Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit for S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40 Review

This is What Happened When I Used the Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit for S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40

For years, my S&W M&P pistols have been reliable workhorses, but the factory trigger always felt like a compromise. It was functional, yes, but lacked the crispness and refinement I expect from a duty-grade firearm. The slight mushiness and the generous amount of pre- and over-travel were constant, albeit minor, distractions during range sessions and, more importantly, would be a concern under stress. I needed a trigger that felt more decisive, more connected, without sacrificing the safety required for everyday carry or duty. This led me to explore aftermarket options, and after a fair bit of research, the Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit for S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40 emerged as a leading contender. The promise of a smoother pull, reduced travel, and a shorter reset, all while maintaining a safe pull weight, was incredibly appealing. I had considered just a trigger shoe replacement from other brands, but the comprehensive nature of this kit, addressing multiple internal components, felt like a more complete solution. My initial impression upon opening the package was one of quality; the aluminum trigger felt substantial, and the included components looked precisely machined, giving me immediate confidence.

Real-World Testing: Putting Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit for S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing primarily took place on the familiar grounds of my personal indoor shooting range, complemented by several trips to an outdoor range. I focused on rapid fire drills, precision shooting at varying distances, and dry-fire practice to truly get a feel for the changes. The initial installation, while not difficult, did require careful attention to Apex’s instructions, especially concerning the sear housing block plunger and spring. Once installed, the difference was immediately apparent. The trigger pull felt noticeably smoother, and the mushiness I had grown accustomed to was gone. The reduced pre-travel meant my finger found the wall of the trigger much sooner, and the shorter over-travel provided a more defined break. There were no surprising malfunctions or unexpected quirks during this initial phase, which was a significant relief.

Extended Use & Reliability

After putting several hundred rounds through my M&P with the Apex kit installed, and dedicating weeks to consistent dry-fire practice, its reliability has proven to be exceptional. The smooth, consistent pull weight has remained steady, and the reset is sharp and audible, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. Durability has been impressive; there are no signs of wear on the aluminum trigger or any of the internal components. Cleaning and maintenance are no more complex than with the factory setup; a standard field strip and cleaning routine suffice. Compared to other aftermarket triggers I’ve installed in different firearms, this kit offers a remarkable improvement without introducing any new complexities or finicky behavior. It has consistently outperformed budget trigger upgrades I’ve encountered in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit for S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40

Specifications

The Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit for S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40 is a comprehensive upgrade designed to enhance the shooting experience of specific S&W M&P models. The kit includes a solid body aluminum trigger with a rounded face for comfort, replacing the factory hinged trigger. It features a center-mounted pivoting safety that maintains factory safety standards.

The kit also contains a heavy-duty sear spring, a fully machined sear, and a duty/carry spring set which includes a trigger return spring and a 1/8-inch sear spring. An Ultimate Striker Block Kit, comprising a striker block, spring, and a Talon Tactical Tool, is also part of the package. Finally, a slave pin is provided to assist with trigger return spring installation.

This attention to detail in the components is crucial for achieving the advertised performance. The aluminum construction of the trigger offers a lighter, more durable alternative to plastic, and the precisely machined sear ensures a clean break. The inclusion of the 1/8-inch sear spring set is vital, as Apex notes this kit requires the larger plunger and spring setup for proper function, a detail that distinguishes it from many simpler trigger upgrades. This ensures a safe and reliable trigger pull weight within the 5.0 to 5.5 lbs range, suitable for duty and carry applications. The reduction in pre-travel and over-travel by approximately 20% directly contributes to a more efficient shooting cycle.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this kit is to dramatically improve the M&P trigger pull, and it succeeds with flying colors. The difference from the stock trigger is night and day; the pull is significantly smoother, devoid of the gritty feeling often found in factory triggers. The break is much more definitive, and the audible and tactile reset is shorter and more pronounced, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots.

One of the key strengths is how the kit balances performance with safety. The maintained 5.0 to 5.5 lbs pull weight is ideal for defensive firearms, ensuring there’s no accidental discharge due to an overly light trigger. The reduction in both pre-travel and over-travel by roughly 20% makes a tangible difference in shot cadence and accuracy. The kit genuinely smooths out the entire trigger action, from initial engagement to the final break.

A minor weakness, which is more of a compatibility note than a performance flaw, is its exclusion from M&P M2.0, M&P Shield, and M&P .45 models. Users must ensure their specific M&P firearm is listed for compatibility. Additionally, the reliance on the 1/8-inch sear plunger and spring setup means users with older M&P models might need to upgrade their sear housing block before installation, adding a potential extra step and cost.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger itself is a significant ergonomic improvement. The rounded face of the aluminum trigger provides a comfortable and consistent surface for the shooter’s finger, which I found particularly beneficial during extended range sessions. The trigger feels solid and well-proportioned, not overly wide or narrow.

The overall build quality of the kit components is excellent, reflecting Apex Tactical Specialties’ reputation. The finish on the aluminum trigger is uniform and durable. The center-mounted pivoting safety maintains the original tactile feel of the factory safety but with a more solid engagement. Installation, while detailed, is designed to be manageable for the determined user, especially with the included slave pin aiding in the installation of the trigger return spring. The Talon Tactical Tool for the striker block assembly is a thoughtful addition that simplifies a potentially fiddly step.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the components of this kit are built for longevity. The solid aluminum trigger is far more resistant to wear than a plastic factory trigger. The precisely machined internal parts are designed to withstand thousands of cycles without degradation.

Maintenance is straightforward. After installation, the firearm requires no special cleaning protocols beyond standard firearm care. Regular field stripping and cleaning will keep the improved trigger mechanism running smoothly. There are no exposed springs or delicate parts that are unduly susceptible to damage during routine handling or cleaning. Potential failure points would likely stem from improper installation rather than inherent design flaws, reinforcing the recommendation for armorer or gunsmith installation if one is not confident in their mechanical skills.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit comes with a well-curated selection of accessories, making it a truly complete package. The inclusion of the Ultimate Striker Block Kit is a smart move, as this is another critical component that can affect trigger feel and reliability. The Heavy Duty Sear Spring and Duty/Carry Spring Set are specifically chosen to achieve the desired pull weight and performance characteristics.

The slave pin is a crucial inclusion for DIY installers, simplifying the notoriously tricky task of installing the trigger return spring. While this kit focuses on internal enhancements rather than external cosmetic customization, the resulting trigger itself is an upgrade that many find aesthetically pleasing. It is important to note that this kit is specifically designed for the original M&P series in 9mm and .40 S&W; it is NOT compatible with the M&P M2.0, M&P Shield, or M&P .45 models, nor is it compatible with Apex’s Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kits, which are intended for a different level of performance modification.

Pros and Cons of Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit for S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40

Who Should Buy Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit for S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40?

This kit is an ideal upgrade for experienced owners of original S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40 S&W who are seeking to significantly enhance their firearm’s performance. It’s perfect for law enforcement officers, competitive shooters, and responsible concealed carry permit holders who demand a more refined and responsive trigger pull without compromising safety. Anyone who has found the factory M&P trigger to be a limitation in accuracy or speed would benefit greatly from this upgrade.

Conversely, users who own the incompatible M&P models (M2.0, Shield, .45 ACP) should look elsewhere. Individuals who are not comfortable with detailed firearm disassembly and reassembly should strongly consider professional installation to avoid potential issues. Those seeking a more dramatic trigger pull reduction, perhaps for competition-specific builds, might look at Apex’s other offerings like their Forward Set kits, but for duty and carry purposes, this kit strikes an excellent balance. For those installing it themselves, having a quality set of punches and a detailed instruction manual (or Apex’s video guide) are highly recommended accessories.

Conclusion on Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit for S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40

The Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty/Carry Kit for S&W M&P pistols in 9mm and .40 is, in my experienced opinion, one of the best upgrades available for the original M&P platform. It delivers on its promises of a smoother pull, reduced travel, and a crisper reset, transforming the shooting experience. The quality of the components is evident, and the resulting performance improvement is substantial, making the pistol feel more precise and responsive. While the price is a consideration, the comprehensive nature of the kit, addressing multiple critical internal parts, justifies the investment for anyone serious about optimizing their M&P for duty or carry. I wholeheartedly recommend this kit to any owner of a compatible M&P pistol who wants a truly professional-grade trigger. If you’re looking to unlock the full potential of your M&P and demand a trigger that inspires confidence with every shot, this Apex Tactical Specialties kit is an essential upgrade.