Smith & Wesson M&P15 AXE: Carving A New Path In Suppressed Shooting
Smith & Wesson has announced the launch of its new M&P15 AXE Rifle Series, said to be designed for reliability and performance, particularly for suppressed shooting. The series includes four models, all chambered in 5.56 NATO, featuring a 7075 T6 aluminum upper and lower receivers, ambidextrous controls, a Radian Raptor charging handle, Williams folding sights, and an M&P grip with four interchangeable backstraps.
Each rifle incorporates a GVAC system upper to reduce gas blowback during suppressed use and comes equipped with a Gemtech ETM flash hider. The bolt carrier group includes a Carpenter 1580 steel bolt, 8620 steel carrier, and a chromed firing pin for consistent ignition.
The three standard models, finished in black Armornite, include a Magpul CTR adjustable carbine stock and a Midwest Industries Combat M-LOK free-float handguard, available with 16.1-inch, 14.5-inch, or 11.5-inch barrels.
Below is the M&P15 AXE in the SBR 11.5” configuration. Pretty perfect for a suitable suppressor, don’t you agree?
The Performance Center AXE model features an ambidextrous Radian safety selector, a Magpul DT Carbine stock, a HIPEFIRE Enhanced Duty Trigger (pictured just below), and a Comp Gray Cerakote finish, which seems to look quite nice compared to the standard models.
A close-up of the Radian Raptor charging handle below. In my own extensive experience, this is a great brand for charging handles. However, there’s also an SD model with a ported shaft designed to redirect gases, suited for shooting with suppressors. Perhaps this would have been a better choice?
“The M&P15 AXE series represents the new premium MSR offering from Smith & Wesson. By pairing the GVAC upper gas system, with the trusted durability of the M&P15 platform, these high-performance rifles become the ultimate suppressor hosts. Available in a variety of configurations, users now have options out of the box, tailored to meet their needs,” said Corey Beaudreau, Product Manager, Rifles.
Looking for a price? The AXEs have MSRPs from $1,559 to $1,649, where the Performance Center version is the more expensive one.
For more information on the Smith & Wesson M&P15 AXE series, visit https://www.smith-wesson.com/products/mp-15.
But before you leave, please type up a comment telling what you think about the new AXE series.
Ex-Arctic Ranger. Competitive practical shooter and hunter with a European focus. Always ready to increase my collection of modern semi-automatics, optics, thermals and suppressors. TCCC Certified. Occasionaly seen in a 6x6 Bug Out Vehicle, always with a big smile.
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Looks to be good options.
Smith & Wesson is famously known for their budget-friendly M&P Sport Series. Do they really think they have the gravitas to take on Daniel Defense, Geissele, etc. for the higher end of the AR/M4 market?
Also, For this price range, I would think that Smith & Wesson would offer the weapon in the more versatile .223 Wylde Chambering.