The Return of the 10mm
The 10mm Auto cartridge. Just the name conjures images of raw power, deep penetration, and a distinct history. Emerging as a potent alternative, the 10mm experienced initial fame, then a period of relative dormancy. Now, it is experiencing a resurgence. This revitalization is driven by the cartridge’s inherent capabilities and the demand for a more powerful round in a world increasingly focused on self-defense and the need to handle situations in a more dynamic way. But a powerful cartridge requires a powerful platform. Enter Smith & Wesson, a name synonymous with firearms craftsmanship and innovation. Known for their reliable and versatile M&P (Military & Police) line, S&W has solidified its place in the firearms industry. We’re going to dig deep. This article is a comprehensive review of the S&W M&P 2.0 in 10mm, analyzing its features, delving into its performance, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, and discussing its optimal applications for those seeking a pistol that can deliver serious stopping power.
The 10mm Auto was born from a specific vision: a cartridge that could deliver significant power in a semi-automatic handgun. Developed in the early 1980s, the 10mm’s initial popularity was fueled by its performance. It could handle both heavy, slow-moving bullets for maximum penetration and lighter, faster bullets for flatter trajectories, giving it an versatility that was quite compelling. This power, though, came with a price. Early handguns chambered in 10mm were often large and difficult to handle, and the recoil was quite significant. The cartridge’s fate, while still legendary, was far from sealed.
So, why the resurgence? It’s a combination of factors. The 10mm offers significantly more power than the common 9mm Luger or even the .40 S&W, making it a compelling option for those seeking maximum effectiveness. Advancements in firearm technology have also played a role. Modern pistol designs, with improved ergonomics, recoil reduction systems, and materials, make the 10mm more manageable and enjoyable to shoot than the original designs. The increasing popularity of hunting and outdoor activities, along with a desire for a versatile and powerful self-defense round, have fueled the 10mm’s renewed popularity.
The modern 10mm shooter is often seeking a handgun that can handle a variety of roles. From personal protection in the backcountry to a backup firearm for hunting, the 10mm’s versatility and power make it a popular choice for a variety of users.
Taking a Closer Look: Features and Specifications of the S&W M&P 2.0 10mm
The S&W M&P 2.0 10mm is built on the foundation of the successful M&P 2.0 platform, and is a testament to Smith & Wesson’s commitment to improving its products based on the needs of shooters. This commitment means the pistol possesses features designed for performance, reliability, and user comfort.
The frame is constructed from a durable, polymer material, which contributes to the pistol’s overall weight and provides a comfortable grip. The frame texture is aggressively designed, offering a secure hold even in adverse conditions or when wearing gloves. The grip angle, a crucial aspect of ergonomics, has been optimized to promote a natural point of aim. Shooters of various hand sizes will likely appreciate the included interchangeable palm swell inserts. These allow for a customized fit, enhancing both comfort and control.
The slide is constructed from stainless steel, providing a robust and corrosion-resistant platform. The finish applied protects the steel against the elements and wear. Many versions of the M&P 2.0 10mm are “optic-ready,” meaning they come pre-cut for mounting a red dot sight. This feature has become increasingly popular as red dots offer significant advantages in terms of target acquisition and accuracy.
The barrel is a key component in any firearm, directly influencing accuracy and reliability. The 10mm version has a barrel length tailored to optimize the cartridge’s performance. Smith & Wesson has also incorporated a specific twist rate to stabilize the various bullet weights commonly found in the 10mm Auto.
The sights on the M&P 2.0 are designed for fast target acquisition. The pistol typically comes with standard three-dot sights, though upgrades and replacements are readily available. Aftermarket sights offer enhanced performance, especially for shooters who prefer fiber optic or tritium night sights.
The trigger system on the M&P 2.0 is a significant improvement over previous M&P generations. The trigger pull is designed to be crisp and clean, with a relatively short reset. The overall trigger feel contributes to improved accuracy and quicker follow-up shots.
The magazine is a crucial component of the entire system. The M&P 2.0 10mm boasts a magazine capacity that offers a balance of capacity and concealability. The magazine release is strategically positioned for easy access, allowing for quick and efficient magazine changes. Smith & Wesson magazines are known for their reliability, a critical factor when dealing with the considerable power of the 10mm.
This particular model provides the shooter with an excellent balance between a potent cartridge, advanced engineering, and a design that caters to the modern shooter.
Range Time: Performance Assessment
Putting the S&W M&P 2.0 10mm to the test on the range is where the real evaluation begins. The pistol’s performance is gauged across several key areas.
Accuracy is measured by firing groups at various distances. Assessing the shot groupings at 15, 25, and even 50 yards gives a clear picture of the pistol’s inherent accuracy potential. The best groups are carefully measured, and the consistency of the groups is also evaluated. A reliable handgun should produce consistent results.
Reliability is measured by firing a considerable number of rounds. During these testing sessions, different types of ammunition are used, from target rounds to full-power defensive loads. The goal is to push the pistol to see if it experiences any malfunctions like failures to feed, extract, or eject. Any malfunction is noted and addressed.
The 10mm Auto is a powerful cartridge, and recoil management is a critical factor in how quickly and accurately the shooter can fire follow-up shots. During range testing, evaluators pay close attention to the way the pistol handles recoil. The design of the grip, the weight distribution, and the ergonomics of the pistol all contribute to its overall recoil control. How quickly the shooter can reacquire the target after each shot is closely measured.
The overall experience is analyzed: Is the pistol comfortable to shoot? Does it feel balanced? Is the grip secure and natural? The shooter’s overall experience while using the handgun is recorded.
Understanding the Cartridge: Ballistics and Performance
The 10mm Auto cartridge’s performance is a critical factor. Ballistic testing is done to understand how different loads perform within the M&P 2.0 10mm.
Velocity measurements are a key component. Using a chronograph, the velocity of different 10mm ammunition is measured. This data provides insights into how various bullet weights and types perform out of the M&P 2.0’s barrel.
Penetration and expansion are also studied. The penetration of the bullet into calibrated ballistic gel is analyzed, simulating how the round might perform when hitting soft tissue. The expansion of the bullet is also documented, showing how the bullet will affect the target. These observations are valuable for understanding the effectiveness of the 10mm in different scenarios.
The Positives and Negatives
Every firearm has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a look at the S&W M&P 2.0 10mm:
Advantages
The M&P 2.0 10mm offers several advantages, including its reliability, it’s design, and the versatility of the platform. The platform allows for a wide range of customization. Being optic-ready is a significant advantage in the modern firearms market. The grip and ergonomics of the M&P 2.0 are well-designed, contributing to comfortable handling. The aggressive texturing of the grip provides a secure hold. The trigger also contributes to the overall experience. The M&P 2.0 10mm is a complete package that offers a compelling option for those seeking the stopping power of a 10mm handgun.
Disadvantages
As with any firearm, the S&W M&P 2.0 10mm has potential drawbacks. The recoil of the 10mm is significant, and less experienced shooters may find it challenging to manage. While the M&P 2.0 platform is generally reliable, some early production models of the 10mm experienced issues, but these are, for the most part, resolved.
Comparison with the Competition
The market for 10mm handguns has grown in recent years. It’s crucial to evaluate the M&P 2.0 10mm in comparison to the competition. Some popular competitors include the Glock 20 and the Sig Sauer P220 in 10mm.
The Glock 20 is a well-established option, known for its reliability and simplicity. The M&P 2.0 10mm is generally agreed to have a better trigger.
The Sig Sauer P220 in 10mm is a premium offering, with a metal frame. This platform offers a more refined shooting experience, but it generally costs more.
Each handgun has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. The M&P 2.0 10mm offers a compelling balance of features, performance, and affordability.
Applications and Ideal Users
The S&W M&P 2.0 10mm is well-suited for a variety of applications:
This model provides an outstanding choice for self-defense. It offers substantial stopping power, and it has an easy-to-manage design.
It can also be used for hunting, depending on local regulations. Its power and accuracy make it suitable for hunting certain game animals.
Finally, it is a superb option for recreational shooting and target practice.
The pistol is an excellent choice for those who want a versatile and capable handgun for personal protection, the outdoors, or recreational shooting.
Customization and Aftermarket Support
The M&P 2.0 10mm benefits from a wide range of aftermarket support.
Optics are a popular upgrade. Red dot sights can be easily mounted on the optic-ready slide, enhancing target acquisition and accuracy.
Triggers are another common upgrade. Aftermarket triggers can further improve the trigger pull.
Grip modifications are also available. These can enhance comfort and ergonomics.
The M&P 2.0 is a highly customizable platform, allowing users to tailor the pistol to their specific needs and preferences.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The S&W M&P 2.0 10mm is a strong contender in the 10mm handgun market. The features, reliability, and performance are outstanding, making it an excellent choice for self-defense, hunting, and recreational shooting. It is a reliable platform. The trigger, the overall build quality, and its ergonomics set it apart.
If you’re looking for a powerful, reliable, and versatile handgun, the S&W M&P 2.0 10mm is worth considering.
Consider the recoil before making a purchase, especially if you are new to handguns.
This platform stands out, offering a balance of power, reliability, and user-friendly features that make it a compelling choice in the 10mm category.
I hope you found this review helpful. What are your thoughts on the S&W M&P 2.0 10mm? Share your experiences, opinions, and questions in the comments. Your insights are valuable.
