I had a G43 for about a week. Damn thing rubbed the skin off of the rear knuckle of my right thumb in less than 50 rounds, due to the pronounced lip on the beavertail. This is not an uncommon complaint, but hand size determines whether or not this will be a problem for you. I've never seen anyone complain about the Shield 9 being uncomfortable to shoot. To me, the Shield is a far superior pistol, and one of my trusted EDCs. The Shield shoots more like a full size pistol, while the G43 reminds me of the unpleasant experience of shooting an Airweight revolver, especially with the 147 grain +P HST round I use for my 9mm pistols.