A Legacy Forged in Service
The world of firearms is a landscape of constant evolution, where innovation and refinement reign supreme. Within this dynamic arena, the Smith & Wesson M&P (Military & Police) series has solidified its place as a modern classic, earning widespread acclaim for its blend of reliability, ergonomics, and adaptability. This review delves deep into the Smith & Wesson M&P, providing a thorough analysis of its design, features, performance, and its position within the broader market. We’ll explore the factors that have made this handgun a favorite among law enforcement professionals, civilian shooters, and those seeking a dependable platform for self-defense. Before we dissect the mechanics of the M&P, it’s essential to understand its heritage. Smith & Wesson, a name synonymous with American firearms, has a long and storied history. Their contributions to the industry are vast, and their dedication to creating tools for both the military and law enforcement has been unwavering. The M&P series emerged as a direct response to the changing needs of the modern battlefield and the demands of contemporary policing. This wasn’t just about building a new handgun; it was about crafting a complete package that addressed the limitations and shortcomings of existing designs. The M&P was born from a clear understanding of what was needed and a commitment to providing a superior product.
The evolution of the M&P stemmed from a desire to challenge the dominance of other handgun manufacturers, particularly those known for their polymer-framed, striker-fired designs. Smith & Wesson sought to create a firearm that offered superior ergonomics, enhanced performance, and a heightened degree of shooter comfort. The goal was not simply to replicate existing designs, but to innovate and push the boundaries of what a modern handgun could be.
Design: The Foundation of Performance
The Smith & Wesson M&P, at its core, is built upon a foundation of thoughtful design, which is the key to its overall success. The entire firearm is a testament to the importance of understanding the user’s needs and translating those needs into tangible features.
One of the most immediately apparent aspects of the M&P is its exceptional ergonomics. The grip, often the first point of contact for any shooter, is designed to fit comfortably in a wide range of hands. The texture, usually featuring aggressive stippling or strategically placed grooves, offers a secure hold, even in adverse conditions. Many models include interchangeable backstraps, a feature that allows shooters to customize the grip size to suit their individual preferences. This adjustability significantly enhances the feel and handling of the firearm, contributing to greater control and accuracy. The frame, typically constructed from durable polymer, is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use and the demands of tactical operations. The overall shape and balance of the M&P contribute to a natural point of aim, allowing the shooter to acquire targets quickly and efficiently. The location and accessibility of the controls, including the slide release and magazine release, are also carefully considered. These controls are positioned within easy reach, enabling smooth and efficient operation, regardless of the shooter’s hand size or experience level.
The slide and barrel work in concert to facilitate accurate and reliable operation. The materials used in the construction of the slide and barrel are chosen for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. The sights, which guide the shooter’s eye towards the target, are available in a variety of configurations. Users can often choose from standard iron sights, three-dot sights, or even aftermarket options, to tailor the sighting system to their specific needs and preferences. The barrel length varies depending on the M&P model, and barrel is designed to ensure consistent shot placement.
The trigger, the mechanism that initiates the firing sequence, is another critical component of the M&P’s design. The trigger pull weight, the force required to depress the trigger, and the feel, the tactile sensation of the trigger during the pull, are carefully calibrated to provide a balance between safety and performance. There’s a noticeable take-up, the distance the trigger travels before engaging the sear, followed by a clean break, the point where the firing pin is released. The reset, the distance the trigger travels forward after firing, is designed to be short and positive, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. Several different trigger options are available, from the standard factory trigger to aftermarket upgrades that offer enhanced feel and performance.
Safety features are essential in any firearm design. The Smith & Wesson M&P incorporates multiple safety mechanisms to prevent accidental discharges. The internal safeties, like the firing pin block, physically block the firing pin unless the trigger is fully depressed.
Ergonomics and Handling
The design prioritizes the user’s interaction with the firearm. A comfortable and secure grip is paramount. The M&P’s grip is thoughtfully designed, often featuring interchangeable backstraps to accommodate various hand sizes and preferences. The frame is constructed from durable materials, ensuring longevity and withstanding the rigors of daily use. The balance of the firearm is carefully calibrated to promote a natural point of aim, allowing shooters to quickly and accurately acquire targets. The controls, including the slide release and magazine release, are positioned for easy access and efficient operation.
Slide, Barrel, and Sights
The slide and barrel play a crucial role in the M&P’s accuracy and reliability. High-quality materials are selected for their durability and resistance to wear. A variety of sight options are available, from standard iron sights to more advanced configurations, allowing shooters to customize their aiming system based on their individual needs and preferences.
The Trigger
The trigger is a critical element in the overall shooting experience. Trigger pull weight and feel are precisely calibrated to provide a balance between safety and performance. The trigger features a defined take-up, a clean break, and a positive reset, enabling rapid and accurate follow-up shots. Options for aftermarket triggers also exist to further enhance the shooting experience.
Performance Under Pressure
Beyond its design, the Smith & Wesson M&P shines in its performance capabilities. A firearm can be a work of art, but its true merit lies in its ability to perform consistently and reliably.
Accuracy is a cornerstone of any firearm’s performance, and the M&P delivers consistently good results. Accuracy is evaluated by firing controlled groups at various distances. The overall accuracy of a firearm depends on several factors, like a good trigger, high quality sights, and, of course, the shooter.
Reliability is a non-negotiable aspect of the M&P’s reputation. The M&P’s ability to function flawlessly, round after round, is one of its key selling points. Testing for malfunctions involves exposing the gun to a range of conditions and using various types of ammunition. The M&P has proven its ability to withstand the rigors of demanding shooting situations.
Recoil management is another crucial aspect of the shooting experience. The M&P’s design helps mitigate felt recoil, making it easier for shooters to maintain control and achieve rapid follow-up shots. The grip’s ergonomics, the overall balance of the firearm, and the quality of the recoil spring all contribute to this ability.
Accuracy
Accuracy testing involves firing controlled groups at varying distances to assess the firearm’s precision. The overall accuracy is influenced by factors such as trigger quality, sights, and shooter skill.
Reliability and Durability
Reliability is a key characteristic of the M&P. Testing includes subjecting the firearm to a variety of conditions and ammunition types to evaluate its ability to function consistently without malfunctions. The M&P has demonstrated its robustness in demanding shooting scenarios.
Recoil Control
Recoil management is a critical factor in achieving quick and accurate follow-up shots. The M&P’s design incorporates features such as ergonomic grips, balanced construction, and quality recoil springs to help mitigate felt recoil and ensure enhanced control.
A Family of Options
The Smith & Wesson M&P isn’t just a single handgun; it’s a family of firearms, offering something for a variety of needs and applications.
The original M&P 9/40/45 represents the full-size, duty-oriented platform. The full-sized models offer a full-length grip, providing the utmost control, and a longer slide. The M&P Shield series, including the Shield and Shield Plus, has carved out a significant niche in the concealed carry market. These subcompact pistols are designed for ease of concealment, making them an excellent choice for personal defense. The Shield Plus, in particular, is a popular choice due to its improved features, including a higher capacity magazine.
Beyond the mainstream models, various special editions and variations exist, like the C.O.R.E. (Competition Optics Ready Equipment) models, designed for mounting optics. The Performance Center models are often built with upgraded components, such as enhanced triggers and custom barrels. The M&P 2.0 represents an updated version of the original design, incorporating further refinements and improvements. The features include an enhanced trigger, improved grip texture, and a more robust slide finish.
The Good and the Not-So-Good
Like any product, the Smith & Wesson M&P has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these pros and cons is essential for making an informed decision.
The advantages of the M&P platform are numerous. The ergonomics are generally excellent, with a comfortable grip that accommodates a wide range of hand sizes. Reliability and durability are also strong suits, making the M&P a dependable option. The M&P is often offered at a competitive price point. The widespread aftermarket support for the M&P provides a wealth of customization options.
There are some potential drawbacks to consider. The trigger feel of some early models has been cited as a area for improvement. While the factory sights are functional, they can often be upgraded to enhance performance. There can be some aesthetic preferences for one handgun over another.
Facing the Competition
The handgun market is fiercely competitive, with numerous manufacturers vying for consumer attention. The Smith & Wesson M&P must contend with established players and rising stars.
The Glock line of handguns, with their simple design and robust reliability, has long dominated the market. Glock offers a similar set of features, including polymer frames and striker-fired actions. The Sig Sauer P320, also a popular polymer-framed, striker-fired pistol, competes with the M&P in terms of features, performance, and customization options. Other options include the Springfield XD series and CZ handguns, both of which offer unique features and design philosophies. The M&P holds its own against its rivals. The ergonomics and competitive pricing also contribute to its appeal.
Who Should Carry This Weapon?
The Smith & Wesson M&P is a versatile platform, and its suitability varies depending on the user’s needs and priorities.
For those seeking a concealed carry weapon, the M&P Shield and Shield Plus are excellent choices. Their compact size and manageable recoil make them ideal for everyday carry. Law enforcement professionals benefit from the M&P’s reliability and modularity. Competitive shooters can take advantage of the firearm’s inherent accuracy. Those seeking a reliable home defense firearm also will find the M&P suitable.
Maintaining Your Investment
Maintaining a firearm properly is critical for its performance and longevity. Proper maintenance will ensure that your Smith & Wesson M&P will be there for you in the long run.
Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential. Cleaning the firearm after each range session, or more frequently if used in harsh conditions, helps remove carbon buildup and debris that can affect performance. Lubrication reduces friction and helps prevent wear and tear. A recommended maintenance schedule includes periodic inspections, regular cleaning, and timely replacement of worn parts. Following these steps will help ensure your M&P functions reliably for years to come.
Cleaning and Lubrication
Regular cleaning and lubrication are crucial for maintaining the firearm’s performance and longevity. Proper cleaning removes carbon buildup and debris, while lubrication reduces friction and wear.
Scheduled Maintenance
A well-defined maintenance schedule should include periodic inspections, regular cleaning, and timely replacement of any worn parts to ensure the M&P’s reliability over time.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Smith & Wesson M&P series has earned its reputation as a modern classic. Its design, ergonomics, performance, and broad range of models have made it a popular choice among a diverse group of shooters. The M&P offers a compelling combination of features, reliability, and value, making it a worthy contender for anyone seeking a reliable and capable handgun. The M&P is highly recommended for anyone looking for a reliable, easy to handle, and high-performing handgun.
