Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin Review

One Week with the Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin

The Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin is a precision-engineered replacement part designed to resolve common ignition issues in the popular Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 platform. It promises to bring reliability back to what is often a go-to plinking and training rifle, a promise that piqued my interest given my own experiences with the platform. I’ve spent over a decade in various demanding environments, from dusty workshops to rigorous field testing, and I’ve learned to appreciate components that address specific mechanical shortcomings with well-thought-out design.

My journey to seeking out this particular firing pin began with a frustrating session at the range. While my M&P15-22 is generally a reliable firearm, it had started exhibiting an annoying trend of light primer strikes, particularly with certain brands of ammunition. This wasn’t just a minor inconvenience; it actively disrupted the shooting experience, turning a fun day into one filled with constant clearing of failures to fire. I’d tried different magazines and various types of .22LR ammunition, but the problem persisted, pointing towards an internal component potentially struggling to provide sufficient impact.

Upon receiving the SureStrike firing pin, my initial impression was positive. The material felt robust, and the machining was visibly precise. It certainly looked and felt like a step up from the factory part, with a slight heft that suggested durability. I briefly considered a generic replacement, but the reputation of Volquartsen Firearms for quality precision components swayed my decision. My immediate hope was that this small but critical part would finally put an end to my ignition woes and restore the rifle’s intended smooth operation.

Real-World Testing: Putting Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin to the Test

My testing primarily took place at my local indoor range, a controlled environment where I could isolate the impact of the new firing pin. I also conducted some informal testing in my workshop, simulating less-than-ideal handling conditions. The goal was to see if this upgrade could consistently overcome the light strike issues I was experiencing across a variety of ammunition types.

First Use Experience

The installation itself was straightforward, fitting seamlessly into the bolt carrier group of my M&P15-22. Once installed, I loaded up with a mix of standard velocity and high velocity .22LR rounds that had previously been problematic. The difference was immediately noticeable. Every round chambered and fired with a decisive crack, with zero hesitation or misfires. This initial success was incredibly satisfying, a testament to the engineering behind this replacement part.

I ran through a full 500-round brick of mixed ammunition without a single failure to fire. The Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin proved remarkably adept at igniting primers consistently. It handled everything from budget bulk pack ammo to more premium loads with equal aplomb. The part felt inherently robust during this initial outing, offering a quiet confidence that the underlying mechanical issue had been addressed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several hundred more rounds and a few weeks of the rifle being stored in its case, the SureStrike firing pin continued to perform flawlessly. The problem of light strikes has been completely eradicated. The reliability this part has introduced is significant, allowing me to focus entirely on accuracy and practice rather than troubleshooting.

Durability has been excellent. Despite repeated cycling and firing, there are no visible signs of wear, deformation, or performance degradation. The S7 Tool Steel construction lives up to its reputation; it feels like a component designed to last indefinitely under typical use. Maintenance is as simple as cleaning the bolt carrier group, which is standard for any firearm. The firing pin itself requires no special attention beyond ensuring the area around it is clean.

Compared to my prior experience with the factory component, which had clearly begun to falter, this Volquartsen upgrade represents a massive leap in reliability. It has effectively turned my M&P15-22 back into the dependable “plinking machine” it was intended to be, even when paired with lighter trigger springs that previously exacerbated the issue.

Breaking Down the Features of Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin

Specifications

The Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin is crafted from S7 Tool Steel, a material renowned for its toughness and resistance to impact and abrasion. This makes it exceptionally durable, designed to withstand a virtually unlimited number of firing cycles. It features a design with more material than the factory original, which contributes to its more forceful strike.

The point of contact has been adjusted to cover a larger portion of the cartridge rim. This increased surface area ensures more positive ignition, even with primers that might be slightly harder or seated imperfectly. The pin’s overall length is also subtly modified to ensure sufficient projection when striking the primer. Its silver finish is standard for tool steel components, offering some basic corrosion resistance. As a dedicated part for the Smith & Wesson M&P15-22, it is engineered specifically for this .22 Long Rifle platform.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, this firing pin is a resounding success. It consistently delivers a hard, decisive strike on the primer, eliminating the light primer strikes that plagued my M&P15-22. The increase in reliability is tangible; every trigger pull now results in a fired round, which is precisely what you expect from a firearm.

The strength of this component lies in its ability to resolve the light strike issue effectively and reliably across various ammunition types. Its weakness, if one could even call it that, is that it is a replacement part and not a component that adds new, unforeseen features beyond its core purpose of reliable ignition. However, considering its price point, its performance significantly exceeds expectations for a part designed to fix a specific problem.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the SureStrike Firing Pin is focused on function and durability. The use of S7 Tool Steel provides a robust feel, and the CNC machining ensures tight tolerances. While it doesn’t have “ergonomic grips” in the traditional sense, its purpose is internal, and its form factor is dictated by the bolt carrier group it interfaces with.

The machined surface is smooth, and the modified tip is the key functional detail. It is designed to be a direct replacement, so installation and function within the firearm’s existing ergonomics are seamless. There is no learning curve; it simply works as intended once installed.

Durability & Maintenance

Built from S7 Tool Steel, this firing pin is engineered for exceptional durability. I anticipate it will last for the lifetime of the firearm under normal usage. It’s designed to handle far more abuse than a standard firing pin might.

Maintenance is minimal and aligns with standard firearm cleaning procedures. Keeping the bolt carrier group clean ensures the firing pin channel is free of debris that could impede its movement. There are no specific maintenance tips beyond regular cleaning, and no obvious failure points have emerged during my testing or from the material properties themselves.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin does not come with any additional accessories. It is a single, precision-manufactured replacement part. Customization options are not applicable to this specific component; its purpose is to replace the factory part with an upgraded, more reliable version for the Smith & Wesson M&P15-22. It is designed to be compatible with the existing bolt carrier group and firearm assembly.

Pros and Cons of Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin

Who Should Buy Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin?

This firing pin is ideal for any owner of a Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 who experiences consistent light primer strikes or wants to preemptively upgrade for maximum reliability. It is particularly suited for shooters who use their rifle for training, practice, or competitive events where reliability is paramount. Those who have experimented with lighter trigger springs and encountered ignition issues will also find significant benefit here.

Anyone expecting a simple cosmetic upgrade or a component that alters the fundamental operation beyond ignition reliability should look elsewhere. For those seeking to restore or enhance the core functionality of their M&P15-22, this is an excellent choice. No specific accessories are required for its installation or use, as it is a singular replacement part.

Conclusion on Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin

The Volquartsen Firearms SureStrike Smith & Wesson M&P15-22 Firing Pin is a highly effective and well-made upgrade that directly addresses a known weak point in the M&P15-22 platform. Its S7 Tool Steel construction and refined design ensure superior durability and significantly improved ignition reliability. For the price of $32.99, the restored confidence and consistent performance it brings to the range are well worth the investment.

I wholeheartedly recommend this product to any M&P15-22 owner experiencing ignition issues or simply seeking a robust, long-lasting replacement part. It transforms the rifle back into the dependable and enjoyable firearm it was meant to be, allowing shooters to focus on honing their skills rather than clearing malfunctions. If reliable ignition is a priority for your .22LR rifle, this Volquartsen component is an excellent solution.