The Smith & Wesson M&P 15 is a popular and reliable AR-15 platform, offering a solid foundation for both beginners and experienced shooters. However, like any firearm, there's always room for improvement. Upgrading your M&P 15 can significantly enhance its performance, reliability, and overall shooting experience. This guide explores some of the best M&P 15 upgrades, categorized for clarity and focusing on practical enhancements rather than purely cosmetic modifications.
Prioritizing Upgrades: A Strategic Approach
Before diving into specific upgrades, it’s crucial to prioritize based on your needs and budget. Consider what aspects of your shooting experience you want to improve most. Are you focusing on accuracy, reliability, comfort, or aesthetics? A strategic approach ensures you maximize your investment. Generally, we recommend prioritizing these areas:
- Trigger: A significant upgrade that directly impacts accuracy and control.
- Optics: Essential for precise aiming and target acquisition.
- Handguard: Improves ergonomics and allows for accessory mounting.
- Stock: Enhances comfort and adjustability.
Top M&P 15 Upgrade Categories:
1. Enhancing Accuracy and Control: Trigger Upgrades
The factory trigger on the M&P 15 is functional but often lacks the crispness and predictability desired by serious shooters. Upgrading the trigger is one of the most impactful modifications you can make. Consider these options:
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Drop-in Triggers: These are relatively easy to install and offer a noticeable improvement over the factory trigger. Popular choices include the Timney, Geissele, and CMC triggers, each offering different pull weights and feel. Research which best suits your shooting style and preferences.
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Trigger Jobs: For experienced gunsmiths, a professional trigger job can refine the existing trigger mechanism, often achieving exceptional results at a lower cost than a full drop-in replacement.
2. Enhancing Aiming Precision: Optics and Sights
Accurate aiming is paramount. Choosing the right optic depends heavily on your intended use:
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Red Dot Sights (RDS): Ideal for close-to-medium range engagements, RDS offer fast target acquisition and excellent situational awareness. Brands like Aimpoint, Trijicon, and Holosun offer high-quality options.
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Variable Power Optics: For longer ranges, a variable power optic (like a 1-6x or 1-8x scope) offers versatility, allowing you to adjust magnification based on the distance to the target.
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Back-Up Iron Sights (BUIS): Regardless of your primary optic, BUIS provide a reliable backup sighting system in case of optic failure. Folding BUIS are space-saving and convenient.
3. Improving Ergonomics and Functionality: Handguards and Stocks
Ergonomics play a huge role in comfort and control. Upgrades in these areas dramatically improve the shooting experience:
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Handguards: Consider upgrading to a free-float handguard for improved accuracy (eliminates potential flex from the barrel) and increased accessory mounting options (rails for lights, lasers, grips, etc.). Keymod and M-LOK systems are popular choices.
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Stocks: An adjustable stock allows for personalized fit, enhancing comfort and shooting stability. Features like cheek risers and length-of-pull adjustments can greatly improve the shooting experience. Consider stocks from Magpul, CTR, and other reputable manufacturers.
4. Reliability and Maintenance Upgrades:
While the M&P 15 is known for reliability, these upgrades enhance it further:
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Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group (BCG): Investing in a high-quality BCG from reputable brands like Toolcraft or Nitride improves durability and reduces wear.
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Improved Buffer System: Different buffer weights and springs can optimize the rifle's cycling and recoil characteristics, especially when using different ammunition types or suppressors.
5. Accessories for Enhanced Capability:
While not strictly upgrades to the firearm itself, these accessories significantly enhance its functionality:
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Lights: Essential for low-light shooting. Consider a weapon-mounted light (WML) for improved situational awareness.
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Lasers: Useful for close-range target acquisition.
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Vertical Grips: Improve comfort and control, especially during longer shooting sessions.
Conclusion: Tailoring Your M&P 15 Upgrade
Upgrading your M&P 15 is a journey of customization. By prioritizing your needs, researching available options, and understanding the function of each component, you can significantly enhance your firearm's performance, reliability, and your overall shooting experience. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult with experienced gunsmiths if you’re unsure about any modifications.
