First Look: Crimson Trace M&P Shield Lightguard

Having a light mounted on a concealed-carry handgun opens up a number of advantages for prepared individuals, allowing them to instantly identify threats, pick up other potential attackers in low-light situations and enhance awareness in dark environments, like a house at night, by bouncing light off the ground. For owners of the wildly popular Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, Crimson Trace now has a unique fit designed specifically for their handgun.

The Crimson Trace Lightguard is an integrated illumination tool that's molded to fit the contours of the M&P Shield's frame. The light body, made from durable, impact-resistant polymer, attaches to the Picatinny accessory rail located on the gun's dust cover and is further secured to the pistol through additional clamps that wrap around the leading and bottom edges of the trigger guard.

To activate the Lightguard, users will find two Instant Activation touchpads located on each side of the light body, allowing for ambidextrous use. The touchpads feature a textured surface matching the serrations cut onto the slide of the M&P Shield, providing an integrated look for the whole platform offering a more-tactile surface for confident operation. Two modes are available, momentary and constant-on, allowing users to use quick bursts of light while moving to avoid revealing their location. Powered by two 1/3N batteries, the light can be used continuously for up to an hour in constant-on mode.

Added weight to the M&P Shield is negligible, as the Crimson Trace Lightguard weighs in at just an ounce with its two batteries installed. The batteries are accessible via a quick-change cap that prevents users from having to remove the light from their gun for a change. The Lightguard unit fits all Smith & Wesson M&P Shield handguns chambered in 9 mm and .40 S&W. Maximum output of the light is 110 lumens, and the suggested retail price on the unit is $89.