The Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Compact is a popular choice for both beginners and experienced shooters thanks to its affordability, reliability, and comfortable ergonomics. However, many shooters find the factory sights lacking, hindering accuracy and target acquisition. This guide delves into the world of M&P 22 Compact sights, exploring upgrade options, installation processes, and factors to consider when choosing the right sights for your needs.
Understanding Factory Sights and Their Limitations
The M&P 22 Compact typically comes equipped with three-dot sights, featuring a white dot on the front sight and two white dots on the rear sight. While functional for basic shooting, these sights have limitations:
- Low Visibility: In low-light conditions, the white dots can be difficult to see.
- Limited Precision: The standard sights are not ideal for precise target shooting.
- Personal Preference: Many shooters simply prefer the feel and performance of different sight types.
Upgrading your sights can significantly improve accuracy and shooting experience. Let's explore the options available.
Popular M&P 22 Compact Sight Upgrades
Several excellent aftermarket sight options exist for the M&P 22 Compact, catering to diverse shooting styles and preferences.
1. Fiber Optic Sights
Fiber optic sights are known for their excellent visibility. They use brightly colored fibers (often green or orange) that gather and amplify ambient light, making them much easier to see in various lighting conditions. Trijicon, Hi-Viz, and Dawson Precision are popular brands offering fiber optic sights for the M&P 22 Compact. The increased visibility translates directly to faster target acquisition and improved accuracy, especially in challenging light situations.
- Pros: Excellent low-light visibility, enhanced accuracy.
- Cons: Can be more fragile than other sight types; the fiber optic can break if subjected to significant impact.
2. Night Sights
Night sights incorporate tritium vials, providing illumination even in complete darkness. These sights are exceptionally useful for self-defense scenarios or low-light shooting. Brands like Ameriglo and Trijicon produce high-quality night sights. The constant glow from the tritium ensures rapid target acquisition, even without external light sources.
- Pros: Superior low-light and night visibility.
- Cons: More expensive than fiber optic sights; the tritium will gradually diminish in brightness over time (typically 10-12 years).
3. Adjustable Sights
Adjustable sights allow you to fine-tune the windage and elevation of your sights, ensuring precise point-of-impact. This is crucial for consistent accuracy at various distances. Many adjustable sight options are available, ranging from basic windage-adjustable sights to more sophisticated designs with fully adjustable elevation and windage.
- Pros: Precision adjustment for optimal accuracy.
- Cons: Requires more adjustment and practice to get used to.
4. Red Dot Sights (RDS)
While not strictly "sights" in the traditional sense, mounting a red dot sight (RDS) on your M&P 22 Compact using an adapter plate opens up a whole new level of accuracy and speed. RDS provide a clear aiming point that's less susceptible to parallax error than traditional iron sights.
- Pros: Excellent for rapid target acquisition, improved accuracy at various distances.
- Cons: Requires an adapter plate (ensure compatibility!), adds weight and bulk to the pistol.
Installing M&P 22 Compact Sights
Installing new sights typically requires specialized tools and some mechanical aptitude. If you are uncomfortable performing the installation yourself, consider taking it to a qualified gunsmith. Most sight installation involves using a sight pusher tool to remove the original sights and install the new ones. Always prioritize safety. Ensure the firearm is unloaded and clear before attempting any modifications.
Important Note: Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions provided with your new sights for specific installation guidance. Improper installation can damage your firearm or the sights themselves.
Choosing the Right Sights: Factors to Consider
Selecting the ideal sights for your M&P 22 Compact depends on several factors:
- Shooting Style: Are you primarily a target shooter, a self-defense shooter, or both?
- Lighting Conditions: Do you mostly shoot in daylight, low light, or darkness?
- Budget: Sight prices vary significantly.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best sights are the ones that you find most comfortable and effective.
Conclusion
Upgrading the sights on your Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Compact is a straightforward and effective way to enhance its accuracy and shooting experience. By understanding the different sight types available and carefully considering your individual needs, you can select the perfect sights to meet your specific requirements and improve your time on the range. Remember always to prioritize safety and consult professional help if needed during the installation process.