A New Generation of Smith Rifle: M&P15 Sport III
AR-15s, contrary to what the news or others may say, are the most popular rifles sold in the United States. Their intrigue has to do with modularity, convenience, and familiarity. It’s not like this is a new platform (the original idea dates to the 1950s), with the formal introduction of the M16, made just in time for the Vietnam War. However, the platform has been attached to the banner of the anti-gun crowd.
The rifle’s popularity means there are scores of options for the consumer. One of the most hotly contested parts of the market has been the “budget” or “introductory” market. This is generally reserved for those looking to get into the platform for the first time or those who don’t want to spend the money on other options. One of the stalwarts in this niche has been the Smith & Wesson M&P-15 Sport series of rifles. These no-frills rifles give the consumer a basic rifle backed by a brand they are familiar with (and hopefully trust). However, the rifle has been severely lackluster. The second-generation Sport has been around for nearly a decade and has fallen behind many of the other options. Smith needs a new generation of Sport rifles.
Generation III
The third generation of Sport rifles from Smith & Wesson finally gives its base model AR a modern update, although maybe a bit too late. Its most obvious update is its forend. Smith & Wesson has finally modernized the Sport III to a 15” free-float M-lok handguard. With M-lok slots wrapped around the handguard and a continuous Picatinny rail on top, the end-user now can adapt the rifle to a wide-ranging mission set (i.e. casual plinking, law enforcement, competition, etc.). This is something that has become standard across most rifles for years. Underneath the handguard is a mid-length gas system. Traditionally, the Sport has used a shorter carbine length system. The mid-length gas system smooths the recoil impulse by dropping pressure which, incidentally, improves the life span of various small parts. As for the barrel, it measures 16” in length, chambered in 5.56 NATO, and possesses a 1/8 twist barrel that uses 5R rifling. The 1/8 twist is an upgrade over the previous 1/9 and just gives the weapon greater versatility over a wider range of bullet weights. As for 5R rifling, that’s cool, but I’m not sure it'll be the draw that Smith was hoping for. To help with corrosion and extend the barrel’s service life, it is finished in Armornite. Everything else is standard, except for the forged trigger guard, which is new to this rifle.
While the rifle’s stock, pistol grip, and trigger are basic, they are easily updateable. This modularity is why many choose to go with the AR-15 to begin with. The consumer has the option to configure the rifle how they choose to. Finally, the price. The price is the most important aspect of the rifle. MSRP is $799.99, but street price will be down to $699.99.
Final Thoughts
$700 is respectable, albeit a touch high when compared to options from Anderson MFG and Palmetto State Armory. However, Smith & Wesson does have a large fan base, so it will generate plenty of sales. I also see Smith & Wesson marketing this rifle to law enforcement agencies, especially smaller ones without a lot of funding. This is a basic rifle that could benefit patrol officers with outdated rifles. The M&P-15 Sport III is a solid entry-level rifle that gives shooters the ability to grow with a rifle. The M&P-15 Sport III will be hitting dealer’s shelves immediately.
