Why Upgrade Your M&P 2.0 Trigger? Unleashing Potential
The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 has cemented its place as a cornerstone of modern handguns. Its blend of reliability, modularity, and ergonomic design makes it a favorite for law enforcement, competitive shooters, and everyday carry enthusiasts. However, even a firearm as lauded as the M&P 2.0 isn’t without areas for improvement. One such area frequently cited is the trigger. Many owners find the factory trigger can feel a bit lacking, prompting a desire for a smoother, more refined shooting experience. This article delves into the world of M&P 2.0 trigger upgrades, exploring the benefits, discussing various options, and guiding you through the process of selecting the perfect upgrade for your specific needs.
The factory trigger in the M&P 2.0, while functional, can often leave shooters wanting more. The pull weight may feel a bit heavy, the break isn’t always crisp, and the overall feel can be somewhat mushy. This leads to inconsistent shot placement, increased muzzle movement, and a general lack of confidence. Upgrading your trigger addresses these shortcomings, unlocking a new level of precision and enjoyment from your M&P 2.0.
One of the most significant advantages of a trigger upgrade is enhanced accuracy. A lighter, more consistent trigger pull allows for more deliberate and controlled shots. This means less disruption to the sight picture as you squeeze the trigger, resulting in tighter groupings and a higher probability of hitting your target. Whether you’re aiming for bullseyes at the range or honing your defensive skills, improved accuracy translates to real-world benefits. For competition shooters, a finely tuned trigger can be the difference between winning and losing. For those focused on self-defense, enhanced accuracy adds another layer of safety and effectiveness in critical situations.
Beyond accuracy, a trigger upgrade offers elevated performance. A smoother trigger, with a crisp break and a short, positive reset, allows for faster follow-up shots. Split times – the time between shots – can be significantly reduced. This is because the shooter doesn’t have to wait for the trigger to reset as far before firing the next round. This is critical in dynamic shooting scenarios, and it’s also beneficial for quick follow-up shots at the range. The improved reset also helps maintain a more rhythmic shooting cadence, contributing to a more confident and controlled shooting style.
Furthermore, a trigger upgrade contributes to increased confidence and enjoyment. A superior trigger makes the shooting experience more pleasurable. A clean, predictable break and a quick reset contribute to a more positive shooting sensation. This, in turn, builds confidence in the shooter. When you know your trigger is reliable and responsive, you’re more likely to focus on the fundamentals of marksmanship, which leads to more consistent results. Enjoyment is a key element in developing a passion for shooting, and a high-quality trigger enhances that enjoyment.
Finally, a trigger upgrade has the potential to minimize pre-travel, over-travel, and reset distance. These three aspects of the trigger’s movement significantly impact the feel and performance of the firearm. Pre-travel is the distance the trigger moves before it engages the sear. Over-travel is the distance the trigger moves after the shot breaks. Reset distance is the distance the trigger travels back to the firing position after the shot breaks. Optimizing these parameters creates a more responsive and predictable trigger pull. Many upgrade kits are designed to reduce these movements, leading to a more refined and efficient trigger.
Exploring Trigger Upgrade Options: Navigating the Landscape
The market offers a diverse array of trigger upgrade options for the M&P 2.0, each designed to improve specific aspects of the factory trigger. Understanding the different types of upgrades and their key features is essential for making an informed decision.
Let’s examine trigger kits. These are often the simplest and most straightforward way to upgrade your trigger. These kits bundle several components, such as the trigger shoe, sear, striker, and springs, into a single package. Drop-in kits are particularly popular, as they typically require minimal gunsmithing, and the installation is usually a quick process. This convenience makes them an attractive option for those new to firearm modifications or those who prefer a less involved upgrade process. However, some drop-in kits may have limitations in terms of customization compared to individual component upgrades, and it is important to note that some trigger kits can potentially void the original factory warranty. Carefully reading the manufacturer’s warranty and return policies is important before purchasing any aftermarket parts.
Then there are trigger components. These options allow for a greater degree of customization. Instead of purchasing a complete kit, you select and install individual parts, such as a new trigger shoe, sear, striker, or trigger spring. This level of control lets you fine-tune your trigger to your specific preferences and shooting style. While individual components offer greater flexibility, they generally require a more involved installation process and a deeper understanding of the firearm’s inner workings.
Within the realm of individual components, the trigger shoe is one of the most frequently replaced parts. A new trigger shoe can change the feel of the trigger pull by altering the surface area in contact with the trigger finger and potentially changing the shape of the trigger blade. The sear plays a critical role in the break of the trigger. A more precisely manufactured sear can provide a cleaner, crisper break. The striker and trigger springs are also important. Lighter springs can contribute to a lighter pull weight, but it’s important to make sure these match up with the other parts and don’t create issues with the reliability of the firearm.
Choosing the right components also depends on which parts are used in the trigger assembly. Often, different brands will have proprietary designs for their aftermarket triggers.
Popular Trigger Brands and Models: A Selection of Excellence
Numerous reputable brands offer trigger upgrade kits and individual components for the M&P 2.0. Let’s explore a few of the leading options.
Apex Tactical is a household name in the world of M&P upgrades, and for good reason. Their trigger kits are known for their reliability, improved feel, and enhanced performance. The flat-faced trigger from Apex Tactical is particularly well-regarded for its ergonomic design, which allows the shooter to consistently apply pressure in a straight line, reducing the likelihood of pulling the shot. Apex triggers often deliver a significant reduction in pull weight and a smoother pull. Some users have reported that their triggers don’t always fully reset, but that is often the result of a compatibility issue that can be remedied by properly installing the upgrade or trying the parts with different models.
Agency Arms is another well-respected brand, and their trigger options often cater to the more discerning shooter. They are known for their high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Agency Arms triggers frequently feature a crisp break, a short reset, and a reduced pull weight, creating a significantly improved shooting experience. Their aesthetic designs are also quite appealing. However, the price point might be higher than other brands.
Timney Triggers is well-known for its experience in building aftermarket triggers. They specialize in performance-based upgrades, often delivering a consistent trigger feel. Some of their kits are designed to drop in and require no gunsmithing. The Timney triggers are often well-reviewed by owners. One of the drawbacks of the Timney triggers is they do not always fit the M&P 2.0 perfectly.
Other brands, such as ZEV Technologies and Johnny Glocks, also offer a range of high-quality trigger upgrade options for the M&P 2.0, each with their own unique features and benefits. Careful research and comparison are essential to finding the best fit for your needs. Many owners have had positive experiences with both ZEV and Johnny Glocks triggers.
When selecting a trigger upgrade, several key features need to be carefully considered. These features directly influence the feel and performance of the trigger.
The trigger pull weight is probably the most obvious feature to consider. This is the amount of force required to pull the trigger and fire the weapon, typically measured in pounds. The factory M&P 2.0 trigger pull weight is usually in the range of five to seven pounds. Most upgrade kits will aim for a lighter pull weight, often in the range of three to five pounds. A lighter pull weight can improve accuracy and reduce fatigue, but it’s crucial to ensure that the trigger is still safe and reliable.
The trigger break refers to the point at which the trigger releases the sear and allows the striker to fire the cartridge. A crisp break is essential for accuracy. Upgrades often aim for a clean and predictable break, free from any creep or grittiness.
Pre-travel refers to the distance the trigger moves before it engages the sear and breaks. Minimizing pre-travel can create a more responsive and immediate trigger feel.
Over-travel is the distance the trigger moves after the break. Upgrades often reduce over-travel to shorten the overall trigger pull and improve follow-up shot speed.
Reset distance is how far the trigger must travel forward to reset and prepare for the next shot. A shorter reset allows for faster follow-up shots.
The trigger shape is also an important consideration. Some triggers have a curved profile, while others are flat-faced. The choice of shape is largely a matter of personal preference and hand size. Flat-faced triggers often allow for a more consistent finger placement and a straighter pull.
Making the Right Choice: Tailoring Your Upgrade
Choosing the right trigger upgrade is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. It requires careful consideration of your individual shooting needs and preferences.
Start by assessing your needs and goals. Consider your primary use case. Are you primarily focused on competitive shooting, self-defense, or range practice? Different use cases may call for different trigger characteristics. A competition shooter may prioritize a very light pull weight and a short reset, while a self-defense shooter might prioritize reliability over extreme lightness.
Researching and comparing options is crucial. Read reviews from other M&P 2.0 owners. Watch videos of the various trigger kits being installed and tested. Compare the specifications of different triggers, paying close attention to the pull weight, break, pre-travel, over-travel, and reset distance. Look for expert opinions on the brands.
Finally, it is important to take budget considerations into account. Trigger upgrades can range in price from relatively affordable to quite expensive. Set a budget before you begin your search. Also, factor in the cost of installation, if you plan to have a gunsmith install the trigger.
Maintenance and Aftercare: Ensuring Longevity
After installing your new trigger, proper maintenance and aftercare are essential to ensure its long-term reliability and performance.
Regularly clean and lubricate your trigger components during your routine firearm maintenance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and lubrication products.
Many new triggers will have a break-in period. During this time, the trigger components will become more accustomed to each other, and the trigger pull may become smoother over time. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the break-in period.
Perform regular function checks. Verify that the trigger functions safely and reliably before and after each shooting session. Check for any signs of wear or damage.
Conclusion: Transforming Your M&P 2.0
Upgrading the trigger on your M&P 2.0 is a rewarding investment that can dramatically transform your shooting experience. By carefully selecting the right trigger kit or components, you can enhance your accuracy, improve your performance, and boost your overall enjoyment of shooting. The options are vast, and the benefits are well worth the effort. The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 is an amazing handgun. With a trigger upgrade, the quality of the firearm is taken to the next level.
It’s recommended that you start your search with online resources such as YouTube, various gun owner forums, and product reviews. With a little research, you will find the perfect trigger for your needs.
