The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield is the pistol that popularized the slim single-stack carry gun, and the Shield Plus carried the torch forward with 10+1 and 13+1 capacity in the same easy-concealing footprint. It's one of the best-selling concealed carry pistols ever made — and it pairs perfectly with a low-profile IWB holster. Here's the best IWB holster for the M&P Shield and Shield Plus, and the exact size to order.
The Best IWB Holster for the M&P Shield: Mainstay™ Clipless IWB
For the M&P Shield and Shield Plus, we recommend the Mainstay™ Clipless IWB Holster in size 6. The Mainstay's silicone-coated, clipless exterior stays anchored inside your waistband without a belt clip — nothing to print or snag — while fully covering the trigger guard. It carries comfortably in appendix, strong-side, and small-of-back positions.
Add an optic or light? Match the size to your Shield:
- M&P Shield / Shield Plus (bare): size 6
- + red dot optic: size 6-RDO
- + weapon light: size 6L
- + optic and light: size 6L-RDO
Size 6 fits the M&P Shield, Shield Plus, and Shield .45. (The Shield Plus Comp Carry, with its compensator, takes size 5C.)
Why the Mainstay Works for the Shield
The Shield earned its reputation by being thin, light, and easy to carry — and a bulky holster undoes all of that. The Mainstay keeps things minimal: a soft, flexible body that flexes with you, holds the pistol securely, and disappears under a shirt. Made in the USA and priced under $35, it's one of our most popular IWB holsters.
Complete Your Shield Carry Setup
Add a reinforced gun belt to support the holster all day, and browse our full lineup of IWB holsters for a backup option. New to daily carry? Our everyday carry (EDC) guide walks through the essentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size Mainstay holster fits the M&P Shield?
The M&P Shield and Shield Plus fit the Mainstay Clipless IWB Holster in size 6. Choose size 6-RDO for a red dot, 6L for a weapon light, or 6L-RDO for both.
Does the same holster fit the Shield and Shield Plus?
Yes. The Mainstay in size 6 fits both the M&P Shield and the Shield Plus. The Shield Plus Comp Carry takes size 5C instead.
Is the M&P Shield good for concealed carry?
The M&P Shield is one of the best-selling concealed carry pistols ever made, prized for its slim, lightweight design. With a comfortable IWB holster it conceals easily for all-day carry.
Ready to carry? Get the Mainstay Clipless IWB Holster in size 6 for your M&P Shield.