SMITH & WESSON M&P-15
Posted May 25, 2023
If you’re looking for an AR-15-style rifle that combines the traditional design of the storied M&P with the modern reliability and accuracy of today’s best AR-15s, then Smith & Wesson’s M&P-15 should be high on your list of contenders. Originally introduced in 2006 as the civilian variant of the Armalite AR-15, the M&P-15 has evolved since then to become one of the top contenders for the public’s modern sporting rifle of choice.
The M&P-15 is the complete package. It features a familiar M16A2 rifle-style aluminum upper and lower receiver set which is mated to a chrome-lined 16-inch barrel with M4 rifling. All other parts are standard M4 parts, including the 6-position telescoping buttstock and handguard.
The rifle looks attractive with its anodized finish and solid construction. The rifle is clearly well made, with no cringe-worthy parts on display. The barrel is free-floated and includes a Melonite coating for added durability. The charging handle and magazine release are of good quality, as is the handguard. The trigger has an average pull-weight of about 5.5 pounds.
I had the chance to take the M&P-15 to the range for testing. I was pleasantly surprised by how accurate it was. At 25 yards, I was consistently able to keep my shots in a 3″ group with a variety of different ammunition. I was also able to get a good result with the .223 Remington ammo I had on hand. The recoil was mild and the rifle operated flawlessly for the duration of the test.
The M&P-15 also comes with several additional features. These include an oversized trigger guard for gloved hands, as well as a forward assist, dust cover and brass deflector. And if you don’t plan on using a scope, then the M&P-15 also has a Rail-Ready rail system that is compatible with Picatinny accessories.
In conclusion, the Smith & Wesson M&P-15 is an excellent choice for those looking for an accurate, reliable, and durable AR-15 rifle. It combines the traditional classic design of the M&P series with the modern reliability of an AR-15 and offers a range of additional features that make it a great choice for anyone. Whether you’re looking for an entry-level AR-15 or a more powerful shooter, the M&P-15 is one rifle you’ll want to consider.
Pros & Cons
PROS:
- Durable and reliable: The M&P-15 is a reliable and durable rifle that is designed to handle an array of extreme conditions.
- Accessory friendly: The M&P-15 provides plenty of options for customization and accessories. This makes it an ideal option for shooters who are looking for a versatile rifle.
- Built to last: Smith & Wesson is known for producing high quality firearms built to withstand years of abuse and use. The M&P-15 is no different, as it is built with quality components that ensure it performs at its best for years to come.
- Affordable: The M&P-15 is one of the most affordable AR-15 style rifles on the market.
CONS:
- Heavy: The M&P-15 is a bit heavier than some of the other AR-15 style rifles on the market. This makes it better-suited for shooting from a bench or from prone positions, rather than dynamic shooting.
- Not ambidextrous: The M&P-15 is not ambidextrous, meaning that it is only compatible with right-handed shooters.
- Trigger: The M&P-15s trigger can be problematic for some shooters, as the trigger pull may be stiff and gritty.
Who Should Buy
Smith & Wesson M&P-15 rifles should be purchased only by those who are of the legal age to own such a firearm and have the necessary permits or certifications required to own and operate such a weapon. People who do not possess the necessary knowledge and/or experience in using firearms should not purchase this rifle. As a warning, any misuse of the M&P-15 could result in severe penalties and possible imprisonments.
Comparisons
| Product | Caliber | Weight | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smith & Wesson M&P-15 | 5.56 NATO/ .223 Rem | 6.45 lbs | $739.00 |
| SIG Sauer MCX | 5.56 NATO/ .223 Rem | 6.7 lbs | $1,499.99 |
| Bushmaster XM-15 | 5.56 NATO/ .223 Rem | 6.4 lbs | $859.99 |
| Colt LE6920 | 5.56 NATO/ .223 Rem | 6.95 lbs | $1,099.99 |
| Remington R-15 VTR | 5.4 NATO/ .223 Rem | 6.8 lbs | $784.00 |
Features / Specs
- Semi-automatic, gas-operated rifle
- Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO/.223 Remington
- Characteristic M&P arms platform features
- 10- and 30-round magazine capacities
- 16” 4140 steel barrel, lightweight contour
- 6-position CAR Stock
- Weight 7.0 lbs.
- Overall Length 35”-38”
Popular Accessories
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- Magazine Accessories: Magpul PMAGs, Magpul Ranger plates, Hexmag Magazines, KAK Industry mags.
- Gun Grips: Ergo Grips, Magpul MIAD, Hogue Rubber Grips, Mission First Tactical Grip.
- Muzzle Devices: A2 Birdcage Flash Hider, Advanced Armament Corporation (AAC) Muzzle Brake, Strike Industries JCOMP, SilencerCo ASR
Accuracy
Smith & Wesson M&P-15 rifles are renowned for their reliability and accuracy, making them one of the most popular AR-15 rifles available today. Based on the AR-15 design, the M&P-15 is an accurate, semiautomatic, magazine-fed, gas-operated rifle with a range of up to 600 yards. Since the launch of the M&P-15 line, thousands of users have reported no-fault hits at up to 600 yards with the rifle, confirming its accuracy and reliability. This allows users to take full advantage of the rifles excellent accuracy when hunting small game, target shooting, or any other applications that require precision.
