Owning a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus is a great start, but the right accessories can significantly enhance its performance, comfort, and concealability. Whether your priority is a more secure grip, a comfortable holster for all-day carry, or adding an optic for faster target acquisition, the market is filled with options. Selecting the best gear, however, requires sifting through countless products to find those that offer genuine quality and value.
This professional analysis cuts through the noise to present a curated list of ten essential accessories. We have evaluated each product based on its design, functionality, and user feedback to help you make an informed decision. From trusted names in holsters to innovative grip solutions, this roundup is designed to help you build the perfect setup for your Shield Plus.
Essential Gear for Your M&P Shield Plus
- Hogue HandAll Beavertail Rubber Grip Sleeve
- CrossBreed Holsters SuperTuck IWB Holster
- Vedder Holsters LightTuck IWB Kydex Holster
- Universal Hybrid Kydex&Nylon Holster
- Sig Sauer ROMEOZero Elite Red Dot Sight
- TALON GRIPS Adhesive Grip for Shield Plus
- Hogue HandAll Grip Sleeve for Glock Models
- Extendable Double Magazine Holder
- We The People IWB Holster for Glock
- Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
Hogue HandAll Beavertail Rubber Grip Sleeve
The Hogue HandAll grip sleeve is designed to provide a significant upgrade in control and comfort for your M&P Shield Plus. Its non-slip rubber surface, featuring the famous Cobblestone pattern, ensures a secure hold in various conditions, from dry range days to damp environments. This improved traction directly contributes to more consistent handling and performance.
Beyond the enhanced grip texture, the ergonomic design includes defined finger grooves and a beavertail extension. These features promote a natural and repeatable high grip, which helps manage recoil and reduce muzzle flip. The overall comfort-focused fit also minimizes hand fatigue during extended practice sessions, making it a valuable addition for any shooter.
CrossBreed Holsters SuperTuck IWB Holster
The CrossBreed SuperTuck is a benchmark in the hybrid holster category, known for its exceptional comfort for all-day inside-the-waistband carry. It combines a full-grain leather backer that molds to your body with a molded Kydex retention pocket that securely holds your firearm. This design is ideal for carrying between the 3 and 5 o’clock positions.
The hybrid approach offers the best of both worlds: the comfort and breathability of leather against the skin and the positive “click” retention and durability of Kydex. The wide spread of the holster’s wings helps distribute the weight of the pistol evenly, reducing hot spots and making it easier to conceal a compact firearm like the Shield Plus effectively.
Vedder Holsters LightTuck IWB Kydex Holster
Vedder’s LightTuck is a highly regarded all-Kydex holster prized for its minimalist design and excellent functionality. It offers a precise, custom-molded fit that provides outstanding weapon security and a clean, smooth draw. The holster’s slim profile makes it an excellent choice for appendix carry or strong-side hip carry.
A key feature of the LightTuck is its full adjustability. The clip allows for changes in both carry height and cant, enabling you to fine-tune the holster’s position to your exact preference. Made from durable .080″ Kydex, it is built to last and includes a reinforced sweat guard to protect your pistol and your body.
Universal Hybrid Kydex&Nylon Holster
This Universal Hybrid Holster offers a versatile and budget-friendly solution for shooters who own multiple handguns. Its design incorporates a Kydex front and a breathable nylon back with an air-hole cushion, aiming to provide comfort during extended wear. The holster is advertised to fit over 50 different handgun models, including the M&P Shield.
It is important to note that universal fit holsters require careful adjustment to achieve proper retention. This model features five adjustable screws that must be tuned together to secure a specific firearm safely. While not as precise as a dedicated holster, it serves as a flexible option for range use or as a temporary solution.
Sig Sauer ROMEOZero Elite Red Dot Sight
For owners of the optics-ready M&P Shield Plus, the SIG ROMEOZero Elite presents a compact and durable red dot solution. It features a scratch-resistant aspherical lens that provides a clear, distortion-free sight picture. The optic utilizes intuitive T.A.P. (Touch-Activated Programming) technology, allowing you to change brightness settings and reticle options with a simple touch on the housing.
Durability is a key focus, with a carbon-infused polymer housing and a reinforced lens area for increased drop protection. It also includes a hardened steel shroud for added resilience. A notable feature is the backup rear sight notch molded into the housing, which is treated with luminescent pigment for visibility in low-light conditions.
TALON GRIPS Adhesive Grip for Shield Plus
Talon Grips offers a thin, adhesive solution specifically cut to fit the contours of the M&P Shield Plus frame. This grip enhances traction and control by creating a more positive interface between your hand and the firearm. The result is improved confidence in your hold, which can contribute to both safety and accuracy.
Available in a rubberized material, these grips are designed to be aggressive without being abrasive against the skin, making them suitable for concealed carry. At less than 0.5mm thick, they add minimal bulk while providing a significant upgrade in handling. The precise, OEM-quality fit ensures complete coverage where it is needed most.
Hogue HandAll Grip Sleeve for Glock Models
This Hogue HandAll grip sleeve is specifically molded for a wide range of Glock models. It incorporates the same beneficial features as the Shield Plus version, including the non-slip Cobblestone texture and ergonomic finger grooves. The design promotes a natural and comfortable grip, which can help reduce hand fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
The beavertail extension provides extra support against the web of the hand, helping to manage recoil and improve overall control of the pistol. It is an excellent accessory for Glock owners looking to enhance the ergonomics and shootability of their firearm without permanent modification.
Extendable Double Magazine Holder
This extendable magazine holder is a practical accessory for range training and competition. Constructed from impact-resistant polymer, it is lightweight yet durable enough to withstand operational use. The simple, functional design allows for the secure carrying of two spare magazines.
The key feature is its extendable design, which is intended to accommodate magazines of various lengths. This adjustability makes it a versatile piece of gear for shooters who may use different firearms or magazine types, ensuring that your spare ammunition is always organized and readily accessible.
We The People IWB Holster for Glock
The We The People holster is a US-made Kydex IWB holster designed for specific Glock models. It is constructed from robust .08-inch Kydex, which provides a secure, consistent fit and excellent weapon retention. The holster is backed by a lifetime warranty, speaking to the company’s confidence in its durability.
This holster offers adjustable cant and ride height, allowing the user to customize the draw to their preference. Its single-clip design makes it easy to put on and take off, and the Kydex material is waterproof and easy to clean, offering advantages over traditional leather holsters.
Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
The Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 is a modern evolution of the hybrid holster, designed for maximum comfort and functionality. It typically features a patented spring steel core that provides structural support while allowing the holster to flex with your body’s movements. The backing is made from a breathable material to improve comfort during all-day wear.
This holster often includes adjustable retention and multiple clip positions for carry versatility. Alien Gear’s modular design also allows the shell to be swapped, meaning the same holster base can be used for different firearms, making it a cost-effective system for a multi-pistol owner.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Accessories for Your M&P Shield Plus
When I look at my M&P Shield Plus, I see a fantastic platform. It’s reliable, accurate, and comfortable right out of the box. But like any serious tool, its true potential is often realized with the right additions. The key is to choose accessories that complement the pistol’s design philosophy—compact, reliable, and effective for personal defense. My approach is always to prioritize function over flash.
First, consider your holster. This isn’t an item to cheap out on. A good holster does two things: it securely retains your firearm and allows for a consistent, smooth draw. For a concealed carry piece like the Shield Plus, I strongly prefer holsters with a dedicated claw or wing. This feature presses against your belt and rotates the grip into your body, drastically reducing printing. Materials matter, too; rigid polymer kydex is my go-to for its security and durability, while leather can be comfortable but may break down over time and compromise safety.
Next, let’s talk about sights. The factory U-dot sights are decent, but they are a common first upgrade. If you’re using this for defense, a night sight setup is a wise investment. Tritium or fiber-optic front sights provide a clear, fast index in all lighting conditions. For those considering an optic, the Shield Plus Optics Ready models are a gift. You’ll need to decide on an optic footprint—the Shield RMSC is a common native fit—and potentially get a mounting plate. Remember, adding an optic means you’ll likely need a new holster designed to accommodate its extra bulk.
A weapon-mounted light is another serious consideration. It identifies potential threats in low-light situations, a critical factor in defensive scenarios. For a slim pistol like the Shield Plus, look for compact lights that don’t add excessive width. Streamlight and SureFire make excellent models that fit this role perfectly. However, adding a light, like an optic, will require a specific holster. My advice is to plan your entire setup. If you know you want a light, buy a holster made for your gun and light combination from the start.
Finally, think about magazines and grip. The Shield Plus comes with excellent magazines, but having a few extras for training is never a bad idea. For the grip, a simple rubberized sleeve or talon grip tape can make a world of difference, especially if your hands get sweaty. It enhances control without permanently altering the frame. When selecting any accessory, always ask yourself: does this make me more effective and responsible with my firearm? If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track. This professional analysis of the 10 best accessories for the M&P Shield Plus should help you build a more capable carry system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best holster for the M&P Shield Plus?
The “best” holster is subjective because it depends on your carry position and body type. However, I consistently recommend kydex holsters from reputable manufacturers like Vedder, Tulster, or JM Custom Kydex. For appendix carry, look for a model with an attached “claw.” For strong-side hip carry, a simple, compact kydex holster with good retention works very well. The most important factor is that it completely covers the trigger guard and holds the gun securely.
Can I mount a red dot sight on a standard Shield Plus?
You cannot directly mount a red dot on a standard model without having the slide professionally milled. The M&P Shield Plus Optics Ready (OR) version is specifically designed for this. It comes from the factory with a pre-milled slide and includes adapter plates for popular micro red dots like the Shield RMSC, Holosun 407K/507K, and others. If you have the standard model, slide milling is a permanent and precise option, while dovetail mounts that replace your rear sight are a less invasive alternative.
Is a weapon light practical on a compact pistol like the Shield Plus?
Yes, absolutely. A compact weapon light is a highly practical accessory for a defensive firearm. In a low-light situation, you need to identify what you are pointing your gun at. Lights from Streamlight (like the TLR-7 Sub) and SureFire are designed to fit compact frames without adding excessive bulk. The key is to ensure your holster is compatible with both the pistol and the specific light model you choose.
What are the best upgrades for improving accuracy?
The best upgrade for accuracy is almost always more training and ammunition. However, certain accessories can help you shoot to the pistol’s potential. A better trigger can provide a cleaner, more predictable break. An aftermarket barrel from a company like True Precision might offer a minor improvement in mechanical accuracy, but the shooter is the largest variable. For most, upgrading the sights to a high-visibility or night sight set will provide the most immediate practical benefit for fast, accurate shooting.
Are there any grip enhancements you recommend?
The Shield Plus has a good texture, but I find that adding a Hogue HandAll Beavertail Grip sleeve or applying Talon Grips (either rubber or granular) significantly improves control, especially with sweaty hands. These are inexpensive, non-permanent modifications that enhance the shooting experience. They provide a more positive grip without the permanence of stippling, which can devalue your firearm.
How many extra magazines should I own?
I suggest owning at least a few extra magazines beyond what came with the pistol. The Shield Plus typically comes with two or three. Having four to five total gives you flexibility. You can keep some loaded for defense while using others for range training, which helps prevent wearing out your primary defense magazines. It also means you spend less time reloading magazines at the range. This is a core part of my analysis for building a reliable system with the M&P Shield Plus.