Smith & Wesson M&P AR: A Comprehensive Guide
The Smith & Wesson M&P AR is a firearm that has gained significant popularity among shooters and enthusiasts alike. Known for its reliability, accuracy, and customizable options, this rifle is a favorite among both beginners and seasoned shooters. In this detailed guide, we will explore the various aspects of the Smith & Wesson M&P AR, including its design, features, performance, and accessories.
Design and Construction
The Smith & Wesson M&P AR is designed with a focus on ergonomics and user-friendliness. The rifle features a lightweight, polymer lower receiver, which is not only durable but also comfortable to hold. The upper receiver is made of forged 7075-T6 aluminum, providing excellent strength and rigidity. The rifle’s overall design is sleek and modern, with a matte black finish that helps to reduce glare and fingerprints.
The M&P AR also features a modular design, allowing shooters to customize the rifle to their specific needs. The rifle comes with a standard M4 carbine-length gas system, but it can be easily swapped out for a carbine or pistol-length gas system. Additionally, the rifle’s handguard is compatible with a wide range of accessories, such as Picatinny rails, allowing for easy mounting of sights, lights, and other accessories.
Features
The Smith & Wesson M&P AR is packed with features that make it a versatile and reliable firearm. Here are some of the key features of the rifle:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Barrel | 1/2-28 thread, 16-inch barrel with a 1:7-inch twist rate |
| Handguard | 6-inch M-LOK handguard with integrated Picatinny rail |
| Stock | 6-position adjustable carbine stock |
| Trigger | Standard Mil-Spec trigger with a pull weight of approximately 6.5 pounds |
| Safety | Three-position safety selector |
Additionally, the M&P AR comes with a number of safety features, including a magazine disconnect safety, a bolt hold open feature, and a forward assist for easy chambering of rounds.
Performance
The Smith & Wesson M&P AR is known for its excellent performance on the range. The rifle’s lightweight design and balanced weight distribution make it easy to handle and control. The 16-inch barrel provides a good balance between weight and velocity, allowing for accurate shooting at both short and long distances.
The rifle’s gas system is designed to provide consistent performance, even in adverse conditions. The M4 carbine-length gas system is particularly effective at keeping the rifle running smoothly, even when shooting full-auto.
Accessories
The Smith & Wesson M&P AR is compatible with a wide range of accessories, making it easy to customize the rifle to your specific needs. Here are some popular accessories for the M&P AR:
- Sights: Red dot sights, scopes, and iron sights are all popular options for the M&P AR.
- Lights: Flashlights and laser sights can be mounted to the Picatinny rail on the handguard.
- Magazines: The M&P AR is compatible with a variety of magazines, including standard AR-15 magazines and high-capacity magazines.
- Handguards: Additional handguards can be purchased to provide more space for accessories or to change the rifle’s overall look and feel.
Conclusion
The Smith & Wesson M&P AR is a versatile, reliable, and customizable firearm that is perfect for a wide range of shooting applications. With its modern design, user-friendly features, and excellent performance, the M&P AR is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality AR-15 rifle.
