S&W, rather than folding and running in the face of increased pressure on black rifles, is doubling down on their catalog with a new version of its M&P15 rifle.
The new M&P15T II, chambered in 5.56mm NATO, has several enhancements from previous models including a full-length aluminum handguard with M-LOK slots, a flat face trigger, Magpul CTR stock, and an M&P grip with four interchangeable palmswell grip inserts. Other features include an ambidextrous Radian Raptor-LT charging handle, ambi safety selector, and M4E flash suppressor.
"With the M&P15T II, we set out to include some of the latest features that consumers demand on a high-end MSR – a full-length handguard, flat face trigger, ambidextrous controls, and more," said Vince Perreault, S&W Senior Brand Manager. "The M&P15T II delivers premium enhancements in a high-performance modern sporting rifle."
Pitched for recreational, sport shooting, and professional applications, the S&W M&P15T II has an MSRP of $1,372.
Although founded in Massachusetts, according to data from federal regulators, in 2019, the most recent figures available, Smith & Wesson manufactured 130,732 rifles in the company's facility in gun-friendly Missouri, where Smith has been expanding in recent years. Notably, in 2016, ATF records show S&W making most of its rifles in its traditional Springfield, Massachusetts, plant.
