The reality of protection is that you never know when you’ll need it.  S&W took the power and features of their full sized M&P pistols and put them into a slim, lightweight pistol the size of your hand.  The M&P Shield is an easy to conceal pistol that offers professional grade features with simple operation and reliable performance day or night.  One million Shield owners can’t be wrong.

Features:

PC Tuned Action
Fiber Optic Sights
Front Cocking Serrations
Slim Compact Profile with Embedded Stainless Steel Chassis System for Steel-on-Steel Contact Between Slide and Frame
Aggressive Grip Texture for Enhanced Control
Tactile and Audible Trigger Reset
Armornite Durable Corrosion Resistant Finish
Two Magazines Included – One Standard, Flush-Fit and One Extended Finger Groove

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S&W M&P 45 Shield Performance Center .45 ACP Pistol, Black – 11864

The S&W M&P 45 Shield Performance Center .45 ACP Pistol, Black (Model 11864) is the ultimate combination of power, precision, and portability for shooters seeking a high-performance concealed carry handgun. Manufactured by Smith & Wesson, a brand synonymous with American firearm excellence, this pistol is engineered for the serious shooter who demands reliability, superior accuracy, and smooth handling. In this detailed guide, we explore every aspect of this firearm—from design and performance features to shooting experience, maintenance, and why it’s a top choice among concealed carry enthusiasts.

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Overview of the S&W M&P 45 Shield Performance Center

The M&P Shield Performance Center 45 represents the pinnacle of Smith & Wesson’s compact defensive pistols. Designed with input from top shooters, this firearm delivers enhanced accuracy, reduced recoil, and faster follow-up shots. It combines the well-known ergonomics of the M&P Shield line with specialized Performance Center upgrades, making it one of the most sought-after .45 ACP compact pistols on the market.

The Performance Center designation signifies that the firearm has been hand-tuned by Smith & Wesson’s elite gunsmiths to optimize trigger pull, reliability, and performance. This attention to detail ensures that each 11864 model is ready for tactical use, competitive shooting, and daily concealed carry.

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Key Features of the S&W M&P 45 Shield Performance Center

1. Caliber: .45 ACP

   The pistol is chambered in .45 ACP, offering a powerful round known for its stopping power and effectiveness in self-defense situations. The .45 ACP provides manageable recoil while delivering maximum energy on target.

2. Action Type: Striker-fired

   The M&P 45 Shield Performance Center operates on a striker-fired system, delivering a consistent, crisp trigger pull for fast, accurate shooting. The Performance Center tuning ensures a short reset and smooth trigger feel.

3. Barrel Length: 3.1 inches

   The compact 3.1-inch barrel balances concealability with accuracy, making it ideal for concealed carry while still providing excellent ballistic performance. The Precision-Machined Barrel ensures tight groupings and predictable shot placement.

4. Overall Dimensions:

   • Height: 4.6 inches

   • Width: 1.0 inch

   • Length: 6.7 inches

     These dimensions make the pistol ultra-concealable, allowing it to fit comfortably in pockets, holsters, or purses for everyday carry.

5. Weight: 21.3 ounces unloaded

   The lightweight polymer frame reduces carry fatigue without sacrificing durability, allowing for all-day comfort when carrying concealed.

6. Frame and Finish:

   The black polymer frame is paired with a melonite-finished stainless steel slide, offering excellent corrosion resistance, scratch resistance, and durability. The matte black finish reduces glare, enhancing tactical utility.

7. Grip and Ergonomics:

   The M&P Shield 45 Performance Center features an aggressively textured grip, ensuring a firm hold under all conditions. The grip is designed for natural pointing, reducing muzzle rise and enhancing control for follow-up shots.

8. Sights:

   Equipped with white-dot front sights and adjustable rear sights, this pistol offers quick target acquisition and superior sight picture for both novice and expert shooters. The Performance Center version may include enhanced target-style sights for competitive and defensive applications.

9. Magazine Capacity:

   Standard 7+1 or 8+1 rounds, depending on the included magazine, provide a balance between concealability and firepower. The slim design ensures it remains compact while offering reliable capacity.

10. Safety Features:

    • Manual Thumb Safety: Optional, providing an extra layer of security for concealed carry.

    • Trigger Safety: Prevents accidental discharge unless the trigger is deliberately pulled.

    • Loaded Chamber Indicator: Lets you know when a round is chambered.

    • Magazine Disconnect: Optional on some models, adds peace of mind.

11. Performance Center Enhancements:

    The 11864 comes with Performance Center modifications, including:

    • Enhanced trigger with short take-up and crisp break

    • Reduced over-travel for faster reset

    • Custom-tuned recoil spring system for smoother shooting

    • Optimized slide and barrel fit for improved accuracy

    • Extended magazine release for faster reloads

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Advantages of Choosing the M&P 45 Shield Performance Center

1. Concealed Carry Ready:

   The slim, lightweight design makes it ideal for daily concealed carry. Its low-profile frame allows it to be worn comfortably under light clothing, while still delivering a powerful .45 ACP round.

2. Superior Accuracy:

   With Performance Center enhancements, shooters experience tight groupings and predictable shot placement, whether at the range or in self-defense scenarios.

3. Enhanced Trigger:

   The tuned trigger offers a short, crisp pull with a clean break, reducing shooter fatigue and improving accuracy in high-stress situations.

4. Reliability:

   Built by Smith & Wesson, the pistol is renowned for its dependable performance, even under adverse conditions such as extreme weather or prolonged use.

5. Low Recoil:

   Despite firing a powerful .45 ACP round, the shield’s compact design and Performance Center tuning reduce felt recoil, enabling faster follow-up shots.

6. Customization Potential:

   The M&P 45 Shield Performance Center is compatible with a variety of aftermarket sights, holsters, and accessories, allowing shooters to tailor the pistol to their personal preferences.

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Shooting Experience

The M&P 45 Shield Performance Center 11864 delivers a superior shooting experience. Its ergonomic design and optimized trigger system ensure natural pointability, meaning the pistol points where your hand points, reducing the learning curve for new shooters. Experienced shooters will appreciate the short reset, which allows for rapid follow-up shots during defensive or competitive scenarios.

Recoil management is exceptional for a .45 ACP, and the low bore axis minimizes muzzle rise, ensuring you maintain sight picture and control. Whether using it for range practice, home defense, or concealed carry, this pistol offers consistency, reliability, and confidence.

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Maintenance and Durability

The S&W M&P 45 Shield Performance Center is easy to maintain thanks to its modular design. Field stripping is straightforward, and all components are constructed with high-quality materials that resist wear and corrosion. Regular cleaning and lubrication ensure long-term performance and reliability.

The polymer frame is highly resistant to scratches and environmental damage, while the melonite-finished slide adds an additional layer of protection against corrosion and wear. This combination ensures that the pistol maintains its performance and appearance over years of use.

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Ideal Users

The 11864 model is perfect for:

• Concealed Carry Enthusiasts: Slim, lightweight, and easy to carry all day.

• Self-Defense Practitioners: Offers stopping power with .45 ACP in a reliable platform.

• Competitive Shooters: Performance Center enhancements improve accuracy and trigger control.

• Collectors: A premium, hand-tuned Smith & Wesson firearm suitable for any collection.

• First-Time Handgun Owners: Easy-to-use striker-fired system with minimal learning curve.

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Why the S&W M&P Shield Performance Center Stands Out

Smith & Wesson has a long history of producing reliable, durable, and accurate firearms, and the M&P 45 Shield Performance Center is no exception. Its blend of compact design, powerful caliber, and Performance Center tuning makes it a standout choice in the competitive concealed carry market.

Unlike standard Shield models, the Performance Center version is hand-tuned for maximum performance, giving shooters a significant edge in accuracy and handling. Whether you are practicing at the range or carrying for personal protection, this pistol provides unmatched reliability and confidence.

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Accessories and Holster Options

The compact size of the M&P 45 Shield Performance Center allows for versatile holster compatibility, including:

• IWB (Inside the Waistband) holsters for concealed carry

• OWB (Outside the Waistband) for range use or open carry

• Pocket holsters for ultra-concealment

• Kydex and leather holsters for customized fit

Additional accessories include:

• Night sights or fiber optic sights

• Extended magazines for increased capacity

• Grip sleeves or stippling kits for enhanced control

• Red dot optics for tactical or competitive applications

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Conclusion

The S&W M&P 45 Shield Performance Center .45 ACP Pistol, Black (11864) is more than just a firearm—it’s a performance-driven compact handgun designed for concealed carry, self-defense, and shooting enthusiasts who demand precision and reliability. Its combination of powerful .45 ACP caliber, hand-tuned Performance Center features, compact ergonomics, and reliable construction makes it one of the best choices on the market today.S&W M&P 45 SHIELD PERFORMANCE CENTER S&W M&P 45 SHIELD PERFORMANCE CENTER S&W M&P 45 SHIELD PERFORMANCE CENTER S&W M&P 45 SHIELD PERFORMANCE CENTER S&W M&P 45 SHIELD PERFORMANCE CENTER S&W M&P 45 SHIELD PERFORMANCE CENTER S&W M&P 45 SHIELD PERFORMANCE CENTER S&W M&P 45 SHIELD PERFORMANCE CENTER S&W M&P 45 SHIELD PERFORMANCE CENTERm&p shield 45 

For anyone seeking a premium, compact pistol with unmatched accuracy and handling, the M&P 45 Shield Performance Center 11864 is the ultimate solution. Carry it with confidence, shoot it with precision, and trust in the Smith & Wesson legacy for superior performance.

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