Smith & Wesson launches M&P380 Shield EZ

The M&P380 Shield EZ is designed for concealed carry. (Photo: Smith & Wesson)

Smith & Wesson keeps that expansion train rolling, introducing another new variant on its M&P Shield lineup. The M&P380 Shield EZ is intended for personal protection and every day carry, according to Smith & Wesson. Chambered in .380 Auto, the pistol’s EZ claim to fame is that it is easy to rack, easy to lead and easy to clean.

“When we set out to design the M&P380 Shield EZ pistol, our goal was to deliver an all-around, easy to use personal protection pistol – from loading and carrying, to shooting and cleaning.  Throughout the development process, we focused on key areas that customers told us were important- the ease of racking the slide and loading the magazine,” Jan Mladek, General Manager of M&P and Smith & Wesson brands, said in a statement. “With that in mind, we reduced the amount of force required to rack the slide, and developed a magazine that is both easy and efficient to load.”

Featuring an 8+1 round capacity, the pistol sports a 3.675-inch barrel. Shipping with two eight-round mags, the mags are equipped with a load assist button to ensure efficiency and ease while loading rounds into the mag. A Picatinny style rail allows for mounting of lights, lasers or other accessories.

The pistol rounds out its design with an 18-degree grip angle, white dot front and adjustable white dot rear sights and a crisp trigger. The Shield EZ is available with ambidextrous thumb safety for those that prefer a manual safety while carrying.

“The new M&P380 Shield EZ pistol provides an easy-to-use personal protection option for both first-time shooters and experienced handgunners alike,” Mladek added.

The M&P380 Shield EZ will be available towards the end of February with a MSRP of $399.