The Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel Made a Bold First Impression
The Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel promises to be the ultimate solution to light strikes and misfires in the popular M&P 15-22 platform. Manufactured by Volquartsen, a name synonymous with quality and precision in the firearms industry, this firing pin aims to restore reliability and consistent performance to this .22 LR plinker. It’s a simple part, but one that can significantly impact your shooting experience.
For years, my M&P 15-22 was my go-to rifle for introducing new shooters to the sport. However, the increasing number of light strikes was making range days frustrating. I needed a solution that would enhance reliability without requiring extensive gunsmithing.
Upon receiving the Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel, I immediately noticed the difference in the machining quality compared to the factory firing pin. The Volquartsen firing pin felt more robust and precisely engineered. The weight was similar, but the surface finish and overall fit exuded confidence.
I considered a few other aftermarket firing pins. However, Volquartsen’s reputation for producing high-quality rimfire components ultimately swayed my decision. I was looking for a drop-in solution that offered enhanced reliability and durability, and the Surestrike Firing Pin seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The enhanced design and robust materials suggested a significant improvement in performance. I was eager to see if the Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel could truly transform my finicky M&P 15-22 back into the reliable plinker it once was.
Real-World Testing: Putting Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel at my local outdoor shooting range. I ran a variety of .22 LR ammunition through the rifle, including standard velocity, high velocity, and even some bulk-pack ammunition known for its inconsistency. The weather was slightly overcast, with a mild breeze.
The installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes using basic tools. Immediately, I noticed a significant reduction in light strikes. The rifle cycled reliably through several magazines without a single misfire.
I didn’t encounter any significant issues during the first range session. The Surestrike Firing Pin performed flawlessly, providing consistent ignition across all ammunition types. This was a welcome change from the unreliable performance I had experienced with the factory firing pin.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. The rifle has fired thousands of rounds without a single light strike or misfire. This consistency has significantly improved my overall shooting experience.
The firing pin shows no signs of wear and tear despite extensive use. The S7 Tool Steel construction seems to be holding up exceptionally well. Maintenance is simple; I clean the firing pin and bolt assembly after each range session.
In comparison to my previous experiences with the stock firing pin, the Volquartsen Surestrike Firing Pin is a night-and-day difference. It has completely eliminated the reliability issues that plagued my M&P 15-22. This upgrade has breathed new life into my rifle and restored my confidence in its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel
Specifications
The Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel is a drop-in replacement firing pin designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 rifle. It is CNC machined from S7 Tool Steel, known for its exceptional strength and impact resistance. This ensures the firing pin can withstand an unlimited amount of firing without breaking or deforming.
The firing pin features a design with more material than the factory part. This provides enhanced mass and surface area. The design change ensures more robust and reliable strikes on the .22 LR cartridge rim. The Volquartsen design also adjusted the point of contact to cover more of the rim to help achieve positive ignition on every shot.
These specifications are critical for ensuring reliable ignition in the M&P 15-22. The increased material and optimized contact point contribute to consistent and hard-hitting performance. The S7 Tool Steel construction guarantees long-term durability and resistance to wear.
Performance & Functionality
The Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel significantly improves the reliability of the M&P 15-22. It effectively eliminates light strikes and misfires, resulting in consistent and predictable performance. This upgrade greatly enhances the overall usability and enjoyment of the rifle.
The greatest strength of the Surestrike Firing Pin is its ability to deliver reliable ignition, even with bulk-pack ammunition. One area for potential improvement is clearer installation instructions, although the process is relatively straightforward for experienced shooters. Overall, the firing pin far exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel features a simple, yet effective design. The precision CNC machining ensures a perfect fit and smooth operation. The use of S7 Tool Steel provides both strength and durability.
The firing pin is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing experience for installation. The drop-in design makes it easy for anyone to upgrade their M&P 15-22. There is minimal to no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel is built to last. The robust S7 Tool Steel construction ensures exceptional durability and resistance to wear. I expect it to provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the bolt assembly are sufficient to keep the firing pin in optimal condition. Repairing the firing pin is usually unnecessary due to the high-quality materials and construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel does not come with any additional accessories, as it is a standalone replacement part. However, it is compatible with any other aftermarket upgrades or accessories for the M&P 15-22 platform. This makes it easy to customize your rifle to your specific needs and preferences.
The firing pin is designed to work seamlessly with standard M&P 15-22 bolts and other components. It is compatible with popular triggers, charging handles, and other aftermarket parts. This flexibility allows shooters to create a truly personalized and high-performing rifle.
Pros and Cons of Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel
Pros
- Eliminates light strikes and misfires: This is the primary benefit and the reason most shooters will consider this upgrade.
- Enhanced reliability: The increased material and optimized contact point ensure consistent ignition.
- Durable S7 Tool Steel construction: This material provides exceptional strength and resistance to wear.
- Drop-in installation: No specialized tools or gunsmithing experience is required.
- Improves overall shooting experience: Consistent performance makes range days more enjoyable.
Cons
- Slightly higher price than some other aftermarket firing pins: The premium material and construction justify the cost, but it may be a barrier for some budget-conscious shooters.
- Installation instructions could be more detailed: While the process is straightforward, more detailed instructions would be helpful for novice users.
Who Should Buy Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel?
The Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel is perfect for M&P 15-22 owners who are experiencing light strikes and misfires. It’s also a great upgrade for those who want to improve the overall reliability of their rifle. Competitive shooters and recreational plinkers alike will appreciate the consistent performance and enhanced durability.
Those who are on a very tight budget may want to explore other options. However, the Volquartsen firing pin offers superior quality and performance for the price. If you’re looking for the best possible reliability, it’s worth the investment. A must-have accessory for the Surestrike Firing Pin is a high-quality cleaning kit to maintain the rifle’s bolt assembly.
Conclusion on Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel
The Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel is a highly effective and worthwhile upgrade for the M&P 15-22 rifle. It addresses the common issue of light strikes and misfires. This results in a significantly more reliable and enjoyable shooting experience.
The price is justified by the superior quality of materials and construction. The S7 Tool Steel ensures long-term durability, and the enhanced design delivers consistent performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Volquartsen M&P 15-22 Surestrike Firing Pin Steel to any M&P 15-22 owner who is looking to improve the reliability of their rifle. Don’t let misfires ruin your range days; invest in the Surestrike Firing Pin and experience the difference!