Introduction
The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 has rapidly become a favorite among firearms enthusiasts and law enforcement professionals alike. Its modular design, rugged construction, and reliable performance have cemented its place in the handgun market. However, even a great firearm can benefit from enhancements. One area where many shooters find room for improvement is the trigger. The factory trigger on the M&P 2.0, while functional, can sometimes feel a bit mushy, and the pull distance can be considered longer than ideal, affecting the overall shooting experience.
This is where aftermarket trigger upgrades come into play. Among the many available options, the Apex Tactical trigger stands out as a popular and effective solution to enhance the feel and performance of your M&P 2.0. This article delves deep into the world of the M&P 2.0 Apex Trigger, offering a comprehensive look at its features, benefits, and impact on your shooting. We’ll explore how the Apex trigger can transform your pistol’s performance, leading to a more refined, accurate, and enjoyable shooting experience.
Understanding the M&P 2.0 and Its Trigger
The Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 is built upon the foundation of its successful predecessor, the original M&P line. It features upgrades focused on enhancing ergonomics, trigger feel, and overall performance. The M&P 2.0 is known for its durable polymer frame, stainless steel slide, and user-friendly design. It’s a workhorse of a pistol designed to withstand the rigors of everyday carry, law enforcement, and competitive shooting. It often represents a good starting point for shooters of various skill levels.
The stock trigger system of the M&P 2.0 is generally regarded as safe and reliable. However, it often gets criticized for certain aspects. The pull weight, usually hovering around a range that makes it relatively easy to control is sometimes seen as a bit heavy. The trigger travel, or the distance the trigger needs to move before the gun fires, can feel long. The reset, the distance the trigger needs to travel forward after firing before it’s ready for the next shot, can also be perceived as extended. All of these features are perfectly acceptable and compliant with safety standards, but many shooters, particularly those used to higher-end handguns, find they can be improved.
The reasons for upgrading a trigger are multifaceted. For some, it’s about improving their accuracy potential. A lighter, crisper trigger allows for more precise shot placement. For others, it’s about comfort and control. A smoother, more responsive trigger reduces felt recoil and improves the overall shooting experience. For competitive shooters, trigger upgrades are often essential to gain that edge. Trigger upgrades can also contribute to faster split times and better shot consistency. Overall, trigger upgrades offer a very personal experience, each shooter having their own requirements.
Introducing the Apex Tactical Trigger for M&P 2.0
Apex Tactical Specialties has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality aftermarket parts for firearms. Their focus is on improving trigger performance, enhancing ergonomics, and creating products that are both reliable and easy to install. They are very well-regarded in the firearm community for their dedication to improving trigger systems. Apex Tactical has created a series of trigger kits and components. They offer various different styles of triggers to accommodate the different preferences of the shooter, each one designed to improve the M&P 2.0’s factory trigger characteristics.
The features found in Apex triggers typically bring about significant improvements. These improvements include a lighter trigger pull weight. The Apex trigger’s design and spring configurations can reduce the pull weight compared to the factory trigger, making it easier to control and more consistent to pull. They also typically create a shorter pre-travel. Pre-travel is the distance the trigger moves before it engages the firing mechanism. A reduced pre-travel means the trigger engages faster and gets the shooter to the break point quicker. This feature is also a contributor to the more sensitive trigger feel.
The break, or the point at which the trigger releases the firing pin, is typically crisp and clean with an Apex trigger. This translates to a more predictable and accurate shot. The shorter reset, the distance the trigger needs to travel forward to be ready for the next shot, allows for faster follow-up shots. The Apex trigger aims to give shooters greater control over their firearm and overall improve the speed of shooting.
Apex also often includes enhanced ergonomics. These can range from trigger shape to trigger face design. These ergonomic improvements often enhance the overall feel of the trigger.
Installation Considerations
(Note: *Installing a trigger is a mechanical operation. Some firearm knowledge is recommended. This guide is for information only; always consult a qualified gunsmith if you are unsure about any aspect of the process.*)
Before beginning any work on your M&P 2.0, ensure the firearm is completely unloaded. Verify the chamber is empty, and remove the magazine. Double-check, and triple-check that the firearm is safe. Installation will typically require certain tools, such as a punch set to remove pins. You may also need a small hammer, a bench block, and a set of non-marring tools for prying or pushing components. Some Apex trigger kits will also include specific tools.
Disassembly of the M&P 2.0 slide involves removing the recoil spring and guide rod, and then taking off the firing pin assembly. Remove the slide and frame, and you will have access to the trigger components. Once the slide is disassembled, you will remove the factory trigger components, usually the trigger itself, trigger bar, and sear. Carefully compare each component with the Apex replacements to ensure a perfect fit. Refer to Apex’s detailed instructions; most kits include step-by-step guides. This is an operation where proper technique and careful attention to detail are crucial. It’s much better to take your time to ensure each step is done correctly.
Reassembly involves putting the new Apex trigger and other components back into the frame. Take extreme care to ensure all springs, pins, and other parts are correctly positioned. After reassembly, perform a function check to ensure the trigger works as expected. Test the trigger pull, the reset, and the firing pin. If you encounter any issues, go back and check that all the parts are correctly placed and seated. Proper installation is critical for the safety and reliability of your firearm.
Performance Testing and Review
The most obvious advantage of the Apex Trigger is the change in trigger pull weight. The stock trigger pull on a typical M&P 2.0 might measure around six pounds. With the Apex trigger installed, that pull weight can often drop significantly, perhaps to around four pounds or even lower, depending on the specific kit. This reduction in pull weight can make a big difference in terms of accuracy.
The trigger feel is also greatly enhanced. The mushy, sometimes gritty feel of the stock trigger is replaced with a much cleaner and more consistent break. The shorter pre-travel and over-travel, give the trigger a snappy, responsive feel. The reset is shorter and more tactile, making it easier to feel and hear the trigger reset. It promotes faster follow-up shots.
Accuracy testing can be very revealing. While trigger upgrades aren’t magic, and they cannot fix poor fundamentals, the improved trigger feel often leads to improved shot groupings. Tighter groupings are possible at typical pistol ranges. The Apex trigger gives the shooter better control over the shot process.
In terms of reliability, the Apex trigger is known for its robust build quality. The quality of the trigger and related components are top-notch. Proper installation is critical. The Apex trigger is made to function in a reliable manner. It’s important to note that all firearms require regular maintenance.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The advantages of the Apex trigger are numerous. As previously stated, they include a lighter, crisper, and more consistent trigger pull, leading to improved accuracy. There’s also a shorter trigger pull. A good trigger can greatly enhance the shooting experience. The trigger feels smoother and more predictable. The Apex trigger kits are well-designed, and the quality of construction is excellent.
The disadvantages are relatively minor. The cost of the Apex trigger kit represents an investment, but it’s usually worth the benefits. Installation can be time-consuming, particularly if you’re new to firearms maintenance. If you’re not comfortable with disassembly, reassembly, and function checking, professional installation by a qualified gunsmith is recommended.
Final Thoughts
The Apex Trigger for the M&P 2.0 is a significant upgrade that elevates the performance of the pistol. It addresses the shortcomings of the factory trigger, resulting in a more enjoyable, and a potentially more accurate shooting experience. By offering a lighter pull weight, shorter travel, and a crisper break, the Apex trigger allows shooters to maximize their potential.
Shooters of all skill levels, from casual range visitors to competitive shooters, will find the Apex trigger to be a worthy investment. If you want to transform your M&P 2.0 from a good pistol into a great pistol, an Apex trigger upgrade is well worth considering.
Call to Action:
Consider investing in the Apex trigger. The rewards are a more efficient and precise shooting experience. Explore the many different options that are available. Research the various Apex kits. Take a look at reviews from fellow firearm owners. If you’re ready to elevate your M&P 2.0 to its full potential, consider adding an Apex trigger.
