The Smith & Wesson Shield EZ 30 Super Carry is a popular choice for concealed carry, particularly among those seeking a manageable firearm with reliable performance. This in-depth review will explore its key features, strengths, and weaknesses, helping you determine if it's the right pistol for your needs.
Key Features of the S&W Shield EZ 30 Super Carry
This pistol stands out due to its ease of use and manageable size, making it ideal for individuals with limited hand strength or those new to firearms. Let's delve into the specifics:
Simplified Operation:
- Easy-to-Rack Slide: The Shield EZ boasts a significantly lighter slide than many competitors, making racking the slide much easier, a crucial feature for individuals with arthritis or reduced hand strength.
- Simple Disassembly: Field stripping the pistol is straightforward, simplifying cleaning and maintenance.
- Large Trigger Guard: The generously sized trigger guard accommodates shooters wearing gloves, enhancing usability in diverse conditions.
Compact Design and Concealability:
- Lightweight Construction: The pistol's lightweight design contributes to comfortable all-day carry.
- Slim Profile: Its slim profile allows for easy concealment under clothing.
- 30 Super Carry Cartridge: The .30 Super Carry cartridge provides a potent balance of stopping power and manageable recoil in a smaller package.
Enhanced Safety Features:
- Manual Thumb Safety: The inclusion of a manual thumb safety adds an extra layer of security.
- Trigger Safety: An internal trigger safety further enhances the firearm's safety profile.
Performance and Handling
The .30 Super Carry round, while relatively new, delivers impressive performance. Its smaller size compared to 9mm allows for higher capacity magazines while still offering sufficient stopping power for self-defense. The Shield EZ's relatively light recoil makes it comfortable to shoot, even during extended practice sessions.
Advantages:
- Easy to Shoot: The light recoil and easy-to-rack slide make this a very user-friendly firearm.
- Concealable: The pistol's compact size makes it an excellent choice for concealed carry.
- Reliable Performance: Smith & Wesson has a strong reputation for producing reliable firearms.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited Availability of Ammunition: While gaining popularity, .30 Super Carry ammunition might be slightly less readily available than 9mm or .45 ACP.
- Recoil Sensitivity: While manageable for most, the sharp recoil impulse of the .30 Super Carry could be felt more significantly by individuals very sensitive to recoil.
Conclusion: Is the S&W Shield EZ 30 Super Carry Right for You?
The Smith & Wesson Shield EZ 30 Super Carry offers a compelling combination of ease of use, concealability, and stopping power. Its simplified operation makes it a great option for new shooters or those with physical limitations. However, potential users should consider the availability of ammunition and the potential recoil sensitivity before making a purchase. Consider your personal needs and preferences carefully before making a decision. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and storage procedures.
