Smith & Wesson Handguns

Smith & Wesson is the largest handgun manufacturer in the United States. They are well known for their introduction of over 15 types of ammunition as well as over 70 revolvers and 20 semi-automatic pistols. All of these accomplishments have occurred since the company’s beginnings in 1852.

In 1994, the Sigma series of semi-auto pistols was launched providing a series of locked breech recoil operated pistols. The frame is manufactured of polymer with stainless steel or carbon steel slides and barrels. In 1996, the Sigma was updated to a compact model by shortening of the barrel to 4 inches from the previous 4.5 inches. Another modification in 1999 resulted in the checkering of the grip and the addition of an accessory rail for lights, lasers and other accessories.

The debut of the M&P polymer framed pistol intended for law enforcement arrived in 2005. With the different model sizes available however, it is a good handgun choice for civilians as well. Their rounds per magazine range from 10 to 17 combined with the available calibers of 9mm, .40, .357 and .45 ensures the Smith & Wesson meets the needs of all handgun users for a variety of practices. Barrel lengths are 3.5 inches on the compact model, 4.25 inches on the standard, and 4.5 inches on the M&P45. Their respective weights without magazines are 21.7 to 22.2 ounces for the compact model, 24 to 25.5 ounces for the standard, and 29.6 ounces for the M&P45.

All Smith & Wesson revolvers are equipped with an internal locking system. This mechanism is unobtrusive for the most part and renders the firearm inoperable. It is activated with a key designed specifically for this purpose. There are several different safety features for the M&P model that are quite prominent. Equipped with a deactivation lever, the shooter must first check the chamber in order to disassemble the handgun. This prevents the necessity of having to pull the trigger in order for disassembly to be completed. With the passive trigger safety, the firearm cannot be discharged without the trigger being completely depressed, even in situations of a dropped weapon. There are also optional security extras available, such as an internal lock or magazine disconnect.

Another feature that is appreciated on the M&P is the ergonomic interchangeable grip, along with reversible magazine release and slide stop. Tritium sights are an available option as well, but only for the full sized versions. The .45 ACP model also has an option of a manual safety.

To date there are over 270 law enforcement agencies in the United States who have purchased already, or plan to purchase their firearms, from the M&P line of pistols. Add to this the additional accessories available such as handcuffs and holsters, and you will find that Smith & Wesson is the longest running manufacturer of law enforcement-related supplies.