Understanding the Role of the Grip Safety
What is the Grip Safety?
The Smith & Wesson Shield EZ has become a popular choice for concealed carry and personal defense. Its ease of use, particularly its design to accommodate those with weaker hand strength, is a significant selling point. However, a common point of discussion among owners revolves around the grip safety, a feature built into the design. Should you keep it, or consider a Shield EZ grip safety delete? This article delves deep into this question, exploring the nuances, advantages, disadvantages, and the considerations you must make before making a decision.
The Function of the Grip Safety
Before making any modifications, it’s essential to understand exactly what the grip safety is and why it exists. In the context of the Shield EZ, the grip safety is a small lever located on the back of the pistol’s grip. It’s a passive safety mechanism, meaning it requires no conscious action to engage. The pistol will only fire when the grip safety is fully depressed while the trigger is pulled. This design ensures the weapon won’t fire unless held correctly, providing an extra layer of protection against accidental discharges.
The Purpose of the Grip Safety
The primary function of the grip safety is to enhance the pistol’s safety. It makes accidental firing less likely. This design feature helps to mitigate potential issues, and it’s an added layer of security against unintentional firing, particularly in situations involving a dropped gun or accidental trigger contact. It’s also worth noting that, in some jurisdictions, the presence of a grip safety can contribute to a firearm’s compliance with specific legal requirements regarding safety features.
Why Consider a Grip Safety Delete?
Speed and Draw
For many Shield EZ owners, the decision to modify the grip safety stems from a few core considerations. Speed and draw are prominent factors. Many competitive shooters, and some self-defense-oriented individuals, seek to optimize their draw speed. A grip safety can, theoretically, slow down this process. Every fraction of a second counts, especially in high-pressure situations. By eliminating the grip safety, some shooters believe they can achieve a faster and more fluid draw stroke. This can be particularly noticeable during training when repeatedly drawing and firing from a holster. This is the primary justification for a Shield EZ grip safety delete.
Ease of Use
Another compelling reason for some is ease of use. While the Shield EZ is designed for ease, some users, particularly those with arthritis, limited hand strength, or other conditions that affect grip, may find fully depressing the grip safety consistently to be challenging. In these cases, deleting the grip safety eliminates the need to fully engage it, simplifying the firing process and potentially improving the shooter’s comfort and control. This can make the pistol more accessible for these individuals, improving their ability to handle and fire it confidently.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, for some, the reason for removing the grip safety is personal preference. Some shooters are accustomed to firearms without grip safeties, and the additional step of depressing it before firing might feel unnatural or cumbersome. Those used to the simplicity of other pistol designs might find the Shield EZ easier to use without the grip safety. This decision can boil down to whether the added safety measure feels beneficial or an obstruction.
The Potential Downsides of Removal
Reduced Safety
While there are compelling reasons to delete the grip safety, it’s critical to thoroughly weigh the disadvantages. The most significant concern involves a reduction in safety. Removing the grip safety eliminates one layer of protection against accidental discharges. This means that any accidental trigger contact or jostling could potentially result in a discharge if the trigger is pulled. This highlights how a Shield EZ grip safety delete comes with safety tradeoffs.
Legal Considerations
Beyond this, modifying your firearm can have legal consequences. Before undertaking any modification, it’s imperative to research and understand local and federal laws regarding firearm modifications. Some jurisdictions might have specific regulations about altering safety features. Failure to comply with these laws could have serious repercussions, including legal penalties. It is best to be aware of all potential issues when considering a Shield EZ grip safety delete.
Warranty Issues
Additionally, deleting the grip safety will almost certainly void the manufacturer’s warranty on your Shield EZ. Smith & Wesson will no longer be responsible for any issues that arise, potentially including failures related to the modification. While this might not be a primary concern for all owners, it’s something to consider when assessing the risks. A Shield EZ grip safety delete definitely has warranty impacts.
Accidental Discharge Concerns
Furthermore, there’s the potential for accidental discharge due to unintentional trigger pulls. As previously noted, the grip safety is one barrier between the trigger and firing. Without it, any accidental pressure on the trigger could result in a discharge, especially when holstering or handling the firearm. For this reason, it’s critical to be extremely careful with a firearm where the grip safety is deleted.
Finding Other Options and Modifications
Grip Sleeves and Wraps
Removing the grip safety isn’t the only approach to optimizing your Shield EZ. There are other alternatives that can improve handling and potentially address some of the concerns that lead people to consider the modification.
One option is to utilize grip sleeves or wraps. These accessories enhance the grip’s texture and provide a more secure and comfortable hold. By improving your grip, you may find that you’re more confident and efficient with your draws and trigger pulls. Grip sleeves offer a simple, non-permanent method to adjust the feel of the pistol without the radical changes associated with a Shield EZ grip safety delete.
Trigger Upgrades
Another option, though not directly related to the grip safety, is upgrading the trigger. A lighter and smoother trigger pull can often improve your shooting experience, making it easier to achieve accurate shots and maintain control. Several aftermarket trigger kits are available that can make a significant difference.
How to Delete the Grip Safety
*Please note: This section provides a general overview. This is NOT a complete step-by-step guide. It is highly recommended to consult with a qualified gunsmith for this procedure. Attempting to modify your firearm without proper knowledge and training is extremely dangerous. Improper installation can make your firearm unsafe and potentially illegal.*
The process of deleting the grip safety is not something that should be undertaken lightly. It requires some mechanical aptitude and the right tools. It is usually best to have a gunsmith handle the Shield EZ grip safety delete.
Tools and Materials
You’ll likely need a punch set, small hammer, a screwdriver, and possibly a plug to fill the hole where the grip safety once resided.
Procedure (General Overview – Always consult with a gunsmith)
The process typically involves the following steps:
- Disassembly: Partially disassemble the slide and potentially the frame of the pistol. This often includes removing the slide and field stripping it. This involves disassembling the slide and frame.
- Removal: Carefully remove the grip safety and associated components.
- Reassembly: Reassemble the slide and/or frame, ensuring all components are correctly aligned. You might need to install a plug where the grip safety used to be, to fill the void.
- Check: After reassembly, it is important to test the firearm to ensure it’s functioning safely and correctly.
Safety and the Importance of Gun Handling
After modifying your Shield EZ, safe gun handling becomes even more critical. Always treat every firearm as if it’s loaded, even if you believe it isn’t. Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot, and always point the muzzle in a safe direction. If you are considering a Shield EZ grip safety delete, you should consider these safety issues.
Safe Practices
Proper holstering and gun storage are vital. Use a high-quality holster that completely covers the trigger guard and prevents accidental contact with the trigger. Store your firearm securely, preferably in a locked safe, away from children and unauthorized individuals.
Importance of Training
Regular training and practice are also essential. Frequent trips to the range, along with dry-fire practice, will help you become proficient with your firearm and improve your safety habits.
Professional Inspection
Lastly, consider a professional checkup. After performing the modification or having it done, it’s a good idea to have a qualified gunsmith inspect your pistol to ensure that everything functions correctly and safely.
Final Thoughts and Considerations
Deciding whether to remove the grip safety from your Shield EZ is a personal decision. The advantages and disadvantages must be carefully considered.
The potential benefits include the possibility of a faster draw and potentially easier use for shooters with hand strength issues. However, these benefits must be weighed against the increased risk of accidental discharge, potential legal issues, and the voiding of your warranty.
Ultimately, the best path forward depends on your individual needs, shooting style, and risk tolerance. Consider your current skill, the legal requirements in your area, and whether you’re comfortable with the increased responsibility that comes with eliminating a safety feature. If there is any doubt, the safest option is to leave the grip safety intact. A well-informed decision is crucial.
Additional Resources
For further information, consider these resources:
- Links to forums and discussions regarding the Shield EZ.
- Links to video tutorials demonstrating the modification process.
- Links to reputable gunsmith services.
- Website of Smith & Wesson.
- Find experienced gunsmiths in your area.
Choosing to modify your firearm is serious. Make sure that your decision is both safe and legal. Remember, safety is your top priority.
