The Walther PPS M2 and the M&P Shield are considered to be two of the best concealed carry pistols out there. While so many alternatives exist, these two are quite popular.
You may be wondering, how does one stack up against the other? Which is the better of the two? These are just a sample of questions that we will be answering as we go.
In this article, we’ll compare m&p shield vs walther pps up close and see how they work in various applications. Then, you can make your own decision as to which pistol will work for you in the long run. Before we get to the tale of the tape, let’s talk about what else you need to know about these pistols.
What Do I Need To Know Before Buying a Walther PP2 M2?
Before you buy a pistol, it’s always a good idea to be more informed about what you are looking at. This way, you can make a better decision rather than flying blind and grabing something at complete random. Let’s talk about what you need to know before making a final decision:
Concealability is Always Important
Most folks don't want to carry a pistol in a fashion that makes it obvious that they are carrying something. In fact, there may be times where you attract undue attention from those asking why you are carrying a pistol. If you want to stay prepared for any danger and want to maintain discreet concealability in the process, it’s important to choose a pistol that excels at it.
Walther PPS M2 9mm (Source)
Consider Purchasing A Holster
Once you have chosen a pistol for your own use, your next step will be to choose a holster that will fit it best. There are holsters that can fit certain pistols, but on the other hand, there are also near-universal holsters that will fit same-sized pistols of different brand names.
Pay Attention to the Caliber Before Buying Ammo
While they are two different pistols, it’s important to double-check the caliber before you purchase any ammo or additional magazines. Also, keep in mind that you’re better off purchasing magazines that are compatible with your pistol. It wouldn’t make sense if you were purchasing a magazine designed for a Walther and you have an M&P shield. Yes, they may share the same caliber, but sometimes the magazines will not always be universal.
Walther PPS M2 Overview
First up, we’ll be taking a look at the Walther PPS M2 from Walther. They were first made in 2003 and have since been manufactured and distributed by various gun manufacturers originating in Europe and the United States. This semi-automatic pistol is known for its short bursts of recoil and is widely considered one of the most durable pistols of its class, considering that it’s made from a combination of steel and glass-fiber-reinforced polymer. One of the main reasons why it’s preferred among concealed carry users is because it is easy to assemble and disassemble for the purpose of cleaning and maintenance.
The PPS M2 has some similarities with other Walther pistols, including the P99. These include some of the inner mechanisms like the safety and the firing pins. The trigger pull is reminiscent of the P99, according to those who have used both pistols. As synonymous with all Walther pistols, it has three safeties that are located inside the pistol and are controlled by a lever mechanism that activates and deactivates them with one pull. The pistol also comes with iron sights that can be used for multiple purposes but may excel in a competitive setting.
Walther PPS M2 Review
Now, we’ll be taking a look at the Walther PPS M2. This pistol is considered one of the most reliable pistols among law enforcement and civilian users for the purpose of tactical and self-defense applications. Let’s start with its main features:
Review of Walther PPS M2:
PPS M2 9mm
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This pistol was a huge hit with people who wanted nothing more than the best in concealability and reliability. It proved itself beyond a shadow of a doubt as to why it should become an odds-on favorite for those who want to defend themselves or casually shoot targets. Other than that, they were really happy with the overall durability and how light it was even when the magazine was almost fully loaded.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There are a few good reasons why this pistol stands out. For one, it’s got the perfect measurables for anyone looking for something that will fly under the radar on an everyday basis. All you need to do is find the right kind of holster for it so you can comfortably carry it anywhere you go. For best results, consider an IWB holster. Overall, it’s accurate, dependable, and perfect for situations where life or death are your only two options.
Who Will Use This Most
This pistol will stand out as a concealed carry user’s primary or secondary pistol. Either way, you get solid reliability and a performance that is consistent enough to never change for as long as you take good care of it. Even if you don’t use it in a self-defense situation, it still works out well as a target shooting pistol.
Bottom Line
The Walther PPS M2 would be hard to pass up for a few good reasons. For one, it’s small enough for concealability that is second to none and quite comfortable. Don’t forget, this will certainly stand out in situations where accuracy is a must, especially when you need to ward off an assailant that is hellbent on threatening your life and the lives of others.
M&P Shield Overview
Next, we’ll be taking a look at the M&P9 Shield. The pistol is manufactured by Smith and Wesson. The first M&P pistols were first made by the company in 2005. To this day, they are compatible with various calibers and have been relied on by various civilian users, law enforcement, and security forces. Like its Walther PPS M2 counterpart, the pistol is a semi-automatic and is known for its short recoil. Originally, the pistol was designed exclusively for law enforcement officers, but due to growing interest from civilian users, it became available on the market just after it’s inception.
The pistol is known to be based on a hybrid design of two pistols made from Smith and Wesson: the Sigma and the SW99. This comes with a pair of iron sights that will be used for almost any application including target shooting and self-defense. There are different types of aftermarket sights that are available should you make the decision to make an upgrade.
M&P9 Shield Review
Now, we’ll be taking a closer look at the M&P9 Shield. It’s important that you take into consideration the features and characteristics of this pistol so you can determine if it is indeed the best fit for you. Here’s a look at the main features:
M&P Shield Overview:
M&P9 SHIELD 2.0 9mm
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most new users say that this pistol does not quit or malfunction. This is a positive sign that it is as reliable as advertised. Furthermore, they were able to fire off different types of 9mm rounds without causing any damage to the magazine or the pistol itself. One user said that it was perfect for him to “properly dispose of” his cheap 9mm rounds. While doing so, he noticed the shooting groups were consistently tight at various distances.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Two things that stand out as interesting about this pistol. Obviously, since it’s a Smith and Wesson pistol, it’s expected to achieve a high level of reliability. One other thing that was stunning, to say the least, was the sights. Indeed, the sights were dead-on accurate and precise. Normally, you’ll find factory defaults disappointing, but these are way better than that. If you want a pistol with excellent sights right off the bat, this could go a long way for you.
Who Will Use This Most
This pistol will be great for beginner users and even some seasoned vets looking for a concealed carry pistol that is accurate and reliable right out of the box. Let’s not forget that it’s small enough to provide concealability that is hard to beat. This pistol is not to be underestimated when pitted against the competition.
Bottom Line
The M&P9 Shield is the surefire option for any concealed carry user that doesn’t want to deal with the frustration of a pistol that has disappointing factory default sights or consistent malfunctioning. If it’s a Smith and Wesson pistol, you are pretty much guaranteed the best in reliability. If you truly want a pistol that never quits, picking up the M&P Shield should be a no-brainer.
Walther PPS M2 vs S&W Shield - Similarities and Differences
We’ll now be taking a look at the similarities and differences between these two pistols. While they do have some common attributes and characteristics, they do have some differences that will help you distinguish one from the other. Let’s dive into the similarities first:
Walther PPS M2 vs S&W Shield Similarities
These two weapons are very similar, which is why the question of 'which one is best' comes up often; let's cover the main similarities:
Both Made From High-Quality Polymer
The framing of both pistols is made from high-quality polymer. Of course, polymer is one of the best materials you can find on a firearm or firearm accessory. They are known for taking all kinds of poundings and beatings. Not to mention, they are proven to be tough regardless of how much they weigh. Even if you drop the pistol by accident (while it’s unloaded, we hope), you can still use it without any breaks or scuffs.
Excellent Concealability
Let’s address one of the more obvious reasons why these two stand out. They are the right size for you to be able to conceal them without any bulging. All you need to do is find a great holster so you can carry it anywhere you go without making it look like you are obviously carrying something. For the best concealability, you may want to consider an IWB holster.
Perfect For Self-Defense
With excellent concealability, both pistols play a role in making themselves great for self-defense purposes. It’s no secret that 9mm caliber rounds are proven to be among the most reliable rounds for self-defense, stopping power, and penetration. So, if you are looking for a pistol that will excel in situations where your life is on the line, one of these two will help you out of grave danger.
Walther PPS M2 vs. M&P Shield Differences
With those similiarities, the differences that will make the decision easier for you are as follows:
Walther Has the Length Advantage
While the length is slightly different between these two, this should be an important thing to focus on if you are looking for a holster. The Walther PPS M2 comes in with an overall length of 6.3 inches while the M&P9 Shield sits at just around 6.1 inches. Barrel wise, the PPS M2 is slightly longer. That small difference makes the determination of which pistol has better accuracy.
Shield is Lighter in Weight
Even when fully loaded, the M&P Shield is light in weight. This will be great if you plan on carrying all day regardless of whether you use a belt or your own waistband. A Walther might be a bit heavy when loaded, but this also comes with the territory since it’s considered very durable and tough.
Walther Has Different Magazines at Various Capacities
In the case of magazines, Walther has three different capacities ranging from 6 to 8 rounds (along with the +1 that goes along with it). Meanwhile, the Shields are only regulated to magazines with either 7 or 8 rounds (also with +1 rounds). The good news is, either capacity is perfect if you are planning on using it strictly for self-defense purposes (six is the better choice if you are using a Walther).
Top Pick Between Walther PPS M2 vs. M&P9 Shield
While each of these pistols has interesting characteristics and features, it’s really hard to choose between one or the other. But in the final analysis, it’s up to you which one will personally put you in a better position to survive a life and death situation.
For us, we believe that the Walther PPS M2 stands out as the best. One of the reasons is that the Walther PPS M2 can match the overall quality and performance of the Shield with the right kind of accessories and upgrades. Plus, it doesn’t take much of an effort to make sure it functions much better than its initial use. Plus, the PPS M2 has a better quality feel over the Shield as well.
Conclusion
While it was a slugfest to the finish, these two heavyweights of concealed carry are among the best of the business. It’s entirely up to you which one will best serve you in the long run in terms of performance and quality. Whether it’s a PPS M2 or a Shield you end up with, you will definitely become the envy of the range.
