The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 is a popular choice for both law enforcement and civilian shooters, praised for its reliability and ergonomics. However, like any firearm, there's always room for improvement. This guide explores some of the best upgrades to enhance your M&P 2.0's performance, reliability, and overall shooting experience. We'll focus on practical upgrades that significantly impact usability and accuracy, rather than purely cosmetic changes.
Enhancing Accuracy and Trigger Feel
The trigger is often the first point of upgrade for many M&P 2.0 owners. The factory trigger, while functional, can feel somewhat gritty and have a long reset. Upgrading this component delivers a noticeable improvement in accuracy and overall shooting comfort.
1. Trigger Upgrades:
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Apex Tactical Specialties Trigger Kits: Apex is a leading manufacturer of aftermarket M&P 2.0 trigger components. Their kits often include a redesigned trigger bar, sear, and trigger shoe, resulting in a significantly smoother, lighter, and crisper trigger pull. This translates to improved accuracy and faster target acquisition. Different kits offer various pull weight options, allowing you to customize the feel to your preference.
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Other reputable brands: Several other companies offer high-quality M&P 2.0 trigger upgrades. Research and choose a brand with a solid reputation for reliability and performance. Always ensure the parts are compatible with your specific M&P 2.0 model.
2. Sights:
Factory sights are functional, but many shooters opt for upgrades to improve visibility and accuracy in various lighting conditions.
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Night Sights: Night sights are crucial for low-light situations, offering enhanced visibility and faster target acquisition when seconds count. Tritium night sights are a popular choice.
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Fiber Optic Sights: These sights offer excellent visibility in daylight conditions, providing a bright aiming point. Some models combine fiber optics with tritium for optimal performance in all lighting conditions.
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Consider your needs: Choosing the right sights depends on your shooting environment and preferences. If you primarily shoot in low light, night sights are essential. If you're mostly shooting during the day, fiber optic sights might be sufficient.
Enhancing Grip and Control
A secure and comfortable grip is paramount for accurate shooting. Several upgrades can significantly enhance your M&P 2.0's grip.
1. Grip Enhancements:
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Talon Grips: Talon Grips are rubberized grip overlays that provide increased texture and traction. They offer a more secure grip, particularly in wet or sweaty conditions. Talon Grips are easy to install and remove if needed.
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Other grip textures: Various aftermarket grip options provide enhanced texture and comfort. Explore different materials and designs to find the best fit for your hand size and shooting style.
2. Extended Magazine Release:
An extended magazine release allows for quicker and more positive magazine changes. This is a particularly valuable upgrade for defensive shooting.
Enhancing Reliability and Durability
While the M&P 2.0 is known for its reliability, some upgrades further enhance its performance and longevity.
1. Upgraded Recoil Spring:
A heavier recoil spring can help manage recoil, particularly with higher-powered ammunition. This can lead to improved accuracy and reduced wear and tear on the firearm.
2. Improved Magazine Followers:
Replacing factory magazine followers with aftermarket versions (often made from metal) can improve feeding reliability, particularly with certain types of ammunition.
Choosing the Right Upgrades
The optimal upgrades for your M&P 2.0 will depend on your individual needs, shooting style, and budget. Prioritize upgrades that address your specific areas of concern – whether it's trigger feel, grip, or sight visibility. Always ensure any aftermarket parts are compatible with your specific firearm model. Research thoroughly, read reviews, and choose reputable brands known for their quality and reliability. Remember to follow all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm modifications and ownership.