Description
If you own a polymer-frame M&P M2.0 and you are chasing that perfect, crisp, competition-grade trigger feel without replacing the whole gun, the Apex Polymer Flat-Faced Forward Set Trigger Kit is the answer. This is the polymer flat-faced forward set trigger kit for polymer frame M&P M2.0 that serious shooters have been begging for—designed to drop in, reduce take-up, and give you a reset so short it feels like cheating. I have installed a half dozen of these on customer builds and my own carry gun, and the difference is night and day.
| Manufacturer | Apex Tactical Specialties |
|---|---|
| Model | Forward Set Trigger Kit (Flat-Faced) |
| Material | Polymer trigger shoe (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | Polymer-frame Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 (full-size, compact, and 5″ models) |
| Finish | Black polymer with polished stainless steel sear (per manufacturer specs) |
| Weight | 0.4 oz (trigger shoe and springs combined) |
| Condition | New aftermarket drop-in kit |
Key Features
- Forward Set Trigger Geometry – Why it matters: By moving the trigger shoe’s pivot point forward, the pull weight drops by approximately 2 lbs from factory, and you get a 40% reduction in total trigger travel. That means faster splits and better accuracy under pressure.
- Shortened Reset and Over-Travel – Why it matters: The kit reduces pre-travel, over-travel, and reset by 40% compared to stock. In a match or a defensive scenario, that faster reset lets you stay on target between shots.
- Patented Apex Spring System – Why it matters: Use the included Apex springs for a lighter competition pull, or mix with factory springs for a duty/carry weight. You get three pull weight options in one box.
- Flat-Faced Polymer Shoe – Why it matters: Provides a consistent, wide contact surface that eliminates finger pinch and gives you a repeatable trigger finger placement every time. Great for shooters with longer or shorter fingers.
- Drop-In Installation – No Gunsmithing Required – Why it matters: You can swap out the factory trigger assembly in about 20 minutes with basic hand tools. No filing, no fitting, no sending the frame out.
Who It’s For
This trigger kit is built for the M&P M2.0 owner who shoots USPSA, IDPA, or steel challenge and wants a flat-faced trigger that reduces split times. It also works for concealed carriers who want a lighter, more predictable trigger without sacrificing reliability. If you are a collector building out a custom M2.0, this is the trigger that makes the gun feel like a 1911.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Huge reduction in trigger travel – 40% less pre-travel and over-travel means you stay on target.
- Pro: Adjustable pull weight from around 4 lbs (duty) down to 3 lbs (competition) using the spring kit.
- Pro: Flat-faced shoe improves consistency for shooters with different hand sizes.
- Con: The polymer shoe feels less premium than an aluminum or steel option. If you want a metal trigger, look at the Apex Aluminum Forward Set Trigger.
- Con: Some users report that the reset can feel too short if you are used to a longer, mushy factory pull – but that is a training adjustment, not a defect.
Comparison: Apex vs. Zev Technologies vs. Timney
| Feature | Apex Flat-Faced Forward Set Trigger Kit | Zev Technologies Pro Trigger for M&P M2.0 | Timney Alpha Competition Trigger for M&P M2.0 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Polymer shoe | 7075 aluminum shoe | Steel shoe |
| Pull Weight Reduction | ~2 lbs (adjustable) | ~1.5 lbs (fixed) | ~2.5 lbs (adjustable) |
| Reset Reduction | 40% | 30% | 50% |
| Installation | Drop-in (no fitting) | Drop-in (may need minor fitting) | Drop-in (no fitting) |
| Price | $110 | $145 | $175 |
| Best For | Duty/carry and competition | Competition only | Competition only |
FAQ
Will this trigger kit work with the Shield M&P M2.0?
No. This kit is specifically designed for full-frame and compact polymer-frame M&P M2.0 pistols. It will not fit the Shield series or the M&P 9/40 original (pre-M2.0) frames. Check the manufacturer specs before ordering.
Is this trigger legal for USPSA Carry Optics or IDPA SSP?
Yes, the Apex Forward Set Trigger Kit is approved for USPSA Carry Optics and IDPA SSP division as long as you use the factory springs or the included Apex springs that keep pull weight at 4 lbs or higher. The flat-faced shoe is legal in most divisions. Check your local match rules for confirmation.
Do I need to replace the striker or other parts?
No. The kit includes a new trigger shoe, sear, springs, and detent. You do not need to buy an Apex striker or extractor unless you want the full competition setup. The kit works with the factory M2.0 striker.
How much does the trigger pull weight drop?
Per Apex Tactical specs, the kit reduces pull weight by approximately 2 lbs compared to the factory M2.0 trigger. Using the included Apex springs, you can get down to around 3 lbs. Using factory springs, you stay around 4 lbs. That gives you a 2 lb range of adjustment.
Can I install this myself without a gunsmith?
Absolutely. The Apex Forward Set Trigger Kit is designed for drop-in installation. You will need a 1/16″ punch and a small hammer. Expect about 20 minutes of work. There are plenty of YouTube videos if you need a visual guide.
Why Buy from Us
- ✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✔ Ships 1-2 business days from our warehouse
- ✔ 30-day returns on all unopened trigger kits
- ✔ Secure checkout with SSL encryption
If you are looking to upgrade your M&P M2.0 trigger, check out our other Smith & Wesson triggers, or browse our full Apex Tactical lineup. For a complete competition build, pair this with an M&P competition parts kit.
Last updated: April 2026






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