Smith & Wesson Releases New M&P Shield X: A Modern Evolution in Concealed Carry
Smith & Wesson has officially launched the latest addition to their M&P lineup: the Shield X. Unveiled on July 29, 2025, the new Shield X expands the popular Shield platform into a more modern, feature-rich direction, directly competing with other optics-ready, high-capacity micro-compacts. Three variants are available at launch, all chambered in 9mm and priced at $599:
- M&P Shield X No Thumb Safety
- M&P Shield X With Thumb Safety
- M&P Shield X 10-Round Compliant With Thumb Safety
The Shield X builds on the design language of the Shield Plus but brings several critical updates. These include a longer 3.6-inch barrel, a factory optics-cut slide using the RMSc footprint, a new ClearSight™ Cut feature to keep optic lenses clear of debris, and for the first time in the Shield series, an integrated accessory rail.
A Personal Take on the Shield Line's Progression
We've seen some good progression with the Shield line. The 2.0 Shields were a great advance when they were released, and then we saw the Shield Plus bring M&P into the new high-capacity micro-compact marketplace. This Shield X is a continuation of scaling up the Shield as other manufacturers have been doing with their micro-compact guns. Think Sig's P365XL or Springfield's Hellcat Pro.
I don't have any hands-on experience with the Shield X so far, but it looks like a great gun. This coming weekend I'll be at the GOA show, but it appears Smith & Wesson won't be in attendance at the show—even though it's happening right in their own backyard. So, it'll probably be a few weeks at least until I get hands-on with it.
That said, S&W has a reputation for reliable firearms and this appears to be a good direction for them. The longer slide and extended grip should offer enhanced shootability, while still keeping things concealable.
Key Specs at a Glance
- Barrel Length: 3.6″
- Capacity: 13+1 flush, 15+1 extended (10+1 for compliant version)
- Slide: Optics-ready with RMSc footprint and ClearSight™ Cut
- Sights: Ameriglo Trooper front night sight with blacked-out rear
- Rail: Integrated picatinny-style accessory rail
- Weight: Approx. 20.8 oz unloaded
- Width: 0.9″
Holster Compatibility Warning
One important consideration for those thinking about upgrading: the trigger guard shape and the presence of the rail likely mean it will not be compatible with existing Shield holsters. It may be a little while before holster companies are able to support this gun. Some makers have already started offering Shield X-specific holsters on preorder, but availability is still ramping up. Users should weigh this when deciding to move to this new platform.
Final Thoughts
The Shield X is clearly designed to keep Smith & Wesson competitive in the modern concealed carry market. With increased capacity, optics compatibility, a rail, and refined ergonomics, it offers a strong value proposition for those seeking a feature-rich EDC pistol. While it's a bit larger than the original Shield and even the Shield Plus, the upgrades may be worth it for shooters looking to step up their carry setup.
We'll provide a hands-on review as soon as we get trigger time. Until then, keep an eye out as holster manufacturers and accessory companies begin catching up with this newest addition to the M&P family.
What do they cost ? When will they be available?
MSRP is $599. Generally guns hit shelves initially higher than MSRP but ultimately lower than MSRP. They are already shipping.
Now I looks just like all the others on the market, now it’s a Glock clone!!!!!
Love how S&W extended the grip and added undercut trigger guard it looks like a big step up in control over the original Shield.
It’s slimmer (0.9″) than most ideal for pocket or IWB but I’m curious if wider-handed shooters still find it comfortable. Anyone tried the Shield X alongside a Shield Plus?
When are they going to make a pro version with a ported barrel and slide?
Is it concealed hammer or Stryker fired
Striker Fired
DAO or SAO
Striker Fired
I’m old and I need a easy-to-use version of easy-to-use to rack, I have no hand strength anymore. How stiff will the slide be to pull back?
Stanley, I am guessing it will be comparable to other Smith & Wesson M&P handguns in that regard.
I have one. About 200 rounds downrange plus about 20 HP. Flawless. Trigger is smoothing out, but still room for improvement. Grip very slim and similar to 1.0 Shield, but longer. Cost 499. Fairly stiff action but is getting better with use. I think it will become my EDC.