Smith & Wesson Converts Two State Agencies to the M&P Pistol

by
posted on December 15, 2011
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
sinews.jpg (121)

Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ: SWHC), parent company of Smith & Wesson Corp., a U.S.-based leader in firearm design and manufacturing, announced that it has received contracts from the Massachusetts State Police and the Vermont State Police for new duty firearms from the M&P Pistol Series. The Massachusetts State Police has selected the M&P45 pistol, while the Vermont State Police has adopted the M&P40 pistol as its new service firearm. Both of the statewide law enforcement agencies have initiated the transition process and Troopers are currently using the M&P pistol in the field.

Massachusetts State Police
As the nation's oldest statewide police agency, the Massachusetts State Police has a rich history of service to its citizens and support of national events. Employing over 2,300 Troopers and 400 civilian support staff, the agency is responsible for criminal law enforcement and traffic vehicle regulations across the state. To better assist its Troopers with these responsibilities, the Massachusetts State Police has ordered 2,500 M&P pistols chambered in .45ACP.

During the agency's independent testing and evaluation process, the M&P45 was judged against the department's previously standard sidearm, as well as numerous other competitive products. At the conclusion of the trial, the M&P45 was selected due to its ergonomic design, accuracy, reliability, and the pistol's ability to be customized to meet individual preferences. Smith & Wesson will support the firearm contract with a full range of services including armorer's training. In addition to the M&P45 pistols, the Massachusetts State Police previously adopted the M&P15 tactical rifle from Smith & Wesson that currently serves as the State issued patrol rifle.

"We are extremely pleased with the decision by the Massachusetts State Police and the Vermont State Police to transition to the M&P pistol," said Mario Pasantes, Smith & Wesson's Senior Vice President of Marketing and Global Professional Sales. "We take pride in supplying law enforcement professionals with highly advanced, duty proven equipment, and we believe the M&P Series lives up to that standard. Selected for numerous awards and trusted by both officers and civilians, the popularity of the M&P pistol has been enduring. Today, over 800 law enforcement agencies have adopted or approved for duty use our M&P products. Our commitment to those who have put their trust in Smith & Wesson is steadfast."

Pasantes added, "We are especially honored to serve the Massachusetts State Police, our home state force. Our employees take great pride in aligning with local law enforcement, and we look forward to expanding our relationship with the Massachusetts State Police and to seeing the M&P45 on the hips of our State Troopers."

Vermont State Police
Through its contract with Smith & Wesson, the Vermont State Police has ordered 390 M&P40 pistols. During its open evaluation process, the M&P40 pistol received high marks by the Vermont troopers for its low perceived recoil, reliability during testing, and consistent performance. The new side arms are being supported with a full range of services from Smith & Wesson, including armorer's training and advanced firearms training courses.

Latest

Lapua TRX ammo
Lapua TRX ammo

First Look: Lapua TRX Ammunition And Bullets

Designed for long range accuracy and terminal performance.

Wilson Family of Companies Expands with Performance Engineering Acquisition

The Hillsboro, MO, manufacturer will fall under Lehigh Defense.

Review: CZ Shadow 2 Carry

CZ optimizes the Shadow 2 for everyday concealed carry.

First Look: Gun Tote'n Mamas Paisley Carry Organizers

A stylish and compact method of off-body carry.

First Look: New Spotting Scopes From Leupold

Two new lines both built for extreme conditions and optical performance.

Pro Shop: Body Armor for Safety

Augment your home-defense toolbox for maximum protection.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.