Inside the Factory: Smith & Wesson M&P Handguns

Published on March 26, 2020
Duration: 11:06

This video provides an in-depth look at the manufacturing process and features of Smith & Wesson's M&P pistol line, focusing on the M&P 2.0 series. It highlights the evolution from early revolvers to modern polymer pistols, detailing the production of frames and slides. Key improvements in the M&P 2.0, such as enhanced grip texture, improved trigger, and the extended stainless steel chassis system, are discussed, along with the safe triggerless disassembly feature and the integration of Crimson Trace lasers on Shield models.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 pistol series introduces significant enhancements, including an improved grip texture for superior handling, a redesigned trigger offering a crisp break and tactile reset, and an extended stainless steel chassis system for enhanced rigidity. These features contribute to improved performance and user experience across the M&P line.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction to American Rifleman Television
  2. 00:10Factory Tour: Springfield, Massachusetts
  3. 00:14Smith & Wesson M&P Pistol Production
  4. 00:35History of the M&P Brand
  5. 01:02M&P Polymer Pistol Launch (2005)
  6. 01:12M&P Modern Sporting Rifle Family
  7. 01:25M&P Shield and Bodyguard Families
  8. 01:28M&P 2.0 Pistol Series
  9. 01:40Smith & Wesson Precision Components
  10. 01:55Molding M&P Frames
  11. 02:20Resin Drying Process
  12. 02:45Injection Molding Press Operation
  13. 03:11Cooling and Fixturing Frames
  14. 03:25Frame Assembly Steps
  15. 03:49M&P 2.0 Stainless Steel Chassis System
  16. 04:13Benefits of Extended Chassis System
  17. 04:55Serialization and ATF Control
  18. 05:18Final Assembly in Springfield
  19. 05:37Mating Frame with Slide and Barrel
  20. 05:46Caliber and Sight Configurations
  21. 05:53M&P 2.0, Shield, and Bodyguard 380
  22. 06:01M&P 22 Compact Pistol
  23. 06:06M&P Modern Sporting Rifles
  24. 06:23Range of M&P Pistol Products
  25. 06:37First-Generation M&P Pistol (2005)
  26. 06:45M&P 2.0 Full Size Pistol Features
  27. 06:56Enhanced Grip Texture
  28. 07:09Palm Swell Grip Inserts
  29. 07:19M&P 2.0 Platform Experience
  30. 07:53M&P 2.0 Trigger Improvements
  31. 08:13Improvements in Smaller M&P Models
  32. 08:16M&P 2.0 Shield with Crimson Trace Laser
  33. 08:44Integrated Crimson Trace Laser Value
  34. 09:18M&P Pistol Disassembly Feature
  35. 09:29Sear Deactivation Lever
  36. 09:42Safe Takedown Procedure
  37. 09:50Continuous Quality Control
  38. 10:02Machining Quality Checks
  39. 10:12Final Inspection and Test Firing
  40. 10:24Packing and Shipping
  41. 10:31Modern M&P Line Solutions
  42. 10:37M&P 2.0 Next Generation Platform

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key improvements in the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 pistol series?

The M&P 2.0 series features an enhanced grip texture for better purchase, an improved trigger with a light, crisp pull and clean break, and an extended stainless steel chassis system for increased rigidity and stability. It also includes four palm swell grip inserts for a more customizable fit.

How does Smith & Wesson ensure quality during M&P pistol manufacturing?

Smith & Wesson employs continuous quality control throughout the production process. This includes checks in the machining area for dimensions and tool condition, as well as final inspection and test firing to ensure each firearm meets stringent standards before being packed and shipped.

What is the significance of the stainless steel chassis system in the M&P 2.0?

The extended stainless steel chassis system in the M&P 2.0 runs the full length of the pistol frame. This provides enhanced rigidity and dimensional tightness, ensuring that accessories mounted on the Picatinny rail, such as lasers or lights, remain stable and do not drift over time.

How can M&P pistols be safely disassembled without pulling the trigger?

M&P pistols, including full-size, compact, and Shield models, feature a sear deactivation lever. By racking the slide back and flipping this internal lever, the slide can be removed from the frame without needing to pull the trigger, ensuring a safe takedown procedure.

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