Intro
Enhance your shooting experience with these 7 upgrades for your Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22. Discover how to improve accuracy, increase firepower, and customize your rifle with aftermarket accessories, including scopes, stocks, and muzzle devices. Take your 15-22 to the next level with these practical and effective modifications.
Upgrading your Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 can be an exciting project for any gun enthusiast. With a few simple modifications, you can enhance the performance, accuracy, and overall shooting experience of your rifle. In this article, we'll explore seven ways to upgrade your M&P 15-22, from simple tweaks to more advanced modifications.
The Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 is a popular choice among shooters due to its reliability, durability, and affordability. However, like any firearm, it can benefit from upgrades to improve its performance and make it more tailored to your shooting needs. Whether you're a hunter, competitor, or simply a recreational shooter, upgrading your M&P 15-22 can be a great way to breathe new life into your rifle.
Upgrade 1: Improve the Trigger
One of the simplest and most effective upgrades for the M&P 15-22 is replacing the factory trigger. The stock trigger is functional but can be heavy and have a lot of creep. By installing a high-quality aftermarket trigger, you can reduce the trigger pull weight and improve the overall shooting experience.
There are several options available, including triggers from companies like Timney, Geissele, and CMC. These triggers are designed to provide a smooth, crisp pull and can be installed with minimal tools and expertise.
Benefits of Upgrading the Trigger
- Improved accuracy due to reduced trigger pull weight
- Enhanced shooting experience with a smooth, crisp trigger pull
- Increased confidence in your shooting abilities
Upgrade 2: Add a Free-Float Handguard
The factory handguard on the M&P 15-22 is functional but can be restrictive when it comes to adding accessories. By installing a free-float handguard, you can create a more versatile rifle that can accommodate a variety of accessories, such as lights, lasers, and scopes.
Free-float handguards are designed to allow the barrel to float freely, which can improve accuracy by reducing barrel pressure and vibration. They also provide a more comfortable shooting experience by allowing you to customize the handguard to fit your needs.
Benefits of Adding a Free-Float Handguard
- Improved accuracy due to reduced barrel pressure and vibration
- Increased versatility with more accessory options
- Enhanced shooting experience with a customizable handguard
Upgrade 3: Install a High-Quality Barrel
The factory barrel on the M&P 15-22 is adequate but can be improved upon. By installing a high-quality aftermarket barrel, you can enhance the accuracy and performance of your rifle.
Aftermarket barrels are designed to provide improved accuracy, durability, and corrosion resistance. They are often made with high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or chrome-moly, and feature advanced rifling designs that improve bullet stabilization.
Benefits of Upgrading the Barrel
- Improved accuracy due to advanced rifling designs and high-quality materials
- Enhanced durability and corrosion resistance
- Increased confidence in your shooting abilities
Upgrade 4: Add a High-Quality Optic
A high-quality optic can greatly enhance the shooting experience and improve accuracy. By installing a scope or red dot sight, you can quickly and accurately engage targets at various distances.
There are many options available, including scopes from companies like Leupold, Nikon, and Vortex, and red dot sights from companies like Aimpoint and Holosun. When choosing an optic, consider the type of shooting you'll be doing, the distance to your targets, and the level of magnification you need.
Benefits of Adding a High-Quality Optic
- Improved accuracy due to enhanced targeting capabilities
- Enhanced shooting experience with faster target acquisition
- Increased confidence in your shooting abilities
Upgrade 5: Install a Muzzle Brake
A muzzle brake can greatly reduce recoil and muzzle rise, making it easier to control the rifle during rapid fire. By installing a muzzle brake, you can improve the overall shooting experience and reduce fatigue.
There are many options available, including muzzle brakes from companies like SilencerCo, AAC, and SureFire. When choosing a muzzle brake, consider the type of shooting you'll be doing, the level of recoil reduction you need, and the overall design of the brake.
Benefits of Installing a Muzzle Brake
- Reduced recoil and muzzle rise for improved control
- Enhanced shooting experience with reduced fatigue
- Increased confidence in your shooting abilities
Upgrade 6: Add a High-Quality Stock
The factory stock on the M&P 15-22 is functional but can be improved upon. By installing a high-quality aftermarket stock, you can enhance the overall shooting experience and improve accuracy.
Aftermarket stocks are designed to provide improved ergonomics, durability, and adjustability. They are often made with high-quality materials, such as fiberglass or aluminum, and feature advanced designs that improve shooting comfort and accuracy.
Benefits of Upgrading the Stock
- Improved ergonomics for enhanced shooting comfort
- Enhanced durability and adjustability
- Increased confidence in your shooting abilities
Upgrade 7: Install a High-Quality Magazine
A high-quality magazine can greatly enhance the shooting experience and improve reliability. By installing a high-quality aftermarket magazine, you can reduce the risk of malfunctions and improve overall performance.
There are many options available, including magazines from companies like Magpul, PMAG, and Lancer. When choosing a magazine, consider the type of shooting you'll be doing, the level of reliability you need, and the overall design of the magazine.
Benefits of Upgrading the Magazine
- Improved reliability and reduced risk of malfunctions
- Enhanced shooting experience with faster reloads
- Increased confidence in your shooting abilities
Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Upgrade Image Gallery
What is the best upgrade for the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22?
+The best upgrade for the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 depends on your specific needs and preferences. However, some popular upgrades include installing a high-quality optic, adding a free-float handguard, and upgrading the trigger.
How do I install a free-float handguard on my M&P 15-22?
+Installing a free-float handguard on your M&P 15-22 requires some technical expertise and specialized tools. It's recommended to consult the manufacturer's instructions and seek professional assistance if needed.
What is the benefit of upgrading the trigger on my M&P 15-22?
+Upgrading the trigger on your M&P 15-22 can improve the overall shooting experience by providing a smoother, crisper trigger pull. This can lead to improved accuracy and increased confidence in your shooting abilities.
By following these seven upgrades, you can enhance the performance, accuracy, and overall shooting experience of your Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting out, upgrading your rifle can be a great way to improve your skills and confidence.