First Impressions of Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell
The Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell promises to enhance reload speeds and improve ergonomics on Smith & Wesson’s popular M&P 2.0 platform. Ed Brown Products is known for quality 1911 parts, so I was intrigued to see their take on a modern pistol magwell. This accessory aims to provide a competition-ready upgrade while remaining practical for everyday carry.
My pursuit of quicker reloads and enhanced handling on my M&P Metal led me to the Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell. Frustrated with fumbled reloads during drills, I needed a solution that would guide the magazine positively without adding excessive bulk. I was specifically seeking a magwell that wouldn’t hinder concealed carry.
The Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell arrived in a simple package, revealing a cleanly machined, black anodized aluminum part. The finish was smooth and even, and the Ed Brown Products logo was subtly placed. It felt solid and well-made in my hand, promising a durable upgrade.
Compared to other magwells I’ve considered, like those from Agency Arms or Springer Precision, the Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell stood out for its low-profile design and claimed compatibility with daily carry. I appreciated its understated aesthetics compared to the more aggressive, competition-focused designs of other brands. The price point, at $79.95, also made it an attractive option.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell appeared to be a well-executed part with the potential to significantly improve my M&P Metal’s performance. I was excited to install it and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell extensively at my local outdoor shooting range during a practical pistol course. This allowed me to assess its performance under pressure and in a dynamic environment. The weather was sunny and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing reloads and handling.
The magwell immediately proved its worth. Magazine changes were noticeably faster and smoother, even when performed quickly and under simulated stress. The enlarged opening guided magazines into place with ease, eliminating the fumbling I had experienced previously.
The Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell required no acclimation period. Installation was straightforward, and it felt natural from the first reload. There were no snags or issues with the magwell interfering with my grip or draw stroke.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my M&P Metal. It has become an integral part of my pistol’s setup. I have used it in weekly range sessions, weekend training courses, and even during some informal competitions.
The magwell shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The black anodized finish has held up well, with only minor scratches from repeated magazine insertions. Maintenance is minimal; I simply wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session.
The Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell has significantly outperformed my expectations. It has instilled confidence in my reloads and improved my overall shooting performance. It is a substantial upgrade compared to the stock setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell
Specifications
The Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell is specifically designed for the full-size M&P Metal frame. It is machined from aluminum and finished with a durable black anodized coating. The low-profile design allows for daily carry and meets competition regulations.
The magwell is compatible only with Ed Brown Products M&P mag basepads, and may not function correctly with stock or other aftermarket basepads. It is designed to provide a larger magazine well opening for faster reloads. Installation is simple, utilizing a rigid mounting system.
These specifications are crucial because they guarantee a secure fit and optimal performance. The aluminum construction ensures durability without adding excessive weight, while the anodized finish protects against corrosion and wear. The compatibility with Ed Brown basepads is a key factor for potential buyers to consider.
Performance & Functionality
The Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell excels at its primary function: facilitating faster and more consistent reloads. The enlarged opening significantly reduces the chance of fumbling magazines, especially under stress. The smooth interior surface guides magazines smoothly into place.
Its greatest strengths are its ease of installation, improved reload speed, and low-profile design. A potential weakness is the requirement of using proprietary Ed Brown Products basepads. Overall, the magwell meets and exceeds expectations for improved reloading performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell is excellent. The materials used are high-quality, and the machining is precise. It adds minimal weight to the pistol and feels comfortable in hand.
The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The magwell integrates seamlessly with the M&P Metal frame. Installation is quick and easy, and it does not interfere with the grip or draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and black anodized finish ensure the Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell is built to last. It has shown minimal signs of wear and tear after months of regular use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth.
There are no complicated parts or intricate mechanisms, so the magwell is easy to maintain and repair. The durable construction suggests a long lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell does not come with any included accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. Its primary customization option involves the use of Ed Brown Products M&P mag basepads. These basepads are required for proper fit and function.
The magwell is compatible with most standard M&P 2.0 accessories, such as holsters and sights. It is specifically designed to work with Ed Brown Products basepads but may not be compatible with basepads from other brands without modification. This limitation is important for users to consider when evaluating accessory compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell
Pros
- Significantly faster and smoother reloads. The enlarged magazine well opening facilitates quicker and more consistent magazine changes.
Cons
- Requires the use of proprietary Ed Brown Products M&P mag basepads. Compatibility with stock or other aftermarket basepads is not guaranteed.
Low-profile design suitable for daily carry. The magwell adds minimal bulk to the pistol, making it comfortable for concealed carry.
Durable aluminum construction with a black anodized finish. The high-quality materials and finish ensure long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
Easy installation and seamless integration with the M&P Metal frame. Installation is straightforward, requiring no gunsmithing or modifications.
Enhanced ergonomics and improved grip. The magwell provides a slightly extended grip surface, enhancing control and comfort.
Adds a slight increase in overall grip length. While low-profile, the magwell does slightly extend the grip, which may be a concern for some users.
Who Should Buy Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell?
Perfect for: Competitive shooters seeking faster reloads, tactical shooters needing enhanced efficiency, and anyone wanting to improve the ergonomics of their M&P Metal. It’s also a good choice for those who prioritize a low-profile design suitable for concealed carry.
Who should skip this product? Those unwilling to purchase proprietary Ed Brown Products basepads, or individuals seeking an extremely minimalist setup with no added grip length.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Ed Brown Products M&P mag basepads are essential. A quality holster that accommodates the slightly extended grip length is also recommended.
Conclusion on Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell
The Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell is a well-designed and executed upgrade for the M&P Metal pistol. It delivers on its promise of faster reloads and improved ergonomics. While the requirement of proprietary basepads is a consideration, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks for those seeking enhanced performance.
At $79.95, the price is justified considering the quality of materials, construction, and the noticeable improvement in reloading speed and handling. I personally recommend the Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell to anyone looking to enhance their M&P Metal.
If you’re ready to experience faster, more consistent reloads and improved handling, the Ed Brown Products M&P 2.0 Magwell is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your M&P Metal today!