smith and wesson m&p 9mm upgrades

3 min read 23-11-2024

The Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm is a popular choice for both law enforcement and civilians. Its reliability, affordability, and comfortable ergonomics make it a great starting point. However, like any firearm, there's always room for improvement. This article will explore various upgrades to enhance your M&P 9mm's performance, reliability, and overall shooting experience. We'll cover everything from simple, cost-effective modifications to more advanced upgrades.

Enhancing Accuracy and Trigger Pull

One of the most common upgrades for the M&P 9mm focuses on improving accuracy and trigger pull. The factory trigger, while functional, can be quite heavy and gritty. Upgrading the trigger can significantly improve your shooting precision.

Trigger Upgrades:

Apex Tactical Specialties Trigger Kit: Apex is a well-respected name in the firearms industry, known for its high-quality trigger components. Their trigger kits for the M&P 9mm are popular choices for improving trigger pull weight, reducing overtravel, and eliminating creep. They offer various kits to suit different preferences and skill levels.
Agency Arms Trigger: Agency Arms also produces high-quality triggers known for their crisp, clean breaks. These are often preferred by competitive shooters looking for a superior trigger feel.
Flat-faced Triggers: Replacing the standard curved trigger with a flat-faced trigger can improve finger placement and control, leading to more consistent trigger pulls. Many aftermarket manufacturers offer these.

Remember: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when installing any trigger components. Improper installation can render your firearm unsafe.

Enhancing Sights and Optics

Another key area for upgrading your M&P 9mm is the sights. The factory sights are serviceable, but many shooters opt for upgraded sights for improved visibility and accuracy.

Sight Upgrades:

Night Sights: Night sights, like those from Trijicon or Meprolight, offer enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. This is crucial for self-defense situations.
Fiber Optic Sights: Fiber optic sights offer bright, contrasting front sights that are easily acquired, even in bright sunlight. These are a great upgrade for improved target acquisition.
Red Dot Optics: Mounting a red dot sight on your M&P 9mm can dramatically improve accuracy and speed of target acquisition, especially at closer ranges. This requires purchasing a mounting plate compatible with your pistol and optic.

Consider your shooting environment and personal preferences when choosing sights. Night sights are essential for self-defense, while fiber optics are great for general shooting. Red dots require more investment but offer significant advantages for competition or tactical applications.

Magazines and Grips for Enhanced Control

The factory magazines are reliable, but upgrading to higher-capacity magazines can be beneficial for extended range sessions or self-defense. Likewise, upgrading the grip can significantly improve your shooting comfort and control.

Magazine and Grip Upgrades:

Extended Magazines: Higher-capacity magazines increase your ammunition capacity without altering the firearm's functionality.
Magpul Grips: Magpul offers aftermarket grips that provide a more textured grip surface, improving control, and reducing slippage.
Talon Grips: Talon Grips are rubber grip overlays that can add extra texture and grip to your factory grip.

Choosing the right magazine and grip largely depends on your hand size and shooting style. Experiment to find the best fit for you.

Other Notable Upgrades

Beyond the core components, there are several other upgrades that can enhance your M&P 9mm:

Enhanced Slide Release: A larger, extended slide release can make it easier to manipulate the slide, especially for those with smaller hands.
Recoil Reduction Systems: While not strictly necessary, recoil reduction systems, such as heavier guide rods or compensators, can help mitigate recoil, improving shooter comfort and follow-up shots.
Enhanced Barrel: Aftermarket barrels, particularly those with polygonal rifling, can improve accuracy and longevity.

Choosing the Right Upgrades for You

Upgrading your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm involves careful consideration of your budget, shooting style, and intended use. Start with the most impactful upgrades—trigger, sights, and potentially magazines—before moving onto more specialized modifications. Always prioritize safety and ensure all modifications are installed correctly. Improper installation can lead to malfunctions or, worse, injury. Consult with a qualified gunsmith if you are unsure about any aspect of the upgrade process. Remember, responsible gun ownership includes proper maintenance and safe handling.