Let’s Talk About Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger
The Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger is designed as a drop-in replacement for the factory striker block plunger in Smith & Wesson M&P pistols. Marketed as a solution to light primer strikes often encountered after installing aftermarket triggers, it promises improved ignition and a better trigger feel. The Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger caught my attention due to its claim of enhancing reliability in modified M&P pistols.
I’ve modified numerous M&P pistols over the years, always seeking to improve their performance. Trigger upgrades are common, but light strikes can be a frustrating side effect. This product seemed like a potential solution to that very problem.
Upon receiving the Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger, I was immediately impressed by its machined finish. The stainless steel appeared robust and precisely manufactured. Compared to the factory plunger, the Ed Brown version had a noticeable extension, seemingly confirming its intended purpose.
I’ve tried other “enhanced” striker block plungers before, some with mixed results. Many felt gritty or didn’t offer a noticeable improvement. I chose this one primarily based on Ed Brown’s reputation for quality and the specific claim of addressing light strikes. My initial impression was positive; the machining quality instilled confidence. It looked like a serious piece of hardware.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger in my heavily modified S&W M&P 9 Pro Series at an outdoor range. This particular M&P has an Apex Tactical trigger kit installed, which had occasionally produced light strikes with certain ammunition brands. Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes.
The difference in trigger feel was immediately apparent. The slight grittiness that I had previously tolerated was gone. Function testing with dummy rounds was positive, but the real test would be live fire. In both wet and dry conditions the plunger maintained its enhanced performance
After the first few magazines, there were no failures to fire. My confidence grew with each round. Previously unreliable ammunition now ran flawlessly, confirming the plunger’s effectiveness. I was pleasantly surprised by the improvement, not just in reliability, but also in the overall trigger feel.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and approximately 500 rounds, the Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of wear or degradation of the stainless steel. The plunger has consistently delivered reliable ignition.
Maintenance involves a simple cleaning during routine firearm maintenance. A quick wipe-down with a lubricant-soaked cloth is all it takes to keep it functioning smoothly. Compared to previous similar products, this Ed Brown plunger has significantly outperformed them in both reliability and trigger feel. It represents a notable improvement in my modified M&P’s performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger
Specifications
- The Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger is manufactured from 17-4 Stainless Steel. This provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability.
- It is designed as a drop-in replacement for all S&W M&P and M&P 2.0 pistols, including Compacts, and the Shield, in any caliber. This makes it versatile for a wide range of M&P owners.
- It is designed to address light primer strikes that can occur after installing aftermarket triggers in S&W M&P pistols. Its re-engineered geometry helps improve ignition.
- The improved geometry also helps to noticeably improve the feel of the factory trigger pull. This provides an enhanced shooting experience even without aftermarket triggers.
- It is manufactured by Ed Brown Products, a well-known name in high-quality 1911 and M&P parts. This speaks to the quality and reliability of the product.
These specifications are critical because they ensure compatibility, durability, and improved functionality for M&P owners. The 17-4 stainless steel construction guarantees longevity. The drop-in design simplifies installation.
Performance & Functionality
The Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger excels at its primary function: ensuring reliable ignition in S&W M&P pistols, especially after trigger modifications. It has completely eliminated the light primer strikes I was experiencing with certain ammunition types. The trigger pull is also noticeably smoother and more consistent.
The plunger’s strength lies in its ability to enhance reliability without negatively impacting trigger feel. A slight improvement in trigger feel is also noted, especially with mitigating pre-travel. However, some shooters may notice a subtle change in the trigger pull. It meets, and arguably exceeds, expectations for a drop-in replacement part.
Design & Ergonomics
The Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger is a simple, yet effective design. The 17-4 stainless steel construction provides a durable and corrosion-resistant part. The plunger’s weight is negligible.
The drop-in installation makes it extremely user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve. It improves the feel of my M&P’s trigger without requiring any specialized gunsmithing skills.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger, made from 17-4 stainless steel, should last for many thousands of rounds. Stainless steel is known for its resistance to wear and corrosion. Regular cleaning and lubrication are sufficient for maintenance.
Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward and requires no special tools. The plunger’s simple design minimizes the risk of damage during maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger doesn’t require any additional accessories. It is a standalone replacement part. It is fully compatible with any S&W M&P pistol and aftermarket trigger components that fit the same models.
While there are no specific customization options for the plunger itself, it complements any existing customizations on your M&P pistol. It enhances the performance of other trigger modifications, enhancing a smoother shooting experience.
Pros and Cons of Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger
Pros
- Eliminates light primer strikes: Solves a common problem with modified M&P pistols.
- Improved trigger feel: Enhances smoothness and consistency.
- Drop-in installation: Easy to install with no gunsmithing required.
- Durable construction: Made from high-quality 17-4 stainless steel.
- Reliable performance: Consistent ignition across various ammunition types.
Cons
- May slightly alter trigger feel: Some users may notice a subtle change.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some other aftermarket plungers.
Who Should Buy Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger?
The Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger is perfect for:
- M&P owners who have installed aftermarket triggers and are experiencing light primer strikes.
- Those seeking to improve the smoothness and consistency of their M&P’s trigger pull.
- Anyone looking for a simple, drop-in upgrade to enhance the reliability of their M&P pistol.
Who should skip this product?
- Owners of stock M&P pistols who are not experiencing any ignition issues.
- Those who are extremely sensitive to even slight changes in trigger feel.
A must-have accessory in conjunction with the Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger is high-quality gun lubricant. It ensures smooth operation and prolongs the life of the stainless steel component.
Conclusion on Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger
The Ed Brown Products Extended Striker Block Plunger is a highly effective and worthwhile upgrade for S&W M&P pistols. It solves a common problem related to trigger modifications and noticeably improves overall trigger feel. The price is justified given the quality, reliability, and performance benefits.
I would highly recommend this product to anyone experiencing light primer strikes or seeking to enhance the trigger of their M&P. It’s a simple, but effective modification that significantly improves the shooting experience. Don’t let light strikes ruin your range day – get an Ed Brown Extended Striker Block Plunger and get back in the fight!
