S&W Equalizer
- Graham Baates
- Nov 8, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 14, 2022
This post has been updated 14NOV22 with out Tabletop and Shooting Impressions video at the end of the original post.
Smith & Wesson announced a new pistol today (08NOV22). Below is the press release information as we haven't seen or handled one of these ourselves yet. I was curious why all of the sudden a couple models of S&W guns were on sale. Now it makes sense, because something new was coming.
From the looks of it, the S&W Equalizer appears to be a "micro compact" version of the EZ line, and we like the choice to go with a 3.6" barrel for adequate muzzle energy. If our Patrons want us to review one we'll see about getting one in for a full review.
Specifications from the product web page: (Note weight, size, and other information has not been released as of launch day, this tends to indicate the product doesn't not fully exist yet, however S&W already has "buy now" options on their site. I also advise you not pay attention to the product animation, it must be up there as a mistake as it implies that either Smith & Wesson has developed an entirely new action type OR the animation was created, approved, and published by someone who has no idea how a pistol works. I'm hoping it's a simple oversight.)
CAPACITY: 10+1, 13+1, AND 15+1
CALIBER: 9MM
BARREL: 3.675”
SIGHT: STEEL, WHITE DOT
SAFETY: OPTIONAL THUMB SAFETY
PRICING WE FOUND (8NOV22)
Original press release from Smith & Wesson:
SPRINGFIELD, MA., (11/08/2022) - Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, introduces the all-new S&W® EQUALIZER™.
Level the playing field with our best-performing micro-compact to date. Next-gen EZ technology, low recoil impulse, and versatile magazine capacity all in a compact footprint, make the EQUALIZER™ an ultimate CCW. This 9MM offering provides the perfect balance of power and capacity across 10, 13, and 15-round magazines. The EQUALIZER™ features a single-action trigger that allows for a short take-up, clean break, and fast reset to make follow-up shots quicker. The slide operates using easy-to-rack technology to cater to a wide variety of needs and the frame includes a picatinny-style rail to mount lights or lasers for any defense scenario. A new optic cut pattern allows the user to mount their choice of sight for enhanced accuracy and the 3.675” barrel gives a longer sight radius for increased iron sight precision. The EQUALIZER™ also features a new grip texture and pattern designed to give you more control when firing and more comfort when carrying.
"The EQUALIZER™ is a total package micro-compact pistol. Its multi-purpose design allows for a variety of setup options for use at the range and/or for personal carry, while not compromising on firepower or comfort," said John Myles, Senior Manager of New Products.
Get the big performance you need in a small, versatile handgun. Smith & Wesson is proud to introduce the S&W® EQUALIZER™.
MSRP $599.00.
Check out the EQUALIZER at www.smith-wesson.com.
Tabletop Video:
Shooting Impressions Video:
Ammunition seen in our Shooting Impressions video was made possible by our Patrons and supporters of our ammunition savings account through Ammo Squared. Additional, on-demand ammunition through True Shot Gun Club.
Something that surprises me is that the M&P9 M2.0 Metal hasn't gotten more exposure - I picked one up amid the media blitz over the new Springfield 9mm 1911. Along with the full metal frame, the Metal has a better trigger and is cut for an optic. Compared to a full-size polymer M&P9 M2.0, each pistol with 17 rounds of M1153, the Metal weighs more than the polymer by - 12 grams.
Seems dumb when they already have these 2 gems no way I would revert back to the pea shooter style 380 shield especially with that stupid hand grip safety. 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️ think I'll stick to sdve models. From Michigan.
Funny, I learned of it’s existence this morning in a KYGunCo Black Friday ad, $499. Looks like the same size as the original EZ, which I liked quite a bit. Do you think it’s the same hammer fired action as the EZ? Couldn’t tell from the S&W announcement video I saw this morning.
In any case, S&W is a little late. Since the original .380 EZ came out (which I bought) I’ve purchased a Sig P365XL and. P365 380 so I’m covered no matter what caliber they come out with.
Atleast they give the Equalizer decent capacity & made it optic ready. My 2 main complaints about the ez pistols. Really not my cup of tea. Everybody wants these micro subcompact guns. I get the fact that they are easier concealed. I would almost bet that most of the people buying these micro compacts will carry them but will hardly ever take them to the range more than once o twice, if at all. Not to mention never train with them or get proficient with them.
I purchased an original M&P Shield 9 EZ as my first handgun. I was excited when I saw this earlier today. However, a resident of Maryland the earliest I could buy one would be in February assuming it is submitted for our Handgun Roster Board by November 16.