M&P15 Sport II
Smith & Wesson · Carbine · In Production · 2016
Also known as: M&P15 Sport 2, M&P Sport II
Overview
The M&P15 Sport II is a subcompact semi-automatic carbine chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, introduced by Smith & Wesson in 2016. The pistol features a aluminum alloy frame, providing a durable platform designed for years of reliable service in both duty and civilian applications. With a magazine capacity of 30 rounds, this carbine offers ample firepower for defensive applications. The 16.0-inch barrel maximizes the ballistic potential of the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge while providing a generous sight radius that enhances accuracy at all practical distances. Weighing 2926g (103.2 oz) empty, this carbine provides enough mass to dampen felt recoil while remaining practical for holster carry and extended range sessions. Smith & Wesson's semi-automatic carbine designs draw on over 170 years of firearms manufacturing expertise, combining proven engineering principles with modern materials and manufacturing techniques to deliver reliable, accurate handguns trusted by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters worldwide.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 2926 g (103.2 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 3366 g (118.7 oz) |
| Overall Length | 838 mm (32.99") |
| Folded Length | 756 mm (29.76") |
| Barrel Length | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Direct Impingement |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 34 N (7.6 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 905 m/s (2969 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1640 J (1210 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 500 m (547 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3600 m (3937 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 229 mm (9.02") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Hard Anodized |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · 5.56x45mm NATO — also known as 5.56mm NATO, 5.56x45mm, .223 Remington
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety Selector
- Features: Collapsible Stock, Accessory Rail, Forward Assist, Dust Cover, Armornite Finish, A2 Front Sight, Magpul Mbus Rear Sight, Flat Top Receiver, Picatinny Rail
Variants
- M&P15 Sport III — Modernized
- M&P15 Sport II OR (Optics Ready) — Optics Ready
Service history
Operators
- United States Law Enforcement
- Civilian Sport Shooters
Production
Production years: 2016-present
Exact production numbers not disclosed by Smith & Wesson. The M&P15 Sport II is one of the best-selling AR-15 rifles in the civilian market.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Eugene Stoner
Notes
The M&P15 Sport II represents Smith & Wesson's commitment to providing an affordable, quality AR-15 to the mass market. The rifle is manufactured with barrels supplied by Thompson/Center Arms (a Smith & Wesson subsidiary acquired in 2007), while lower receivers are produced in-house. The 1:9 twist rate is optimized for 55-62 grain bullets commonly used in training and recreational shooting. The inclusion of forward assist and dust cover in the Sport II addressed the primary criticisms of the original Sport model. While earlier M&P15 rifles were initially produced by Stag Arms and marked under the S&W name, current production is predominantly handled by Smith & Wesson facilities. The Sport II is designed for three-gun competition, home defense, and recreational shooting, offering mil-spec compatibility at a budget-friendly price point.
Background
The M&P15 Sport II earned its reputation as 'America's entry-level AR-15' not through military service, but by introducing hundreds of thousands of first-time AR buyers to the platform. At a time when quality AR-15s commanded premium prices, Smith & Wesson's decision to include previously omitted features like the forward assist and dust cover in the Sport II made it the rifle that democratized AR ownership.