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13 Things to LOVE about Smith & Wesson’s 9mm Pistol Caliber Carbine

The Smith & Wesson M&P FPC is making waves in the world of pistol caliber carbines (PCCs) with its innovative features, affordability, and versatility. Designed to cater to a wide range of users, this firearm offers an excellent balance of performance, portability, and practicality. Let’s dive into 13 reasons why this carbine has enthusiasts raving.

1. Compact Folding Design

1. Compact Folding Design
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One of the standout features of the M&P FPC is its compact folding mechanism. The carbine folds horizontally at a hinge located just ahead of the breech, reducing its length from 30 3/8 inches to a mere 16 3/8 inches. This design makes the FPC incredibly easy to store and transport without sacrificing barrel length or performance. Unlike some folding carbines, the horizontal folding mechanism doesn’t interfere with optics, making it an ideal choice for those who want a sleek, portable firearm.

2. Compatible with M&P Magazines

2. Compatible with M&P Magazines
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The FPC is designed to work seamlessly with Smith & Wesson’s M&P pistol double-stack magazines, making it a versatile option for anyone already invested in the M&P lineup. It ships with one 17-round magazine and two 23-round magazines, but it’s also compatible with larger capacity competition magazines. This flexibility ensures you’ll have plenty of firepower and can easily swap between firearms in your collection.

3. Recoil Buffer System for Smooth Shooting

3. Recoil Buffer System for Smooth Shooting
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Thanks to its integrated recoil buffer system, the FPC provides an exceptionally smooth shooting experience. Unlike many AR-style blowback carbines that can feel jarring during recoil, the FPC’s design reduces felt impact, making it a joy to shoot for extended periods. This mild recoil also makes it a great option for new shooters or those looking for a more comfortable PCC.

4. Enhanced Accuracy and Range

4. Enhanced Accuracy and Range
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Pistol caliber carbines like the M&P FPC offer significantly better accuracy than traditional handguns, particularly at distances beyond 25 yards. The 16.25-inch barrel provides improved ballistics, allowing shooters to hit targets consistently out to 100 yards or more. Whether you’re target shooting, plinking, or using it for home defense, the FPC delivers precision and confidence.

5. Optics-Ready Design

5. Optics Ready Design
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The FPC comes optics-ready, allowing you to mount your preferred sight or scope right out of the box. The Picatinny-style rail on top of the handguard is perfect for attaching red-dot sights, magnified scopes, or other optics. This feature ensures that you can customize your shooting experience to suit your needs, whether it’s close-range speed or pinpoint accuracy at a distance.

6. In-Stock Magazine Storage

6. In Stock Magazine Storage
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One of the most practical features of the FPC is its in-stock magazine storage. The fixed polymer stock includes space for two additional magazines, secured with a quick-release latch system. This design keeps your spare magazines close at hand for fast reloads while maintaining the carbine’s balance and ease of use.

7. Threaded Muzzle for Suppressors

7. Threaded Muzzle for Suppressors
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The 1/2-28 threaded muzzle makes it easy to attach a suppressor or muzzle device. For those who want to reduce noise or recoil, this feature adds another layer of versatility to the FPC. Combined with its already mild recoil and smooth shooting experience, adding a suppressor makes this carbine a top choice for stealthy or low-impact shooting.

8. Lightweight and Maneuverable

8. Lightweight and Maneuverable
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Weighing just 5.78 pounds with three magazines, the FPC is exceptionally lightweight for a carbine. Its polymer handguard and stock, along with an aluminum receiver, keep it light without compromising durability. This makes the FPC easy to carry, maneuver, and shoot, whether at the range or in a defensive situation.

9. M-LOK Slots for Accessories

9. M LOK Slots for Accessories
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The handguard features M-LOK slots along both sides and the bottom, giving you plenty of space to attach accessories like lights, lasers, or bipods. This modularity allows you to customize the carbine to meet your specific needs, whether you’re enhancing its tactical capabilities or setting it up for competition shooting.

10. Crisp Flat-Faced Trigger

10. Crisp Flat Faced Trigger
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The flat-faced trigger on the FPC offers a clean, crisp break for consistent shooting. It’s designed to be familiar to those who have used the M&P M2.0 pistol lineup, providing a seamless transition for shooters already acquainted with Smith & Wesson’s trigger system. The trigger’s design also enhances accuracy and control, making each shot count.

11. Ambidextrous Charging Handle

11. Ambidextrous Charging Handle
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The FPC’s ambidextrous charging handle adds convenience for both left- and right-handed shooters. Located at the rear of the receiver, the handle is easy to grip and operate without interfering with the carbine’s compact profile. It also doubles as a locking mechanism to keep the folded carbine secure, showcasing its thoughtful engineering.

12. Durable and Easy to Maintain

12. Durable and Easy to Maintain
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Built with an aluminum receiver, stainless steel bolt, and Armornite finish, the FPC is designed for durability. These materials ensure resistance to wear, corrosion, and harsh conditions, making the carbine reliable over years of use. Maintenance is straightforward, making it accessible for shooters of all skill levels.

13. Affordable Price Point

13. Affordable Price Point
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With an MSRP of $659, the FPC is a remarkably affordable option for a pistol caliber carbine, especially considering its innovative features. The included carrying bag, magazines, and other accessories make it a great value for both seasoned shooters and newcomers looking to add a PCC to their collection.

The Ultimate PCC Experience

The Ultimate PCC Experience
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The Smith & Wesson M&P FPC is a game-changer in the pistol caliber carbine market. From its compact folding design to its smooth shooting experience and modular customization options, the FPC stands out as a practical, reliable, and fun firearm. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or just starting your collection, there’s plenty to love about this innovative carbine.

Take it to the range, try it out, and experience the FPC’s unique blend of portability, performance, and precision firsthand!