First Thoughts on the Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel
The Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel immediately catches the eye with its distinctive flame fluting. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it hints at performance enhancements, promising a blend of form and function that’s always appealing. Faxon Firearms has a reputation for quality barrels, and this one seems poised to deliver.
I’ve been chasing tighter groupings and more consistent performance from my M&P 2.0 Compact. Factory barrels are often a compromise, and an upgrade seemed the next logical step. The threaded barrel also opens the door to using a suppressor, a long-term goal of mine.
The barrel arrived well-packaged, showcasing the Faxon Firearms attention to detail. The nitride finish is smooth and even, and the fluting is precisely machined. The weight feels balanced, not adding unnecessary bulk to the compact frame.
I considered a few other options, including barrels from Apex Tactical and Agency Arms. I chose the Faxon Firearms barrel for its balance of features, price point, and the visual appeal of the flame fluting. My initial impression is strong; this appears to be a well-made and thoughtfully designed upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for late spring: a bit breezy with occasional light rain. I ran a variety of ammunition types through it, from standard 115-grain FMJ to heavier 147-grain hollow points.
The barrel installed easily into my M&P 2.0 Compact, requiring no gunsmithing or special tools. Right away, I noticed a difference in the perceived recoil impulse, feeling slightly reduced and more manageable. Accuracy was also improved, with tighter groupings at 15 yards.
There were no immediate issues. The Faxon Firearms barrel functioned flawlessly from the first magazine.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds, the Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel continues to perform admirably. The nitride finish shows no signs of wear, even after frequent holster use. Cleaning is straightforward.
Occasional wipe-downs with a bore snake and a more thorough cleaning after each range trip keeps it in top condition. It outperforms the factory barrel in both accuracy and felt recoil. My confidence in my M&P 2.0 Compact has increased significantly with this upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel
Specifications
Manufacturer: Faxon Firearms. Known for producing high-quality firearm components.
Finish: Nitride. Provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability.
Fabric/Material: 416R Stainless Steel. This is a premium material chosen for its strength, machinability, and corrosion resistance.
Barrel Profile: Flame. A visually striking profile with functional fluting to reduce weight and dissipate heat.
Threads per Inch: 1/2×28. Standard thread pitch for 9mm suppressors and muzzle devices.
Barrel Twist Rate: 1-10. Optimized for stabilizing a wide range of 9mm bullet weights.
Flutes: Yes. Flame flutes not only look great but also increase surface area for cooling.
Cartridge: 9mm Luger. The most popular handgun caliber in the world.
Gun Make: Smith & Wesson. Specifically designed for Smith & Wesson pistols.
Gun Model: Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0. Ensures proper fit and function.
Gun Frame Size: Compact. Perfect for the M&P 2.0 Compact model.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel significantly improves the performance of the M&P 2.0 Compact. Accuracy is noticeably enhanced, and the fluting helps to keep the barrel cooler during extended shooting sessions. It meets and exceeds my expectations for an aftermarket barrel.
The 1/10 twist rate stabilizes a wide range of bullet weights, making it versatile for different applications. The threaded barrel allows for the attachment of suppressors or compensators, further enhancing functionality. The barrel performs flawlessly with various 9mm ammunition types.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, using high-quality 416R stainless steel. The Faxon Firearms barrel is noticeably well-made. The weight is balanced, adding minimal bulk to the M&P 2.0 Compact.
Installation is simple, requiring no specialized gunsmithing skills. The drop-in design ensures a snug and secure fit.
Durability & Maintenance
The nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. With proper care, the Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel should last for tens of thousands of rounds.
Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that is needed to maintain its performance. It is easy to clean using standard gun cleaning supplies.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary customization option is the ability to add a suppressor or muzzle device thanks to the 1/2×28 threads. It is compatible with most popular 9mm suppressors and compensators on the market.
No accessories are included with the barrel itself. The user is responsible for any muzzle devices.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel
Pros
- Significantly improved accuracy over the stock barrel.
- Distinctive flame fluting provides enhanced cooling and a unique look.
- Nitride finish offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability.
- Threaded barrel allows for suppressor or compensator use.
- Easy drop-in installation.
Cons
- The flame fluting might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences.
- Adding a suppressor or compensator increases the overall length and weight of the pistol.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel?
The Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel is perfect for shooters looking to improve the accuracy and performance of their M&P 2.0 Compact. It’s also ideal for those who want the option of adding a suppressor or compensator.
Those who prioritize a completely stock appearance should skip this product. A quality suppressor is a must-have accessory to take full advantage of the threaded barrel.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel
The Faxon Firearms Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact Flame Fluted/Threaded 9mm Barrel is a worthwhile upgrade for the M&P 2.0 Compact. The enhanced accuracy, durable finish, and suppressor compatibility make it a valuable addition.
The price is justified by the quality and performance improvements. I would personally recommend it to any M&P 2.0 Compact owner looking to enhance their shooting experience. Upgrade your M&P 2.0 Compact today and experience the Faxon Firearms difference!