Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W Review

Let’s Review the Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W

For any firearm enthusiast who owns a Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 pistol, the desire for a crisper, more refined trigger pull is often a primary consideration. This is precisely where the Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W steps in, aiming to elevate the shooting experience. As an equipment specialist with over a decade of diverse field experience, I’ve encountered my fair share of aftermarket upgrades, and this particular kit presented a compelling proposition. My M&P M2.0, while a solid service pistol, always felt held back by a factory trigger that was, frankly, a bit mushy and indistinct. I was looking for a tangible improvement that would enhance control and accuracy without sacrificing reliability. I briefly considered other trigger enhancement options, but Apex Tactical Specialties has a strong reputation for quality M&P upgrades. Upon receiving the kit, my initial impression was one of professional packaging and solid components, hinting at a significant enhancement.

Real-World Testing: Putting Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing of the Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W took place primarily at an indoor shooting range, a controlled environment that allows for focused evaluation of trigger feel and function. I also conducted dry-fire practice extensively in my workshop to assess reset and pre-travel. The kit was installed on my M&P M2.0 Compact 9mm. Initially, the trigger felt significantly different from stock, requiring a slight adjustment period to acclimate to the reduced pre-travel and the distinctly flat face. There was no immediate issue, but the reset was notably shorter and less pronounced than I anticipated from some online tutorials.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several hundred rounds through the pistol with the Apex trigger installed, its performance has remained remarkably consistent. The reduced pre-travel and over-travel have undeniably contributed to tighter groupings and faster follow-up shots. I have not encountered any signs of wear or tear on the aluminum trigger or the sear components, despite regular use and being kept in a typical range bag environment. Maintenance has been straightforward; a light cleaning and lubrication regimen similar to what I use for the factory components is sufficient. Compared to other trigger kits I’ve used in different platforms, this Apex kit offers a substantial upgrade in feel and function for the M&P M2.0.

Breaking Down the Features of Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W

Specifications

The Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W is designed as a direct replacement for the factory trigger group in select Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 polymer frame pistols. It is compatible with 9mm, .40 S&W, 10mm, and .45 ACP variants, including Full Size, Standard, Compact, and Subcompact models, but explicitly excludes the Shield and Shield M2.0 models, as well as the M2.0 Metal Series. The kit features a flat-faced aluminum trigger, which provides a consistent contact surface for the shooter’s finger. The forward-set sear is engineered to reduce pre-travel and shorten the trigger reset significantly. This kit is intended to be a drop-in installation, though professional gunsmithing is recommended. The finish on the reviewed model is red, contributing to a distinct visual upgrade.

These specifications translate into a tangible performance improvement for the user. The flat trigger face offers a larger, more comfortable surface for consistent finger placement, which is crucial for accurate shooting. The forward-set design and altered sear geometry directly address the M&P M2.0’s factory trigger limitations by reducing the amount of movement before the shot breaks and the distance the trigger travels before resetting. This combination of reduced travel and a shorter reset allows for quicker, more precise follow-up shots. The aluminum construction ensures durability and a premium feel, a welcome change from the factory polymer.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this kit is to improve the trigger pull characteristics of the M&P M2.0. In this regard, it largely succeeds, offering a noticeably crisper break and a significantly shorter reset compared to the stock trigger. The reduction in pre-travel and over-travel is substantial, making the entire trigger stroke feel more decisive. However, the reset, while short, can be somewhat indistinct and difficult to feel with the fingertip, as one user noted. This is a trade-off for the extreme shortening of the reset distance.

The kit aims to maintain factory safety values with its center-mounted pivoting safety. My testing indicated that all safety mechanisms functioned as expected throughout the process. The overall pull weight remains within acceptable service pistol parameters, avoiding the light, competition-style triggers that might be less suitable for duty or defensive use. The kit is indeed designed to be a drop-in replacement, minimizing the need for custom fitting.

Design & Ergonomics

The flat-faced aluminum trigger is the most obvious ergonomic change. This design promotes a more consistent finger placement, which can lead to improved accuracy, especially during rapid firing. The trigger face itself has a smooth finish, providing a clean feel against the skin. The overall build quality of the components feels robust and precise, indicative of Apex Tactical Specialties’ reputation.

However, the installation itself presented some ergonomic challenges, particularly when aligning the trigger with the trigger bar. As some feedback suggests, this step can be fiddly and may require patience or specialized tools if not approached carefully. The red finish is purely aesthetic but adds a nice visual flair, differentiating the firearm from its stock appearance. The center-mounted safety lever is integrated seamlessly and does not impede the trigger pull.

Durability & Maintenance

Apex Tactical Specialties is known for producing durable firearm components, and this trigger kit is no exception. The aluminum trigger and hardened sear components are designed to withstand the rigors of regular use without showing significant wear. I have not observed any chipping, bending, or degradation of performance after several hundred rounds and numerous dry-fire cycles.

Maintenance involves keeping the pistol’s internal components clean and lightly lubricated. The trigger kit does not introduce any special maintenance requirements beyond standard firearm care. It’s important to ensure proper installation to prevent undue stress on any parts, which could potentially lead to premature wear or failure, though this is more a testament to correct installation than inherent design flaws.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W is a self-contained upgrade kit. It includes the necessary components to replace the factory trigger, sear, and associated parts. No additional accessories are included or typically required for installation beyond standard gunsmithing tools. The primary “customization” aspect comes from the choice of finish, with the reviewed kit featuring a red anodized trigger. This allows for a degree of personalization.

While the kit itself doesn’t offer further modular customization, its installation opens up possibilities for other aftermarket M&P M2.0 enhancements that don’t interfere with the trigger mechanism. Compatibility with other parts is generally excellent, as Apex designs their kits to integrate seamlessly within the M&P M2.0 platform.

Pros and Cons of Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W

Who Should Buy Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W?

This trigger kit is an excellent choice for experienced M&P M2.0 owners who are seeking a significant upgrade in trigger performance and are comfortable with either performing the installation themselves or having a qualified gunsmith do it. It’s ideal for competitive shooters or those who prioritize precision and speed from their M&P M2.0. The improved trigger break and reset can offer a tangible advantage in timed events or high-stress shooting scenarios.

However, beginners or those who are uncomfortable with complex firearm modifications should probably avoid this kit or plan on professional installation. If you are looking for a simply “smoother” trigger without dramatically altering the feel, other Apex kits might be more appropriate. Those who require absolute bombproof, audible feedback on trigger reset for training purposes might find the indistinct reset a detractor. For users with the M&P Shield or M2.0 Metal Series, this kit will not fit. A gunsmith is a must-have accessory for many, especially if you lack the proper tools or confidence.

Conclusion on Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W

The Apex Tactical Specialties 100153 Flat Faced Forward Set Sear & Trigger Kit S&W delivers on its promise of a dramatically improved trigger experience for the M&P M2.0 platform. The reduction in pre- and over-travel, coupled with the crisp break and significantly shortened reset, transforms the shooting dynamics of the pistol. The flat-faced aluminum trigger is a functional and aesthetic upgrade that enhances control.

While the performance enhancements are undeniable, the $180.50 price tag places it firmly in the premium upgrade category. The installation complexity is a genuine concern for many and cannot be understated; it’s a factor that could lead to frustration or additional cost if professional help is required. Despite these caveats, for the M&P M2.0 owner willing to invest the time or money into proper installation, this kit offers a superior trigger that can elevate their shooting. I would recommend this kit to those who are serious about optimizing their M&P M2.0’s performance and understand the commitment involved in its installation.