My Smith and Wesson M&P Pistol Got a Big Upgrade

Published on November 11, 2025
Duration: 15:09

This video details the process of upgrading a Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 pistol with a new Apex Tactical gunsmith-fit barrel and a flat-faced forward set trigger kit. The upgrade allows for 9mm conversion from the original .40 S&W caliber and significantly improves trigger performance. The presenter, Joel Park, shares his experience with the installation and testing, highlighting the benefits of these modifications for enhanced shooting.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 pistol was upgraded with an Apex Tactical gunsmith-fit barrel for 9mm conversion and an Apex flat-faced trigger kit. The new trigger offers a lighter, crisper pull under three pounds with a short reset, significantly improving shooting performance over the original heavy, hinge-style factory trigger.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to M&P 2.0 Upgrades
  2. 00:16History of the M&P 40 Caliber Pistol
  3. 01:01M&P 1.0 vs 2.0 Considerations
  4. 02:01Optic Installation and Early Trigger Issues
  5. 03:04Trigger Upgrade with a Friend's M&P Trigger
  6. 03:46Apex Tactical Collaboration and Barrel Upgrade
  7. 04:38Apex Tactical Upgrade Components
  8. 05:42Excitement for 9mm Conversion and New Trigger
  9. 06:01Range Testing with 9mm and 40 Caliber Barrels
  10. 06:31Switching Between Barrels
  11. 07:13Trigger Discussion and Comparison
  12. 08:09Apex Trigger Performance and Weight
  13. 09:06Future Plans and Holster
  14. 09:39Grip Insert Disappointment
  15. 11:26Ammunition Fired and Reliability
  16. 12:24Feedback on Grips and Apex Appreciation
  17. 13:08Curiosity About Trigger Variance
  18. 14:20Overall Impression and Future Plans

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main upgrades performed on the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 pistol?

The M&P 2.0 pistol received a significant upgrade with the installation of an Apex Tactical gunsmith-fit barrel, allowing for a 9mm conversion from its original .40 S&W caliber. Additionally, an Apex Tactical flat-faced forward set trigger kit was installed, along with a failure-resistant extractor.

How does the Apex Tactical trigger compare to the factory M&P 2.0 trigger?

The Apex Tactical trigger is described as significantly lighter and crisper than the factory M&P 2.0 trigger, which had a heavy, hinge-like design. The Apex trigger offers a clean break, short reset, and a pull weight under three pounds, greatly improving shooting feel and control.

Can a .40 S&W M&P 2.0 be converted to shoot 9mm?

Yes, by installing a compatible 9mm barrel, such as the Apex Tactical gunsmith-fit barrel, a .40 S&W Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 pistol can be converted to shoot 9mm ammunition. This conversion was successfully performed on the pistol featured in the video.

What are the benefits of a gunsmith-fit barrel for an M&P 2.0?

A gunsmith-fit barrel, like the Apex Tactical one installed, is precisely machined for optimal fit, potentially improving accuracy and reliability. It also enables caliber conversions, such as switching from .40 S&W to 9mm, offering greater versatility to the firearm.

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