Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc., one of the most familiar names in firearms manufacturing and design, has announced the introduction of its new M&P15 AXE Rifle Series. This latest offering aims to present a suite of modern features, focusing on reliability and durability, particularly with suppressed firing in mind. It seems the company has been tinkering in the workshop, and these rifles are the result.

The AXE series comprises four models, all chambered in 5.56 NATO. Beneath the surface, each rifle shares a 7075 T6 Aluminum upper and lower receiver, a foundation that suggests a certain sturdiness. For the discerning shooter, or perhaps just those who haven't yet settled on a dominant hand, ambidextrous controls are a standard inclusion. Rounding out the common features are a Radian Raptor charging handle, Williams folding sights for when optics aren't in play, and an M&P grip that offers a custom fit with four interchangeable backstraps. It appears they’ve thought about comfort, or at least the illusion of it.

A worth noting characteristic of the AXE rifles is their suppressor-optimized GVAC system upper. This isn't just for show; it's designed to minimize gas blowback, a common gripe among those who prefer a quieter shooting experience. To further assist in this endeavor, each rifle arrives with a Gemtech ETM Flash hider already installed on the muzzle. It's almost as if they anticipate users will want to keep things hushed.

The internal workings haven't been overlooked either. The bolt carrier group for these rifles incorporates a Carpenter 1580 steel bolt, an 8620 steel carrier, and a chromed firing pin. This combination suggests an effort towards dependable ignition, which, in the grand scheme of things, is rather important for a firearm. One would hope it ignites with some regularity.

M&P 15 AXE SBR 11.5 Inch

M&P 15 AXE SBR 14.5 Inch

M&P 15 AXE SBR 16 Inch

Three of the four models in the series come in an all-black, Armornite finished package. These configurations include a Magpul CTR adjustable carbine stock and a Midwest Industries Combat M-LOK free-float handguard. Barrel lengths are offered in a trio of options: 16.1-inch, 14.5-inch, and 11.5-inch. It seems they're providing a spread of choices for those with specific preferences in barrel length.

Then there's the Performance Center AXE rifle model, which evidently fancies itself a bit more refined. This particular model distinguishes itself with an ambidextrous Radian safety selector, a Magpul DT Carbine stock, and a HIPEFIRE Enhanced Duty Trigger. To top it off, it sports a Comp Gray Cerakote finish, because even rifles enjoy a touch of sartorial flair.

Performance Center M&P15 AXE Rifle 16 Inch
 

Corey Beaudreau, the Product Manager for Rifles, weighed in on the new series, stating that the M&P15 AXE series represents Smith & Wesson's "new premium MSR offering." He highlighted the combination of the GVAC upper gas system and the "trusted durability" of the M&P15 platform, suggesting these rifles are positioned as "ultimate suppressor hosts." One can almost hear the quiet hum of approval from the suppressed shooting community.

Mr. Beaudreau also pointed out that with a "variety of configurations," users now have "options out of the box, tailored to meet their needs." This implies a recognition that not every shooter is looking for the exact same rifle, a concept that, while seemingly obvious, isn't always reflected in product lines.

With this series, Smith & Wesson appears to be making a concerted effort to cater to those who appreciate a quiet bang and a rifle that doesn’t blow back quite so much gas. The AXE series aims to offer a blend of modern features and practical considerations for the contemporary shooter.