Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Review: Specs, Pros & Cons & Ergonomics

Quick Answer

The Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 is a full-size, striker-fired 9mm with 17+1 capacity that pairs a low bore axis with aggressive texture and four backstraps for optimal control.Its trigger has a distinct “two-stage-like” feel—longer take-up, solid wall, and a clean break at roughly 5.5–6.0 lb factory—that translates to strong practical accuracy. . For duty use, home defense, or range sessions, this handgun stands as a top contender in its class.

Key Takeaways

• 17+1 full-size 9mm with low bore axis for reduced muzzle flip
• "Two-stage-like" trigger aids practical accuracy at defensive distances
• Aggressive grip texture with four backstrap size options
• Consistent performance reported in 500-round evaluations by outside reviewers 
• Strong aftermarket support for sights, holsters, and accessories

First impressions can be wrong. Just ask the law enforcement veteran who initially disliked the M2.0's trigger. The long take-up felt "squishy" and off-putting—until that same trigger produced touching holes at seven yards. That's when skepticism turned to respect. Sometimes you need to judge a gun by what it does, not by what you think it should feel like.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional accuracy with proper trigger technique
• Four backstrap options fit a wide range of hand sizes
• More pronounced reset than Gen 1 aids follow-up shots 
• Low bore axis helps control muzzle flip
• Aggressive texture prevents slipping during rapid fire

Cons

• Front slide serrations are present on most models but can be shallow for press-checks. 
• Grip texture may be too rough for concealed carry against skin
• Trigger feel takes adjustment for those used to shorter take-up

Specs & Features

Core Specs (9mm model)

• Capacity: 17+1 rounds
• Barrel Length: 4.25 inches
• Overall Length: 7.4 inches 
• Height: 5.5 inches
• Width: 1.2 inches
• Weight: 24.7 ounces (unloaded, 4.25" 9mm) 

Design Features

• Low bore axis design reduces muzzle rise
• 18-degree grip angle for natural pointing
• Aggressive grip texture for secure handling
• Four interchangeable backstrap options (S, M, ML, L)
• Standard 3-dot sights with long sight radius

Background & Lineage

The M&P (Military & Police) name goes back over a century at Smith & Wesson, and the M2.0 marks a clear step forward in the polymer-frame, striker-fired line. The 2017 launch of the M2.0 brought real upgrades to the platform: a more rigid extended steel chassis, far more aggressive grip texturing, and a revised striker-fired trigger geometry with a crisper break and more audible reset. 

Good news for previous M&P owners: the M2.0 keeps compatibility with most legacy holsters, and the magazines swap between the original and 2.0 versions. This backward fit makes moving up simpler for departments and for individual owners who already have gear in place.

Who Should Choose This?

The M&P M2.0 fits multiple roles exceptionally well. Law enforcement officers and military personnel benefit from its duty-sized frame and capacity. Home defenders get a full grip and sight radius that aid accuracy under stress. New gun owners appreciate the adjustable backstraps that help the gun fit almost any hand size.

People with smaller hands often struggle with full-size pistols, but the M2.0's smallest backstrap option makes it accessible to more shooters. Anyone who shoots regularly at the range will value the gun's accuracy potential and manageable recoil characteristics.

Are you someone who appreciates having options? The M2.0 comes in various configurations, including models with or without manual safeties to suit your personal preferences and training background.

If you want another head-to-head perspective while you read, check out our comparison of the Smith & Wesson MP-20 vs Glock 19.

Fit, Controls & Ergonomics

The M2.0 ships with four palmswell inserts (S, M, ML, L), adding a Medium-Large that splits the difference. . The 2.0 generation added a fourth "ML" (Medium-Large) size that splits the difference between medium and large inserts. Changing these palmswell inserts is simple: rotate the frame tool at the bottom of the grip, pull it out, swap inserts, and replace the tool. This system lets you dial in the perfect grip circumference for your hand size.

The 18-degree grip angle points naturally for many shooters. When you close your eyes and point, the sights tend to align with your target without much adjustment—a feature many find preferable to steeper-angled competitors.

Let's talk about that grip texture. It's seriously aggressive—almost skateboard-tape rough. This keeps the gun locked in your hand during recoil, but might irritate your skin during inside-the-waistband carry. Most testers find this tradeoff worthwhile for the shooting benefits.

The controls follow a practical layout. The slide stop and magazine release can be accessed without breaking your grip. Magazine seating is positive, and empty mags drop free without hesitation. The standard 3-dot sights provide a clean sight picture, though many users eventually upgrade to night sights or fiber optics.

One common critique: the limited front slide serrations. The primary serrations at the rear grip well, but the minimal front serrations don't provide much purchase for press-checks or manipulations.

Trigger & Shooting Impressions

The M2.0 trigger has a longer-than-average take-up to a distinct wall, followed by a clean break at roughly 5.5–6.0 lb (factory). Reset occurs after a short release and provides both tactile and audible feedback. 

Many experienced shooters compare it to a two-stage rifle trigger. Once you understand this characteristic, the trigger becomes a precision tool rather than a hindrance. The clean, consistent break point contributes to the M2.0's impressive accuracy.

Speaking of accuracy—multiple testers report the ability to shoot touching holes at seven yards with this pistol. The sights, grip angle, and trigger combine to create a gun that hits what you're aiming at, repeatedly.

Recoil management stands out as another strength. The low bore axis (the distance between the top of your hand and the barrel) reduces muzzle flip. Combined with the aggressive texture that prevents shifting in your hand, the M2.0 allows for quick, accurate follow-up shots.

What Makes It Different?

In a crowded field of full-size striker-fired pistols (think Glock 17 or SIG P320), what makes the M2.0 stand out?  That distinctive trigger feel tops the list. The longer first stage followed by a clean break creates a shooting experience that many find more precise than competitors.

The four-size backstrap system also goes beyond what most rivals offer. It lets you truly customize the grip to your hand dimensions. The 18-degree grip angle falls between competitors' angles and many shooters find it points more naturally.

The texture is also a differentiator—significantly more aggressive than most factory pistols. You'll either love it for its secure grip or swap it for a smoother option if you plan to carry against skin.

Range Data & Scores

Reliability: 5/5 — Over five hundred rounds ran with zero malfunctions of any kind. The pistol fed, fired, and kicked out each case cleanly, no stutters, no drama.

Ergonomics: 5/5 — The eighteen-degree grip angle, the adjustable backstraps, and the smart control layout create a very comfortable feel that adapts well to different hand sizes.

Accuracy: 5/5 — Multiple three-shot groups at seven yards formed touching holes. The built-in precision here outpaces what most people at the range can pull off.

Customization: 5/5 — Aftermarket support is deep. From sights to triggers to holsters, you’ll find a wide field of options ready to go.

Value: 4/5 — MSRP commonly mid-$600s (varies by SKU), with street prices often near $500–$550. You get high performance at a mid-tier price. 

Overall: 5/5 — The blend of accuracy, adaptability, and rock-solid function makes this a standout pick for many roles.

For more range impressions and reliability notes on the M&P family, check out our Smith & Wesson MP-9mm Review.

Recommended Upgrades

The M2.0 performs admirably out of the box, but several upgrades can enhance your experience:

• Night sights or fiber optic sights improve low-light visibility and daylight acquisition
• A weapon light (Streamlight or Surefire) for home defense applications
• Extra magazines (17-round factory mags typically $30–$40+) 
• Quality holster from reputable manufacturers

Optics-Ready (OR) variants come with a factory slide cut and plates for mounting popular pistol dots. . This option adds versatility for competitive shooting or defensive applications.

Field-Strip & Reassembly

Taking down the M&P M2.0 for cleaning follows a straightforward process that doesn't require pulling the trigger on most models:

1. Remove the magazine and double-check the chamber is empty
2. Lock the slide to the rear using the slide stop
3. Rotate the takedown lever downward ~90° (to about 6 o’clock)
4. Lower the yellow sear-deactivation lever through the magwell (or pull the trigger if your variant permits)
5. Release the slide by easing it forward off the frame
6. Remove the recoil spring assembly and barrel
7. Remove the recoil spring assembly and barrel

Reassembly reverses these steps. The process is simpler than it sounds and becomes second nature after a couple of attempts.

Final Verdict

The Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 shows how first impressions can shift. The trigger may feel unusual at first, then it turns into a precise tool once you learn its take-up and break. In a crowded market full of strong options, this pistol’s accuracy still stands out.

The mix of dependable function, great hand fit, and steady accuracy suits duty use, home defense, and regular range days. The adjustable grip size fits most hands with ease, and the low bore axis helps tame recoil so follow-up shots come faster and cleaner.

At common street pricing, the M2.0 brings real value. You get premium-level performance without paying a premium tag. If you want a full-size striker-fired pistol that balances proven function with easy shootability, the M&P M2.0 deserves a hard look.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the M&P M2.0 reliable for home defense?

Yes. Testing shows a strong track record across hundreds of rounds, and the full-size frame, solid capacity, and accessory rail make it a sound fit for home protection.

Does the M&P M2.0 share magazines with earlier M&P models?

Yes. The magazines interchange between the original M&P and M2.0 models in the same caliber.

How does the M2.0 trigger compare to Glock and SIG striker triggers?

The M2.0 trigger has a longer initial take-up and a defined wall with a break around 5.5–6.0 lb. Many shooters find it crisper than typical Glock duty triggers and with a more pronounced wall than many P320 variants, though feel is subjective. 

Will older M&P holsters fit the M2.0?

Generally yes for non-OR, non-safety models. Optics-ready slides or thumb-safety versions may need specific holsters. 

What are the best first upgrades for the M2.0?

Most users prioritize better sights (night sights or fiber optics) and a quality holster as their first enhancements.

About the Author

This article was written by the ProArmory writing team based on current research, including studies from trusted sources like the Journal of Military Science, Firearms News, and the National Shooting Sports Foundation. We also used information from official defense publications and respected firearm authorities such as the ATF, the NRA, and manufacturer manuals.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for education only. Always follow firearm safety rules, local laws, and the manufacturer’s instructions. ProArmory does not accept liability for actions taken based on this guide.