The M&P 2.0 - Ported Performance Center Review

Published on August 7, 2022
Duration: 11:57

This review of the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Performance Center Competition Optic Ready pistol highlights its ported 5-inch barrel, optics-ready slide with suppressor height sights, and excellent factory stippling. The reviewer, Brett from Nightwood Guns, praises the ported barrel's effectiveness in reducing recoil and improving follow-up shots, despite increasing muzzle blast. A significant point of discussion is the factory trigger, which is described as having a unique, articulating design with a long pre-travel that can be a deal-breaker for some but can be significantly improved with an aftermarket Apex Tactical trigger, considered a mandatory upgrade. The review also touches on the plastic optic plates, the stippling's coverage, the support-side slide catch usability, and a critical issue with accuracy that the reviewer suspects is a quality control problem.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Performance Center features a ported barrel that effectively reduces muzzle rise for faster follow-up shots, though it increases muzzle blast. The factory trigger has a unique design with significant pre-travel, often necessitating an aftermarket upgrade like Apex Tactical for optimal performance in competition or self-defense.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction
  2. 00:14Author's Books
  3. 00:30First Impressions of M&P 2.0
  4. 00:52Performance Center Model Features
  5. 01:02Ported Barrel Performance
  6. 01:22Optics Ready & Sights
  7. 01:36Accessory Rail Steel Insert
  8. 02:00Factory Stippling
  9. 02:22Slide Catch Design
  10. 03:00Slide Serrations
  11. 03:17Performance Center Trigger
  12. 03:26M&P 2.0 Trigger Disadvantage
  13. 04:27Apex Tactical Trigger Upgrade
  14. 05:13Trigger Press Demonstration
  15. 05:31Floyd's Custom Magwell
  16. 05:57Pros Summary
  17. 06:18Negatives: Plastic Optic Plates
  18. 07:00Negatives: Stippling Coverage
  19. 07:39Negatives: Support Side Slide Catch
  20. 08:14Negatives: Muzzle Blast Debris
  21. 08:31Deal Breaker: Accuracy Issues
  22. 09:48Accuracy Test at 25 Yards
  23. 10:33Tolerances and Potential Fixes
  24. 11:08Overall Recommendation
  25. 11:35Conclusion & Books

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Performance Center's ported barrel?

The ported barrel on the M&P 2.0 Performance Center significantly reduces muzzle rise, making follow-up shots faster and easier. While it increases muzzle blast, the benefit in recoil management is a key advantage for shooting flat and tame.

Is the factory trigger on the M&P 2.0 good for competition or self-defense?

The factory trigger has a unique, articulating design with extensive pre-travel that can be challenging for rapid shooting. While some experienced shooters can adapt, many consider an aftermarket trigger upgrade, like from Apex Tactical, essential for optimal performance.

What are the common criticisms of the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0?

Common criticisms include the plastic optic plates which may not be durable, stippling that doesn't extend high enough on the grip, and a support-side slide catch that can be difficult to use. Significant accuracy issues were also noted by the reviewer, potentially due to loose tolerances.

Are there any recommended upgrades for the M&P 2.0?

Yes, the reviewer strongly recommends an Apex Tactical trigger as a mandatory upgrade for a superior striker-fired trigger experience. A Floyd's Custom Magwell is also suggested for improved reloads, though it requires compatible base plates.

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