Smith and Wesson is the largest handgun manufacturer in the United States. The company was formed by two partners in 1852 and produced lever action pistols and revolvers. Smith and Wesson kept the company within the family until 1964, when it was sold to several large investors. During their ownership, Smith & Wesson saw substantial sales decreases, with the boycott and comeback of a large majority of Smith & Wesson firearms, to guarantee the loss of profits and customers.

Smith & Wesson is accountable for more than half of handguns and revolvers made in the United States, according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation reports. Smith and Wesson have always led the industry standards in power, precision, and reliability.

In 2005, Smith and Wesson released a new line of polymer handguns. The M&P (Military and Police) line was designed with direct input of several different law enforcement and military agencies. Some of the features include an integrated universal rail which can be found underneath the slide on the front of the frame for attaching flashlights, lasers, and other accessories. Ergonomics were a key focus; each handgun has three interchangeable grips (small, medium, and large), as well as an ambidextrous slide stop and reversible magazine release. S&W M&P firearms come in a wide variety of models that include compact, mid-size, and full size and are available in 9mm, .45ACP, .40S&W, and .357SIG.

Smith and Wesson M&P (Military and Police) models have encountered a great deal of popularity within competitive shooters, law enforcement, and other firearms communities. These polymer pistols have taken the shooting world by storm and the future is looking even better.

Smith & Wesson has also begun production of AR-15 style tactical assault rifles, which have been an instant hit within law enforcement and security organizations. Smith and Wesson M&P Rifles were introduced in 2006 to meet the needs of global military and police personnel, as well as sporting shooters. With the popularity of the M&P handguns, Smith and Wesson knew they could position themselves in the AR15 market. The M&P rifle series is based upon combat proven design and incorporates a full set of standard features currently unmatched in other AR15 tactical assault rifles.

Smith and Wesson’s innovative designs and modern technology give the ability for almost every firearms enthusiast to buy a handgun regardless of how choosy or difficult you are to please. Smith & Wesson’s past indiscretions have been forgotten and forgiven with the help of their constantly changing and ground-breaking products.