The Shield is the better shooting, more affordable option. I too am a Glock guy, but Glock built the G43 too small. The Shield shoots bigger than it is.
Its my first AR. Bought from Trading Place Indoor Range in Monroe, Ga. Might not be the highest end but has a 1/7 twist barrel and came with forward assist and dust cover for 599. Made by American Tactical. It runs and I'm pretty proud of it.
Lets just bring back the fanny pack. On another note. I used to weigh 370 pounds and now am at 260. The eliptical is my best friend since a torn ACL. Still got a muffin I'm working on, but I weigh less than when I played my 19th grade football season. All the work for my 2 year old son, save...
Stopped at Clyde's Armory. They had 3, M&P .40 cal Shields for 399 $. Skipped out with one of my own. 50 rounds down the pipe within the hour. Thanks to The Trading Place Gun and Indoor Range for the free range time. 4 to 5 inch groups at 8 yards. In love!!!