Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal with Aimpoint ACRO Slide Cut — 9mm Full-Size Pistol, 17+1 Capacity, Night Sights

What’s the Best Way to Get a Duty-Ready, Metal-Frame M&P Straight from the Factory?

Picture this: you’re at the range, the sun’s going down, and you’re running drills with your carry gun. You’ve been thinking about upgrading to a red dot, but the idea of sending your slide off for milling and waiting weeks has you putting it off. What if you could get a Smith & Wesson M&P, built on a solid metal frame, with the optic cut already done at the factory, ready for an Aimpoint ACRO the day it arrives? That’s the reality of this pistol.

Imbertsmithersarms is a Grand Forks, ND-based retailer specializing in firearms for hunters, outdoorsmen, and the concealed carry lifestyle. The Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal with Aimpoint ACRO Slide Cut is a full-size 9mm pistol featuring a factory-machined direct-mount ACRO optic cut. Its key differentiator is the combination of a durable metal frame with a ready-to-go optics solution, eliminating the need for aftermarket milling. This pistol is in stock and ready to ship today for $920.53.

Why This Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal Stands Out

After handling countless polymer and metal-frame pistols over the years, I see this model as a direct answer for shooters who want the proven M&P 2.0 ergonomics and reliability but in a more substantial package. The metal frame changes the feel entirely—it dampens recoil noticeably compared to the polymer version, giving you a smoother, more controlled shooting experience. The factory ACRO cut is the real headline, though. It means you’re getting a mounting solution that’s guaranteed to be in-spec and protected under Smith & Wesson’s warranty, something you don’t always get with aftermarket work. For someone who carries daily or relies on their firearm for duty, that factory-backed confidence matters.

Detailed Specifications

How It Compares to Other Optics-Ready Pistols

Feature	Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal (ACRO Cut)	Generic Polymer Pistol w/ Optic Cut (e.g., PSA Dagger)	Premium Metal Competitor (e.g., Sig Sauer P320 AXG Legion)
Material	Aluminum alloy frame, stainless steel slide	Polymer frame, steel slide	Aluminum alloy grip module, steel slide
Quality	Factory Smith & Wesson fit & finish, full warranty	Functional, may have variance in finish	Excellent fit & finish, custom shop features
Compatibility	Direct Aimpoint ACRO mount (no plates)	Often uses adapter plates (RMR/Holosun pattern)	Often uses proprietary or adapter plate system
Shipping	Ready to ship, no gunsmithing wait	Ready to ship	Ready to ship
Lifespan/Durability	Metal frame for sustained fire, proven M&P internals	Polymer frame lifespan suitable for standard use	High-round-count durability, premium components
Price	$920.53	$350 – $500	$1,200+

This comparison shows the value proposition. You’re not paying for the custom shop premium of the Legion, but you’re getting a far more robust and duty-ready platform than a budget polymer gun. The direct ACRO cut is a specific advantage if that’s your chosen optic.

Pros and Cons From Hands-On Experience

Pros:

• ✅ Factory ACRO Cut: The biggest pro. It’s done right by S&W, with proper recoil lugs and a secure mounting system. No waiting, no worrying about a local gunsmith’s work.
• ✅ Metal Frame Recoil Control: The aluminum frame soaks up muzzle flip. Follow-up shots are faster and more intuitive, especially with +P defensive ammo.
• ✅ Suppressor-Height Night Sights Included: They co-witness perfectly with a mounted ACRO. You have an instant backup aiming system if the dot fails.
• ✅ M&P 2.0 Reliability: It’s built on the proven, law enforcement-tested M&P 2.0 action. This isn’t a new, unproven platform.
• ✅ ClearSight Gas Diversion Channel: This isn’t just marketing. It helps direct gas and particulate matter up and away from the optic lens, which is a real concern for maintaining a clear sight picture.

Cons:

• ❌ Specific Optic Compatibility: It’s only cut for the Aimpoint ACRO footprint. If you’re committed to a Trijicon RMR or Holosun 509T, you’ll need a different model or an adapter plate (which we don’t recommend for a duty gun). See our Optics-Ready Pistols for models with different cuts.
• ❌ Higher Price than Polymer M&P: The metal frame and factory machining come at a cost. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind polymer, the standard Optics-Ready M&P is a solid choice. Check our Full Shop for those options.
• ❌ Weight for Carry: At nearly 28 oz unloaded, it’s heavier than a polymer counterpart. For all-day concealed carry, some shooters will find it noticeable. A good belt is non-negotiable.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This Pistol

Buy it if: You’re a shooter who has decided on the Aimpoint ACRO as your red dot of choice and want a rugged, out-of-the-box solution. This is ideal for duty use, home defense, or competition shooters who want the weight and balance of a metal frame. It’s also perfect for anyone who dislikes the idea of sending a new gun off for milling and wants the security of a factory warranty on the work.

Skip it if: Your budget is firmly under $800 for the pistol itself. If you’re unsure about red dots altogether and want to try a more common footprint first (like an RMR), a different optics-ready model makes more sense. Also, if you prioritize absolute minimal weight for deep concealment, a polymer pistol will serve you better.

Common Concerns Addressed

Q: Is the metal frame really that much better than polymer?
A> For recoil management and long-term durability under high round counts, yes. The feel is more solid and the balance is different. Polymer is perfectly reliable, but the metal frame offers a distinct shooting experience many prefer.

Q: Can I use other optics with an adapter plate?
A> Technically, aftermarket plates might exist, but it defeats the purpose of buying this specific model. The integrity and low-profile fit of the direct mount are key benefits. We suggest buying a pistol cut for your intended optic.

Q: Are the night sights bright enough?
A> The included AmeriGlo® sights use tritium and are plenty bright for low-light identification. They’re designed to be a functional backup to the red dot, not the primary system.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re looking for a no-compromise, optics-ready handgun built on a proven platform, the Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Metal with the Aimpoint ACRO cut is a standout option. It bridges the gap between a custom build and a stock firearm perfectly.

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