Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson: In Depth
Smith & Wesson is a well-known and respected name in the firearms industry. Founded in 1852 by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson in Springfield, Massachusetts, this iconic brand has a long history of innovation and reliability.
One of the key features of Smith & Wesson is its commitment to precision and performance. Each firearm is meticulously crafted to ensure consistent accuracy, making them favorites among law enforcement, competitive shooters, and hunting enthusiasts. The brand also emphasizes safety and reliability, ensuring that each cartridge performs as expected under various conditions.
With over 170 years of experience, Smith & Wesson continues to uphold its reputation for excellence in the firearms industry. Their dedication to quality and innovation makes their firearms a top choice for shooters around the world. Whether for sport, protection, or duty, Smith & Wesson delivers the performance and reliability that shooters demand.
Smith & Wesson History
Smith & Wesson, founded in 1852 by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson, is one of the most recognizable names in the firearms industry. The company began with the goal of creating a repeating firearm that could use a self-contained cartridge. Their initial product, the Volcanic Pistol, was innovative but not commercially successful. However, it laid the groundwork for future developments.
In 1857, Smith & Wesson introduced the Model 1, the first firearm capable of using the newly designed rimfire cartridge. This innovation was a significant milestone, as it offered a more reliable and efficient way to fire a weapon compared to earlier methods. The success of the Model 1 established Smith & Wesson as a leading firearms manufacturer.
Over the years, Smith & Wesson has undergone several changes. The company remained privately owned until 1965, when it was sold to Bangor Punta Corporation. Later, it was acquired by Tomkins PLC in 1987, before being sold again to Saf-T-Hammer Corporation in 2001. The company was then renamed Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation. As of 2016, the company is known as American Outdoor Brands Corporation.
Smith & Wesson's reputation extends beyond the civilian market. They have been a key supplier of firearms to military and law enforcement agencies around the world. For example, during World War II, Smith & Wesson produced large quantities of firearms for the U.S. military, including the famous Victory Model revolver.
In addition to firearms, Smith & Wesson has developed various notable ammunition calibers. One of their significant contributions is the .40 S&W cartridge , developed in collaboration with Winchester in 1990. This cartridge was designed to offer better performance than the 9mm Luger , providing a balance between power and manageable recoil, and has been widely adopted by law enforcement agencies.
Through its long history, Smith & Wesson has played a crucial role in the development of firearms technology. From pioneering the use of self-contained cartridges to creating popular ammunition calibers, the company's legacy is marked by innovation and dedication to advancing the field of firearms.
Smith & Wesson Products
Smith & Wesson is a well-known name in the firearm industry, recognized for their high-quality products and long history of craftsmanship. They offer a wide range of firearms designed for various purposes, from self-defense to target shooting and hunting.
Handguns
M&P Series
- M&P9: The M&P9 is a popular choice for law enforcement and personal protection. It features a polymer frame, a stainless steel chassis, and interchangeable grips for comfort and accuracy.
- M&P Shield: This compact and lightweight handgun is ideal for concealed carry. It offers a slim profile and comes in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP calibers.
- M&P Performance Center: These handguns are enhanced for precision shooting, with features like ported barrels, adjustable sights, and tuned triggers.
Revolvers
- Smith & Wesson 686: Known for its durability and accuracy, the Model 686 is a versatile revolver suitable for both target shooting and hunting. It is chambered in .357 Magnum and .38 Special .
- Smith & Wesson 642: This small, lightweight revolver is perfect for concealed carry. It has a stainless steel barrel and cylinder, and it is chambered in .38 Special.
Rifles
M&P15 Series
- M&P15 Sport II: A popular AR-15 style rifle, the M&P15 Sport II is great for sport shooting and personal defense. It features a durable aluminum receiver and a 16-inch barrel.
- M&P15-22: This .22 LR version of the M&P15 is ideal for training and recreational shooting. It offers a lightweight design and similar controls to the standard M&P15.
Ammunition
Smith & Wesson Ammunition
- .40 S&W: Developed specifically for law enforcement, the .40 S&W cartridge provides excellent stopping power and performance.
- .38 Special: This versatile round is used in both revolvers and semi-automatic pistols, offering manageable recoil and reliable performance.
Use Cases
- Personal Protection: The M&P Shield and the Smith & Wesson 642 are excellent choices for concealed carry due to their compact size and reliability.
- Law Enforcement: The M&P9 and .40 S&W ammunition are trusted by law enforcement for their performance and durability.
- Sport Shooting: The M&P15 Sport II and M&P15-22 rifles are great for recreational shooting and training, offering accuracy and ease of use.
- Hunting: The Model 686 revolver is suitable for hunting small to medium game, thanks to its power and precision.
Smith & Wesson continues to innovate and produce firearms that meet the needs of various users, from everyday citizens to professionals. Their commitment to quality and performance makes them a trusted name in the industry.
Where is Smith & Wesson Made?
Smith & Wesson has several major production facilities in the US. One of the largest is in East Alton, Illinois .
East Alton, Illinois
The main production facility for Smith & Wesson Ammunition is located in East Alton, Illinois. With more than 1,000 workers, this plant has been in operation for many years and is known for producing a wide variety of firearms.
Conclusion
Smith & Wesson, through its various production facilities across the United States, ensures a steady supply of high-quality firearms for different purposes. From East Alton, Illinois, to Lonoke, Arkansas , each plant plays a crucial role in the brand's overall production strategy, contributing to the brand's reputation for reliability and performance in the firearm industry.