M&P 40: A Comprehensive Overview of Smith & Wesson’s Reliable Handgun
The Smith & Wesson M&P 40, a polymer-framed, striker-fired handgun chambered in .40 S&W, has carved a significant niche in the law enforcement, self-defense, and sport shooting communities. Known for its reliability, modularity, and user-friendly design, the M&P 40 offers a compelling option for both seasoned professionals and new firearm owners. This article will delve into the features, history, performance, and overall appeal of the M&P 40, providing a comprehensive understanding of this popular handgun.
History and Development
The M&P (Military & Police) series was introduced by Smith & Wesson in 2005 as a modern alternative to their earlier Sigma series. The M&P line was designed to address some of the criticisms leveled against the Sigma, particularly regarding trigger feel and ergonomics. The M&P 40 was among the first models released, offering a .40 S&W caliber option that was popular among law enforcement agencies at the time. The design focused on modularity, allowing users to customize the grip to fit their hand size. This was a key selling point, differentiating the M&P from many of its competitors. Over the years, the M&P series has undergone several refinements, including improvements to the trigger, frame, and overall ergonomics, leading to the M&P M2.0 series.
Key Features of the M&P 40
Frame and Ergonomics
The M&P 40 features a polymer frame, which contributes to its relatively light weight and resistance to corrosion. The frame incorporates a stainless steel chassis for added strength and durability. One of the defining features of the M&P series is its modular grip system. The pistol comes with three interchangeable palm swell inserts (small, medium, and large), allowing users to customize the grip circumference to fit their hand size. This feature enhances comfort and improves control, leading to better accuracy. The grip texture is designed to provide a secure hold, even in adverse conditions.
Slide and Barrel
The slide of the M&P 40 is made from stainless steel and is typically finished with a durable black Melonite coating for corrosion resistance. The slide features front and rear serrations, which provide a secure grip for racking the slide. The standard barrel length for the M&P 40 is 4.25 inches, but compact versions with shorter barrels are also available. The barrel is made from stainless steel and is designed for accuracy and longevity. The M&P 40 also features a loaded chamber indicator, which provides a visual and tactile indication of whether a round is chambered.
Trigger and Safety
The trigger of the M&P 40 is a striker-fired design. Early versions of the M&P 40 were criticized for having a somewhat spongy trigger feel. However, Smith & Wesson has made significant improvements to the trigger over the years, particularly in the M&P M2.0 series. The M2.0 trigger is known for its crisp break and short reset, which enhances shooting performance. The M&P 40 includes a trigger safety, which prevents the pistol from firing unless the trigger is intentionally pulled. Many models also include an optional manual thumb safety, which provides an additional layer of security. [See also: M&P Shield Plus Review]
Sights
The M&P 40 typically comes with standard three-dot sights, which are easy to acquire and provide a clear sight picture. Many aftermarket sight options are available, including night sights, fiber optic sights, and adjustable sights. The sights are dovetailed into the slide, making them easy to replace and customize. The M&P 40 is also available in models with factory-installed night sights, which are particularly useful in low-light conditions.
Magazine and Capacity
The standard magazine capacity for the M&P 40 is 15 rounds. The magazines are made from stainless steel and are designed for reliable feeding. Extended magazines are also available, which increase the capacity to 17 or more rounds. The magazine release is ambidextrous, making it easy to operate for both right-handed and left-handed shooters. The M&P 40 is also compatible with magazines from other M&P models, which can be a convenient feature for those who own multiple M&P handguns.
Performance and Handling
The M&P 40 is known for its reliable performance and manageable recoil. The .40 S&W cartridge delivers significant stopping power, making it a popular choice for self-defense and law enforcement. The ergonomic design of the M&P 40, combined with its modular grip system, allows for a comfortable and secure grip, which enhances control and accuracy. The pistol is relatively easy to disassemble and clean, which is an important consideration for maintaining its reliability. The M&P 40 is also known for its durability, and it can withstand a significant amount of use without experiencing malfunctions.
Accuracy
The M&P 40 is capable of delivering good accuracy, particularly in the hands of an experienced shooter. The pistol’s trigger, sights, and ergonomic design all contribute to its accuracy potential. With practice, shooters can consistently achieve tight groupings at typical self-defense distances. The M&P 40 is also a popular choice for sport shooting, where accuracy is paramount.
Recoil Management
The .40 S&W cartridge is known for producing significant recoil. However, the M&P 40’s polymer frame and ergonomic design help to mitigate recoil, making it manageable for most shooters. The grip texture and modular grip system also contribute to recoil management by providing a secure and comfortable hold. While the recoil of the M&P 40 is more pronounced than that of 9mm handguns, it is generally considered to be manageable with proper technique.
M&P 40 vs. Other Handguns
M&P 40 vs. Glock 22
The Glock 22 is another popular .40 S&W handgun that is often compared to the M&P 40. Both pistols are polymer-framed, striker-fired designs that are known for their reliability. The M&P 40 offers a more ergonomic grip and a modular grip system, which allows users to customize the fit of the pistol to their hand size. The Glock 22 is known for its simple design and ease of maintenance. Ultimately, the choice between the M&P 40 and the Glock 22 comes down to personal preference. [See also: Glock vs. M&P: Which is Better?]
M&P 40 vs. 9mm Handguns
9mm handguns have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their lower recoil and higher magazine capacity. The M&P 9 is a 9mm version of the M&P series that offers similar features and ergonomics to the M&P 40. While the .40 S&W cartridge delivers more stopping power than the 9mm cartridge, the 9mm cartridge is generally easier to control and allows for faster follow-up shots. The choice between the M&P 40 and the M&P 9 depends on the shooter’s priorities. If stopping power is the primary concern, the M&P 40 may be the better choice. If recoil management and magazine capacity are more important, the M&P 9 may be a better option.
Who is the M&P 40 For?
The M&P 40 is a versatile handgun that can be a good choice for a variety of users. It is a popular option for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and individuals who carry a handgun for self-defense. The M&P 40 is also a popular choice for sport shooting and recreational shooting. The modular grip system and ergonomic design make it a comfortable and controllable handgun for shooters of all skill levels. However, the .40 S&W cartridge can be challenging for some shooters to manage, so it is important to consider recoil sensitivity when choosing a handgun.
Conclusion
The Smith & Wesson M&P 40 is a reliable, modular, and user-friendly handgun that offers a compelling option for those who prefer the .40 S&W cartridge. Its ergonomic design, modular grip system, and durable construction make it a popular choice for law enforcement, self-defense, and sport shooting. While the .40 S&W cartridge produces more recoil than the 9mm cartridge, the M&P 40 is designed to mitigate recoil and provide a comfortable shooting experience. Overall, the M&P 40 is a well-rounded handgun that is worthy of consideration for anyone in the market for a .40 S&W pistol. The M&P 40 continues to be a relevant choice in a market flooded with options, proving its lasting appeal and effectiveness.
