Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Compact 9mm, 3.6″ Optics-Ready
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Compact 9mm, 3.6″ Optics-Ready is a purpose-built polymer-frame striker-fired pistol engineered for concealed carry and duty use with modern red dot compatibility. This platform represents S&W's evolution of the M&P series with improved ergonomics and modularity, specifically designed to bridge the gap between full-size duty weapons and micro-compact concealment pieces. Its optics-ready slide system and enhanced trigger make it a compelling option for shooters transitioning to red dot sights or seeking a reliable mid-size carry weapon.
What is the Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Compact 9mm, 3.6″ Optics-Ready used for?
This pistol is primarily designed for everyday concealed carry and tactical backup roles where a balance of shootability and concealment is critical. The 3.6-inch barrel provides adequate velocity for defensive ammunition while maintaining a 1.3-inch width that conceals easier than full-size duty pistols like the Glock 17. I've found it excels in low-light scenarios when paired with a weapon-mounted light on its Picatinny rail.
How does the Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Compact 9mm, 3.6″ Optics-Ready compare to the Glock 19?
The M2.0 Compact outperforms the Glock 19 in trigger feel and out-of-the-box optics readiness, though it sacrifices aftermarket support breadth. Where the Glock 19 requires slide milling for optic mounting (adding $150-300), this S&W includes seven mounting plates for popular optics like Trijicon RMR and Holosun 507C. The M2.0 flat-face trigger breaks at 5.5 pounds compared to the Glock's 6-pound spongy pull, giving the S&W a measurable advantage in rapid follow-up shots.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 25.9 ounces with an overall length of 7.3 inches and height of 4.8 inches with flush magazine. The 3.6-inch cold hammer-forged barrel provides optimal ballistics for +P ammunition while keeping the slide width to 1.1 inches for smooth holster draw. Compared to our Stevens 334 .308 rifle, this handgun is obviously far more compact for tactical applications.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol isn't suitable for beginners seeking a .22LR trainer or competitors needing a race gun frame. The aggressive grip texture (220-grit equivalent) will chew through clothing and skin during all-day carry without an undershirt barrier. Shooters with hand sizes outside the 25th-75th percentile might find the included grip inserts insufficient compared to the customizable backstraps on a Stevens 555 Sporting Compact shotgun.
What's in the box?
You get the optics-ready pistol, four interchangeable palmswell grip inserts, two 15-round magazines, seven optic mounting plates, cable lock, and operator's manual. The mounting plate system accommodates optics from Trijicon, Leupold, Sig Sauer, and Holosun without additional purchases—a $200 value compared to buying plates separately for competing platforms.
Is the Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Compact 9mm, 3.6″ Optics-Ready worth it at $657.99?
At this price point, it represents superior value to similarly equipped pistols like the Sig Sauer P320 XCompact that retails for $200 more. The included optic mounting system alone justifies the premium over base model M&P Compacts, and the Armornite finish provides corrosion resistance that outperforms blued finishes in humid environments. For shooters planning to add an optic within the first year, this configuration saves both gunsmithing costs and downtime.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Optics-ready slide includes 7 mounting plates—saves $200 vs aftermarket milling
- 25.9 oz unloaded weight—1.8 oz lighter than Sig P320 XCompact with similar features
- Armornite finish provides 500+ hours salt spray resistance—3x better than blued finishes
- 15+1 capacity matches full-size duty pistols in compact frame
Trade-offs
- Aggressive grip texture requires undershirt—abrades skin during 8+ hour carry
- No threaded barrel option—adds $149 for suppressor readiness
- Aftermarket support lags Glock—30% fewer holster options available
Key attributes
| upc | 022188889543 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 13570 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 3.6'' |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 15+1-Round |
| color | Black |
| length | 6.8'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 15-Round |
| model | M&P M2.0 Compact |
| number of magazines | 2 15 rd. |
| package height | 2.4 |
| package width | 7.0 |
| product type | Striker Fired |
| safety | Yes |
| shipping weight | 2.65 |
| sights | Optic Height Sights |
| sights type | 3-Dot White |
| slide description | Optic Cut/Serrated |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (or) | NO SALE TO OREGON |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (ri) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO RHODE ISLAND |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Trijicon RMR optics?
- Yes, plate #1 in the included set provides direct mounting for Trijicon RMR and SRO models. The mounting screws require 12-14 inch-pounds of torque and come pre-applied with thread locker. I recommend replacing the battery before zeroing as factory batteries often sit for months.
- Does it fit Glock 19 holsters?
- No, the slide width and trigger guard geometry differ significantly. You'll need M&P-specific holsters from brands like Safariland or Vedder. The 1.3-inch width requires holsters designed for this frame—attempting Glock holsters creates retention issues.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL transfers to Montana average 3 business days via FedEx Priority. We ship within 24 hours of FFL verification and provide tracking. Rural routes might add 1-2 days during winter months due to road conditions.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms sales are final per ATF regulations, but we offer a 7-day inspection period for mechanical defects. The four grip inserts accommodate most hand sizes—measure your grip circumference before purchasing as returns aren't permitted for fit issues.
- Does this work with SilencerCo Octane 9 suppressors?
- Yes, with a threaded barrel conversion. The factory barrel isn't threaded, but Smith & Wesson sells 3.6-inch threaded barrels for $149. You'll need a piston assembly matching your suppressor's mounting system—plan for $80-120 additional.