[Review] Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II: Good Budget AR?

Published on May 19, 2020
Duration: 6:35

This guide details the process of upgrading the trigger on a Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II using a Palmetto State Armory (PSA) drop-in unit, as demonstrated by Johnny from Pew Pew Tactical. The upgrade aims to improve trigger feel and performance. A thorough safety check is paramount before and after the modification.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II is a budget-friendly AR-15, ideal for beginners or as a utility rifle. It features a 16-inch 5.56 NATO barrel, weighs 6.45 lbs, and includes a 30-round capacity. While generally reliable, potential buyers should be aware of its thin handguard and the possibility of trigger pins walking out, which can be remedied with aftermarket upgrades.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction
  2. 01:00Rifle Specifications
  3. 02:10Market Positioning and Pricing
  4. 03:02Range Performance and Reliability
  5. 04:21Pros and Cons
  6. 05:23Upgrades and Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key specifications of the Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II?

The M&P15 Sport II features a 16-inch barrel chambered in 5.56 NATO, weighs approximately 6.45 lbs, and has a standard capacity of 30 rounds. Its MSRP is $711, though street prices are often lower.

What are the main advantages and disadvantages of the M&P15 Sport II?

Pros include the Smith & Wesson brand reputation, reliability, and the inclusion of an optic. Cons are the thin, heat-prone handguard and trigger pins that may walk out.

Is the Smith & Wesson M&P15 Sport II suitable for beginners?

Yes, Johnny from Pew Pew Tactical identifies it as an excellent 'truck gun' or first rifle for new owners due to its budget-friendly nature and out-of-the-box readiness, despite minor mil-spec shortcomings.

What common issues were noted with the M&P15 Sport II during testing?

The primary mechanical issue observed was the trigger pins beginning to walk out during live-fire testing, which is a known concern with some AR-15 platforms and can be addressed with upgrades.

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