Before You Buy - The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact
Choosing the right concealed carry handgun is a critical decision for anyone who takes self-defense seriously. Smith & Wesson, a name synonymous with quality firearms, has long been a trusted brand among firearm enthusiasts. The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Optics Ready Pistol is a standout addition to their lineup. In this comprehensive article, we'll dive into the features, performance, and advantages of this firearm, helping you make an informed decision before your purchase.
Specifications and Features
- Slide cut for optics
- M2.0 flat face trigger for consistent finger placement that allows for more accurate and repeatable shooting
- Picatinny-style rail
- Forward slide cocking serrations
- Low barrel bore axis makes the M&P pistol comfortable to shoot reducing muzzle rise and allowing for faster aim recovery
- Optimal 18-degree grip angle for natural point of aim
- Enhanced grip texture allows the user to manage recoil, keep a firm grip and delivers comfort when concealing
- New M&P M2.0 trigger with lighter trigger pull
- Tactile and audible trigger reset
- Accurate 1 in 10" twist M&P® M2.0™ barrel
- Extended rigid embedded stainless steel chassis to reduce flex and torque when firing
- M&P’s patented take-down lever and sear deactivation systems allow for disassembly without pulling the trigger
- Seven mounting plates included
- Four interchangeable palmswell grip inserts for optimal hand fit and trigger reach - S, M, ML, L
- Armornite® durable corrosion resistant finish
- MSRP: $654.00
Optics Ready Design
One of the most significant features of the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact is its optics-ready design. In a world where red dot sights are becoming increasingly popular for handguns, this feature is a game-changer. The pistol's slide is milled to accept various micro red dot sights, allowing for faster target acquisition and improved accuracy.
The optics-ready design enables shooters to customize their setup, whether they prefer a Trijicon, Vortex, or another reputable brand's red dot sight. This adaptability ensures that the M&P 2.0 Compact is ready to meet the shooter's specific needs on a budget that they can afford.
Compact and Concealable
The M&P 2.0 Compact lives up to its name, providing a compact and easily concealable option for those in need of a reliable self-defense firearm. With a 15-round magazine capacity, this pistol offers a significant firepower advantage over smaller, single-stack options, making it ideal for concealed carry in most situations.
The ergonomic grip design ensures a comfortable and secure hold while allowing for a high grip on the pistol. This design feature helps to mitigate recoil, making it easier for shooters to maintain control during rapid fire.
Enhanced Trigger and Sights
The pistol's enhanced trigger is another key feature that sets the M&P 2.0 Compact apart. The trigger has a crisp break with a tactile and audible reset, promoting accurate follow-up shots. It's an essential component for those who value precision and control in a self-defense handgun.
In addition to the trigger, the M&P 2.0 Compact boasts white dot front and rear sights, making target acquisition in all lighting conditions much more manageable. The sights are steel and dovetailed into the slide, ensuring long-lasting durability. Should you decide not to install an optic, you'll still have reliable and accurate sights on your side.
Striker-Fired Reliability
Smith & Wesson's M&P series is known for its striker-fired reliability, and the M&P 2.0 Compact continues that tradition. The pistol features a smooth, consistent trigger pull with a short reset, enhancing its usability in high-pressure situations. This consistent trigger pull is conducive to both accurate aimed fire and rapid, controlled follow-up shots.
The striker-fired system also provides a level of safety, with no external manual safety levers to fumble with under stress. However, the pistol does include a passive trigger safety for an added layer of security.
Customizable Grip
The M&P 2.0 Compact's grip design is not only ergonomic but also customizable. It comes with four interchangeable palm swell grip inserts that allow you to adjust the pistol's grip to fit your hand size and shape perfectly. This feature is essential because a comfortable and secure grip is the foundation of accurate shooting. Whether you have small or large hands, the M&P 2.0 Compact has you covered.
Versatility in Caliber
One of the benefits of the M&P 2.0 Compact is its versatility in caliber options. While the standard model is chambered in 9mm, Smith & Wesson also offers models in .40 S&W and .45 ACP, allowing you to choose the caliber that suits your preferences and needs best. The ability to select the caliber that you're most comfortable with or that aligns with your existing firearm collection can be a compelling reason to choose the M&P 2.0 Compact.
Durable Construction
Smith & Wesson is known for its durable firearms, and the M&P 2.0 Compact is no exception. It features a stainless steel chassis and a durable polymer frame, combining strength and lightweight construction. The finish on the slide and barrel is a durable Armornite coating that resists corrosion and wear.
Pros
- Affordable
- Compact Design
- Affordable Magazines
- Optics Ready
- Agressive Grip Texture
- Replaceable Grips
Cons
- Less aftermarket support than Glock pistols, however S&W M&P 2.0 Compact holsters wouldn’t be an issue
- Fairly large for a “compact pistol” by today’s standards
- Grip texture can be abrasive on bare skin when being carried IWB
Conclusion
The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Optics Ready Pistol is a formidable addition to the world of concealed carry firearms. Its optics-ready design, compact and concealable form, enhanced trigger and sights, striker-fired reliability, customizable grip, caliber versatility, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for self-defense and everyday carry. With the M&P 2.0 Compact, Smith & Wesson has once again proven their commitment to producing quality firearms that meet the demands of discerning gun owners. Before you make your next concealed carry pistol purchase, consider the M&P 2.0 Compact.
Luke Cuenco
5.1.2024