re: I've finally decided. S&W M&P Shield

On the laser... I don't think they're as bad as people make them out to be. However, if you haven't learned how to shoot iron sights proficiently, you shouldn't get a laser.

Sight picture should be something similar to "co-witness" where you're lining up your sights and your red dot is a hair above the sight. It's intimidating, helpful in low light, and useful if you have to shoot unconventionally for any reason.

It's still not a priority for me and the added bulk on my gun is not worth it to me. My wife got laser grips for her j-frame as soon as she got good with the iron sights and it hasn't affected her shooting.