SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Smith & Wesson Corp. has begun shipping both full-size and compact M&P pistols, in all calibers, with an optional frame-mounted thumb safety. Originally available only on the M&P45, the optional frame-mounted thumb safety is now being offered on M&P pistols chambered in 9mm, .40 S&W and .357 SIG.
“Soon after the introduction of the full-size and compact M&P45 pistols, we began receiving requests from law enforcement professionals and recreational shooters asking for a frame mounted thumb safety on other M&P calibers,” said Leland Nichols, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Smith & Wesson.
The thumb safety on the M&P pistols acts as a passive safety device allowing the slide to be pulled toward the rear, clearing the firearm without disengaging the safety. The external safety on the M&P is ambidextrous.
