If you're a fan of Smith & Wesson's Performance Center firearms, you know that they are already impressive out of the box. However, with a few strategic upgrades, you can take your firearm's performance to the next level. In this blog post, we will explore 10 essential modifications that will enhance the capabilities of your Smith & Wesson Performance Center gun, whether it's a revolver or a pistol.

1. Trigger Upgrade

One of the most noticeable improvements you can make is upgrading the trigger. Smith & Wesson offers a range of trigger kits designed to reduce pull weight, enhance break consistency, and provide a crisp, clean trigger pull. These kits are available for various models, including the M&P series and the Performance Center revolvers.

Benefits of a Trigger Upgrade:

• Improved accuracy due to a lighter, smoother trigger pull.
• Enhanced shot placement consistency.
• Increased control and reduced fatigue during prolonged shooting sessions.

2. Muzzle Brake or Compensator

Adding a muzzle brake or compensator can significantly reduce recoil and muzzle rise, especially when firing powerful ammunition. This upgrade is particularly beneficial for competitive shooters or those who engage in rapid-fire shooting.

Types of Muzzle Devices:

• Muzzle Brake: Directs propellant gases sideways to counteract recoil.
• Compensator: Channels gases upward to reduce muzzle rise.
• Combination Devices: Some options offer both recoil and muzzle rise reduction.

3. High-Quality Ammunition

Using premium ammunition can make a substantial difference in your firearm's performance. High-quality rounds are designed to optimize accuracy, consistency, and reliability. They often feature specialized bullet designs and precision-engineered components.

Benefits of Premium Ammunition:

• Improved accuracy and precision.
• Enhanced reliability, especially in demanding conditions.
• Consistent performance across multiple firearms.

4. Night Sights

Upgrading your firearm with night sights is a practical modification, especially if you plan to use your gun in low-light conditions. Tritium night sights provide a bright, long-lasting illumination that ensures quick target acquisition, even in dimly lit environments.

Night Sight Options:

• Tritium Night Sights: Self-luminous sights with a long shelf life.
• Fiber Optic Sights: Gather and focus ambient light for visibility.
• Combination Sights: Some sights offer both tritium and fiber optic illumination.

5. Extended Magazine Release

An extended magazine release can make reloading faster and more efficient, especially during dynamic shooting scenarios. These extended releases provide a larger surface area, making them easier to manipulate with your shooting hand.

Advantages of an Extended Magazine Release:

• Faster, more efficient reloading.
• Reduced risk of accidental magazine release.
• Improved ergonomics for shooters with larger hands.

6. Custom Grips

Custom grips can significantly enhance your firearm's ergonomics and aesthetics. Options include grip panels made from materials like G10, wood, or rubber, offering improved grip texture and reduced felt recoil.

Grip Options:

• G10 Grips: Lightweight and durable, providing a secure grip.
• Wood Grips: Classic and elegant, offering a unique look.
• Rubber Grips: Soft and tactile, ideal for shooters with sensitive hands.

7. Optics Mounting System

Adding an optics mounting system allows you to attach a red dot sight or other optical sights to your firearm. This upgrade is especially beneficial for target shooting, hunting, or defensive applications, as it provides a faster and more precise aiming solution.

Optics Mounting Options:

• Red Dot Sights: Compact and lightweight, ideal for close-quarters shooting.
• Prismatic Scopes: Offer larger objective lenses and higher magnification.
• Laser Sights: Provide a visible or invisible laser beam for precise aiming.

8. Slide Racking Lever

Upgrading the slide racking lever, also known as the charging handle, can make cycling the slide smoother and more comfortable. This is particularly useful for shooters with reduced hand strength or those who frequently manipulate the slide during rapid-fire drills.

Slide Racking Lever Upgrades:

• Extended Slide Racking Lever: Provides a larger surface area for easier manipulation.
• Tactile Slide Racking Lever: Features a textured surface for improved grip.
• Ambi Slide Racking Lever: Offers ambidextrous operation for left-handed shooters.

9. Extended Controls

Extending the controls, such as the slide stop and magazine release, can make them easier to access and manipulate, especially for shooters with larger hands or those wearing gloves.

Extended Control Options:

• Extended Slide Stop: Provides a larger surface for easier manipulation.
• Extended Magazine Release: Allows for faster and more efficient reloading.

10. Custom Finish

A custom finish can not only enhance the aesthetics of your firearm but also provide practical benefits. Cerakote, for example, offers a durable and corrosion-resistant coating, while other finishes can improve the firearm's grip and reduce glare.

Custom Finish Options:

• Cerakote: A durable and customizable finish available in various colors and patterns.
• Hard Chrome: Provides excellent corrosion resistance and a sleek appearance.
• Teflon Coatings: Offers a non-reflective finish and improved grip.

Conclusion

By implementing these 10 essential upgrades, you can enhance the performance and capabilities of your Smith & Wesson Performance Center firearm. From trigger upgrades to custom finishes, each modification is designed to improve your shooting experience and make your firearm more versatile and reliable. Remember to consult with professionals and follow safety guidelines when making modifications to your firearm.