S&W SD9 2.0 Series

Years ago, Smith & Wesson dropped a budget-priced polymer gun named the SW9 more commonly known as the Sigma Series. This was Smith’s first foray into the polymer-framed market. This early gun borrowed from Gaston Glock’s (RIP) safe action pistol mechanism and was slated to be a cheaper competitor to the popular pistol. To put it bluntly, the reputation of the Sigma is not good. It may have had the worst trigger pull of any striker-fired pistol ever designed. The original design underwent several iterations and design changes (especially after a lawsuit with Glock for patent infringement) before it was finally put to pasture and replaced by the considerably better SD9VE series in 2010.

The SD9VE (and 40) were well thought of in the budget pistol space. Many have been sold to first-time consumers looking for a budget-friendly pistol. The trigger and overall operation of the handgun was a large upgrade over its predecessor. But over time, like anything, upgrades are needed. Smith & Wesson recently revamped their entire M&P line from the Shield through their full-sized guns. The next one on the list was the SD9VE.

SD9 Gen 2

Smith & Wesson advertises their new budget offering as “Built from consumer feedback on what was missing, but keeping true to what made the SD so popular, this package is perfect for those who are looking for an affordable option from the most trusted brand in firearms.” That’s a bold statement in today’s age where every move a manufacturer makes is critiqued. So, does it live up to that? Let’s go into a bit of a deep dive into the nuts and bolts of the handgun.

First off, the trigger has again been upgraded. This time it is strikingly familiar to the M&P family. It is fat-faced and uses a center trigger safety that must be fully engaged before the striker is released. I maintained a great disdain for the previous hinge design—thankfully I no longer must feel such hatred. S&W claims the trigger gives better feedback when shooting. If it’s a carbon copy of the ones on their M&P line, then that will hold.

Outside of the trigger, the body of the gun received a tune-up. Additional slide serrations were added to aid in better traction during slide manipulation. The underneath rail was standardized to fit a wider range of accessories, mainly lights and lasers. The grip angle is still at 18 degrees, just like the 1911. There is grip texturing, which is always a positive, for some, however, it might not be aggressive enough for some. The gun uses basic white dot sights and the pistol ships with a single 16-round mag (I wish it was two, but Smith wanted to keep costs down).

Closing Thoughts

On paper, the SD9 2.0 seems like a legitimate budget pistol that’ll be in direct competition with the Taurus G series. It checks off most boxes for beginners. (Smith is smart to market itself as a long-standing American company that makes quality products here in the States. Most budget pistols are made elsewhere). The best part, Smith lists the MSRP at $349.00. However, the street price will be $299.00. That’s an excellent value in today’s world. The SD9 2.0 will be hitting dealer shelves shortly.