Introducing the M&P Series and the .40 S&W Legacy
The world of firearms is filled with options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Selecting the right handgun can be a complex process, especially for those new to the sport or looking to make an informed purchase. Among the many choices available, the Smith & Wesson M&P series has cemented its place as a reliable and versatile platform. Today, we’ll delve deep into a comprehensive *S&W M&P 40 review*, taking an in-depth look at the M&P 40, examining its features, performance, and whether it’s the right fit for you. This review is for those considering this handgun for concealed carry, home defense, duty use, or simply recreational shooting.
Before diving into the specifics of the M&P 40, it’s essential to understand the context. Smith & Wesson introduced the M&P (Military & Police) series as a direct competitor to established polymer-framed pistols, aiming to offer law enforcement and civilian shooters a modern, reliable, and ergonomic firearm. The M&P series quickly gained popularity due to its innovative design, user-friendly features, and competitive price point. This success is evident in its widespread adoption by police departments and shooting enthusiasts across the globe.
The M&P 40, the subject of our *S&W M&P 40 review*, is chambered in the .40 S&W cartridge, a round known for its stopping power and versatility. The .40 S&W gained prominence in the law enforcement community during the late twentieth century, seeking a blend of power and control. It offered more energy than the common 9mm and less recoil than the .45 ACP, appealing to many. This choice of caliber adds another layer of importance to this *S&W M&P 40 review*, as the round itself is a factor in the gun’s overall performance.
Examining the Specifications and Notable Features
Let’s explore the essential specifications of the Smith & Wesson M&P 40. Understanding these details is the first step in understanding the gun.
The M&P 40, in its standard configuration, boasts a magazine capacity that makes it suitable for both self-defense and duty use. The barrel length is designed to balance accuracy with maneuverability, making it a practical choice for various applications. The overall dimensions are designed to be reasonably compact, making it suitable for concealed carry if desired, though this *S&W M&P 40 review* will address the practicalities of that further. The frame and slide are typically constructed of materials known for their durability. This blend contributes to a pistol that is both rugged and reliable.
Now let’s review some of the key features which define the M&P 40:
Frame Design
The M&P 40 boasts a frame known for its comfortable ergonomics. The grip angle is designed to promote a natural point of aim. One notable aspect is the inclusion of interchangeable backstraps, offering shooters the ability to customize the grip to their hand size, ensuring a more secure and comfortable grip. The textured grip further enhances control, even in adverse conditions.
Sights
The standard sights on the M&P 40 are often a three-dot system, providing a clear sight picture. These sights are easy to acquire in various lighting conditions. While these sights are perfectly functional, many owners choose to upgrade them with aftermarket options for improved performance, a consideration this *S&W M&P 40 review* will touch upon later.
Controls
The M&P 40’s controls are designed for easy access and intuitive use. The slide release is easily accessible, allowing for quick reloads. The magazine release is conveniently located for fast magazine changes. The trigger safety mechanism is a key element in the gun’s safe operation.
Internal Safeties
Smith & Wesson incorporates internal safety features to prevent accidental discharges, like a firing pin block. These are concealed and unobtrusive, contributing to safe handling.
Dissecting Design, Feel, and Ergonomics
A thorough *S&W M&P 40 review* needs to explore the gun’s design and how it feels in the hand. The M&P 40’s aesthetics are clean and modern, with a streamlined appearance. The finish on the slide is generally durable. The ergonomics are a standout feature, a central focus for many prospective buyers. The grip angle and texture contribute to a comfortable and secure hold. The weight of the firearm, while contributing to felt recoil, also helps with balance, making it feel more stable in the hand.
Ergonomics are crucial to how a firearm handles. The M&P 40 excels in this area:
Control Accessibility
Controls such as the slide release and magazine release are well-placed and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands. This ease of access is crucial in high-stress situations, making the gun a practical choice for both law enforcement and civilian use.
Trigger Feel
The trigger on the M&P 40 is a critical element in its function and use. The trigger pull is typically smooth, and the reset is relatively short. This design promotes accurate and rapid follow-up shots. The trigger feel, while not the finest in the market, is widely considered to be better than many competitors.
Aiming and Accuracy
The sight system is designed for quick target acquisition. The grip angle and comfortable grip also contribute to better accuracy by promoting a natural point of aim. These elements combine to make the M&P 40 a pistol that many shooters find easy to shoot accurately.
Evaluating Performance: Shooting Experience and Reliability
This *S&W M&P 40 review* wouldn’t be complete without discussing the shooting experience. How does the M&P 40 perform on the range?
Accuracy
The M&P 40 is generally known for its accuracy. During testing, you can expect to obtain tight groupings at various distances. The combination of the comfortable grip, sight system, and trigger pull all play a role in achieving accurate shots. Many shooters find this pistol easy to shoot well right out of the box.
Recoil Management
The .40 S&W cartridge is known to produce more recoil than the 9mm. However, the M&P 40’s frame design and weight help to mitigate felt recoil. The gun stays relatively flat on the shot, which promotes quick follow-up shots. This is one of the areas where personal preference plays a significant role.
Reliability
The M&P 40 is generally a reliable handgun. During tests, the pistol showed no malfunctions. This reliability makes it suitable for duty use, where dependability is paramount. The use of quality ammunition is always recommended to maximize reliability.
Trigger Performance
While the trigger may not be considered a match-grade trigger, its performance is adequate for defensive and general shooting. The trigger pull is smooth, and the reset is relatively short, which makes follow-up shots faster.
Weighing the Good and the Bad: Pros and Cons
This *S&W M&P 40 review* must evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the gun.
The Positives
Excellent Ergonomics: The M&P 40 offers a comfortable grip and a natural point of aim, which is essential for accurate and rapid shooting. The interchangeable backstraps allow shooters to customize the grip to their hands.
Reliability: The M&P 40 is known to be a reliable handgun. This feature gives the shooter confidence in the gun’s ability to perform when it’s most needed.
Value for Money: The M&P 40 is generally a competitively priced handgun. It offers an excellent blend of features and performance for its price.
Modularity: The inclusion of interchangeable backstraps and the availability of aftermarket parts increase the versatility of the M&P 40.
Aftermarket Support: A wide array of accessories and parts, ranging from sights to triggers to holsters, is readily available, allowing shooters to customize their pistols to their specific needs.
Considerations
Trigger Feel: While functional, the trigger on the M&P 40 might not appeal to shooters who prefer a crisp trigger pull. There are aftermarket trigger options for those seeking improvement.
.40 S&W Recoil: The .40 S&W cartridge produces more recoil than other popular calibers. Those sensitive to recoil might find the M&P 40 a bit challenging to handle.
Comparing the M&P 40 to Other Options
In the crowded handgun market, it’s helpful to compare the M&P 40 to its main competitors.
One of the primary competitors to the M&P 40 is the Glock 22/23. The Glock is a very popular and reliable handgun, and many shooters find its trigger to be very easy to use. The M&P 40 often gets the nod for its better ergonomics, particularly the grip angle. The Glock’s grip angle can feel a little awkward for some.
The Sig Sauer P229 is another competitor. This gun generally offers a more refined build quality and smoother trigger, which comes with a higher price. The M&P 40 presents a very good value in comparison.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation: Who is this gun for?
The M&P 40 earns a strong recommendation. This *S&W M&P 40 review* concludes that this handgun is a solid choice for a wide range of users. It excels as a duty pistol, home defense firearm, or a reliable option for recreational shooting.
The M&P 40 is particularly well-suited for those:
- Looking for a reliable and accurate handgun.
- Who prioritize comfort and ergonomics.
- Who are seeking a firearm that offers a balance of performance and value.
The M&P 40 is an excellent choice for those who seek a reliable, accurate, and ergonomic handgun that is easy to maintain and customize. If you’re in the market for a pistol in the .40 S&W caliber, or just looking for a great general-purpose handgun, the M&P 40 is well worth considering. If you found this *S&W M&P 40 review* helpful, explore other firearm reviews on our site.
