The Smith & Wesson M&P 9 2.0 Compact is a highly popular choice among both law enforcement professionals and civilian shooters. Its compact size, coupled with the reliability and performance expected from Smith & Wesson, makes it a versatile handgun suitable for concealed carry, home defense, and even competition shooting (with appropriate modifications). This in-depth review will explore its key features, strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for various users.
Key Features and Specifications
The M&P 9 2.0 Compact boasts several features that contribute to its popularity:
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Compact Size: As the name suggests, this pistol is designed for comfortable concealed carry. Its smaller size compared to the full-size M&P 9 2.0 doesn't compromise significantly on capacity.
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Improved Ergonomics: Smith & Wesson significantly enhanced the ergonomics of the 2.0 series compared to its predecessor. The textured grip provides a secure hold, even in wet or stressful situations. The improved grip angle contributes to better pointability and control.
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Ambidextrous Controls: Both the slide stop lever and magazine release are ambidextrous, catering to both right-handed and left-handed shooters.
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Reliable Operation: Smith & Wesson pistols are known for their reliability, and the M&P 9 2.0 Compact lives up to this reputation. It's built to handle a wide range of ammunition and conditions.
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Striker-Fired Mechanism: The striker-fired mechanism offers a consistent trigger pull and a relatively short reset, contributing to quicker follow-up shots.
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Accessory Rail: The included accessory rail allows for the mounting of lights, lasers, or other tactical accessories.
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Capacity: Typically ships with a 12-round magazine, though higher capacity magazines are available (depending on local laws and restrictions).
Strengths of the M&P 9 2.0 Compact
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Concealability: Its compact size makes it ideal for concealed carry, fitting comfortably in various holsters designed for this purpose.
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Accuracy and Shootability: The pistol's balance and ergonomics contribute to its accuracy and comfortable shooting experience, even for extended shooting sessions.
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Reliability: The proven reliability of the platform is a major selling point, offering peace of mind in critical situations.
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Customization: The availability of aftermarket parts, such as grips, triggers, and sights, allows for significant customization to fit individual preferences and shooting styles.
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Affordability: Compared to some higher-end competitors, the M&P 9 2.0 Compact offers excellent value for its price.
Potential Weaknesses
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Trigger Feel: While reliable, the factory trigger pull can be perceived as somewhat stiff by some shooters. However, this can often be improved with aftermarket trigger components.
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Recoil: Being a compact pistol, it naturally has more felt recoil than its full-size counterpart. However, this is mitigated by the effective grip texture and ergonomics.
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Sights: While adequate, some users may prefer upgrading to night sights or other higher-visibility sights.
Conclusion: Is the M&P 9 2.0 Compact Right for You?
The Smith & Wesson M&P 9 2.0 Compact is a strong contender in the compact 9mm handgun market. Its blend of reliability, accuracy, concealability, and affordability makes it a versatile choice for various applications. While it might not be perfect for everyone (and some may find the factory trigger feel less desirable), its strengths significantly outweigh its weaknesses for many users. If you're searching for a reliable and easy-to-conceal 9mm pistol, the M&P 9 2.0 Compact certainly deserves serious consideration. Remember to always handle firearms safely and responsibly, and consult with local laws and regulations before purchasing any firearm.
