Imagine this: you’ve got your trusty Smith & Wesson Shield Plus, ready for whatever comes your way. But how do you carry it safely and comfortably? Choosing the right holster can feel like a puzzle with too many pieces. You want something that keeps your Shield Plus secure, but also lets you get to it quickly when you need it. It can be frustrating trying to figure out what works best for you.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’ll cut through the confusion and show you the best ways to carry your Shield Plus. You’ll learn about different types of holsters and what makes them great for this popular handgun. By the end, you’ll feel confident picking a holster that fits your lifestyle and keeps your Shield Plus accessible and secure.
Our Top 5 Holsters For Shield Plus Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Holsters For Shield Plus Detailed Reviews
1. S&W M&P Shield Plus Holster IWB Kydex Holster Fit: Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / M2.0 / M1.0-9mm/.40 S&W 3.1″ Barrel – Inside Waistband Concealed Carry – Adj. Cant & ‘Posi-Click’ Retention
Rating: 9.3/10
The Amberide S&W M&P Shield Plus Holster offers a secure and comfortable way to carry your concealed firearm. This Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) holster is custom-made for the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus, M2.0, and M1.0 pistols in 9mm and .40 S&W with a 3.1″ barrel. It’s built tough from .08″ KYDEX, a material that’s waterproof and easy to clean. A sweat guard keeps your pistol safe and dry. This holster is designed for a snug fit, so your gun won’t move around.
What We Like:
- It fits your S&W M&P Shield Plus, M2.0, and M1.0 perfectly.
- The “Posi-Click” retention makes a clear sound when your gun is locked in, so you know it’s secure.
- You can adjust the angle of the belt clip with the included Hex Key for a comfortable carry.
- The retention screw lets you change how tight the holster holds your gun for a quick draw.
- It’s made in the USA and comes with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
- It’s available in 12 colors and for both right and left-handed shooters.
- You can even use it outside the waistband (OWB) by hanging it differently.
What Could Be Improved:
- This holster will not work if your pistol has light or laser attachments.
Overall, this holster is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and customizable concealed carry solution. Its durable construction and user-friendly features make it a great companion for everyday carry.
2. M&P Shield 9MM Holster IWB Kydex Holster Fit: Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus / M2.0 / M1.0-9mm/.40 S&W 3.1″ Barrel Pistol- Inside Waistband (No Laser – with Pad
Rating: 8.8/10
The M&P Shield 9MM Holster IWB Kydex Holster is designed for Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus, M2.0, and M1.0 pistols in 9mm and .40 S&W with a 3.1″ barrel. This inside-the-waistband holster offers a secure and comfortable way to carry your firearm discreetly. It’s built tough to protect your pistol while being easy to hide and carry everywhere you go.
What We Like:
- It’s made from US .08” KYDEX, which is strong, light, and waterproof.
- The holster covers the whole gun, keeping it safe from sweat and preventing clothes from snagging.
- You can adjust the angle (cant) of the holster using a simple screwdriver for a faster draw and better concealment.
- The belt clip is strong and adjustable from 0 to 15 degrees to fit your preference.
- You can also adjust how tight the holster holds your gun for the perfect draw.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description mentions it can be used OWB (Outside Waistband) but suggests choosing another hand, which might be confusing.
- It’s specifically for right-hand draw and doesn’t fit models with lasers.
This holster offers solid protection and customization for your M&P Shield. It’s a reliable choice for everyday concealed carry.
3. CYA Supply Co. Base Optics Ready (Black) Inside Waistband Holster IWB Veteran Owned Company Fits S&W M&P Shield M2.0 & M&P Shield Plus
Rating: 8.8/10
The CYA Supply Co. Base Optics Ready IWB Holster is built for your S&W M&P Shield M2.0 or Shield Plus. This holster is made by a veteran-owned company. It’s designed to be worn inside your waistband for discreet carry. The black finish looks sleek and professional.
What We Like:
- It’s ready for red dot sights. Most sights will fit.
- The material is strong Boltaron polymer. It’s better than Kydex. It won’t break easily and can handle different temperatures.
- It’s comfortable to wear all day. It’s light and doesn’t make your clothes stick out. A sweat guard keeps your gun dry.
- It fits your gun perfectly. Drawing and reholstering are smooth. It won’t scratch your gun.
- It makes a “click” sound when your gun is secure. You can adjust how tight the holster holds your gun. You can also change the angle.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Posi Click” system is loud, which might give away your position.
- The adjustable cant might be a bit tricky for beginners to get just right.
This holster offers great protection and comfort for your S&W Shield. It’s a solid choice for anyone who carries daily.
4. M&P Shield 9mm Holster fit 3.1″ Barrel Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus 9mm/40
Rating: 9.1/10
If you own a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm or 40, especially the Plus or 2.0 models with an optic, this Outside the Waistband (OWB) paddle holster is a solid option. It’s designed for right-handed shooters and offers a secure way to carry your firearm while keeping it accessible.
What We Like:
- Secure Fit for Optic-Ready Shields: This holster fits the 3.1″ barrel S&W M&P Shield 9mm/40 (with Optic), Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield PLUS (with Optic), and S&W M&P 2.0 Shield 9mm/40 right-handed models. It’s important to note it doesn’t work with guns that have lasers or lights attached.
- Fast and Easy Draw: The quick-release button lets you place your index finger perfectly for a smooth and speedy draw. This is great for situations where you need your firearm quickly.
- Auto-Locking Safety: When you re-holster your gun, it automatically locks into place. This keeps your firearm secure and safe.
- Built to Last: Made from tough, lightweight polymer, this holster can handle bumps, heat, and scratches. It’s ideal for training, hunting, the range, or everyday personal defense.
- Adjustable Carry Angle: You can easily change the carrying angle of the holster up to 60 degrees using the included Allen key. This lets you find the most comfortable position for your needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Compatibility: The holster won’t fit firearms with attached lasers or lights, which could be a drawback for some users.
- Right-Handed Only: This specific model is designed only for right-handed shooters.
Overall, this OWB paddle holster offers a good balance of security, accessibility, and adjustability for compatible M&P Shield models. It’s a practical choice for open carry and range use.
5. GUN & FLOWER IWB Concealed Carry Holster
Rating: 9.3/10
The GUN & FLOWER IWB Concealed Carry Holster is built for the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus, Shield, Shield M2.0, and Shield M1.0 (9mm/.40 caliber with a 3.1-inch barrel). This holster is designed for comfortable and secure inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry. It’s made from strong fiber-reinforced polymer and aims to keep your firearm accessible and safe.
What We Like:
- It fits specific S&W Shield models perfectly, like a glove.
- The holster covers the trigger completely, making it safe.
- It has an audible click when you put your gun in, so you know it’s secure.
- You can adjust the angle (cant) from -5 to 20 degrees for a comfortable draw.
- The 1.5-inch belt clips are very strong and stay put.
- You can adjust how tight the holster holds your gun.
- The edges are smooth for comfort against your skin.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty and a no-questions-asked return policy.
What Could Be Improved:
- This holster only works with specific Shield models; it won’t fit other M&P pistols.
- It does not work with guns that have sights, lasers, or lights attached.
For owners of compatible S&W Shield pistols, this holster offers a secure, adjustable, and comfortable way to carry concealed. The strong build and helpful features make it a solid choice for everyday carry.
Finding the Best Holster for Your S&W Shield Plus
So, you’ve got a Smith & Wesson Shield Plus, a fantastic and popular handgun. Now you need the perfect holster to carry it safely and comfortably. Choosing the right holster is super important for everyday carry. This guide will help you find the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a holster, keep these things in mind:
- Retention: This is how well the holster holds your Shield Plus. You want it to be snug enough so the gun doesn’t fall out, but not so tight that you can’t draw it quickly when you need to. Many holsters have adjustable retention screws.
- Comfort: You’ll be wearing this holster for hours. It needs to feel good against your body. Look for padded interiors or smooth edges.
- Concealability: For most people, hiding the gun is a big deal. A good holster will keep your Shield Plus close to your body and minimize printing (where the outline of the gun shows through your clothes).
- Draw Speed: In a real situation, you need to get your gun out fast. The holster should allow for a smooth, unhindered draw.
- Durability: You want a holster that will last. It should be made of strong materials that won’t break or wear out quickly.
Important Materials
The material of your holster makes a big difference in how it feels, looks, and performs.
- Kydex: This is a very popular plastic. It’s strong, rigid, and holds its shape well. Kydex holsters offer excellent retention and are easy to clean. They are also very durable.
- Leather: Leather holsters are often softer and can be more comfortable than Kydex, especially for concealed carry. They mold to your body over time. However, leather can wear out faster and might not offer as much retention without a break-in period.
- Nylon: Nylon holsters are often the most affordable. They are usually soft and flexible. While they can be comfortable, they might not offer the best retention or durability compared to Kydex or leather.
- Hybrid Holsters: These combine materials. Often, they have a Kydex shell for the gun and a softer backing (like neoprene or leather) for comfort against your skin. This gives you the best of both worlds.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain design choices and manufacturing methods can make a holster great or not so great.
- Good Quality:
- Precision Fit: The holster should be molded specifically for the S&W Shield Plus. This ensures a perfect fit and secure retention.
- Adjustable Cant and Ride Height: These allow you to change how the holster hangs on your belt and the angle of the gun. This helps you find the most comfortable and concealable position.
- Smooth Edges: Rough edges can be uncomfortable and snag on clothing. Quality holsters have smooth, finished edges.
- Strong Attachment Methods: Belt loops or clips should be robust and secure.
- Poor Quality:
- Loose Fit: A holster that’s too loose won’t hold your gun securely.
- Snags and Rough Spots: These can make drawing difficult and damage your clothing.
- Weak Clips or Loops: Holsters that fall off your belt are a safety hazard.
- Poor Stitching or Molding: This indicates a lack of attention to detail and can lead to premature wear.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your Shield Plus will guide your holster choice.
- Everyday Concealed Carry (IWB – Inside the Waistband): This is the most common. Holsters worn inside your pants are great for hiding your gun. They can be worn at the appendix (front), hip, or small of the back. Comfort is key here.
- Open Carry (OWB – Outside the Waistband): If you live in an area where open carry is allowed and you prefer it, OWB holsters are mounted on the outside of your belt. They offer easier access and can be more comfortable than IWB holsters.
- Range Use: For shooting at the range, you might want a sturdy OWB holster that allows for a fast draw.
- Appendix Carry: This is a popular IWB method. Holsters designed for appendix carry often have a special shape or a “claw” to help tuck the grip closer to your body for better concealment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shield Plus Holsters
Q: What is the best type of holster for concealed carry?
A: The best type often depends on your body and clothing, but Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters are very popular for concealed carry because they hide the gun well.
Q: Should I get a Kydex or leather holster?
A: Kydex offers great retention and durability. Leather is often softer and can be more comfortable, but may require more care. Hybrid holsters combine both for a good balance.
Q: How do I know if a holster has good retention?
A: A good holster will hold your Shield Plus securely when you turn it upside down. Many have adjustable screws to fine-tune how tight it is.
Q: What is “printing” and how does a holster help?
A: Printing is when the shape of your gun shows through your clothes. A good holster keeps the gun close to your body and flat against your side to reduce printing.
Q: Can I use a holster made for a different gun?
A: No, it’s best to get a holster specifically made for the S&W Shield Plus. A perfect fit ensures safety and proper function.
Q: What does “cant” mean for a holster?
A: Cant is the angle of the holster on your belt. Adjusting the cant helps you find the most comfortable position for drawing your gun.
Q: How important is the belt clip or loop on a holster?
A: It’s very important. A strong clip or loop keeps the holster securely attached to your belt, preventing it from coming loose.
Q: Are nylon holsters good for the Shield Plus?
A: Nylon holsters are usually affordable and soft. They can be a good starting point, but Kydex or hybrid holsters often offer better retention and durability.
Q: How do I clean my holster?
A: Kydex holsters can be cleaned with soap and water. Leather holsters need special leather cleaners and conditioners.
Q: Where is the best place to wear an IWB holster?
A: Many people prefer appendix carry (front of the waistband) or the strong side hip (around the 3 o’clock position). It really depends on what feels most comfortable and concealable for you.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.