I have a sr9c and Shield in 40. Comparing the 2, the Shield is thinner making it easier to conceal and lighter due to capacity. The SR is much more versatile and I am much more accurate with it due to not only shooting it a lot more (my Shield if fairly new) but also because of the longer sight radius. Sounds like you are a Ruger guy and the Shield is really more like a LC9 with a better trigger. I also have to say, and just my opinion, it seems that Smith may have sacrificed QC somewhat to attempt to meet demand. There seems to be more issues with the Shields if you read the forums including a recall from Smith. If I had to choose one, it would be the SRc, that's me. If you want the gun to deep conceal only, the Shield would be worth considering. I do have to say, I am a Ruger guy and have a LC9 that I have modified with all the Galloway upgrades, night sights, and the new 9 round clips and I prefer my stock Shield over the LC9. It feels better in the hand and the trigger is much better.