I believe that Smith & Wesson’s M&P M2.0 models are actually some of the most overlooked pistols when it comes to mainstream handguns that have untapped performance potential. This comes in part from the M&P M2.0’s natural grip contours, frame shape and most importantly, its “neutral” 18-degree grip angle. These attributes make it easy to grip and drive the gun while shooting and have a natural grip angle for very clean target presentations that ultimately facilitates a very clean draw and first shot on target. I also find that their slides and standard RSAs (recoil spring assemblies) track in a very user-friendly way while managing to cycle a wide variety of 9mm ammunition.
If you look around, you can find good deals on used M&P M2.0 pistols, especially models that are sold as law-enforcement trade-ins. Taking one of those inexpensive trade-ins and dressing up with a few upgrades can be a good way to get in on a performance sleeper for not too much money, especially when upgrading key parts.
Apex Tactical Flat-Faced Forward Set Trigger (MSRP: $180)
It’s no secret that Apex Tactical Specialties is considered one of the best purveyors of Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 aftermarket parts. I’d argue that Apex’s crown jewel these guns is its Flat-Faced Forward Set Trigger, affectionately known as the “Apex Flattie” by its most enthusiastic users. The Apex FFFS is sold as a kit and includes both the trigger itself and sear parts and, depending on individual springs, it can be tuned to the end-user’s needs and weight requirements. Regardless of final configuration, the FFFS cleans up and crisps up the M&P M2.0’s trigger pull and weight.
Calculated Kinetics Dogtag Optics Mounting Plate (MSRP: $64.99)
The Calculated Kinetics Dogtag optics mounting plate is a robust aftermarket option for dedicated red-dot end-users that shoot M&P M2.0s with the factory S&W C.O.R.E. slide cut. The Dogtag mounting plate is available for the industry’s most popular optics mounting footprints. The front portion of the Calculated Kinetics Dogtag has a raised “shelf” that sits on the front of the plate that accomplishes two things. First, it bolsters the forward portion of the optic itself while also serving as a gas shield that catches extra carbon and soot and prevents it from reaching and soiling the optics window. Besides being more robust than the polymer factory plates, the Dogtag also counts on sturdier upgraded mounting screws.
Dawson Precision Fiber Optic Iron Sights (MSRP: $78.95)
Not everyone shoots with a slide-mounted reflex sight, and that’s no problem either. Dawson Precision is well known for making quality iron sight sets for a multitude of pistol makes and models, and this includes the Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0. Dawson Precision’s fiber optic sights are well regarded amongst both competition shooters and those interested in iron-sighted performance shooting. Dawson offers sights sets for either types of standard factory Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 slide, those factory S&W C.O.R.E cut and its specific dovetail or those with the original, wider dovetail.
KKM Precision Threaded Barrel (MSRP: $250)
It’s nigh impossible to add a suppressor or external compensator to a pistol whose barrel isn’t threaded. KKM Precision offers various aftermarket drop-in (no fitting required) M&P M2.0 barrels of varying sizes and lengths (and even units bored for 9mm that drop into .40 S&W slides) manufactured from high-grade 416R stainless steel bar stock. Internally, KKM cuts its M&P M2.0 chambers to fully support the case inside the breech while also adhering to match-grade tolerances. KKM also rifles their barrels in such a way that to make them compatible with jacketed, plated, polymer coated or lubricated lead bullets.
W74 Tungsten Guide Rod - 5-inch Model (MSRP: $84.99)
Although the W74 Tungsten Guide Rod is only available for full-size 5-inch M&P M2.0 variants, this extra-mass guide rod is one of the few “overweight” options available for dedicated full-size M&P 2M.0 shooters. At 2 ounces, the W74 Guide Rod provides additional mass forward towards the muzzle, which can help mitigate extra muzzle rise and lead to tighter and more accurate splits. As a non-captured guide rod, end-users are free to mix and match different weight recoil springs to tune their pistols to their liking.
