so much plastic! Smith & Wesson Response.

Published on March 3, 2024
Duration: 17:41

This review of the Smith & Wesson Response AR-9 platform highlights its extensive polymer construction, including the upper receiver and rail. The reviewer notes the innovative Flex Mag System, allowing for interchangeable magazine wells for M&P, Glock, and Sig P320 magazines. Despite initial concerns about polymer durability, the firearm has performed reliably over 800 rounds, though a safety recall for early production models is discussed.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Response is a 9mm AR-9 platform featuring extensive polymer construction and a unique Flex Mag System. This system allows for interchangeable magazine wells, supporting Smith & Wesson M&P, Glock, and Sig P320 magazines, making it a versatile option for training and PCC competition.

Chapters

  1. 01:52Introduction: Polymer Guns in 3D Printing Era
  2. 02:02Smith & Wesson Response Overview
  3. 02:19Reviewer's Relationship with Smith & Wesson
  4. 02:43Technical Specifications: Barrel, Caliber, Suppressor Mount
  5. 02:59Polymer Rail and MLOK System
  6. 04:08Polymer Upper Receiver and Charging Handle
  7. 05:37Rear Components: Stock, Buffer Tube, Lower Receiver
  8. 06:02Lower Receiver Durability and Reinforcement
  9. 07:19Trigger and Lower Parts Kit
  10. 08:07Grip Design: M&P 2.0 Similarity
  11. 08:39Absence of Dust Cover and Forward Assist
  12. 08:55Flex Mag System Explained
  13. 09:20Magazine Compatibility: M&P, Glock, Sig P320
  14. 10:22Overall Construction and Round Count
  15. 10:56Malfunction Review and Concerns
  16. 11:14Safety Recall and Affected Models
  17. 11:57Reviewer's Approach to Testing and Recalls
  18. 13:17Personal Experience: No Issues with Tested Unit
  19. 13:34Ammunition Used and Reliability
  20. 13:42Identifying Fixed Bolts from Recall
  21. 14:18Decision Not to Send Unit for Recall
  22. 14:49Overall Impression and Flex Mag System
  23. 15:02Rationale for Polymer Construction: Weight, Price, System
  24. 15:16Price Point and Value Proposition
  25. 15:36Target Audience: PCC Competition Beginners
  26. 16:20Training and Ammo Cost Savings
  27. 16:36Is It Too Much Plastic? Discussion
  28. 16:54Suggestions for Future Models: Shorter Barrel Variants
  29. 17:12Viewer Opinions and Concerns
  30. 17:31Conclusion and Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Smith & Wesson Response AR-9?

The Smith & Wesson Response is a 9mm AR-9 platform featuring extensive polymer construction, including the upper receiver and rail. Its standout feature is the Flex Mag System, allowing users to swap magazine wells for compatibility with Smith & Wesson M&P, Glock, and Sig P320 magazines.

Does the Smith & Wesson Response have any known issues or recalls?

Yes, early production models of the Smith & Wesson Response (manufactured before February 12th) are subject to a safety recall due to potential out-of-battery detonation issues. Affected firearms can be identified by specific markings on the bolt.

How reliable is the Smith & Wesson Response based on testing?

In testing, the Smith & Wesson Response has demonstrated excellent reliability, with over 800 rounds fired without any malfunctions, including failures to feed or extract. This performance was observed even with the polymer construction, which can sometimes raise durability concerns.

What is the Flex Mag System on the Smith & Wesson Response?

The Flex Mag System is a proprietary feature of the Smith & Wesson Response that allows for interchangeable magazine wells. This enables the firearm to accept popular double-stack pistol magazines, specifically those from the Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm, Glock, and Sig P320 platforms.

Who is the Smith & Wesson Response best suited for?

The Smith & Wesson Response is considered a strong option for individuals new to Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC) competitions or those seeking an affordable training platform. Its magazine flexibility and reasonable price point make it an accessible choice for beginners.

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