5 Useful Smith & Wesson M&P Pistol Accessories

The Smith & Wesson M&P pistol is one of the most popular personal-protection pistols on the market today, further enhanced by the recent release of the company's M2.0 model. While the gun comes straight from the factory loaded with many excellent features, consumers are always on the hunt for optional extras that can enhance their personal pistol, add a custom touch or both. Here are five add-ons and accessories designed specifically for your M&P pistol:

1. Upgrade your OEM bang switch with the Apex Tactical Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger. In addition to reducing pre- and overtravel of the M&P 2.0 (9 mm,.40 S&W and .45 ACP) models by approximately 30 percent, the solid-aluminum trigger features a smooth, rounded face that fosters greater comfort, a smooth, consistent 5- to 5.5-pound trigger pull and a reduced reset for shooters. Best of all, its drop-in design requires little to no gunsmithing, which leaves more money for ammo. MSRP: $154.95

2. No more defying gravity with partially-balanced pistols on the bench while tinkering. Strategic cuts in the Present Arms Smith & Wesson Armorer M&P Kit assist aspiring gunsmiths with an ergonomic surface, giving the freedom to perform tasks such as complete disassembly, pin removal, swapping fire controls or sights, and extractor maintenance. The universal magazine mount and swivel (included) permit 360 degrees of frame rotation and access during repairs and routine cleaning. MSRP: $159.95

3. Combining a high-visibility design with the low-light utility of tritium, Trijicon HD Night sights feature a bright, easy-to-see orange or yellow front ring surrounding a tritium dot paired with a shallow, U-shaped rear aperture that instinctively draws the eye to the colored front post. The surface of the rear assembly also aids with one-handed malfunction clearances. MSRP: $165

4. Offering essential improvement to your pistol’s OEM base pads, the flared, oversize design of Vickers’ Tactical Magazine Floor Plates by TangoDown provide essential purchase should you unexpectedly arrive in Malfunction Junction. Grooved non-slip scallops enhance grip, should stubborn magazines refuse to drop free. They fit full-size 9 mm, .40 S&W and .357 SIG magazines only, and available colors include black or FDE. MSRP: $21.50 (per pack of five)

5. Available in 75 colors and patterns for more than 250 assorted handgun brands and models including the Smith & Wesson M&P, Vedder Holsters’ LightTuck features Kydex construction combined with an ultra-thin profile to lessen the likelihood of printing while maximizing comfort. An adjustable design allows several elements of the holster to be customized to the user, including low- or high-ride orientation on either a 1.5- or 1.75-inch belt, 30 degrees of adjustable cant and a Phillips-head screw for the perfect amount of tension. MSRP: $54.99