Seems like the perfect comparison for this channel.
What are you talking about? Both of these are striker fired arent they?
@@marklower007 the EZ series pistols have an internal hammer (if I remember correctly).
I have no idea why, my understanding was that striker fire was cheaper because fewer parts. But several new models have started using internal hammers.
@NoComment any speculation/ideas why the Security 9 uses a hammer instead of striker? Or if anything else uses one?
@NoComment fair enough, I didn't realize that was a goal for the Security. I had kinda guessed it was a cost cutting technique, even though I can't see how that makes sense.
Thanka for thr video. I thought i wanted an EZ for a while but after holding it I didnt like all the safeties on it. I went with the 2.0 no safety. Threw a Houge grip on there and I love it! If you ask me, the EZ is for people with arthritis or weak shoulders/arms as well as Elderly. I know an old guy that cant chamber his CZ pistol anymore so I suggested the EZ to him. He loves it and can operate it on his own.
The EZ seems perfect for my arthritic dad except the grip safety. Would love to see the EZ platform with other options. The magazines are brilliant. This was an extremely informative video, thanks!
Thanks for that info. The safety makes more sense now and I appreciate the design more. Thanks for the feedback!
Thank you. I agree with Evan Moyer regarding the grip safety - and will add that it works seamlessly when you grip the gun even close to properly.
I have them both and concealment is ok with either one, the weight difference threw me off at first, but the easy racking is what sold me on the EZ!
Very nice review sir. My sister just bought the EZ and she loves it
Great review! Literally the only thing leaning me towards ez is the ease of racking the slide. I love everything else about the regular m2.0. This is a tough one.
Thank you. Other than being a bit larger, the EZ is a great choice. Whichever you pick will be a good, reliable choice.
Thank you! Exactly what I needed to help make my decision. Very grateful. Well done!
Thank you.
Great instrucitonal video. I am a new gun owner and just purchased the M&P Shield.
Love the EZ....! Just got one and love it.
I've been carrying a Shield .40(without safety) for several years now and love everything about it. It's a great EDC choice.
Does that mean if the trigger is engaged, it can go off? I guess you carry it in a hard holster to prevent a misfire like that while carrying? That is what I'm afraid of when it comes to pistols so I require a safety switch. Do you carry it without a round chambered just be sure it doesn't go off?
@@TUBESPECIFIC1
No never carry a gun with an empty chamber, sort of defeats the whole purpose of carrying. Carry a knife instead!
The hinged trigger is the safety. It's (like) three triggers in one, you have to pull all three triggers at once to make the gun shoot, which you do naturally when you pull the trigger, but probably wont happen if you snag it on your car keys. That combined with the long and heavy trigger pull plus the fact that you never let the gun point in an unsafe direction makes it safe.
Even cops sometimes panic when people are shooting at them an forget to disengage the safety. So a safety makes you less safe.
I have both of these and the 9mm EZ has a much better grip size and feel. The EZ is easier to rack but other than that they are both excellent weapons for concealed carry.
Yeah because it's for women
@@americafirst6016 You obviously don't have arthritis or are old, because some slides are hard to work with a handicap.
Can a 2.0 holster fit a ez?
Great video, the comparison was done really well. Gave me great insight to the Shield EZ. Thanks.
Thank you.
he's the first reviewer that i ever heard say that he had issues with a first gen Shield.. I carried mine since 2015 and with over 2500R threw it, and not 1 issue and the only reason I'll be upgrading my carry Gun to a Sig p365 this summer is because the newest Guns are coming out Smaller with more capacity but Smith & Wesson won't get on board for what ever reason and i can't wait on them..
Now there's a new Shield Plus, factory 10+1 and 13+1 right in the box. It's about the same size as the original Shield and the Shield 2.0, which I think may be a bit larger than the Sig P365.
I am in the market for one of these. You were very informative. May get one to carry, the other for home!
Thank you.
Save a bunch of money and get the shield 1.0..you can pick one up for $250
Made my first handgun purchase yesterday....the EZ 2.0. I needed something easy for the wife to be able to manipulate, especially the slide.
I just got my concealed carry permit this week and bought the EZ. I'm eager to shoot it! And yes, the Dems and rioters inspired my decisions to engage my 2nd Amendment rights. 😉 They also inspire me to vote my favorite color in November.
Congrats and welcome to the 2A community. Glad you are protecting yourselves from the coming insanity!
I've been concealed carrying the original Shield for 5 years now I love it never had any of the issues mentioned so I didn't feel the 2.0 was worth the money I didn't like the new grip texture on the 2.0 it was like sandpaper. I have muscular dystrophy and my hand strength is starting to fail so I recently decided to get a performance center EZ Shield 2.0 for when my hands can no longer rack my Shield hopefully it lives up to my expectations.
I got the EZ for my birthday last year for the same reason your wife needed the easy slide. It was my first handgun and I had issues with racking a traditional slide. I think as I gain experience with the EZ, I'll be ready for a second handgun. For now, I just need to get more range time. Finding 9mm ammo has been a scavenger hunt too! I just wish more people would take advantage of their 2A rights.
Just purchased the SW 9mm 2.0 Shield and am very glad I did since it appears to be as good as the more expensive Glock 19 and it is available unlike the Glock. Made in America is big on my list as well . I appreciate your videos and please keep up the great work .
Thank you. The M2.0 of the M&Ps (Shield and regular) are pretty nice guns.
I love my EZbut sad to say less than a week of shooting and the breech face shattered. Waiting on the shipping label from Smith and Wesson. Sucks to have to wait a month and a half to get it back but it is worth the wait. it is quite possibly the most accurate firearm ive ever had straight out of the box.......Also make sure the flats on the guide rod are parallel or it wont go back together
Very nice, no BS. Solid info beginning to end.
Thank you.
I just traded in my Shield Gen 1 for a 9 Shield EZ today. I put my wife into the 380 Shield EZ about a year ago, been wanting the 9 version ever since. These are great EDC guns.
If you have a need to send your gun back for any reason, whatever the problem they have excellent service, just saying! ! ! had to send my 380 back for the side safety malfunction, and was impressed with they service and their quick return. I give them kudos for their service! !
I have the EZ and love it.
William Wells , does the safety on the handle bother you? I like M&p's. Btw, any thoughts on the full size 22lr full size?
@@davidharris1179 the safety doesnt bother me. I click it on when I put my IWB holster in my waistband and since the safety is ambidextrous I can easily flip it back off when its secure.
I have no clue about the .22lr other than I'm looking at getting my wife one. I bought the .380 Bodyguard for her but she doesnt like the recoil of either the 9 or .380
@@davidharris1179 also if I could go back in time I would probably go with the M&P because I looked at all of them. I chose the EZ because I had never conceal carried before and chose it for the added safety features but now that I am more comfortable I would go with the M&P
@@williamwells8341 what was the going price ? I seen it today on a military base for $485.
@@ronguy4420 I dont remember the exact price but it was probably close to that because I paid $500 and some change for the gun, 2 boxes of ammunition and a holster.
I have the M&P 9mm 2.0 Compact but I'm looking for a summer gun. This review was great, thanks
Thank you.
I love mine,what a blast to shoot too,finally got to put 100 rounds through it Saturday at the range, shoots smooth,trigger is awesome, gonna get a laser light combo for it an possibly a red dot optic, I got green tridian,sights,they work great,field stripping is easy
Good video, nice job. Thanks. My wife decided to get her own carry piece, but she couldn't rack any of my semi-autos. The stiffest was a Rugar EC9, the M&P 45 was better but still an issue, and my combat Colt 1911 was about the same as the M&P. (not a shield) She didn't have issues with any of our .22's. I gave her an EZ about a week ago, she loves it! And yes, she can still nail the bull at 15 yards. You gotta love a lady that can out-shoot you. But what choice do I have? Ha Ha
Thank you.
Good comparisons, thanks!
Great review, thanks!
Thank you.
Very informative and straight to the point thank you
Thank you.
I love and appreciate all the accurate information
Thank you.
My wife's gun is a Walther PK 380, which is an absolutely awesome gun...EXCEPT for the thumb safety which is upside down (up for fire), and awkwardly situated on the slide instead of on the frame. Disassembly requires a tool (provided), and reassembly can be challenging till you get the knack of it. The recoil spring puts up a fight. But other than that, it's a very easy gun to manipulate. It shoots like a dream, at least in my opinion.
Your videos are always excellently presented and highly informative. Would you please make a video comparing the Walther PK 380 to the M&P Shield 380 EZ, similar to this one? Thank you.
Thank you. We have a video on a minor upgrade to that PK380 recoil spring that solves the swearing associated with getting it back in place.
I will add that comparison to our list.
For home defense the Shield EZ can mount a light or laser -- a big plus. It is also available in a model with a built-in Crimson Trace red laser.
Crimson Trace can mount a laser/light combo or separate for virtually ALL of the M&P pistol models and aliengear makes a holster for nearly all of the configurations as well.
Being a lefty I wish they made the mag release reversible in the M2.0. If you look down into the magwell it would have been simple to do. Still love the gun.
Wonder if you could get a modification done in an arms machine shop?
I'm a lefty. While I don't have the Shield M2.0 I do have the full size M2.0 and the mag release IS reversible and very easy to do. I'm a first timer and was able to do it in about 30 seconds.
nice review. one thing the 2.0 EZ has very different than the 2.0 is a front lower picatinny rail. most people like lights or lasers to mount on them. It certainly makes for tougher concealment, but it is an additional feature that I did not hear mentioned.
Thank you. Yes, the rail is a nice addition.
Can't wait to get my 2.0!!! 🙌
Great great review!!! 2.0 is on its way to me..
Thank you.
Both good choices 4 diffetent reasons. Shield 2.0 has a size & weight advantage. EZ has eadierslude, longet bbl (75 fps more?) & longer sight rsfius & eadiet to adjust rearsight. I belueve a hammer firedgun usually hits the primetwoth more force than does a striker fired & no striker channel fowling.
No decision problem. Just do what I did & apparently U did. BUY BOTH!
Thx & Regards,
Rob
Phx, Az 🇺🇸
Don't know if anyone mentioned this, but the loaded chamber indicator on the EZ can be used (felt) in the dark I would assume. That is a real bonus in my opinion. Also the rail is great, and should be on Shields 1 and 2. Personally I think my shield 1.0 is kind of a bitch to rack so yes maybe the EZ is in my future as I am getting older faster! But I did an aftermarket trigger and bits, and aftermarket grips to bring my 1.0 maybe up to a 3.0! Shoots like a dream and never a failure.
Great review by the way. Thanks very much.
Thank you. Many of the "pop out' LCIs can be felt. I just never like to rely on them. A gun isn't clear until I look in the chamber myself and it is important to know the state of any defense weapon by having a very repeatable process for readying them.
My wife and I both have 380 EZ's, and are very happy with them. We use Vedder OWB holsters. We see no reason to move to the 9mm EZ.
Great video, thanks. Getting an EZ.
Thank you.
I don't like the grip safety, but the EZ fits my hand on the grip better (the 2.0 hangs my pinky off slightly)
I have the regular 2.0 and love it. The onerall build quality and fit is superior to Glock. Even if the m&p was more expensive would choose it. The fact it's $150 less makes it a no brainier.
Same here and it's my first gun. I researched the crap out of these before I went with the full size 2.0.
On my radar to buy in the future. Feels great.
Bingo
The EZ had a odd recoil spring and has to be put in a certain way or u will jam that slide on there and not be able to get it back off
Great video TY
I have the m&p performance 2.0 and now I want the ez too. Nice comparison.
Thank you.
The performance version of the ez is out and it’s real sexy. May need to upgrade.
Just bought an EZ Shield and target practiced today. A little difficult to slide but overall satisfied.
Don’t know what u doing
the EZ needs a through cleaning / lube prior to use ..
Thank you for the detailed comparison.
I had been wondering if the 9mm EZ would be giving up some of the ease of use as compared to the .380.
I believe the .380 EZ offers an inexperienced and infirm shooter an even more useful option with its lesser recoil.
Thank you. Both of the EZs are nice to shoot and easy to manipulate.
I have both EZs now. The 380 is a little lighter weight. Which I love, when I wear shorts. And they are almost identical in size (9mm is wider!). But, I can carry either model in the same Serpa holster, with just minor modification to adjust the trigger catch. (FYI- it fits the Glock 19 holster).
Both EZ's are on California's "Forbidden" List. Is there anything comparable? Looking for CC that is easy to rack the slide, smooth trigger pull and not a lot of recoil. I tried a Sig 380 P238 and it was pretty nice. Any other suggestions?
@@pjperalta5298 Why are EZs forbidden? They're even legal here in Massachusetts and we have some of the most ridiculous gun restrictions. We HAVE to have load indicators, manual safety, and 10 lb trigger pulls (Yes, I said 10 lbs, lol) We can't even have Glocks because they're not up to code, but EZs have all that
@@ghostwalk2446
The company sells California (pre-microstamp regulation) and Massachusetts compliant versions of the basic models.
Microstamping is a patented
process that micro-laser engraves a
unique alpha-numeric code on the
tip of the gun’s firing pin so that, in
theory, it imprints the information on
discharged cartridge cases.
Have the original shield and an ez380. both are great guns. Talon grips were a huge improvement overall on the 1.0 however the texture on the ez 380 is easier to grip so i imagine the same on the 2.0( I only use the extended 8 rnd mag My tigger on 1.0 is a tad heavy but not bad and very crisp. I shoot both very well, at 9 yrds they both keep up with half my full size guns. Its a tough call but I might use the ez 380 simple cause I can put more rounds on target do to the lighted recoil. 365 xl is next on the list. BTW the ez three 380 is easier on reloads cause in general and magazine that rubs on your palm when ejecting is naturally alittle slower. Would be one reason Id go the ez 9 over the 2.0, if they made the grip longer from the start it would be better IMO, I don't shoot anything where my pinky is hanging off.
Love the rail on the ez too
Great video!
Thank you.
well done video, thank you.
Great comparison detail.... Thanks
Thank you.
a good explanation, thank you
Thank you.
On my full size M&P9, the design of the slide lock/release lever allows the slide to release when a mag is inserted more aggressively. The M2.0 version has a redesigned lock/release, which thwarts that "feature". I like the earlier version better for running the gun. I notice that both of these shields have the old style lock/release.
So do both allow for the auto-release behavior when mags are inserted?
M&P Shield 9mm (M1 or M2) all day. Better for concealment. Lighter. No gimmicky grip safety release. Better implementation of a view port.
Both are still solid guns.
I agree, unless hand strength is a factor. (So far my hand strength is okay.) The EZ fills a market that no other similar handgun fills.
Great video! Subbed 😎
The EZ is my edc for working. Its light accurate fun to shoot and very reliable. I hardly know I have it at work. I do a lot of bending crawling and lifting. I'm a service plumber for 30 yrs and hands are sore from arthritis and the EZ is easier to load and chamber. But if I'm not working and just out to the movies or out shopping or out to eat I carry my glock 19 with 2 extra magazines.
Nice comparison video. What is your opinion on the pros and cons of internal hammer fired vs striker fired? I have the Shield 9mm 1.0 (original) and I love it. You're correct about the springs being strong. One trick I learned about locking the slide back for tear down was make sure there's an empty mag inserted - it makes locking the slide back much easier. I've only put about 500 rounds through mine (so far) but it seems to be loosening up. I still love the way the gun shoots.
Thank you. Overall my preference is striker fired as it is easier to get a nice trigger and still be consistent. SA or DA/SA hammer guns in SA mode have nice triggers but either need to be cocked (SA) or have a long heavy first pull (DA).
Excellent job of being objective and balanced in your review. I'm going to buy my first handgun in a week or two and am considering one of these two Shields. Would the longer length of the EZ barrel influence it's accuracy over the M2.0?
Thank you. The slight barrel length difference will have no noticeable effect on either velocity or inherent accuracy so feel free to choose the one that fits you best.