Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45 Review

Is the Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45 Worth It? Let’s Find Out

My S&W M&P M2.0 .45 platform has always been a workhorse, reliable and robust, but the factory trigger, while functional, left something to be desired in terms of crispness and tactility. After logging countless rounds downrange and performing various practical exercises, I found myself increasingly drawn to aftermarket solutions that promised a more refined shooting experience. It was during this search that the Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45 consistently appeared as a top contender. This kit aims to significantly enhance the M&P M2.0 trigger feel, reducing pre-travel, over-travel, and smoothing out the entire action. I was particularly looking for a trigger that wouldn’t compromise duty-grade reliability while offering a noticeable upgrade in performance. I briefly considered some other brands that offered single-component trigger replacements, but the comprehensive nature of the Apex kit, promising a complete system tune-up, made it the most compelling option. My initial impression upon unboxing this Apex kit was one of meticulous engineering; the aluminum trigger felt solid and well-machined, and the included components exuded quality. There was a palpable sense of anticipation for the changes this kit would bring to my M&P M2.0.

Real-World Testing: Putting Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing for this Apex kit centered on its intended purpose: enhancing a duty-style handgun. I installed the kit in my Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 in .45 ACP and spent several range days putting it through its paces. This involved static target practice at various distances, simulated tactical drills focusing on rapid sight acquisition and follow-up shots, and even some informal competitive shooting scenarios. I deliberately exposed the pistol to a moderate amount of dust and grime, mimicking typical outdoor range conditions, and experienced a light drizzle which tested the grip and overall feel of the modified trigger. The transition to the new trigger was remarkably intuitive; the reduced pre-travel and shorter reset were immediately apparent, requiring only a minimal adjustment period. My only minor quirk during the initial range session was the tendency to short-stroke the reset on a couple of occasions, as I was accustomed to the longer factory reset; this was easily corrected with a bit more conscious trigger control.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of rounds through my S&W M&P M2.0 with the Apex kit installed, its performance has remained remarkably consistent. The trigger pull remains smooth, and the defined reset is a constant, reliable feature that aids in accurate shooting. There are no discernible signs of wear and tear on the aluminum trigger or any of the internal components. The finish on the trigger is holding up exceptionally well, showing only the faintest of polish marks in areas of frequent contact. Maintenance has been straightforward; a standard field strip and cleaning routine is all that’s required, and the components reassemble easily. Compared to my previous experiences with other trigger upgrades, which sometimes led to increased maintenance or a slight decrease in reliability if not perfectly installed, this Apex Duty Carry Kit has proven to be exceptionally robust. It has demonstrably outperformed budget trigger replacements and met the high standard I’ve come to expect from Apex Tactical Specialties.

Breaking Down the Features of Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45

Specifications

The Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45 is a comprehensive upgrade designed to transform the M&P M2.0 trigger system. It includes a solid body aluminum trigger with a center-mounted pivoting safety, offering a smoother and more comfortable contact surface for the shooter’s finger. This trigger design directly replaces the factory hinged trigger, reducing perceived creep. The kit also features a 2-Dot Fully Machined Sear, which is critical for achieving a cleaner break and a more consistent pull. Included is an Ultimate Striker Block Kit, comprising a new striker block and spring, which further refines the firing mechanism.

Furthermore, the kit provides a Duty Carry Trigger Return Spring and a Heavy Duty 1/8″ Sear Spring, which are precisely engineered to work in tandem to achieve the desired pull weight and reset characteristics. The inclusion of a slave pin simplifies the installation process of the trigger return spring, a thoughtful addition for DIY installers. This entire package is designed to deliver a smooth, consistent 5.0 to 5.5 lbs. trigger pull, a range considered ideal for duty and carry applications where safety is paramount but performance is still desired. The kit’s components are manufactured from durable materials, with the trigger itself being aluminum, ensuring longevity and a premium feel. The specified 1/8 inch sear plunger and spring requirement is crucial; using smaller, incompatible parts can lead to significant function issues, underscoring the importance of using the correct, included hardware.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45 is to dramatically improve the trigger pull. In this regard, it excels. The trigger pull is noticeably smoother, with significantly reduced pre-travel and over-travel—Apex estimates about a 30% reduction—leading to a crisper break. The reset is shorter and more tactile than the factory offering, making controlled, rapid follow-up shots much easier to achieve.

The biggest strength of this kit is the transformation of the trigger feel from merely functional to genuinely refined. The rounded face of the trigger is much more comfortable against the finger, especially during extended shooting sessions. A minor weakness, if one could call it that, is the initial learning curve for the shorter reset; a shooter accustomed to the longer factory reset might occasionally short-stroke it until they adapt their trigger control. However, this is a small price to pay for the enhanced performance. Overall, this kit meets and significantly exceeds expectations for a duty-grade firearm, bringing a level of polish usually associated with higher-end custom work.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Apex kit is immediately apparent. The aluminum Action Enhancement Trigger feels robust and is precisely machined, with a well-defined profile that enhances finger placement. The center-mounted pivoting safety maintains factory safety values while integrating seamlessly into the new trigger design. The finish on the trigger is a durable black, which blends well with the aesthetic of most M&P firearms.

Ergonomically, the trigger is a significant improvement. The rounded face of the trigger eliminates the sharp edges sometimes found on factory triggers, making it more comfortable and reducing finger fatigue. The reduced pre-travel means your finger finds the wall of the trigger much quicker, and the shorter reset provides a more positive confirmation of the shot. There is virtually no learning curve required for the ergonomics; it feels natural and intuitive from the first pull. The addition of the fully machined sear contributes to the overall smooth operation, making the entire firing sequence feel more deliberate and controlled.

Durability & Maintenance

Apex Tactical Specialties is known for producing components that are built to last, and this kit is no exception. Under normal use for a duty firearm, the components, particularly the solid body aluminum trigger, are expected to endure for many thousands of rounds. The fully machined sear and other internal parts are designed for high-volume use without significant wear.

Maintenance is straightforward, mirroring the standard disassembly and cleaning procedures for an S&W M&P M2.0. There are no special tools or complex procedures required for cleaning or lubrication. I have encountered no failure points or potential concerns with this kit to date. The durable materials and precise engineering contribute to its long-term reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for any M&P M2.0 owner looking for a lasting upgrade.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45 comes with a well-curated selection of accessories to ensure proper installation and optimal performance. The kit includes the Aluminum Action Enhancement Trigger, a 2-Dot Fully Machined Sear, an Ultimate Striker Block Kit (striker block, spring, and Talon Tactical Tool), a Duty Carry Trigger Return Spring, a Heavy Duty 1/8″ Sear Spring, and a slave pin. The Talon Tactical Tool is particularly useful for safely and easily compressing the striker block spring during installation.

While this kit itself is a comprehensive system, Apex offers other upgrade paths for M&P pistols that are not compatible with this specific Duty Carry Kit (such as their Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kits). This means it’s important to select the right Apex kit for your intended application. The included components are designed to work synergistically, and while individual parts could theoretically be swapped with other high-quality aftermarket components, Apex strongly recommends using the complete kit for guaranteed compatibility and performance. The 1/8 inch sear plunger and spring setup is a critical included component; owners of older M&P models may need to upgrade their sear housing block to accommodate these larger springs, a detail Apex clearly stipulates.

Pros and Cons of Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45

Who Should Buy Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45?

This trigger kit is an excellent choice for S&W M&P M2.0 .45 ACP owners who are serious about optimizing their pistol’s performance for duty, self-defense, or competitive shooting. If you find your factory M&P trigger gritty, mushy, or simply lacking the crispness you desire for more precise shooting, this kit is a highly recommended upgrade. It’s particularly beneficial for those who participate in action shooting sports or carry their M&P for personal protection and want a more refined and reliable trigger.

Conversely, if you are perfectly content with the factory trigger pull of your M&P M2.0 .45 ACP, or if you have a model that is not explicitly listed as compatible, you should probably skip this product. This kit is also not for those seeking the absolute lightest, competition-only triggers, as it is engineered to maintain safe and reliable pull weights suitable for defensive use. For those considering the purchase, ensure you are comfortable with basic firearm maintenance or are willing to have a qualified gunsmith perform the installation. It’s also wise to verify your firearm’s sear housing block compatibility if you own an earlier production M&P model.

Conclusion on Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45

The Apex Tactical Specialties Action Enhancement Aluminum Trigger plus Duty Carry Kit for S&W M&P M2.0, 45 is, without question, a stellar upgrade for any compatible M&P M2.0 .45 owner looking to elevate their shooting experience. The combination of a smoother pull, reduced travel, and a crisper reset transforms the firearm’s handling and responsiveness, making it more accurate and enjoyable to shoot. The aluminum trigger itself feels premium, and the overall improvement in tactile feedback is substantial, offering a tangible benefit for defensive and sport shooting applications.

Considering the $156.75 price point, the value proposition is strong, especially when you factor in the quality of the components and the significant performance enhancement. It offers a level of refinement that justifies the cost for those who demand more from their handgun’s trigger. While there are minor considerations like potential compatibility checks for older models and an adjustment period for the shorter reset, these are outweighed by the overwhelming benefits. I can confidently recommend this Apex kit to any M&P M2.0 .45 owner seeking a more polished, precise, and satisfying trigger pull; it truly brings the platform to a new level of performance.