I'm new to this forum, but am already amazed at the information that can found here. That being said I have owned several S&W model 945's, and have had a model 629 revolver for years. I am looking forward to getting my first M&P handgun, a M&P 22, model 222000, which should be in next week. It's the only M&P handgun of any kind that I have been able to find that is available in my area. I'm already planning on getting a second M&P 40c, either the 109303, or the 106303 with the thumb safety. I'm used to the 1911 style thumb safety and would prefer to get that model, but I have a problem. I would like to add a Crimson Trace hand grip activated laser sight later, and it will not clear the thumb safety on the right side because that is where the laser is located. I could go with the model that does not have the thumb safety and eliminate my problem, but would prefer to have the thumb safety if possible. Does anyone know if the right side thumb safety lever can be removed to clear the Crimson Trace laser grips, while leaving the left side thumb safety intact? I'm right handed so the left safety is all I really need, and if the right side safety is removed, the Crimson Trace laser will work. From what I've read, the M&P design has a trigger safety so it should be safe to carry as is, but I would still like to have the additional thumb safety if possible. Any ideas anyone?

I've noticed that I've had my question read by a lot of readers, but so far no one has supplied an answer. It just so happens that I have found an answer to my question so I am going to pass it on just in case someone else is considering this same thing. I called S&W customer service and was told that the M&P 40c could be sent back to them and they would be able to modify it by removing the right side thumb safety. Once they received it, it would take approximately 21 days to do the modification and return the firearm. A price estimate could not be supplied at this time. Now, if I can only locate the gun.

I'm sorry I hadn't seen this earlier. Here's my thought on the M&P thumb safety.

I own an M&P 45 with the thumb safety. The only thing the thumb safety does on the M&P is block trigger movement. It doesn't block the sear or striker. So, it doesn't really add to the safety of the gun.

The M&P absolutely will not fire without a finger, or other object, on the trigger.

If you carry the M&P in a holster that covers the trigger, it essentially does the same as the thumb safety. The one benefit to the thumb safety is upon reholstering. If a flap of leather or piece of clothing gets caught or tangled in the trigger, it could press the trigger and that would be bad. A little diligence and this isn't an issue.

OK, I've said all that to say this; you don't need the thumb safety. If you buy a model with the thumb safety, it can easily be removed with no detriment to the operation of the gun. Also, it is not that hard to get used to firing the gun without one. I normally carry a 1911 and am quite used to the thumb safety. Even so, I have no difficulty using my M&P without the thumb safety.

I have left the thumb safety on my M&P for consistency between the two guns. But, if I were going to put a laser on it, I wouldn't hesitate to take the safety off.

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Freedom isn't free.

You can remove the sear housing, only one roll pin holds it in. Pull the trigger fully back as you lift the housing out, as this gives more free play with the trigger bar movement. Once out you can see the safety lever can be easily cut off and this will not affect the operation of the safety from the other side.

Bob

Thanks for the replies and suggestions. It's nice to know that I have options. I like the idea of having the thumb safety, but at the same time I can appreciate the fact that if the situation arises, not having the thumb safety might be an advantage. It also might be a little less prone to catch on the holster or clothing. The whole thing may come down to which model is available. I've searched everywhere so far have been impossible to find in my area.