Intro
Upgrade your Smith and Wesson 22 AR rifle with these 5 expert tips. Discover how to enhance accuracy, improve trigger control, and boost performance with aftermarket accessories, including scopes, stocks, and rail systems. Get the most out of your firearm with these essential upgrades and take your shooting to the next level.
Unlocking the Full Potential of Your Smith and Wesson M&P 22 AR
The Smith and Wesson M&P 22 AR is a popular firearm among enthusiasts, known for its reliability and accuracy. However, like any mass-produced firearm, it can benefit from upgrades to enhance its performance, ergonomics, and aesthetics. In this article, we will explore five ways to upgrade your Smith and Wesson M&P 22 AR, taking it to the next level.
Understanding the Smith and Wesson M&P 22 AR
Before diving into the upgrades, it's essential to understand the platform. The Smith and Wesson M&P 22 AR is a semi-automatic rifle chambered in.22 LR, designed for target shooting, hunting, and recreational purposes. It features a durable polymer construction, adjustable sights, and a Picatinny rail for optics. While it's an excellent firearm out of the box, there are areas for improvement.
Upgrade 1: Trigger Enhancements
The stock trigger on the Smith and Wesson M&P 22 AR is decent, but it can be improved upon. A trigger upgrade can significantly enhance the overall shooting experience. There are several options available, including:
- Trigger kits: These kits replace the existing trigger components with upgraded ones, providing a smoother, crisper trigger pull.
- Trigger shoes: These are replacement trigger shoes that can be installed to improve the trigger's feel and reduce creep.
- Trigger jobs: Some gunsmiths offer trigger job services, where they tune and adjust the existing trigger to improve its performance.
Benefits of Trigger Enhancements
- Improved accuracy due to a more consistent trigger pull
- Enhanced shooting experience with a smoother, crisper trigger
- Increased confidence in the firearm's reliability
Upgrade 2: Optics and Sighting Systems
The Smith and Wesson M&P 22 AR features a Picatinny rail, allowing for easy installation of optics and sighting systems. Upgrading the sighting system can significantly improve accuracy and enhance the shooting experience. Options include:
- Red dot sights: Fast and intuitive, red dot sights are ideal for close-quarters shooting and rapid target acquisition.
- Scopes: Offering higher magnification and better accuracy, scopes are suitable for longer-range shooting and hunting.
- Holographic sights: Combining the benefits of red dot sights and scopes, holographic sights offer a versatile and accurate sighting system.
Benefits of Optics and Sighting Systems
- Improved accuracy due to better sighting systems
- Enhanced shooting experience with faster target acquisition
- Increased versatility with different optic options
Upgrade 3: Ergonomic Enhancements
Ergonomic enhancements can significantly improve the overall shooting experience, making the firearm more comfortable and intuitive to use. Options include:
- Grips: Upgrading the grip can improve comfort and control, with options ranging from textured grips to ergonomic grip sleeves.
- Stock upgrades: Replacing the stock with a more ergonomic option can improve the firearm's fit and feel.
- Rail systems: Adding a rail system can provide a platform for accessories, such as lights, lasers, and grips.
Benefits of Ergonomic Enhancements
- Improved comfort and control during extended shooting sessions
- Enhanced shooting experience with a more intuitive firearm
- Increased versatility with accessory options
Upgrade 4: Muzzle Devices
Muzzle devices can improve the firearm's performance, reducing recoil and muzzle rise. Options include:
- Compensators: Reducing recoil and muzzle rise, compensators can improve accuracy and control.
- Muzzle brakes: Designed to reduce recoil and muzzle rise, muzzle brakes can enhance the shooting experience.
- Suppressors: Reducing noise and recoil, suppressors can improve accuracy and stealth.
Benefits of Muzzle Devices
- Improved accuracy due to reduced recoil and muzzle rise
- Enhanced shooting experience with reduced recoil
- Increased versatility with different muzzle device options
Upgrade 5: Accessories and Storage
Accessories and storage can enhance the overall ownership experience, providing convenience and protection for the firearm. Options include:
- Cases: Protecting the firearm during transportation and storage, cases can be hard-shell or soft-sided.
- Slings: Providing a comfortable and secure way to carry the firearm, slings can be single-point or two-point.
- Magazine pouches: Storing magazines securely and conveniently, magazine pouches can be attached to a belt or vest.
Benefits of Accessories and Storage
- Improved convenience with easy transportation and storage
- Enhanced protection for the firearm with cases and pouches
- Increased versatility with different accessory options
Smith and Wesson M&P 22 AR Image Gallery
By upgrading your Smith and Wesson M&P 22 AR, you can take its performance to the next level, enhancing its accuracy, ergonomics, and aesthetics. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a beginner, these upgrades can improve your overall shooting experience. Remember to always follow safety guidelines and consult with a professional gunsmith if you're unsure about any upgrades.