New Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 METAL pistol, the charm of heavy metal

With the new 9mm M&P9 M2.0 METAL, Smith & Wesson announces its first full size M&P pistol in an all-metal configuration. 

The return to all-metal guns – as opposed to the ever-popular polymer frame models – is another recent trend in the pistol world. Many manufacturers are now offering “all-metal” models or model variants in their product catalogs. It's not just a fit of nostalgia for the good ol' days when every firearm was made of steel or, at least, some solid metal alloy, and “plastic” was only used in toy guns: all-metal pistols actually offer some advantages over polymer-framed ones, mostly thanks to their higher weight that make them more controllable, reducing felt recoil and muzzle flip.  

M&P9 M2.0 METAL, compatible with all M2.0 magazines, slides holsters and palmswells

The M&P9 M2.0 METAL is not a tribute to the past, being a modern striker-fired gun featuring a T6 aluminum frame, a 4.25”/108 mm barrel, and a slide with optic cut. Magazine capacity is 17 round. 

Slide and frame show a distinctive Tungsten Gray Cerakote finish. Built on the M&P platform, the M&P9 M2.0 METAL is also compatible with all M2.0 magazines, slides holsters and palmswells, of course. Other features shared with the rest of M&P family include a low barrel bore axis, forward slide serrations, Picatinny slide on the dust cover, and the patented take-down lever and sear deactivation systems allow for disassembly without pulling the trigger.

The M2.0 flat face trigger allows for consistent finger placement and more accurate and repeatable shooting. The enhanced also provides a lighter and crisper trigger let-off. 

The textured polymer front strap – yes, there is some polymer even in this gun – contribute to a firm and comfortable grip, just like the 18-degree grip angle for natural point of aim and four interchangeable palmswell grip inserts (S, M, ML, L) for optimal hand fit and trigger reach. Magazine release is reversible.

Coming with two 17-round magazines, the  M&P9 M2.0 METAL bears a price tag of $899, some 270 bucks more than a standard polymer-framed M&P9 M2.0 in 9mm with the same barrel length.

Video: Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 METAL

Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 METAL specs and price