First Look: Smith & Wesson M&P Sport III Rifle

A popular line of AR-15 rifles gets a refresh.

by
posted on March 5, 2024
Smtih Wesson Sport Iii

The Smith & Wesson M&P Sport carbines have a well-earned reputation as a high-quality, no-frills introduction to the world of AR-15 pattern rifles. Now Smith & Wesson is rolling out its third generation of this popular product line, the new Smith & Wesson M&P Sport III.

Perhaps the biggest and most obvious differences between the M&P Sport III and the previous Smith and Wesson M&P Sport iterations is the former models’ A2 style fixed front sight post and standard carbine length gas system have been replaced by a sleeker and more modern M-Lok-equipped full-length, aluminum freefloat handguard. As a full length unit, the new M-Lok handguard calls for the use of a low profile gas block that’s tucked underneath the rail. By reconfiguring the front end of the rifle with this new handguard, the M&P Sport III is easier to accessorize and customize. Smith & Wesson also changed from the standard carbine-length gas tube to a modern contemporary mid-length gas tube. These are approximately 2 inches longer than carbine gas tubes and the extra length helps ease the overall pressure of the system and provides for smoother operation and a less harsh recoil impulse. To help keep overall weight down and increase its handiness, the M&P Sport III uses a thinner and lighter weight pencil-barrel profile. The barrel’s 1:8-inch rifling twist can still stabilize virtually the entire weight range of 5.56 mm projectiles, from the lighter ones that come in under 50 grains to the heavy-for-caliber 77-grain and beyond.

Smith & Wesson M&P Sport III Specifications

  • Width: 2.5 inches
  • Length: 35 inches
  • Height: 8 inches
  • Weight: 6 pounds, 5 ounces
  • Caliber: 5.56 NATO
  • Capacity: 30 rounds
  • Action: Gas-operated
  • Barrel Length: 16 inches
  • Grips: Polymer
  • Sights: None; optics ready
  • Optic Ready: Yes
  • Safety: Thumb safety
  • Color/Finish: Black
  • Threaded Barrel: Yes
  • Barrel Material: 4140 CM
  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Number Of Magazines: 1
  • Stock: Adjustable

The new Smith & Wesson M&P Sport III AR15 carbine has a retail price of $799. Please visit smith-wesson.com to learn more about this new firearm.

Latest

Springfield Armory 1911 Ronin 4.25-inch AOS 9mm
Springfield Armory 1911 Ronin 4.25-inch AOS 9mm

Review: Springfield Armory 1911 Ronin 4.25-inch AOS 9mm

A 9 mm 1911 with a red-dot sight? Some call it heresy. Others call it timely.

Rifle Roundup: Military Armaments Corp MAC-5 Pistol With A Sightmark Optic

This week, it's a large format pistol inspired by one of America's favorite holiday movies.

First Look: Go Med Kit For Hunters

Stay safe in the great outdoors.

First Look: POF LMR Base Rifle

A lightweight AR-pattern rifle chambered in .308 Win.

Pietta Firearms Founder Has Passed Away

Pietta Firearms was founded in 1963 and first created over/under shotguns.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.