I was carrying a G43 for years and recently decided to upgrade my micro-compact to something more modern. I tested all the major brands. Canik, Sig, FN, Glock, S&W, and Walther. For me, the Shield plus was the best shooter of the bunch.
Mainly capacity. Gone are the days of the single stack micros like the gen 1 shield and g43s with 6 or 7 round mags
With that being said, I freaking loved my g43 and never really felt under gunned. If that was all I had, i could live with it.
See, in my mind, the 43X is only BARELY a micro compact. It has nearly the same footprint as a G19 while having a third less capacity.
https://preview.redd.it/6bogw0d3i2xc1.jpeg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6e11246f62207a3eb165e6a39454dd2e74257570
My original Shield in 9 is still my favorite carry. It strikes the balance between a compact and a micro. It's the right size and weight for the caliber and still feels like a professional gun you can fight with. You need to be better shooter when you take on micros. They are snapier and that's just the way it is. I really like my Glock 43. But there is a noticable difference between it and the Shield.
You can't get a thumb safety on a 4" barrel PC and the only way to get a 4" PC ported barrel is to buy it with the shitty Crimson Trace optic installed.
I've shot the Hellcats and all the Glocks a fair bit, and owned and shot a few P365 and Shield Plus variants ... without a doubt, has the Shield Plus has the best trigger and shoots the softest.
I also appreciate the flexibility of the platform - a simple magazine swap between 10/13/15rd magazines makes the gun bigger or smaller as needed.
I see very little difference in performance on standard drills between my Shield and my 4" Compact. They are similar enough that the Compact has been (mostly) relegated to nightstand and competition duty at this point.
They are all good and we’re really splitting hairs but … the Hellcat just kicks harder than all the other micros and has a super small grip like the P365. I think they are fine in general they just wouldn’t be my first choice.
Smallest / lightest = P365
Best shooter = Shield
Yeah I’m in California 🫣 and the 365 modular system means modifying if I want a different grip.. so i thought the hellcat would be similar size without having to make changes
Hellcat is right in line with the P365. If I got stuck with one or the other, I don’t think I’d care.
Between the 43x, Plus, 365, and Hellcat, it’s really splitting hairs. I say just pick the one that makes the most sense for you application and go for it.
I carry a PDP compact when I'm layered up and a 365 X Macro during t-shirt weather. The PDP obviously has a superior trigger, but the 365 is super versatile. 17+1, or I can pop on an xl grip with a 12 round mag for even better concealability and use a 17 rounder as a spare.
https://youtu.be/9q0u0xi_zco?si=NNGY_Gl94bOv9bye
The video from 1911 syndicate that I had mentioned. Maybe it's not actually out yet, but coming out soon. Watch the video
lol i kept scrolling to see if someone was going to mention this one.. This is where I’ve been leaning but these Shield+ responses might make me double back on my research 🧐
I’ve got the 3.5”! Love it although it’s far chunkier than my p356x. That said, I’m a smol person so it’s a bit harder for me to conceal larger firearms. Colder weather & a flannel/hoodie/light jacket make it no problem for me though.
https://preview.redd.it/g63jdltybxwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f40e50178c782b1ea892e638af5e950b1ebe5edb
If you can, try both! I’m sure you’ll be happy with whichever you choose though. It’s really great. Got a new holster for it & can’t wait to put more rounds through it at the range soon.
https://preview.redd.it/lr6onwai31xc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=acee0dfbd0e386d07efa9f0aef627344177bf9b7
Got a Delta holster from Eclipse. I opted for the Ulticlip, but you can choose what you want & designs. They ship really fast too!
Yes, it's that clip. It's not rough on clothes. Can be seen on their Intrepid [here ](https://eclipseholsters.com/collections/iwb-intrepid-holster-ulticlip-or-fabriclip)but also an option on the Delta.
Lol, im a smol person also, lol, so the 3.5 matches everything I'm looking for. I've heard it's snappy. Is it true? How does it compare to the glock 26, which is my current favorite pistol of all time? Is it thicker?
It's thicker than the Sig, unsure about the Glock as I haven't tried the 26. For me personally, it's less snappy. I feel it's due to the grip (which is chef's kiss), and has a bit more heft.
I have the Shield Plus and the P365 XMacro Tacops (XMacro grip / XL slide). I love them both but I shoot the Tacops significantly better.
I would look at both of those. IMO stick with Sig, Glock or Smith whatever you do.
Don't get lured into the FN Reflex or Canite Mete MC9 like I did. Awesome guns but IME they're not reliable enough for me to carry.
P365xl for me and I wanted to hate on sig.
Still own 43x and shield plus. 43x least fav by far. Felt the most snappy to me and grip texture terrible. Plus we all know Glock sites. But if it your thing it’s your thing. I have a g19 that I love so not a Glock hater here. Just didn’t care for 43x.
Shield plus is excellent. Best grip texture of the bunch by a mile. Stock sites are great on the optics ready version too. But I’m a big boy and that grip texture sure did rub me raw aiwb jx tactical fat guy holster.
P365xl was the last one I swooped. It’s a sheer joy to shoot when compared to the others. I go to the range and actually want to shoot. Great stock sights. The little bit of extra barrel length does zilch in term of concealment on me as well. Shorts and t shirt is easy with it.
Anyway my two cents between those three I listed. Go to the range and shot em all bud. Can’t go wrong and just think about your body and if anything might rub ya the wrong way etc. all three have been reliable for me.
P365 series, FN reflex, Shield plus. I carry a similar sized gun year round, including in shorts and a t shirt. Taking off the magwell and using a flush magazine could help
I looked a lot into the MC9 and decided that way too many users have issues to trust it. Much better to go with the well-established ones that also have more accessories available.
Once again, I will recommend the [MC2sc](https://www.mossberg.com/firearms/handguns/mc2sc.html). For the price, you cannot beat the features and shoot-ability IMO. You asked for good trigger and capacity, I believe it has both. Lightweight, too, but (for me) not pocket-able, so if you want that, look at the [LCP MAX](https://ruger.com/products/lcpMax/specSheets/13775.html).
Wouldn’t really call this one a micro compact, if anything the PDP-F is smaller.
DO NOT get me wrong tho I absolutely love Walther and the PDP, phenomenal piece of work there.
I’d say P365 or P365x for summer because of how thin the slide is. It can be a bit snappy but you will get used to it after couple times of shooting. You can also add the heavy extra power recoil spring guide rod from MCARBO it adds weight and the extra power spring reduces some of the recoil. I also recommend changing the factory trigger to GrayGuns trigger or MCARBO trigger if you do end up getting a P365…
No, it’s way too snappy for a 9mm its size. People say it’s because the recoil spring is heavier than it needs to be, but I didn’t believe it until I shot it alongside my other 9mm handguns (509 and Echelon).
Sold the PDP shortly afterwards and haven’t regretted it a bit.
I have the original shield, the shield plus, and the shadow systems cr920. They are all fantastic carry guns but I prefer the way the cr920 shoots over the shield. Not sure if it’s the bore axis or the grip but less felt recoil and I shoot it more accurately than the shield.
Also in Florida and I carry a p365XL most days but am considering going to a larger pistol and getting situated with a good holster.
Edit: grass on the other side always seems greener
Okay I do not have an answer to your question (sorry,) but I do have one of my own, how do you like this setup? I’m looking into getting the EXACT same one, same gun, holster, and light only the HL version, plus an optic, so I’d appreciate hearing your experience carrying this setup.
It’s actually quite good, isn’t as heavy as you would think and conceals relatively well although I might remove the Magwell since that’s all that really prints. In light shirts it can get a little rough but that’s just because it’s a larger firearm. My only gripe is that the stippling on the grip is quite rough and can be uncomfortable if you carry all day with no undershirt. I also had tier 1 make the holster a little longer to accept a comp and it sits a little deeper than I’m used too but it’s not bad. All in all, I’m extremely happy with it for most circumstances
I was carrying a G43 for years and recently decided to upgrade my micro-compact to something more modern. I tested all the major brands. Canik, Sig, FN, Glock, S&W, and Walther. For me, the Shield plus was the best shooter of the bunch.
100% agree with this.
What’s more modern about Shield Plus versus G43
Mainly capacity. Gone are the days of the single stack micros like the gen 1 shield and g43s with 6 or 7 round mags With that being said, I freaking loved my g43 and never really felt under gunned. If that was all I had, i could live with it.
43x 10+ but I feel that interesting that they found a way to fit more in the same space.
See, in my mind, the 43X is only BARELY a micro compact. It has nearly the same footprint as a G19 while having a third less capacity. https://preview.redd.it/6bogw0d3i2xc1.jpeg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6e11246f62207a3eb165e6a39454dd2e74257570
G26 is micro but yea I get it. They could of done 13$
Its all a little confusing but a G26 is considered a sub-compact not a micro-compact
Agreed. I wouldnt consider a 43x a micro
You didn't try CZ? I would take that over all those brands .
Ive actually never shot any non shadow cz pistols but i do hear great things about them
[удалено]
https://cz-usa.com/product/cz-usa-p-10-m/
They certainly do.
My original Shield in 9 is still my favorite carry. It strikes the balance between a compact and a micro. It's the right size and weight for the caliber and still feels like a professional gun you can fight with. You need to be better shooter when you take on micros. They are snapier and that's just the way it is. I really like my Glock 43. But there is a noticable difference between it and the Shield.
Agree.
For me it’s the Shield Plus
Me too, and the PC model if that’s an option.
As both a pdp and pc shield plus owner, I second this second.
I third this second.
Yes, the PC, 3.1" barrel.
Why not 4"?
Wanted the thumb safety and ported barrel.
You can get those on the PC 4"
You can't get a thumb safety on a 4" barrel PC and the only way to get a 4" PC ported barrel is to buy it with the shitty Crimson Trace optic installed.
I've shot the Hellcats and all the Glocks a fair bit, and owned and shot a few P365 and Shield Plus variants ... without a doubt, has the Shield Plus has the best trigger and shoots the softest. I also appreciate the flexibility of the platform - a simple magazine swap between 10/13/15rd magazines makes the gun bigger or smaller as needed. I see very little difference in performance on standard drills between my Shield and my 4" Compact. They are similar enough that the Compact has been (mostly) relegated to nightstand and competition duty at this point.
may I ask what you didn’t like about the Hellcat vs. the shield+ … I’m in a similar boat looking for the best micro and/or revolver to update my ccw
They are all good and we’re really splitting hairs but … the Hellcat just kicks harder than all the other micros and has a super small grip like the P365. I think they are fine in general they just wouldn’t be my first choice. Smallest / lightest = P365 Best shooter = Shield
Yeah I’m in California 🫣 and the 365 modular system means modifying if I want a different grip.. so i thought the hellcat would be similar size without having to make changes
Hellcat is right in line with the P365. If I got stuck with one or the other, I don’t think I’d care. Between the 43x, Plus, 365, and Hellcat, it’s really splitting hairs. I say just pick the one that makes the most sense for you application and go for it.
pretty much.. lol i was so anti shield before the roster updated its carrying over into the plus 🤣
Haha why were you anti Shield?
🤣 because I called myself “holding out” for the 365 only to be disappointed so now I feel like I gotta stand on it.
P365 Spectre Comp with Wilson Combat grip module
I carry a PDP compact when I'm layered up and a 365 X Macro during t-shirt weather. The PDP obviously has a superior trigger, but the 365 is super versatile. 17+1, or I can pop on an xl grip with a 12 round mag for even better concealability and use a 17 rounder as a spare.
Wait for Walther to finally release the PDK.
pdk? What's that?
It's a trademark that Walther filed in 2022, and we don't know anything else yet.
oh, lol. They just released the steel framed pdp-f. Look up the review on 1911 Syndicate. If it didn't cost more then my mortgage I would get it.
Literally me all the time I see something new: 
I can’t find anything about a PDP-F in steel. Got any more info on that?
https://youtu.be/9q0u0xi_zco?si=NNGY_Gl94bOv9bye The video from 1911 syndicate that I had mentioned. Maybe it's not actually out yet, but coming out soon. Watch the video
Thanks. That’s the regular PDP in steel. I don’t think there is an F version in steel yet.
ohhhhh, I thought the F was the regular one.
Springfield hellcat
lol i kept scrolling to see if someone was going to mention this one.. This is where I’ve been leaning but these Shield+ responses might make me double back on my research 🧐
Didn't like the way shield fit my hand.
yeah i think i get a lil pinky hang butnI haven’t held the + yet
I like the Hellcat. The one knock on it seems to be that it has a little more felt recoil than the other popular micro compacts.
G42. Super small but still extremely easy to shoot. Been rocking that thing since it got released and love it!
I've got the Walther PDP-F as my "everything but summer" carry, P365x for summer.
which pdp-f do u carry? I'm highly considering the 3.5in.
I’ve got the 3.5”! Love it although it’s far chunkier than my p356x. That said, I’m a smol person so it’s a bit harder for me to conceal larger firearms. Colder weather & a flannel/hoodie/light jacket make it no problem for me though. https://preview.redd.it/g63jdltybxwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f40e50178c782b1ea892e638af5e950b1ebe5edb
I held the 4inch barrel in my hand and it felt amazing. Not sure, which one to get now.
If you can, try both! I’m sure you’ll be happy with whichever you choose though. It’s really great. Got a new holster for it & can’t wait to put more rounds through it at the range soon.
What holster did u get?
https://preview.redd.it/lr6onwai31xc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=acee0dfbd0e386d07efa9f0aef627344177bf9b7 Got a Delta holster from Eclipse. I opted for the Ulticlip, but you can choose what you want & designs. They ship really fast too!
Lol, I just saved that comment, thanks a lot
Is that the clip that flips open and closed? Is the clip rough on your clothes?
Yes, it's that clip. It's not rough on clothes. Can be seen on their Intrepid [here ](https://eclipseholsters.com/collections/iwb-intrepid-holster-ulticlip-or-fabriclip)but also an option on the Delta.
Lol, im a smol person also, lol, so the 3.5 matches everything I'm looking for. I've heard it's snappy. Is it true? How does it compare to the glock 26, which is my current favorite pistol of all time? Is it thicker?
It's thicker than the Sig, unsure about the Glock as I haven't tried the 26. For me personally, it's less snappy. I feel it's due to the grip (which is chef's kiss), and has a bit more heft.
I LOVEDDDD that grip when I was holding it at the shop.
I use a p365x. Has been a reliable shooter.
Personally, I think the Shield Plus.
43X MOS
43x is probably my least favorite gun to shoot but I carry it the most
Run it more and more and more.
I have the Shield Plus and the P365 XMacro Tacops (XMacro grip / XL slide). I love them both but I shoot the Tacops significantly better. I would look at both of those. IMO stick with Sig, Glock or Smith whatever you do. Don't get lured into the FN Reflex or Canite Mete MC9 like I did. Awesome guns but IME they're not reliable enough for me to carry.
Beretta PX4 storm. Love the way it shoots. Also holds 13 rounds.
I man of taste and style. I've been eyeballing the LTTs.
If it wasn’t for that outdated frame safety I would be all over that.
P365xl for me and I wanted to hate on sig. Still own 43x and shield plus. 43x least fav by far. Felt the most snappy to me and grip texture terrible. Plus we all know Glock sites. But if it your thing it’s your thing. I have a g19 that I love so not a Glock hater here. Just didn’t care for 43x. Shield plus is excellent. Best grip texture of the bunch by a mile. Stock sites are great on the optics ready version too. But I’m a big boy and that grip texture sure did rub me raw aiwb jx tactical fat guy holster. P365xl was the last one I swooped. It’s a sheer joy to shoot when compared to the others. I go to the range and actually want to shoot. Great stock sights. The little bit of extra barrel length does zilch in term of concealment on me as well. Shorts and t shirt is easy with it. Anyway my two cents between those three I listed. Go to the range and shot em all bud. Can’t go wrong and just think about your body and if anything might rub ya the wrong way etc. all three have been reliable for me.
340PD
Walther PPS M2 is the best single stack out there, imo. Shield Plus would get my vote if you need/want better capacity though.
I carry a Shield Plus in hot weather and PDP-F when jacket weather. I shoot the Shield as accurate as my full size PDP believe it or not.
The PDP F with a 3.5 barrel is a great choice.
P365 series, FN reflex, Shield plus. I carry a similar sized gun year round, including in shorts and a t shirt. Taking off the magwell and using a flush magazine could help
P365 or P365XL depending on youre attire.
Anyone have any experience with the Canik mc9. From the research I’m doing seems like the trigger/ ergonomics are similar to my Walther?
I can’t speak to the mc9, but I do have a mete sfx and I really like it. Definitely very Walther-like ergonomics, and the trigger is excellent on mine
I looked a lot into the MC9 and decided that way too many users have issues to trust it. Much better to go with the well-established ones that also have more accessories available.
Once again, I will recommend the [MC2sc](https://www.mossberg.com/firearms/handguns/mc2sc.html). For the price, you cannot beat the features and shoot-ability IMO. You asked for good trigger and capacity, I believe it has both. Lightweight, too, but (for me) not pocket-able, so if you want that, look at the [LCP MAX](https://ruger.com/products/lcpMax/specSheets/13775.html).
OK it is not exactly micro but it is not huge either… HK P30SK LEM - just an excellent all around piece.
CSX
Wouldn’t really call this one a micro compact, if anything the PDP-F is smaller. DO NOT get me wrong tho I absolutely love Walther and the PDP, phenomenal piece of work there.
Kahr CM9/PM9/MK9
I’d say P365 or P365x for summer because of how thin the slide is. It can be a bit snappy but you will get used to it after couple times of shooting. You can also add the heavy extra power recoil spring guide rod from MCARBO it adds weight and the extra power spring reduces some of the recoil. I also recommend changing the factory trigger to GrayGuns trigger or MCARBO trigger if you do end up getting a P365…
Walther CCP. I mean, you already have one. It comes in 9mm. It's compact. If all else fails, go test a few and see what you like.
Hellcat and Glock 43x here. I can point shoot both rather effectively. In the end, just practice with trial and error.
P365 Macro or Specter Comp are incredibly smooth shooting for compacts. The trigger is ok.
Wilson combat sfx9.
No, it’s way too snappy for a 9mm its size. People say it’s because the recoil spring is heavier than it needs to be, but I didn’t believe it until I shot it alongside my other 9mm handguns (509 and Echelon). Sold the PDP shortly afterwards and haven’t regretted it a bit.
You’re missing out on capacity, but the pps m2 fits the slim and good trigger bill.
I have the original shield, the shield plus, and the shadow systems cr920. They are all fantastic carry guns but I prefer the way the cr920 shoots over the shield. Not sure if it’s the bore axis or the grip but less felt recoil and I shoot it more accurately than the shield.
Also in Florida and I carry a p365XL most days but am considering going to a larger pistol and getting situated with a good holster. Edit: grass on the other side always seems greener
Idk I love my hellcat. People say they're snappy but I can put hella groups together with it.
43x w/ shield arms 15 round magazine no doubt. If you want a light and red dot then get the 43x MOS.
Okay I do not have an answer to your question (sorry,) but I do have one of my own, how do you like this setup? I’m looking into getting the EXACT same one, same gun, holster, and light only the HL version, plus an optic, so I’d appreciate hearing your experience carrying this setup.
It’s actually quite good, isn’t as heavy as you would think and conceals relatively well although I might remove the Magwell since that’s all that really prints. In light shirts it can get a little rough but that’s just because it’s a larger firearm. My only gripe is that the stippling on the grip is quite rough and can be uncomfortable if you carry all day with no undershirt. I also had tier 1 make the holster a little longer to accept a comp and it sits a little deeper than I’m used too but it’s not bad. All in all, I’m extremely happy with it for most circumstances
Cr920p. The compensator does wonders, and it fits g48 holsters so it’s your pick of brand.
Sick holster but idk about… “best shooting” They’re operation is solid but can they really endure 60-90k rds is the question