Smith and Wesson M&P Upgrades | Faxon Firearms

Published on April 19, 2022
Duration: 9:14

This guide details how to significantly upgrade a Smith & Wesson M&P 1.0 pistol to outperform current models, focusing on performance enhancements for competition. The process involves replacing the trigger with a Timney Alpha, installing a Faxon Patriot slide with an RMR cut, a Faxon fluted barrel, and a Faxon EXOS compensator. It also covers troubleshooting reliability issues and tuning the firearm for optimal performance, transforming it into a flat-shooting competition-ready platform.

Quick Summary

An old Smith & Wesson M&P 1.0 can be upgraded to outperform newer models by installing a Timney Alpha trigger, Faxon Patriot slide with RMR cut, Faxon fluted barrel, and a Faxon EXOS compensator. This transformation results in a pistol that shoots exceptionally flat, comparable to a .22 semi-automatic, making it ideal for competition like USPSA or 3-Gun after proper tuning for reliability.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: M&P 1.0 Upgrades
  2. 00:22Trigger Upgrade: Timney Alpha
  3. 01:26Faxon Parts Introduction
  4. 01:54Faxon Patriot Slide Features
  5. 02:47Slide Installation & Extractor Issue
  6. 03:00Faxon Barrel & Compensator
  7. 04:06Tuning for Reliability
  8. 04:45Performance & Application
  9. 05:52Value & Customization
  10. 07:04Final Thoughts & Performance Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an old Smith & Wesson M&P 1.0 be upgraded to perform better than newer models?

Yes, an old Smith & Wesson M&P 1.0 can be significantly upgraded to outperform current models. By replacing the trigger with a Timney Alpha, installing a Faxon Patriot slide and barrel, and adding a compensator and red dot optic, the pistol can achieve competition-level performance and shoot exceptionally flat.

What are the key components for upgrading an M&P 1.0 for competition?

Key components for upgrading an M&P 1.0 include a Timney Alpha trigger for improved feel, a Faxon Patriot Slide with aggressive serrations and an RMR optic cut, a Faxon fluted barrel for tight tolerances, and a Faxon EXOS Compensator to reduce muzzle rise. A red dot optic like the Holosun 507C is also recommended.

How do you ensure reliability after installing a compensator on an M&P 1.0?

Ensuring reliability after installing a compensator often requires tuning. This may involve a break-in period for the barrel (around 200 rounds) and adjusting the recoil spring weight. These steps help the slide cycle correctly and prevent ejection failures, especially when the compensator slows down slide reciprocation.

Is a fully customized M&P 1.0 suitable for concealed carry?

A fully customized M&P 1.0 with competition-grade upgrades like a competition trigger and compensator is generally not recommended for concealed carry. While it offers excellent performance for competition, these modifications can introduce potential reliability complexities and may not be ideal for everyday carry scenarios.

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