S&W M&P Shield 9mm OWB Paddle Holster
Apr 8th 2020
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is a semi-automatic polymer-framed pistol made in 2005. The M&P, or Military & Police series was originally created for law enforcement and military officials. It was intended to compete with the Glock, another polymer-framed gun, which had become extremely popular. Both of these guns have become widely used since, by police officers, military, gun enthusiasts, and people carrying guns for self-defense.
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is a short-recoil operation pistol that utilizes a striker-fired action, preventing the hammer from getting caught in clothing. This also protects the gun from getting accidentally fired if it is dropped or mishandled. In order to fire the pistol, the trigger must be fully engaged.
It is currently used by several law enforcement agencies around the world, including police and security forces in Columbia, South Korea, Belgium, France, Lebanon, Malaysia, as well as the United Nations Security Force UNSF in the Netherlands and more. It is a precise subcompact gun that is easy to shoot and conceal.
In addition to being a popular choice for security and law officials, the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm is one of the most widely carried and popular handguns for self-defense, concealed carry, and sport shooting. It is available in two other caliber sizes, Shield .40, and Shield .45. The 9mm Shield magazine holds 7 rounds and 8 rounds for the extended magazines.
The M&P is a mix of the two existing guns by the same manufacturer. It was designed with the Smith & Wesson Sigma and Smith & Wesson SW99 in mind. The M&P design features a more developed trigger and comfortable grip, carried over from its successors, and meant to compete with the Glock.
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Gun Holsters
Incognito Concealment sells high-quality Kydex holsters that offer more durability and last longer than leather holsters. There are different choices for gear holsters, including pocket, shoulder, ankle, and waistband holsters. The best option for concealed carry and quick access are waistband holsters, as they provide quick access, a secure fit, and can easily be concealed.
Inside-the-waistband (IWB) Kydex holsters are great options for a concealed carry because they are comfortable, fit well, and are tucked inside the pants for added concealment. Regular, loose-fitting clothing can cover the M&P Shield holstered in an IWB Kydex holder, making it a great choice for someone who carries every day. The holster is fitted with durable metal belt clips to make sure your weapon is secured well.
Our Smith & Wesson M&P Shield holsters are made out of Kydex, a durable thermoplastic. Kydex holsters protect the handgun from extreme temperatures and spills. It will also protect the gun if it falls. An IWB Kydex holster for your M&P Shield is the best way to conceal carry with regular clothes.
Outside-the-waistband (OWB) Kydex holsters fit outside the belt using and can be used for concealed carry. OWB Kydex holsters can either use a belt slide for added security or fit over the waistband for convenience. Both styles of holsters allow for fast and comfortable holstering and re-holstering. Since OWB holsters fit outside the waistband they allow for much quicker access than IWB holsters. OWB belt holsters feature two secure belt loops to ensure a secure fit so that when you draw, the holster stays comfortable in place.
The S&W M&P Shield 9mm OWB paddle holster is another type of holster that fits outside the pants. Instead of using belt loops, the paddle holster fits comfortably on the waistband, where a spring-based mechanism secures the holster in place. This prevents the holster from coming off when drawing. However, this Kydex paddle holster can easily be removed and reattached when needed.
The paddle holsters clips on similarly to the tuckable IWB, but the holster is on the outside. In order to conceal OWB holsters, you may need to wear a jacket or some other loose clothing. The paddle holster is made out of a large piece of Kydex backing that contours comfortably to your body, helping keep the holster in place.
Paddle holsters distance the gun from the waist, allowing the shooter to get a comfortable grip and smooth draw. Often used by active police officers and for competitive shooting, paddle holsters allow for the quickest draw.
Is the OWB Paddle Holster Right for You?
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield paddle holster is a great way to conceal carry because of its convenience. You can clip the paddle anywhere on the waistband that is comfortable. To remove the holster, pull it off the waistband, and set it aside. When it is on your waistband, it will stay in place due to the ergonomic shape and spring-based security mechanism. In warmer climates, a sweat guard may be needed.
Paddle holsters are easy to conceal if you dress accordingly when you concealed carry. Loose-fitting shirts and jackets will conceal a paddle holster best. In addition, paddle holsters can be more comfortable then belt holsters when seated. The contour of paddle holsters helps keep the holster in place. Our Kydex holsters are equipped with an additional retention system to prevent the gun from falling out when running, riding a horse or motorcycle, or being grabbed from you during an incident.
Our Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Kydex paddle holsters combine passive and active retention systems to ensure that your firearm stays by your side during any circumstances and that you can draw with ease. The only disadvantage of paddle holsters is that they are not always physically secured, and the Kydex paddle holsters at Incognito Concealment make sure that never occurs with our level 2 retention systems.
Final Thoughts
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is a popular handgun used by police officers, professional shooters, and for self-defense. Competing with the Glock, its original design, extended durability, and unique safety features make it a great gun. It is a great choice for those who conceal carry daily and can be worn in a number of ways.
The types of gun holsters provide the gun carrier different functionality and it's important to choose the one that's right for you. Each has advantages and disadvantages. While the inside-the-waistband holster may be the best for concealed carry, it is not the most convenient or the most comfortable. The outside-the-waistband belt holster is the most secure, as it is held in place with belt loops to a gun belt, but is not very versatile.
The paddle holster provides the best of both worlds, allowing you to concealed carry when needed, remove the holster when not needed, and can be mounted anywhere on the hip. Many who carry firearms regularly will alternate between OWB and IWB holsters depending on the purpose of the carry. An undercover police officer may prefer an IWB holster for added concealment, while an on-duty officer may prefer a paddle holster for quicker access.
Incognito Concealment makes Kydex gun holsters for the 9mm, .40, and .45 version of the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield as well as for a number of other guns. Call Incognito Concealment today at 586-257-1686 to get the right fit for your sidearm.
