https://www.smith-wesson.com/product/m-p-45-m2.0-thumb-safety
The Smith & Wesson M&P 45 is a reliable full-size pistol chambered in .45 ACP with a polymer frame and steel slide. You’ll find it offers a 10+1 capacity in full-size models and 7+1 in compact versions, with prices ranging from $369.99 to $759.99 for specialized variants. It features interchangeable grip sizes, a low bore axis for better control, and optional thumb safety. Whether you’re considering the standard model or Performance Center C.O.R.E. variant, there’s much more to explore.
Key Takeaways
- Full-size .45 ACP pistol from Smith & Wesson featuring polymer frame construction, 4.5-inch barrel, and comfortable 18-degree grip angle.
- Standard magazine capacity of 10+1 rounds in full-size model with extended magazine options available for 11+1 capacity.
- Priced between $369.99 for the base model to $759.99 for the Performance Center C.O.R.E. variant with ported slide and barrel.
- Available with interchangeable grip sizes, optional thumb safety, and durable stainless steel chassis for enhanced reliability.
- Weighs 29.8 ounces with a 1.3-inch width, featuring a low bore axis design for improved accuracy and recoil management.
Description
The M&P 45 is Smith & Wesson’s full-size .45 ACP offering, featuring a polymer frame construction with a steel slide and a 4.5-inch barrel. You’ll find it comfortable to shoot thanks to its low bore axis and 18-degree grip angle, making it ideal for medium-sized hands.
The pistol includes optional thumb safety, interchangeable grip sizes, and a durable stainless steel chassis that acts as an internal shield.
Price Range
Pricing for the M&P 45 spans a broad spectrum to suit different budgets and needs. You’ll find options from the base model to the premium M&P45 M2.0 45 ACP Performance Center variant with its ported stainless steel barrel. The Flat Dark Earth models command a higher price point, while a threaded barrel kit offers customization options.
| Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Base M&P 45 | No thumb safety | $369.99 |
| Standard Full-size | Thumb safety | $399.99 |
| Flat Dark Earth | Special finish | $519.99 |
| Performance Center C.O.R.E | Ported slide/barrel | $759.99 |
Specifications
The M&P 45 pistol balances power with control through its 29.8 oz weight and .45 AUTO chambering. You’ll find superior ergonomics in the full-size frame, featuring an aggressive grip texture and low barrel bore axis for enhanced recoil management. The pistol’s durable construction and specifications make it suitable for both duty and personal defense applications.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 29.8 oz |
| Width | 1.3 inches |
| Height | 5.6 inches |
Weight
Weight specifications vary between M&P 45 models, with the Full-Size version weighing 29.8 oz and the Compact model coming in lighter at 22.7 oz.
You’ll find the pistol’s overall weight falls within the 4.5-5 lb range, thanks to its Zytel polymer frame construction. This lightweight design ensures you’ll maintain control while keeping the firearm manageable during use.
Barrel Length
Multiple barrel length options define the M&P 45 pistol lineup, ranging from 3.5 inches on compact models to 5.5 inches on specialized variants.
You’ll find the full-size models typically feature a 4.5-inch barrel, while the Performance Center C.O.R.E. version comes with a 4.25-inch barrel.
The longer 5-inch and 5.5-inch configurations are available through the Threaded Barrel Kit, affecting the pistol’s velocity and handling characteristics.
Material Made Out Of
Building upon its precision-engineered dimensions, the M&P 45 pistol combines a durable zytel polymer frame with stainless steel components to create a robust and reliable firearm.
You’ll find the slide and barrel are coated with a protective melonite finish that prevents corrosion and wear. This combination of zytel polymer and stainless steel ensures your pistol maintains its integrity even under sweaty carry conditions.
Chambered In
The M&P 45 packs the hard-hitting .45 ACP cartridge, delivering a full-size frame that’s available in both standard and compact configurations. You’ll have 10+1 rounds of .45 ACP ammunition at your thumb’s reach, housed in a well-balanced platform that measures 1.3 inches wide and 5.6 inches tall, weighing just 29.8 ounces.
Smith & Wesson’s Lifetime Service Policy backs this powerful chambering.
Capacity
Standard capacity magazines for the M&P 45 hold 10+1 rounds in its full-size configuration, while the compact model carries 7+1 rounds of .45 ACP ammunition.
You’ll find extended magazine options that increase magazine capacity to 11+1 rounds for the full-size and 8+1 for the compact variant. The magazine well’s design ensures smooth reloading through its quick-release system and ergonomic insertion point.
Trigger Pull
While Smith & Wesson advertises a 6.5-pound trigger pull weight for the M&P 45, you’ll notice it feels somewhat heavier and grittier compared to its 9mm counterpart. Despite this characteristic, you can still achieve accurate shots with proper technique.
The trigger provides clear feedback with both tactile and audible reset points. For a duty-style pistol, the trigger pull remains serviceable, though not as refined as aftermarket options.
Safety?
Moving beyond trigger mechanics, safety options deserve careful consideration when selecting an M&P 45. You’ll find the pistol available with or without an ambidextrous thumb safety.
If you choose the mounted safety version, you can carry it cocked and locked, similar to a 1911 platform. While the safety-equipped model offers additional protection, you’ll save money by selecting the standard version.
Action
Built around a striker-fired action, the M&P 45 delivers proven reliability in a full-size .45 ACP platform. The semi-automatic operation ensures consistent performance with each trigger pull, while the centerfire design provides dependable ignition.
Though the exact pull weight isn’t specified, you’ll find the striker mechanism offers a clean, crisp break typical of M&P’s proven action system.
Optic Ready?
The M&P 45 comes standard as a non-optics-ready platform, featuring only traditional iron sights from the factory. While you can upgrade to night sights, the slide isn’t milled to accept red dot optics.
If you’re looking to mount an optical sight, you’ll need custom gunsmith work to modify the slide – a potentially expensive upgrade that isn’t covered under factory warranty like some other M&P models.
Review
You’ll find the M&P 45’s reliability stands out with consistent performance across various ammunition types, while its superior ergonomics and interchangeable grip system allow for excellent customization to your hand size. The pistol’s advantages include its durable construction, good capacity for its class, and enhanced accuracy due to the low bore axis, though you may need time to adjust to the trigger characteristics and slightly wider grip.
The lifetime service policy gives you peace of mind, but you’ll want to practice extensively with the controls if you choose the manual safety version, as the placement requires deliberate training for efficient operation.
Pros
Packing impressive features into a reliable platform, Smith & Wesson’s M&P 45 pistol stands out with several noteworthy advantages. The well-designed grip texture provides superior control, while the durable construction ensures longevity.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Ergonomics | Enhanced handling control |
| Armornite Finish | Superior rust resistance |
| Compact Design | Excellent concealment options |
You’ll appreciate the M&P 45 Shield’s consistent accuracy and proven reliability with various ammunition types, making it an excellent choice for defensive applications.
Cons
While offering many benefits, the M&P 45 Shield comes with several notable drawbacks that potential buyers should consider. The lack of texturing makes the grip slippery, and the complex take-down lever rotation can frustrate users. Wesson’s M&P45 M2.0 THUMB safety model has a notably heavy trigger and limited 6+1 or 7+1 capacity.
| Feature | Issue | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Grip | Smooth frame | Compromised control |
| Capacity | Limited rounds | Reduced firepower |
| Disassembly | Complex process | Maintenance challenges |
Reliability
Despite its drawbacks, the M&P 45 pistol shines in its proven reliability record. You’ll find it consistently performs through thousands of rounds, and you’ve always felt confident in its dependable operation with various ammunition types, including Winchester and Armscor 230gr loads.
Its robust construction and flawless functioning have earned it top reliability ratings, making it a trustworthy choice for defensive applications.
Similar Models
Smith & Wesson offers several variants of the M&P45 to suit different user preferences and applications. You’ll find full-size and compact versions available with or without external thumb safeties.
Even though all models maintain the same point of aim, the Dark Earth variant features a distinctive colored frame, while the Performance Center C.O.R.E. model includes a ported slide and barrel for enhanced control. The Threaded Barrel Kit accommodates suppressors.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
Several prominent manufacturers offer .45 ACP pistols that compete directly with the M&P45. The Glock 30S provides enhanced magazine capacity with its double-stack design, while the Springfield XDS 45 3.3 offers a slim profile at $549.
You’ll find the premium Kahr PM45 as another single-stack option. The Sig P320 Compact and the standard model M&P 45 Full-Size round out your choices.
Maintenance
Like any quality firearm, the M&P 45 requires proper maintenance to match the performance standards set by its competitors. You’ll get pretty good results by regularly cleaning and lubricating your pistol with quality materials.
Inspect critical components for wear, including the barrel, slide, and trigger mechanism. Store your firearm in a dry environment and consult a certified gunsmith for major repairs.
History
While the M&P series had already established itself in law enforcement circles, the M&P 45 made its debut in 2007 as Smith & Wesson’s answer to growing demand for a polymer-framed .45 ACP pistol.
Just months ago, this pistol’s introduction expanded the M&P line to include a robust .45 caliber option designed specifically for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and civilian shooters requiring a reliable service weapon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Rounds Does the M&P 45 Hold?
The magazine capacity depends on which M&P 45 model you’re using. You’ll get 10+1 rounds with the full-size version, while the Compact model holds either 6+1 or 7+1 rounds.
If you’re looking for more firepower, you can use extended magazines in the full-size model to increase your capacity to 15+1 rounds. Remember, the “+1” indicates an additional round you can keep chambered.
What Does MP Pistol Mean?
Modern Military and Police – that’s what M&P stands for in your pistol’s designation. While you might’ve guessed it meant “Military Pistol,” Smith & Wesson specifically designed this popular platform for professional use by military personnel and police officers.
You’ll find these reliable handguns available in various caliber designations, from 9mm to .45 ACP. The M&P line represents S&W’s commitment to providing dependable firearms for both duty and defensive use.
Are M&P Pistols Any Good?
Based on reliability assessments, you’ll find that M&P pistols are highly regarded in the firearms community. They’re known for their durability, consistent performance, and ergonomic design. You can trust their proven track record in both civilian and law enforcement use.
They offer good value for your money with features like crisp triggers and manageable recoil. While personal preference varies, you’ll find M&P pistols deliver solid reliability and accuracy for defensive purposes.
What Is a 45-Caliber Pistol Good For?
A .45 caliber pistol is primarily designed for self-defense applications, offering significant stopping power at close range.
You’ll find it particularly effective in personal protection scenarios due to its ability to deliver substantial kinetic energy to the target.
Though you’ll have fewer rounds compared to smaller calibers, the .45’s larger bullet diameter can provide increased effectiveness.
Conclusion
You’ll find the M&P 45 stands as a reliable sentinel in your arsenal, much like a trusted guard dog that’s always alert and ready. Its proven track record in law enforcement and civilian use speaks volumes. When properly maintained and respected, it’ll serve as your steadfast companion. Remember to train regularly, store securely, and follow proper safety protocols—your diligence is the key to this firearm’s legacy.
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