Introduction
The firearms industry is vast and competitive, with a lineage steeped in innovation, reliability, and unwavering performance. Among the leading names that have consistently defined the landscape is Smith & Wesson. For generations, Smith & Wesson has crafted a legacy of producing high-quality firearms, earning the trust of law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. The company’s dedication to excellence is evident in their wide array of products, each designed to meet the diverse needs of their users.
A significant milestone in Smith & Wesson’s history came with the introduction of the M&P series, an abbreviation for “Military & Police.” This line represented a bold move, aimed at delivering a handgun that could excel in both combat and everyday carry scenarios. The M&P was created with a focus on ergonomics, modularity, and, crucially, a high degree of reliability. Its design philosophy aimed to provide users with a comfortable, easy-to-handle, and highly capable firearm. The M&P series quickly gained popularity and has become a favored choice for many professionals and enthusiasts.
This Smith & Wesson M&P 40 Review will dive deep into this popular handgun. We will comprehensively examine its features, performance characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, and how it compares to its competitors. The goal is to provide a detailed and unbiased assessment, equipping potential buyers with all the information needed to determine if the Smith & Wesson M&P 40 is the right choice for their needs.
Design and Features
From the moment you pick up the Smith & Wesson M&P 40, you’ll notice its modern, streamlined design. The ergonomics are carefully considered, with a grip that is well-contoured and comfortable in the hand. The grip angle is somewhat similar to a 1911, which feels natural for many shooters. The polymer frame offers a good balance between weight and durability, contributing to the gun’s overall comfort and manageability. Its weight is also easy to manage, making it suitable for long periods of wear.
The frame is constructed from a high-strength polymer, making it resistant to wear and tear. The slide is typically made from stainless steel, known for its corrosion resistance and robustness. These materials work together to create a durable and reliable platform. This combination of materials is crucial in a firearm designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use and challenging conditions.
Delving deeper into the specifics of the M&P 40, several key features stand out.
Barrel Details
The barrel is typically around four inches, although variations exist. The rifling promotes accuracy by imparting a spin to the bullet, which helps stabilize its flight path. A properly rifled barrel is fundamental for any handgun, significantly impacting its performance.
Sighting Information
The sights on the M&P 40 usually come in a three-dot configuration, making it easy to acquire a sight picture quickly. While these are functional and effective, many owners choose to upgrade to aftermarket options such as night sights, enhancing visibility in low-light environments. The sights are designed for quick and intuitive target acquisition.
Trigger System Analysis
The trigger system of the M&P 40 is striker-fired. The trigger pull is generally smooth, and the reset is decent. However, the trigger pull itself may not be as crisp as some higher-end handguns, and this is often a point where owners may seek aftermarket upgrades to enhance trigger feel.
Safety System Examination
Safety features are a priority. The M&P 40 incorporates several internal safeties, including a firing pin block and a drop safety. Certain models may also have an external, manual safety. A magazine disconnect is often present, preventing the pistol from firing unless a magazine is inserted.
Magazine Capacity and Design
The magazine capacity is important, typically holding 15 rounds of .40 S&W ammunition. Magazines are well-constructed and reliable, crucial for the overall dependability of the firearm. The magazine design also aids in the efficient and consistent feeding of rounds into the chamber.
Performance and Handling
The shooting experience with the Smith & Wesson M&P 40 is generally positive. The polymer frame helps to absorb some of the felt recoil, making it relatively comfortable to shoot, even with the potent .40 S&W caliber. The grip design also allows for a secure and comfortable hold, which aids in controlling the gun during rapid firing. The natural grip angle allows for quick target acquisition and consistent follow-up shots.
Accuracy is an area where the M&P 40 shines. The pistol is generally quite accurate at typical handgun distances. The consistent trigger pull contributes to this, as does the inherent stability of the design. Groupings are typically tight, meaning the rounds tend to impact close to one another, and the effective range extends further than many shooters might realize.
Reliability is paramount, and the M&P 40 has a strong track record in this regard. Feeding, ejection, and overall function are usually very consistent, provided the gun is properly maintained. The design generally handles a wide range of ammunition types, from target loads to self-defense rounds, with minimal issues. Occasional malfunctions can occur with any firearm, but the M&P 40 is known for its high degree of reliability. It is essential to thoroughly clean and lubricate the gun regularly, as this is crucial for continued smooth operation.
Field stripping and maintenance are also straightforward. The M&P 40 disassembles easily, and cleaning the components is a quick and simple process. This makes regular maintenance less of a chore and helps ensure that the gun will continue to function properly for years to come.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Smith & Wesson M&P 40 has many positive attributes.
Key Advantages
Reliability is perhaps its greatest strength. The design has proven to be dependable under a variety of conditions and has earned a reputation for consistently functioning. The robust design and quality components contribute to its longevity and trouble-free operation.
The ergonomics are also a significant advantage. The grip is comfortable and fits well in the hand for many shooters, providing excellent control and allowing for rapid target acquisition. The grip’s textured surfaces ensure a secure hold, even when hands are wet or sweaty.
Accuracy is another area where the M&P 40 excels. The pistol is capable of grouping rounds tightly at typical handgun distances, making it suitable for both self-defense and recreational shooting. The inherent accuracy also makes it a good choice for law enforcement and military use.
Aftermarket support is another strong point. The M&P series has a large and active aftermarket, with a vast selection of accessories and upgrades. From sights and triggers to grip modifications and holsters, owners can customize their M&P 40 to their specific needs and preferences.
The overall value for the price is also a significant advantage. The M&P 40 delivers a lot of performance and features for its cost, making it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable and capable handgun without breaking the bank.
Possible Drawbacks
The trigger pull, while generally smooth, may not be as crisp as those found on some higher-end handguns. Some users may prefer to upgrade the trigger to improve the feel and reduce the pull weight.
The .40 S&W caliber, while offering impressive stopping power, can generate a substantial amount of recoil, especially compared to 9mm handguns.
Although rare, some owners have reported minor durability issues with certain components. Regular inspection and proper maintenance can help mitigate these problems.
The M&P 40’s recoil can make it slightly less comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
Competition and Alternatives
When considering the Smith & Wesson M&P 40, it’s essential to compare it to its competitors.
One of the most direct competitors is the Glock 22. The Glock 22 is also a polymer-framed, striker-fired handgun chambered in .40 S&W. While both are reliable and accurate, the Glock 22 often has a slightly more utilitarian feel, with a less refined grip and a different trigger feel. The Glock also has a different grip angle that some find less natural.
The Sig Sauer P229 is another notable alternative. The P229 is known for its high quality, robust build, and excellent accuracy. However, it is generally more expensive than the M&P 40 and may be heavier due to its all-metal construction. The trigger system is also different, with a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) operation, rather than the striker-fired system of the M&P.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on the individual shooter’s preferences and priorities. Factors like ergonomics, trigger feel, cost, and overall reliability will be important considerations.
It’s worth noting that the M&P series also includes variants in other calibers, such as 9mm and .45 ACP. The 9mm version is often a popular choice due to its lower recoil and reduced ammunition cost, while the .45 ACP offers even greater stopping power.
User Experiences and Feedback
Feedback on the Smith & Wesson M&P 40 is generally positive. Owners frequently praise its reliability, accuracy, and comfortable ergonomics. Many report consistent performance and minimal issues with malfunctions.
User reviews on various online forums and retail sites highlight the ease of maintenance and the wide availability of aftermarket parts. Many users appreciate the ability to customize their M&P 40s with upgrades like different sights, trigger kits, and grip modifications.
Common positive sentiments include the gun’s dependability, particularly for everyday carry and self-defense. The M&P 40’s robust construction and quality materials give users confidence in its long-term performance. The comfortable grip angle receives many accolades, making it a natural fit for a variety of hand sizes.
A recurring point of feedback is the need to upgrade the trigger to improve the feel and reduce the pull weight. While the stock trigger is functional, many users find that upgrading the trigger enhances the overall shooting experience.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the Smith & Wesson M&P 40 is a highly capable and reliable handgun that offers a compelling balance of features, performance, and value. It is well-suited for a wide range of applications, from concealed carry and home defense to recreational shooting.
The M&P 40 would be a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a dependable and accurate handgun with good ergonomics and a robust design. Its accuracy and reliability make it a great option for new and experienced shooters alike. The M&P 40’s suitability for duty use also makes it a great choice for law enforcement officers.
While some shooters may find the trigger feel could be improved, the overall package is hard to beat at its price point. Those considering options like Glock 22 or Sig Sauer P229 should carefully compare the M&P 40, keeping in mind the individual priorities. It’s a great starting point for a beginner or a trusted companion for the more experienced shooter.
The Smith & Wesson M&P 40 is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable and versatile handgun. Its inherent reliability and accuracy will deliver, and its comfort and features will keep you happy and confident.
Conclusion
This Smith & Wesson M&P 40 Review has explored the details of this popular handgun, from its design and features to its performance and handling characteristics. The pistol’s ergonomics, accuracy, and reliability make it a strong contender in the market. While it may not be perfect, its overall value and dependable performance place the Smith & Wesson M&P 40 as a top-tier handgun in its class.
If you are looking for a reliable and accurate .40 S&W handgun, the M&P 40 is certainly worth your consideration. Its proven track record of reliability, accuracy, and comfortable handling makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of users. If you are ready to carry, this handgun is a great starting point.
