Since its launch in 2018, the SIG Sauer P365 pistol has become the favorite among sub-compact pistols. It constantly keeps finding itself on top of all lists. But another carry pistol is trying to take the spotlight away from the SIG P365. And it is the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield. Today, we’ll look at the key differences between SIG P365 vs Shield pistols to help you decide which becomes your favorite.
Pros And Cons Shield vs P365
| Smith & Wesson Shield | Sig P365 | |
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| CONS |
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P365 vs Shield: Head-To-Head Comparison
Accuracy
Since both S&W Shield and P365 pistols share the same bullet size, we have used different bullet brands for the accuracy test to get precise results. We tested three times, having three bullet brands for each.
Both pistols may have a similar sight picture, sight radius, and feel on the hand. Hence, it is not surprising that our accuracy test resulted in a tie.
Price And Value
Smith & Wesson organizes various distributors and dealers promotions that greatly affect the dealer cost of the firearm. It also benefits the consumer.
We have seen the M&P Shields for as low as $229 with manufacturer rebates in the past. They are usually available at prices between $299 and $329.
The SIG P365 is significantly more expensive, with a regular price of $499, while the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $599.
Aesthetics
Aesthetically, the M&P Shield has never been a beautiful handgun, in our opinion. It seems off proportionally, and the outline is not that attractive.
The Sauer P365 is what we would call a “cute” firearm. It is so tiny that it’s very proportional and cute.
Quality
About quality, these pistols feel pretty similar. The frames’ construction quality for both models seems cheap, but their slides seem to be well built.
Rounds
The SIG P365 might be tiny, but it features more case capacities.
The P365 can take up to fifteen rounds, unlike the M&P Shield which can only accommodate up to eight. So, the SIG P365 pistol is the winner in this category.
Sights
If talking about sights disregarding the price, the SIG 365 gun is the winner.
We were amazed by the XRAY3 Day/Night sights of the P365. The front sight optic is excellent, regardless of night or day, as advertised.
The Sights of M&P Shield are decent, but we didn’t think it could match the SIG P365. The P365 sights allow accurate target acquisition while shooting quickly was simple and efficient.
Safety
A massive benefit for the SIG 365 pistol is the safety thumb and usable manual feature that you can use with both right and left hands.
Although the M&P Shield handgun does not come with this feature, it has a safety trigger feature which you cannot get from the P365.
So our team is determined to give this round a draw.
Trigger
Although the difference in trigger pull might not seem significant, we determined to check the trigger pull weight of these pistols by performing pull tests.
With a crisp reset and predictable break, the SIG P365 pistol is easier and smoother to shoot than its M&P Shield counterpart.
Yet, according to various pistol owners for years, there’s a vast complaint against SIG P365 guns’ trigger and striker pin failures. As a result, the M&P Shield is the winner of this category.
Ammunition
These two pistols feature 9mm caliber, like most CCW handguns available out there. Neither carry firearms had any problems cycling ammunition within our shooting test.
Although both utilize the same bullet size, we determined the SIG 365 to win this category as it delivers a distinctive P365 bullet created for small firearms, such as the Glock 43, the P365, or any other carry handgun 9mm.
Design And Ergonomics
The SIG P365 features good rear and front cocking serrations for shooting better. Meanwhile, the Shield gun just has the rear.
The P365 also comes with an accessory rail, enabling shooters to adjust the lasers and lights coming shortly before firing. It’s also something you won’t get at the S&W Shield.
Aftermarket
There is a decent aftermarket for M&P Shield pistols, while the P365 has become so prevalent that the current aftermarket is bigger for this firearm.
Fortunately, the M&P Shield pistol has become a more budget-friendly handgun. Because of this, there are not as many shooters interested in performing aftermarket upgrades,
You can still find various aftermarket parts, such as sights, trigger parts, trigger shoes, and other parts for the M&P Shield gun.
P365 vs Shield Comparison Table
| The SIG P365 | The M&P Shield | |
| Model | P365 XL | M&P 9 SHIELD M2.0 |
| Brand | Sig Sauer | Smith & Wesson |
| Weight | 17.8 ounces | 20.8 ounces |
| Height | 4.3 inches | 4.6 inches |
| Length | 4.6 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Barrel | 3.1 | 3.1 |
| Trigger | Striker | Striker |
| Calibers | 9 mm | 9 mm |
| Frame Material | Polymer | Polymer |
| Grip Material | Polymer | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
P365 vs Shield: Which One Is better?
The battle between the M&P Shield and SIG P365 ended in a tie.
It is impossible to say who takes the prize for the best pistol before you lay your hands on both great subcompact handguns. After all, it is a matter of preference.
When talking about capacity, the SIG P365 is our favored gun. If you focus on accuracy and the possibilities for aftermarket upgrades, the Shield is your best bet.
However, getting both of these guns and putting in a couple of rounds at the range is wise to decide which one fits you best.
Final Words
We’ve provided you with the differences between M&P Shield and SIG P365.
If you go with the SIG P365, you will make a great decision. If you decide on the Shield, it is also an excellent choice! It’s all a matter of preference! So experience both of these pistols for yourself, and you’ll know which one suits you best.
Thanks for your time!
Last Updated on October 28, 2023 by
