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By Vic Laboy
Today, we will be viewing the Smith and Wesson M&P 2.0, which is the company’s latest upgrade to their already popular firearm. Commonly found among law enforcement agencies around the nation, S&W has developed quite the reputation. Available in 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, and 45ACP, this has become the choice of first-time buyers, concealed carry holders, and local and federal law enforcement agencies nationwide.
A Look Back
In 2005, S&W unveiled their newest line of polymer-framed pistols that would be adopted by law enforcement agencies within the first year of its debut – the M&P (Military and Police). After the notable success and proven reliability of this firearm, designs for an upgraded model were set in place. Following thorough research and designing, the M&P 2.0 was born. The goal was to design a versatile pistol that was effective at the range and on the frontline. The Smith and Wesson M&P 2.0 offers new additions to the already well-known M&P including an upgraded trigger, rougher grip texture, rugged front and rear slide serrations, and a cleaner finish. This allows for better handling in both wet and dry conditions and provides little felt recoil. The Smith and Wesson M&P 2.0 also comes with larger capacity magazines to ensure you are ready for any mission.
What’s Different in the 2.0 from the Previous Model?
S&W is known to take into account what their customer base has to say about their products, and they work to ensure they maintain quality, top of the line pistols that are fit for any task.
Trigger
Initially, the main complaint faced by consumers across the board was the “sponginess” of the trigger, stating there was too much “play” and “grit” and in trigger pull. As a result, requests for a better handling pistol were answered. The Smith and Wesson M&P 2.0 offers a much tighter, more crisp squeeze that seems to engage effortlessly, with a more audible reset. Working in conjunction with its signature higher bore axis, this has made for a faster shooting, more accurate pistol with more than adequate recoil mitigation.
Grip Texture
One of the most noticeable differences is the upgraded grip texture. Resting on the 18-degree grip angle offered in the standard models that allows the shooter to attain a more natural grip, you will note a rougher, more aggressive texture, providing an easier, more secure grip when handling and firing this weapon. One feature that has carried over from the previous generation is interchangeable backstraps. Initially, users were offered three sizes to choose from: a medium palm swell insert already secured to the firearm, as well as the small and large inserts. Now, a fourth insert has been added allowing for an in-between option for a medium-large grip. All four inserts include the new, aggressive texture. Altering your grip size is as simple as rotating the holding post at the base of the firearm. Once unlocked, you can easily remove the grip insert to attach the proper size of your choosing. In addition to the redesigned texture, new serrations have been added to the front of the slide for easier slide manipulation.
Magazine / Holster Compatibility
A highly beneficial aspect of this firearm is the magazine interchangeability. If you have the older model, these magazines will secure properly in the upgraded model, which is a nice bonus for those who don’t want to invest in new magazines. Also, holsters molded for the older generation will fit your 2.0, saving you a trip to the gun shop to purchase the latest BIANCHI or BLACKHAWK! holsters. Lastly, the controls of the 2.0 almost match the original, with an ambidextrous slide stop, reversible steel magazine release, optional manual thumb safety, and traditional M&P takedown lever.
Disadvantages of The 2.0
Even with the greatest, most popular models, it is difficult to please the entire crowd. While the Smith and Wesson M&P 2.0 has had major refinements to an already well-performing pistol, some may prefer the older model to its predecessor. The most common grievance expressed towards the 2.0 has been the aggressive texture, as some have found it to scrape and peel the hand when firing. This causes some users to lean towards the smoother texture of the first generation models. Full-size models offer a 17+1 capacity in 9mm, 15+1 for the compact 9mm, 15+1 in 40 S&W, and 13+1 for the compact 40 S&W model, but some find they are not able to conceal this weapon as easily as smaller, single-stack framed models. This may be a deterrent for those opposed to open-carry, as well as those who are seeking a slimmer profile for their everyday carry weapon. In addition to the growing dislike for the rougher texture, some have found they are not too keen on the ruggedness of this pistol. All told, some users may be drawn towards a more sleek design with less features and moving parts, which is commonly found on the standard and upgraded M&P models.
Final Regards
The Smith and Wesson M&P 2.0 may very well become your next choice. Whether you enjoy or dislike what Smith and Wesson has to offer with their latest addition to their lineup, it is hard to ignore that this firearm is not only growing in popularity. The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 positions itself among top competitors for a firearm that is capable of it all, whether in the field, at the range, or in a speed competition. This company has undoubtedly kept itself in the running with top of the line pistols, providing its fanbase with a firearm that is proven effective by law enforcement agencies and military forces both around the nation and worldwide. If you are in the market for a battle-tested weapon that is fit for any engagement, or you are a first-time buyer searching for a reliable weapon, this pistol is listed at GritrSports.com, or come in-store and our staff will be happy to get you set up with your next purchase.
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