Recently, Smith & Wesson came out with it’s newest 9mm, the Equalizer, to help folks address the issue of racking and loading their guns.
If I’m being honest, I take for granted how easy it is for me to load magazines or rack a slide, but these simple acts are downright tough for some folks.
One of the main challenges of shooting handguns comes after the shot. Recoil is a crucial part of the process since it allows the weapon to clear the chamber and cycle in the next round.
But it can also be difficult — jerking the gun back, off target, and sometimes even frightening the shooter. Anticipation of that recoil can even cause shooters to jerk the trigger and throw off their shots.
We tested the Smith & Wesson Equalizer out to see if was equal to the task and could actually help fix the issues some shooters have.
So follow along as we walk you through the specs, features, pros/cons, as well as some range results to help you decide if this pistol is right for you.
Table of Contents
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Smith & Wesson Equalizer Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Light recoil
- Includes 3 magazines
Cons
- Short grip for big hands
The Bottom Line
We spent a day at the range with the Equalizer and found it to be a pleasant gun to operate. The recoil is light, the slide is easy to manipulate, and you can change the length of the grip by using different magazines.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Specs
Features
Source: Smith & Wesson
Equalizer Background
While you can certainly see the heritage of Smith & Wesson all over this gun, the Equalizer is a new model, not necessarily beholding to any previous gun.
That said, it seems a safe bet the spiritual predecessor for the Equalizer might well be the M&P Shield EZ.
Smith & Wesson took the philosophy of the easy-to-use gun and improved upon it with the Equalizer. While the grip angle and look are similar to the EZ, the slide serrations are significantly improved for grip.
Who Is It For?
Being this is a micro-compact, just about anyone could carry and appreciate the Equalizer as an EDC.
However, there was a target audience behind the Equalizer’s design, and I, for one, am glad to see it.
There are folks who struggle with some of the fundamental functions of shooting pistols. Racking the slide, managing recoil, and even loading magazines can present formidable barriers for some shooters.
People with limited grip strength or recoil sensitivity will appreciate the efforts Smith has gone through to enable them to shoot for fun or train.
Moreover, this firearm may empower some shooters to carry defensively, who had not been able to before.
Fit & Feel
The Equalizer has much in common with the M&P line and other modern semi-auto pistols in that it features a steel slide and polymer grip.
The grip angle is comfortable, and the ovular shape of the grip fits nicely in the palm.
Grip texture is a well-balanced medium — tacky enough to stay in the hand but not so rough as to catch on clothing overly much during a draw.
There is also a slight undercut on the trigger guard, better enabling a high grip.
The beaver tail is modest but sufficient enough to prevent slide bite. I also found the different-sized magazines played a direct role in how much I had to hang onto.
With the 15-round mag, the grip length was excellent, whereas, with the flush-fit 10-round mag, my pinky ended up floating in space. The floor plates on each different magazine give the user the option to carry more ammo or create a smaller carry package.
The slide serrations greatly assist with manipulating the slide. Cut deeply and spaced widely, there are five in the rear and three in the front.
The sights are sturdy, made of steel, and configured in a white, 3-dot setup. The trigger features a gently curved bow that was comfortable.
Given the internal hammer design, the trigger feels more like a striker-fired gun.
There’s about a millimeter of pre-travel before hitting a wall, then a tiny bit more give before a fairly crisp snap, with the break measuring at an average of 4 pounds 5 ounces on a Lyman Digital Gauge.
How Does It Shoot?
General manipulation of the Equalizer is a piece of cake. The slide moves back easily and isn’t overly stiff, thanks to the efforts from Smith & Wesson.
This seems to translate well to the mitigation of recoil as well. With a solid grip, I was able to get the gun shooting pretty flatly, making follow-up shots quick.
The trigger is decent on the Equalizer, though it isn’t as good as the M&P 2.0 series, in my opinion. Regardless, once learned, I was able to put together some okay groups using a Bushnell RXS-250.
Reloads were pretty standard fare, with magazines dropping clearly when called upon to do so. Admittedly, my big hands did cause the smaller mags to hang up.
The magazines seated nicely each time and fed reliably. They also locked back consistently each time I ran the Equalizer dry.
I also appreciated Smith & Wesson included high visibility followers, as well as round count windows in the bodies of the magazines.
One other noteworthy observation was the Uplula sold with the Equalizer. This is another enabling piece of kit that helps people with loading magazines.
I found that while loading the last one or two rounds, the mags were so stiff the tool was required to carry full capacity.
9mm Ammo in Stock
What Sets the Equalizer Apart?
Clearly, the biggest difference with the Equalizer is multiple features designed to make this gun easier to manipulate and shoot.
The recoil spring tension is somehow reduced without affecting overall reliability.
The serrations offer ample purchase and make it that much easier to grab and rack the slide. This applies to loading the weapon and reloading it as well.
Smith & Wesson Equalizer By the Numbers
Accuracy
3.5/5
The reduced recoil helps with flatter shots, making follow-ups pretty easy but the trigger takes some getting used to.
Reliability
5/5
Over the course of approximately 500 rounds there were zero malfunctions.
Customization
3/5
This is a new firearm so there isn’t a great deal of aftermarket support yet. You can choose from an array of optics and add accessories to the front rail though.
Ergonomics
4/5
The ergonomics were good, and designed to fit a wide variety of folks comfortably.
Value
4/5
At a price around $500, this is a good value, particularly for folks who will benefit from the Equalizer’s accommodations.
Overall
4/5
Smith & Wesson Equalizer Upgrades & Accessories
Final Verdict
Smith & Wesson has a winner on their hands with the Equalizer, and I applaud their efforts to reach people who would otherwise struggle to shoot handguns.
After all, a rising tide lifts all boats.
The right to defend yourself should not be blocked by an inability to manipulate a slide or stuff magazines.
Those who fall into this category, regardless of the reasons why, should take a look at the Equalizer.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Do you think the Smith & Wesson Equalizer works well as your EDC? Let us know in the comments below! Head to the 9 Best Concealed Carry Guns in 2023 for even more CCW guns!
36 Leave a Reply
Are there 2 models of the S&W 9mm Equalizer.
Not sure but one may be an TS model and the other NTS.
The S&W Equalizer is a great EDC. I need a total shoulder replacement on my right and can’t have it because I’m on antirejection for the kidney I received. My left shoulder has a torn rotator cuff. My right hand has a paralyzed middle finger, my thumb is short from a case of dry gangrene and my right pinky was amputated due to a blood clot that caused dry gangrene. Left middle finger and thumb also affected by dry gangrene and my overall hand strength is diminished greatly. I can rack this and the single stack EZ 9mm easily. The grip serrations front and back on the equalizer are great. I purchased the version without the safety since I’m formerly a Glock G22 Gen 4 shooter. Had to give it up because of the above issues. I can shoot great groupings with any of the weapons I mentioned but I’m confident now that I can rack a gun again. Too bad there isn’t a 40cal version. I prefer bigger holes if I have to pull the trigger. Only issue with the S&Ws is that I’ve managed to release the mags inadvertently on both, one in a real draw situation with a crazy neighbor who got to within 5 feet of me while I was in my yard in my wheelchair without my prosthetic leg on.
i have large hands .15 round or the 13 round work best if you are like me with this pistol
I purchased this gun recently but haven't shot it yet as I haven't gone to the range. My EDC is a Kahr K9 and I'm wondering how the Equalizer will compare in recoil since it's not an all metal gun. It would surprise me if it shoots gentler than my K9 but I would like it. I can rack my gun fine but picked this up for my wife to possibly use but if it's recoil properties are better than my K9 it could become my EDC especially since it carries a lot more rounds than my K9 despite the grip thickness being almost the same. How did they do that? Wow!
I think you’ll be pleased with the controllability of the Equalizer. With all of my shoulder and hand issues, I was able to control my shots so well emptying the 15 round, starting with 1 chambered, the 13, and the 10, total of 39 rounds, that I cleared a hole in the target at 25 feet.
It takes either and incredibly strong thumb or 2 hands to eject the magazine. This is not
good for combat reload situation. Yes, the slide is easier, but I want to be able to drop my mag with one hand and I don’t have the strength to do it On This Gun. So, not so fast ladies!
don't trust grip safeties. not a problem for you and me but considering this for my wife.
looks like the review pistol has a grip safety and no thumb safety.
what are your thoughts on the function of the equalizer grip safety?
Mine has a thumb safety.
Wife and I recently purchased the Equalizer as our first gun and we both love it enough that we're considering a second one so we each have an EDC. Before we get a second Equalizer, I was wondering if there are there other similar guns to the Equalizer worth looking into? Variety is the spice of life! Thanks in advance!
I have heard great things about the Smith & Wesson EZ 380. Yes, it isn’t a 9mm, but recoil reduction/shootability makes it a great choice for some shooters.
The only one I know of is the S&W 9EZ. limited to only having a total of 9 rounds if you have 1 mag. 8 rounds per single stack mag and 1 round chambered. It is nearly identical to the Equalizer other than the capacity. Feels the same in the hand, I own both.
I currently have a Shield Plus with the 3.1” barrel and a M&P2.0 Compact with a 4” barrel. The 2.0 Compact serves the home defense role. I am contemplating selling the 2.0 Compact and getting the Equalizer in its place so I will have 2 guns that share magazines (the Shield Plus and Equalizer). Is this a dumb idea?
Would this be a good gun for a leftie?
Yes. I shoot with either hand.
You bet!
I'm a beginner and while I love my .380 PC, this one is a winner for me. I'm still getting used to it, but it feels comfortable in my hand. It's a winner for me.
That's great Cheryl, glad you found something that works for you!
I have carried for many years and have owned/own multiple types of handguns. I bought the Equalizer a few months ago and it is one of my favorite handguns. I found the accuracy good and can highly recommend this pistol.
Hey Randolph, thanks for sharing your experience!
My wife has small hands and the Equalizer fit her hands perfectly which has not been the case in many instances. I shot the pistol at 25 yards and got consistent hits in the 8,9,10 rings of a B8 target. Shooting 20 rounds most were 9,10 rings. For me this was very acceptable accuracy for an out of the box pistol. She loves the pistol and we put a red dot on it for competition.
Hey Greg, that's good shooting! I'm glad your wife likes the Equalizer. Does she have any issues with the grip safety? Some other commenters have suggested that might be an issue.
My wife and I have never had a problem with the grip safety on my wife's EZ. My wife loves her 380 EZ. With lighter recoil, this might be a great opportunity for her to step up to the 9mm. Thanks for the review.
I think it's definitely worth a try, and you're welcome!
Pistols seem to have babies as I own them. First pistol was a S&W MP9c. I won an MP380EZ when I would have preferred the MP9EZ as ammo is easier to find and sometimes it is cheaper. Truth perhaps it is me, I don't see much difference in recoil.
More recently I bought the MP9 2.0. My eyes are not what they once were. The longer sight radius makes it easier to see. The mags also fit my MP9C and it comes with a spacer to fit the 17 round mag. Not the same size, I had to purchase an adapter to fit the 17 round mag to my MP 9C
It's like that David! An old detective I used to work with had a philosophy of only buying black guns to keep his wife from knowing.
Well, I keep my EZ in my golf bag. It’s always in a “pocket style” holster, in another wise empty pocket of the bag, by itself. No matter how careful I am putting the bag in my trunk, placing it on a cart, leaning it up against a rack, the manual safety lever often manages to disengage itself. It’s happened with several other pistols I’ve carried in there as well. I’d imagine this could be a common occurrence if carried in a purse. I’m extremely happy it has a grip safety. Maybe my hands are just more callused or rough but I don’t even notice it.
Hey Jon, that's curious. The model we tested did not have an external safety, just a grip safety.
Yes sir, I apologize for a poor explanation. The EZ and the Equalizer are different pistols. I was merely trying to address all the consternation brought up by so many other people regarding the grip safety, which they both have, in similar fashion. I didn’t understand all the negativity. I think it’s great. Thanks for the great writing.
Hey thanks, and no. That was my misunderstanding, thanks for following up. I didn't have any issues with the grip safety but I have to be open to the possibility it might be a problem for others.
I have a Performance Center Shield EZ. The only thing that I do not like is the backstrap. The top corners on mine are sharp points that dig into my hand. The main thing that I see different in the Equalizer is the double stack mags.
That's unfortunate. I found the backstrap on the model we tested to be fine.
The article appears to roll right over the deal breaker feature of this 9, for many folks: The backstrap safety. It changes everything about the initial and subsequent grip. I've spoken to many women about this gun. They reject it due to this feature. I would like to buy this without the backstrap safety. Give me the new M2.0 straight trigger. It has the requisite safety built in, build it with that. Optics Ready. 2 or 3 lug Rail. Same slide force. Very slightly more room between trigger guard and trigger face, 1-2 mm, just a smidge more. Night sights option. New all metal frame option! Perfect!
You're so right. That backstrap just kills this gun.
Bob, thanks for sharing your experience. I mentioned in the video that I'm not a fan of grip safeties, but I haven't gotten anyone else's feedback on this gun. And I like your suggestions for improvements. I'll pass these along to the folks at Smith & Wesson and with any luck, we'll see subsequent versions with these features.
That would be great, Sean. Thanks! The new metal frame from them is the bees knees. So is the quik 'n easy grip change. Fast and solid palm swell changes and sticky sandpaper feel without the harsh indentations in the palm (*cough* CZ P-10C *cough*). The M&P9 M2.0 Metal replaced the Walther F-Series in my line. The F-Series was an incredible fit out of the box. Great easy slide manipulation and trigger reach, everything they advertised. *But*, the deal breaker was the slide mass to frame mass ratio. The F-Series slide is massive, heavy, compared to the featherweight polymer frame. Handling it, you can not tell this by just looking at it. When fired, that slide rocks back in the hand. Plain physics. The solution is S&W's new all metal frame. Night and day difference in being able to control the recoil. The new changeable grips nails it. That grip does not need reposition during firing. Sticky without the 2x4 feel (Glock G19 Fail for me, always repositioning in palm during firing). Feature wise, the Shield Plus is very close. Great sticky grip, Optics Ready, No Thumb Safety. No Grip Safety. Relatively easy rack force. Optional night sights. Controllable recoil. But, no light rail. Put on an aftermarket rail attachment and it intrudes into the trigger guard space, a sub optimal solution. I hope S&W listens to you.
After owning many 1911 style pistols, my wife will not cary a gun without it. She carrys the ez 9. She will practice her draw, grip, safety off, and double taps. Never had a problem. Does not work for my xl hands.