First Look: Smith & Wesson M&P Sport III Rifle
The Smith & Wesson M&P Sport carbines have a well-earned reputation as a high-quality, no-frills introduction to the world of AR-15 pattern rifles. Now Smith & Wesson is rolling out its third generation of this popular product line, the new Smith & Wesson M&P Sport III.
Perhaps the biggest and most obvious differences between the M&P Sport III and the previous Smith and Wesson M&P Sport iterations is the former models’ A2 style fixed front sight post and standard carbine length gas system have been replaced by a sleeker and more modern M-Lok-equipped full-length, aluminum freefloat handguard. As a full length unit, the new M-Lok handguard calls for the use of a low profile gas block that’s tucked underneath the rail. By reconfiguring the front end of the rifle with this new handguard, the M&P Sport III is easier to accessorize and customize. Smith & Wesson also changed from the standard carbine-length gas tube to a modern contemporary mid-length gas tube. These are approximately 2 inches longer than carbine gas tubes and the extra length helps ease the overall pressure of the system and provides for smoother operation and a less harsh recoil impulse. To help keep overall weight down and increase its handiness, the M&P Sport III uses a thinner and lighter weight pencil-barrel profile. The barrel’s 1:8-inch rifling twist can still stabilize virtually the entire weight range of 5.56 mm projectiles, from the lighter ones that come in under 50 grains to the heavy-for-caliber 77-grain and beyond.
Smith & Wesson M&P Sport III Specifications
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- Width: 2.5 inches
- Length: 35 inches
- Height: 8 inches
- Weight: 6 pounds, 5 ounces
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO
- Capacity: 30 rounds
- Action: Gas-operated
- Barrel Length: 16 inches
- Grips: Polymer
- Sights: None; optics ready
- Optic Ready: Yes
- Safety: Thumb safety
- Color/Finish: Black
- Threaded Barrel: Yes
- Barrel Material: 4140 CM
- Frame: Aluminum
- Number Of Magazines: 1
- Stock: Adjustable
The new Smith & Wesson M&P Sport III AR15 carbine has a retail price of $799. Please visit smith-wesson.com to learn more about this new firearm.
Article by SHOOTING ILLUSTRATED STAFF
