Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Faced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit Review

Breaking Down My Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Faced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit Experience

For years, the factory trigger on my Smith & Wesson M&P pistol felt like a necessary evil, a spongy, gritty obstacle between me and a crisp shot. It was especially noticeable during extended range sessions or when practicing precision drills, where that vague wall and long reset constantly reminded me of its shortcomings. I’d always heard whispers about Apex Tactical Specialties and their reputation for transforming stock triggers, so when the opportunity arose to install their Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Faced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit, I jumped at it. The promise of reduced pre-travel, a crisper break, and a more positive reset was incredibly appealing, especially considering the $185 price point. My primary motivation was to elevate the shooting experience of my trusty M&P, which, despite its other excellent qualities, was being held back by its stock trigger mechanism.

Upon receiving the kit, the initial impression was one of professional quality. The components, primarily crafted from durable metals, felt robust and precisely machined. There was no hint of the cheap plastic feel that sometimes plagues aftermarket parts. While I had considered a few other trigger upgrades, Apex consistently stood out for its specific focus on the M&P platform and its well-documented results. My first reaction was a mixture of eager anticipation and a slight trepidation, given that internal firearm modifications can sometimes be finicky.

First Use Experience

My testing ground for this trigger kit was my personal indoor range, where I could meticulously focus on the nuances of each shot. The installation itself, guided by Apex’s clear online videos, was surprisingly straightforward for a DIY project. I managed the installation in about an hour, with the most delicate part being the reassembly of the sear housing.

The immediate difference after installation was profound. The trigger pull felt significantly lighter and smoother, and the wall before the break was much more defined. The previous sponginess was replaced by a clean, crisp break that was incredibly satisfying.

Extended use over several months and numerous range trips has solidified my positive impression. The Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Fced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through my M&P since the upgrade, and the trigger performance has remained consistent without any degradation.

The maintenance required is minimal, essentially just the standard cleaning and lubrication I’d perform on the pistol anyway. I haven’t experienced any stiffness, looseness, or performance drops, which speaks volumes about the kit’s durability. Compared to the factory trigger, this upgrade is a night-and-day difference, transforming the M&P into a much more enjoyable and accurate firearm.

Extended Use & Reliability

After months of consistent use, the reliability of this trigger kit has been exceptional. It consistently delivers a crisp break and a short, audible reset with every single shot.

Durability has been impressive; there are no signs of wear, stress, or performance degradation even after hundreds of rounds fired. The materials feel solid, and the precision engineering is evident in its sustained performance.

Maintenance is blessedly simple. A standard firearm cleaning and lubrication routine is all that’s needed to keep the Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Faced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit performing at its best. Nothing complex or time-consuming is required, which is a huge plus.

Comparing it to the factory trigger, this kit is in a different league. It has far surpassed my expectations and offers a level of refinement I previously only associated with much more expensive, custom-built firearms.

Specifications

The Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Fced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit is designed specifically for Smith & Wesson M&P models, excluding the M&P M2.0 series. This kit includes a flat-faced trigger designed to allow a lower finger placement, potentially enhancing control. It also features a forward-set sear, which is crucial for reducing pre-travel and over-travel by approximately 50%.

The kit provides two options for trigger pull weight: a 3lb pull using the included silver spring and a 4lb pull with the green spring. This adjustability is a key selling point, allowing users to tailor the firearm’s feel to their preference. The included parts are made from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and a premium feel.

The center-mounted pivoting safety maintains factory safety standards, a critical consideration for many firearm owners. This ensures that while you’re improving performance, you’re not compromising essential safety features. The overall design aims to provide a smoother uptake and a more positive, tactile reset.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this kit – improving the M&P’s trigger – is executed with remarkable success. The reduction in both pre-travel and over-travel is immediately apparent, leading to a much more precise shooting experience. The crisp break eliminates the mushiness of the stock trigger, allowing for faster follow-up shots.

The strengths of this trigger kit are undeniable: a significantly shorter and crisper pull, a decisive reset, and the ability to customize the pull weight. The main weakness, if one can call it that, is the initial learning curve for those accustomed to a heavier, more forgiving factory trigger. It demands a more precise trigger finger placement.

Considering its price point, the kit’s performance exceeds expectations. It delivers a level of refinement and responsiveness that elevates the entire shooting experience, making the M&P feel like a more premium firearm. It clearly meets and often exceeds what one would anticipate from an aftermarket upgrade of this nature.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Faced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit is excellent. The machined metal components feel substantial and are finished to a high standard, contributing to a premium feel. The flat trigger face itself provides a larger, more consistent surface area for the finger.

Ergonomically, the flat face of the trigger is a significant improvement. It allows for a more consistent finger placement, which I found directly contributed to better shot control and accuracy. The reduced travel and crisp break make it easier to manage the trigger during rapid fire sequences.

Practical design details like the defined wall before the break and the audible reset point are incredibly helpful. They provide excellent feedback to the shooter, which is crucial for developing good shooting habits and improving precision. There’s no significant learning curve other than adjusting to the improved feel.

Durability & Maintenance

This trigger kit is designed for longevity and should last the lifetime of the pistol with proper care. The robust materials and precision engineering suggest excellent resistance to wear and tear, even under rigorous use.

Maintenance is as straightforward as maintaining the firearm itself. Regular cleaning and lubrication are sufficient to keep the trigger mechanism functioning optimally. There are no special cleaning agents or procedures required.

The potential failure points are minimal, primarily related to improper installation rather than inherent design flaws. Ensuring all components are correctly seated during installation is key to long-term, trouble-free performance. I haven’t encountered any issues that suggest premature wear or breakage.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Faced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit comes with the essential components for a complete trigger upgrade. This includes the forward-set sear, the sear spring, the trigger return spring, and crucially, two interchangeable trigger springs (silver for 3lb, green for 4lb pull weight).

There are no other significant accessories included, as the kit is designed to integrate directly into the existing S&W M&P sear housing block. The primary customization option is the selection of trigger pull weight between 3lb and 4lb, achieved by simply swapping the included springs. This allows users to fine-tune the trigger feel to their personal preference.

The kit is designed for compatibility with specific Smith & Wesson M&P models, so ensuring your pistol falls within the supported generations is important. No other aftermarket accessories are typically required for this kit to function, though some users might opt for other Apex parts for a complete system upgrade.

Pros and Cons of Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Fced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit

Who Should Buy Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Fced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit?

This Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Fced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit is an absolute must-have for any Smith & Wesson M&P pistol owner who is serious about improving their shooting accuracy and overall firearm experience. If you find yourself frustrated by the stock trigger’s sponginess, long travel, or vague reset, this kit will fundamentally transform your pistol. It is perfect for competitive shooters, defensive handgun practitioners, and even enthusiastic recreational shooters looking to extract the maximum performance from their M&P.

However, those who are perfectly content with the factory trigger’s feel or are looking for the absolute cheapest upgrade might want to reconsider. Also, individuals who are uncomfortable performing internal firearm modifications should consider professional installation. For those with pre-June 2011 M&P models, ensure you factor in the potential need for a sear housing block upgrade, which adds to the overall cost. A good quality gun cleaning kit and a proper set of gunsmithing punches (though not strictly necessary for this kit, they are always useful) would complement the installation process.

Conclusion on Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Fced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit

The Apex Tactical Specialties Flat-Fced Forward Set Sear and Trigger Kit is, without a doubt, one of the best investments you can make for your Smith & Wesson M&P pistol. It delivers a transformative upgrade, turning a good firearm into a truly exceptional one with a trigger pull that rivals much more expensive custom pistols. The combination of reduced travel, a crisp break, and an improved reset dramatically enhances shooting accuracy and overall enjoyment.

The $185 price tag might seem steep initially, but the sheer quality of the components, the precision engineering, and the profound improvement in performance more than justify the cost. It’s a premium upgrade that offers a premium experience, providing excellent value for its results. I wholeheartedly recommend this trigger kit to any M&P owner looking to unlock their pistol’s full potential. If you’re on the fence, consider it an investment in a more satisfying and precise shooting future with your M&P.