First Impressions of Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis
The Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis promises to transform a familiar pistol into a compact and accurate rifle-style platform. The Meta Tactical company claims this bullpup chassis offers enhanced range and control for the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 9mm. With its ambidextrous controls and adjustable stock, it aims to bridge the gap between pistol and rifle.
I was seeking a more stable and accurate platform for my M&P 2.0, something more compact than a traditional AR-15 pistol build. The promise of improved accuracy and a unique form factor drew me to the Apex Chassis. Its bullpup design intrigued me, offering a potentially superior balance and shorter overall length compared to other pistol conversion kits I’d seen.
Out of the box, the Apex Chassis felt solid and well-made. The nitride finish appeared durable, and the weight, while noticeable, didn’t feel excessive at 2.77lbs. The polymer construction seemed robust, and the 6-position adjustable stock locked up tightly, exhibiting minimal wobble.
Compared to some universal pistol chassis systems, the Apex Chassis is purpose-built for the M&P 2.0, which suggests a better fit and finish. I also considered a Micro Conversion Kit (MCK), but the bullpup design of the Meta Tactical offered a unique appeal. Ultimately, the Apex Chassis’s blend of compactness and claimed accuracy led me to choose it over more generic options.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While the design looked promising, I was eager to see how it performed on the range and whether it lived up to the hype. I was excited by the possibilities, but also slightly skeptical of whether a pistol conversion could truly deliver rifle-like performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was clear and sunny, with a slight breeze, ideal for accuracy testing at various distances. I used standard 115-grain FMJ ammunition, along with some 124-grain +P rounds, to assess its performance with different loads.
The initial setup was straightforward, requiring minimal tools to install my M&P 2.0 into the chassis. Getting used to the bullpup configuration took a few magazines. The trigger, now linked through the chassis mechanism, felt different from the pistol’s original trigger, but with a little practice, became manageable.
My first surprise was the improved stability. The added weight and the ability to shoulder the platform made a noticeable difference in recoil management. There were no immediate malfunctions or failures to feed, but I did notice the trigger pull felt heavier than the original pistol trigger.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a few months, the Apex Chassis has held up remarkably well. The nitride finish shows no signs of wear, and the polymer parts remain solid. Cleaning is relatively easy, requiring just a basic wipe-down after each range trip, focusing on the trigger linkage area.
I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through the chassis, and it has proven to be quite reliable. I’ve experienced only one failure to eject, which I attributed to a weak load of ammunition. The chassis continues to provide a stable shooting platform, and the adjustable stock remains tight and secure.
Compared to simply shooting the M&P 2.0 pistol by itself, the Apex Chassis offers a significant improvement in accuracy and control, especially at distances beyond 25 yards. It doesn’t quite replicate the performance of a dedicated rifle, but it definitely enhances the capabilities of the pistol.
Breaking Down the Features of Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Meta Tactical.
- Finish: Nitride protects against corrosion.
- Fabric/Material: Chrome Moly steel and durable polymer.
- Gun Make: Specifically designed for Smith & Wesson.
- Gun Model: Compatible with the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0.
- Hand: Ambidextrous design for left or right-handed shooters.
- Gun Rail: Picatinny top rail for optics mounting.
- Weight: 2.77 lbs.
These specifications are important because they indicate the chassis’s quality, compatibility, and features tailored for enhanced performance with the M&P 2.0. The ambidextrous design and Picatinny rail ensure versatility for a wide range of users and accessories.
Performance & Functionality
The Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis significantly improves the accuracy and stability of the M&P 2.0 pistol. The bullpup design allows for a shorter overall length while maintaining a longer sight radius, which enhances aiming precision. The increased weight and the ability to shoulder the chassis reduce felt recoil, enabling faster follow-up shots.
The biggest strength is the improved accuracy at longer ranges. The heavier trigger pull, compared to the original pistol, is a minor weakness but one easily adapted to. Overall, the Apex Chassis meets and even exceeds expectations, transforming the M&P 2.0 into a more versatile and capable platform.
Design & Ergonomics
The Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis boasts a well-thought-out design with durable materials. The polymer construction feels robust, and the nitride finish on the metal parts provides excellent corrosion resistance. The chassis is relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to handle and maneuver.
The chassis is mostly user-friendly, but mastering the trigger pull requires some practice. The ambidextrous controls are intuitive, and the adjustable stock allows for a customized fit. Overall, the ergonomics are well-considered, although the trigger linkage could use some refinement.
Durability & Maintenance
The Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis is built to last with proper care. The materials and finish are designed to withstand regular use and exposure to the elements. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Disassembly for cleaning is relatively simple, and no special tools are needed beyond the standard tools for maintaining the M&P 2.0 itself. With proper maintenance, the Apex Chassis should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis comes with a built-in cheek rest and a 6-position adjustable stock. The M-LOK accessory system on the handguard allows for attaching lights, lasers, and other accessories. The NATO Picatinny top rail is perfect for mounting optics.
The Apex Chassis is compatible with most aftermarket slides and optics-ready slides (without the optic mounted). It is also compatible with most AR15 flat-top A2-style grips. These customization options allow users to tailor the chassis to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis
Pros
- Significantly improves accuracy and stability of the M&P 2.0 pistol.
- Ambidextrous design caters to both left and right-handed shooters.
- Compact bullpup design offers a shorter overall length than traditional rifle builds.
- Durable construction with nitride finish and robust polymer.
- M-LOK and Picatinny rail allows for extensive accessory mounting.
Cons
- Trigger pull is heavier than the original M&P 2.0 pistol trigger.
- Limited compatibility with some optics due to mounting height.
Who Should Buy Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis?
The Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis is perfect for shooters looking to enhance the accuracy and versatility of their M&P 2.0 pistol without the bulk of a traditional rifle. It’s also well-suited for home defense scenarios where maneuverability is crucial. Competitive shooters who want a unique platform for pistol caliber carbine divisions could also find it appealing.
Those who prioritize a lightweight setup or prefer the original trigger feel of their M&P 2.0 might want to skip this product. Someone seeking extreme long-range accuracy should consider a dedicated rifle platform instead.
A must-have accessory would be a quality red dot sight to take full advantage of the chassis’s enhanced accuracy. An upgraded trigger spring for the M&P 2.0 could help improve the trigger feel within the chassis.
Conclusion on Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis
The Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis is a well-designed and effective conversion kit that transforms the M&P 2.0 pistol into a more stable and accurate platform. While the trigger pull is a minor drawback, the overall benefits in terms of accuracy, stability, and compactness make it a worthwhile upgrade.
The price of $300.00 is justified considering the enhanced performance and versatility it provides. The chassis is well-built, easy to maintain, and offers plenty of customization options.
I would definitely recommend the Meta Tactical S&W M&P 2 Apex Chassis to anyone looking to get more out of their M&P 2.0 pistol. Transform your pistol into a compact, accurate, and versatile platform!